Thursday, April 7, 2016

New Games

New Games


How can Slippy Toad be slippy if uncle Grippy Toad is grippy?

Posted: 07 Apr 2016 02:00 PM PDT

Amateur scientist Brett Makedonski was wondering aloud in the Destructoid chat earlier today, "what went wrong in the Star Fox frog family tree to cause the uncle to be so grippy and all the tread to have worn off by the time his nephew was born." Uncle Grippy Toad is presumably bumpy, sticky, or otherwise friction-y, allowing him to grip things well. On the other hand, nephew Slippy Toad is smooth, slick, and unable to hang onto a sheer glass surface.

It's not all that hard to imagine. In fact, it's just a natural effect of sexual reproduction; offspring get half their genes from each parent, so seeming anomalies can be easily explained. I should know; I'm a half-Japanese guy with curly hair and freckles.

One such explanation of Grippy's grippiness/Slippy's slippiness can be found in the following diagram.

How can Slippy Toad be slippy if uncle Grippy Toad is grippy? screenshot

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Superdimension Neptune VS Sega Hard Girls coming West this fall

Posted: 07 Apr 2016 01:00 PM PDT

Sega has sent along word that Superdimension Neptune VS Sega Hard Girls is now being localized for release this fall in North America and Europe. They really go for it with these names, don't they?

This time, Neptune has become a motorcycle for some reason, leaving room for IF to lead the way. She'll "jump, dash, climb, and crawl her way to recover the lost history of the Grand Library" with a playable cast that also includes Nepgear, Plutia, and Uzume. Is the Dreamcast the best girl? Knowing very little about this long-running series and its spinoffs, I will go out on a limb with a definitive "yes."

Hard Girls will be playable on PS Vita and also PlayStation TV (I keep forgetting I have one). If you're so inclined, you can find a bunch of let's plays of the Japanese version on YouTube. Here's a trailer:

Superdimension Neptune VS Sega Hard Girls coming West this fall screenshot

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The Behemoth is gearing up for a Pit People beta

Posted: 07 Apr 2016 12:30 PM PDT

Attending PAX East this month in Boston? Grand! Consider dropping by The Behemoth's booth (#4025) to get your name on the closed beta list for Pit People. The rest of us will be able to sign up later, at home, but we won't have a chance to possibly win stuff in a raffle like you will.

What is Pit People, exactly? It's a wacky but mechanically solid turn-based strategy game with co-op from the entertaining minds behind Castle Crashers and BattleBlock Theater.

I've played it a couple times now, and I like it a lot, but there's so much going on that short preview sessions at events don't do it much justice. This upcoming beta build should be great in that respect.

Above all, it's nice to hear this is inching closer to release. I'm getting antsy.

Pit People Closed Beta – Sign ups at PAX East [The Behemoth]

The Behemoth is gearing up for a Pit People beta screenshot

Dissidia Final Fantasy is having a new character reveal this month

Posted: 07 Apr 2016 12:00 PM PDT

Square Enix is still ramping up production of Dissidia Final Fantasy arcade, even though the full launch roster is complete with one representative of every core entry up to XIV, and Ramza from Tactics.

They've just announced that on April 13 at 20:00 JST, they'll reveal a brand new character, as well as show off the newest build and any existing roster tweaks. It'll be streamed on Niconico on that day, so tune in if you're curious.

I mean, I'm sure people would love to see any number of characters make an appearance, but I'd love to see more villains in the mix. Oh, and a localization announcement!

Dissidia [Niconico via Gematsu]

Dissidia Final Fantasy is having a new character reveal this month screenshot

We can pre-load Battleborn's beta on PS4, PC, and Xbox One

Posted: 07 Apr 2016 11:30 AM PDT

As someone who is mildly curious about Battleborn, I'm glad Gearbox is holding an open beta. It's one of those games where I don't think reviews alone will suffice for me -- I'll want to get more of a feel for it first-hand to know if it's something I can get into. My intuition isn't enough to go on.

If you're coming from a similar mindset, you may want to download the beta ahead of time so you're all situated once it goes live. It's going to include two story "episodes," two player-versus-player modes, and 25 characters, some of which won't be accessible until you unlock them.

Download links? I gotcha: PlayStation 4, Steam, and Xbox One.

PS4 players can begin the beta tomorrow, April 8 and will receive Battleborn's first DLC pack for free for participating. Xbox One and PC players will need to wait until Wednesday, April 13. Unfortunately, progress made in the beta will not transfer to the full game launching May 3.

We can pre-load Battleborn's beta on PS4, PC, and Xbox One screenshot

Killing Floor 2's PVP mode is available now

Posted: 07 Apr 2016 11:00 AM PDT

Tripwire Interactive's Killing Floor series has always been a strictly cooperative affair. Grab some buddies, put a few bullets in some monsters, drink a beer or two, and walk away with a grin on your face. Starting today with Killing Floor 2's Revenge of the Zeds update, things are going to get much less friendly.

A new Versus Survival mode allows six people to play as Zeds and try to kill six humans. While on the Zed team, players will randomly spawn as one of the monsters. The Zeds each have their own movesets and some have new abilities that aren't implemented in the standard survival mode, like the Siren's power to trap humans in a vortex scream. As of right now, only short games (four waves) are available, and it isn't entirely balanced. Tripwire wants to use Early Access players' feedback to determine the direction this mode should go in, so there are probably already exploits and overpowered abilities.

Since Sharpshooter is on its way, Tripwire has also released the first two class weapons (lever action rifle and crossbow) so that people can try them out early and offer suggestions as development continues. The new  Prison map is also out and ready to be coated in viscera. There are a ton of other changes, like a new 9mm sound (yesss), 60% faster weapon switching, a crafting system that allows you to break down and synthesize cosmetic items, and no more permanently raged Fleshpounds and Scrakes towards the end of the wave. What I'm most excited about is the new system that will allow the developer to implement balance changes more easily. The full changelog is at the bottom of this post.

I've played one match of Versus, and it seems like fun so far! Since most of my classes are high level, I felt a little too powerful when fighting Zeds, especially as a Firebug. That microwave gun seems unfair, but I'm not going to lie to you and say that it wasn't exciting to melt other folks.

  • New PVP Gamemode - Versus Survival
  • New Map - Prison
    • with new map achievements
  • New Offperk Weapons - Sharpshooter perk and remaining weapons will follow
    • LAR
    • Crossbow
  • Live Update system
    • This will allow us to update many game values for game balance without shipping a new client or server build
  • Game Conductor System
    • The game will dynamically dial in the gameplay for the appropriate amount of challenge based on the players in the match.
    • On HoE difficulty, the GC only throttles up from the baseline, never below
  • Item Crafting System
    • Existing items can be broken down into crafting material that matches its rarity. Master crafted and Precious items can not be broken down. Combining the materials will create a random new item of the next highest rarity.
    • Craft Weapon Skins or Cosmetic Accessories
      • 10 Common Material > 1 Uncommon Item
      • 10 Uncommon Material > 1 Rare Item
      • 10 Rare Material > 1 Exceptional Item
      • 10 Exceptional Material > 1 Master Crafted Item
  • Over 70 new community workshop items shipped in the following new Supply Crate and USB series
    • Horzine Supply Crate | Series #3
    • Horzine Supply Crate | Series #4
    • Horzine Supply Crate | Series #5
    • Horzine Supply Crate | Series #6
    • Tactical Horzine Encrypted USB
    • Predator Horzine Encrypted USB
    • Emergency Issue Horzine Encrypted USB
    • Street Punks Horzine Encrypted USB
    • Horzine First Encounter Encrypted USB

VS Survival Additions
  • Added the ability to play as Zeds (Part of Vs Survival)
    • Alpha Clot
    • Slasher Clot
    • Gorefast
    • Bloat
    • Husk
    • Crawler
    • Stalker
    • Siren
    • Scrake
    • Fleshpound
    • Patriarch
  • Alpha Clot abilities
    • Slashing Attack
    • Grab
    • Commanding Shout (Roar)
  • Slasher Clot abilities
    • Slashing Attack
    • Heavy Attack
    • Roll
    • Leap
  • Gorefast abilities
    • Light Attack
    • Heavy Attack
    • Area of Effect Attack
  • Bloat abilities
    • Slashing Attack
    • Puke
    • Lay Mines
  • Husk abilities
    • Cannon
    • Flamethrower
    • Melee Attack
    • Suicide
  • Crawler abilities
    • Light Attack
    • Heavy Attack
    • Suicide
    • Leap Attack
  • Stalker abilities
    • Light Attack
    • Heavy Attack
    • Dodge
    • Siren abilities
    • Scream
    • Vacuum
    • Bite
  • Scrake abilities
    • Light Attack
    • Heavy Attack
    • Whirlwind
  • Fleshpound abilities
    • Light Attack
    • Heavy Attack
    • Rage Mode
  • Patriarch abilities
    • Melee Attack
    • Chain Gun
    • Tentacle Grab
    • Missile Strike
    • Heal
    • Mortar Barrage

General
  • Third person character animations should now look better when characters are looking about and aiming
  • Headshots now impart force on the ragdoll from the direction of the blow
  • All Zed attacks impart some force to players
  • Removed recoil kick when jumping and firing (does not affect boomstick jumping)
  • New Crate and USB opening animations and rarity sound fx
  • Weapon Skin Icons have been re-worked
  • Players can now equip weapon skins directly from the new item UI
  • Depth of Field has been added to the gear menu
  • New 9mm sounds
  • Revised gamepad controls
  • Adding alternative gamepad control presets (Default - 0, Quick Draw - 1 , Jumper - 2, Southpaw - 3: not named ingame yet)
  • UI: Kill messages for zed kills on the HUD (Default is off, see gameplay options)
  • Players will now drop their best weapon on death if the weapon they have out cannot be dropped
  • Zed time post process effect has been tuned to avoid bloom getting blown out in some lighting scenarios
  • Flashlight brightness has been tuned
  • Items purchased from the ZedConomy Store are now tradeable, but not marketable.
  • Welder removed from the weapon selection menu - now only available from the prompt to bring up welder at door - This should allow players to select the healer more reliably
  • General optimization pass, some users may notice performance gains

Balance
  • Increased speed of AA12 elite reloads
  • Decreased cost of AA12 (1700 > 1500)
  • Increased speed of equip and putaway for welder
  • Increased speed of equip and putaway for healer by 2x
  • Speed of healing others and yourself has been increased
  • Increased speed of equip and putaway of all weapons by 60%
  • Fleshpound will no longer perma-rage, and Scrake will no longer insta-rage when they are among the last few remaining Zeds

Bugs
  • Possible fix for “Phantom Projectiles” issue with projectile weapons
  • Fixed some issues with the Husk sprinting animations
  • Fixed some spectating UI issues
  • Fixed rubberbanding/jittering when grabbed by Zeds & Patriarch tentacle
  • Fixed an issue with using HOLD iron sights keeping you in ironsights after letting go
  • Fixed Berserker attack speed UI display
  • Possible fix for trader not filling ammo when you only need a few bullets
  • Fixed an issue where you could stand on top of dosh bling
  • Fixed some issues with FLEX on KF-VolterManor
  • Fixed some pathing issues in the Birthday room of KF-Bioticslab
  • Fixed some issues with rarity and conditions of weapon skins
  • Fixed an issue where Rack Em’ Up UI would persist after death or perk swap
  • Fixed an issue where you couldn’t break zed limbs in real time


Known Issues
  • You cannot parry player controlled zeds in Versus
  • May be some clipping issues with some of the new cosmetics
  • May be some pathing issues with KF-Prison

SDK/Mod Workshop
  • Added support for .int and .ini to the manual upload tool (GUI upload support will follow at a later date)

Special note on FLEX:
We feel we are close to returning FLEX functionality to the game. We are keeping a close eye on performance and crashes related to it. We have turned FLEX off completely for this build as in the process of fully testing a new build of this functionality and it was not ready for this release. 

Special note on Versus Survival:
Our internal testing focused mostly on human teams around the same level (1’s, 12’s and 25’s)

New Languages Supported Thanks to Steam Translation:
  • Czech
  • Danish
  • Hungarian
  • Portuguese
  • Turkish
  • Ukrainian

Killing Floor 2's PVP mode is available now screenshot

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Fear Effect is returning with Square Enix's permission

Posted: 07 Apr 2016 10:30 AM PDT

Over two years ago, Square Enix announced its pitching-and-publishing platform called The Collective, where it encouraged other developers to take a swing at IPs such as Gex, Anachronox, and Fear Effect. Today, French studio Sushee has announced that it's going to be making Fear Effect Sedna, a new game in the series that looks to retain the same aesthetic while switching to an isometric perspective.

Sedna will have its own Kickstarter page soon, but Sushee's website has a small description of what we should expect:

A new adventure starring Hana, Rain, Glas, and Deke. A brand new adventure, from the streets of Hong Kong to the cold world of Greenland. Lead them in isometric landscapes, combine their abilities to fight your way through futuristic underground stations, underwater research facilities, icy caves and Inuit spiritual realms.A new adventure starring Hana, Rain, Glas, and Deke. A brand new adventure, from the streets of Hong Kong to the cold world of Greenland.

Five characters will be controlled at the same time in strategic combat, which isn't incredibly similar to the fixed-camera survival-horror/action that Fear Effect is known for. The change in perspective brings to mind Invisible, Inc., but that is by no means a bad thing. I'm curious to learn more when the Kickstarter page comes online. I remember being terrified by the first game, but it's been sixteen dang years since then. Hopefully this means we'll see that new Gex game that Jordan wants so much.

Fear Effect is returning with Square Enix's permission screenshot

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Alan Wake's two add-ons are free right now

Posted: 07 Apr 2016 10:00 AM PDT

Alan Wake is a phenomenal psychological thriller that released six years ago. The two post-launch add-ons that released were even more surreal takes on the foundation that the base game built. Both The Signal and The Writer were deeper dives into Alan's descent into paranoid, crazed madness. They're absolutely complementary experiences.

Now, for whatever reason, those experiences can be had at no extra charge. Both pieces of DLC are free on Xbox right now. It's unclear if this is a permanent change, a temporary thing, or just a slip-up. We'd recommend queuing it up immediately in case it's a mistake.

However, there's a good chance that it's intentional. Remedy and Microsoft are giving away copies of Alan Wake with the add-ons to those who buy Quantum Break. This might just be an easier way to facilitate that. We've reached out to an Xbox representative to ask if the DLC will be forever free now and the companies' reason for doing it. We'll update this story in the event that we hear back.

The Signal, The Writer [Xbox]

Alan Wake's two add-ons are free right now screenshot

Fallout 4 won BAFTA's award for best game

Posted: 07 Apr 2016 09:30 AM PDT

Apparently scouring the Commonwealth Wasteland of the New England area resonates with those from the original England. The British Academy of Film and Television Arts held its 12th annual BAFTA Games Awards today and Bethesda's Fallout 4 came up the big winner. It took home the mantle of best game.

Bethesda's no stranger to winning the BAFTA Games Awards' grandest prize. Three years ago, Dishonored won for best game. In the years since, The Last of Us and Destiny were the winners of that prestigious category.

As far as sheer volume goes, there were other impressive performances at the BAFTA Games Awards. Rocket League, Her Story, and Everybody's Gone to the Rapture each won three accolades. Also, Bloodborne was the recipient of best game design, an area that seems particularly important.

Below are the winners of all of the main categories:

Fallout 4 won BAFTA's award for best game screenshot

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I would definitely play a Mario Kart themed Rocket League

Posted: 07 Apr 2016 09:00 AM PDT

It might not be real, but The Pixel Kingdom has shared their vision of what Rocket League would be like if it took place in the Mushroom Kingdom. And you know what? I can dig it.

Lightning power-ups, items that morph the size of the ball, and bananas? Since there's no Wii u edition of the game yet, I can easily see a partnership involving Psyonix and Nintendo for the upcoming NX. Then again, that's what a lot of people thought out of the gate with the Wii U when it was "a sure thing," so we'll see.

I would definitely play a Mario Kart themed Rocket League screenshot

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Monster Hunter, but as a cute cat

Posted: 07 Apr 2016 08:30 AM PDT

Monster Hunter X (recently re-titled Monster Hunter Generations in the west) had one very adorable addition to the series: Prowler mode. This allows for playing as a cat instead of as a human -- a transition that would strike envy in the heart of Maureen Ponderosa.

That's, uh, that's kind of all there is to it. You can be a cat and your friends can be cats. Don't think about it too much. Watch this trailer and nod approvingly. Just accept it as an alternative viable option for monster hunting.

Last we heard, Generations was set to release in North America sometime in 2016. It has sold well enough in Japan, where people have been playing as kittens since last November. Supposedly, the game is the cat's pajamas.

Monster Hunter, but as a cute cat screenshot

Resident Evil Umbrella Corps delayed last-minute to June

Posted: 07 Apr 2016 08:00 AM PDT

In a rather large press release detailing information regarding the customization options in Umbrella Corps, Capcom's newest Resident Evil flavored shooter, at the very bottom was a nonchalant notice of a delay.

Originally scheduled for a May release, the game is now being pushed back to June 21. May was just a window anyway with no set date, so having a firm target is good I guess. No reason was given for the delay other than "so the team can spend some extra time optimizing the game."

As a consolation for the delay, Capcom put out a new "customization" trailer. Yay?

Resident Evil Umbrella Corps delayed last-minute to June screenshot

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If you have to cannibalize someone, where do you start?

Posted: 07 Apr 2016 07:30 AM PDT

One of Kyle's chickens died. That's a bummer. His dog got a hold of it and it was bye-bye birdie.

Kyle's misfortune somehow led to Darren's wild postulation that he'd have no problem eating Zack and that he'd have no problem if Zack ate him. It's a games-journalist-eat-games-journalist world out there.

That got us thinking: Where do you even start if you're forced to cannibalize someone? We're not talkin' about Hannibal Lecter making a gourmet meal that pairs well with a nice chianti; we're talkin' "What part of a human gives you the best chance to survive in dire conditions?"

Here's a look into our thought process:

If you have to cannibalize someone, where do you start? screenshot

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The best Resident Evil games, ranked

Posted: 07 Apr 2016 07:00 AM PDT

1. Resident Evil 4
2. The rest of them

The best Resident Evil games, ranked screenshot

This is the Game Boy of my dreams

Posted: 07 Apr 2016 06:30 AM PDT

This "Game Boy Zero" from YouTube user Wermy ranks way up there as far as cool custom systems go.

Besides the nice new screen and two extra face buttons (taken from an NES controller to provide a more authentic feel), the system also has external ports for USB, micro-USB, mini HDMI, and tiny L and R buttons. On the inside? A lithium ion battery and a Rapsberry Pi Zero, of course.

The way the handheld accesses games is super neat. Using a custom Game Boy cartridge that functions as an SD card adapter, it's able to run emulated software including NES, Super Nintendo, and Game Boy Advance titles. He even went to the effort of making a professional-looking label for the cartridge.

There's a part breakdown in the video description, and Wermy has also shared a photo album.

Wermy [YouTube via The Verge]

This is the Game Boy of my dreams screenshot

League of Legends' Taric has been updated, looks dreamier

Posted: 07 Apr 2016 06:00 AM PDT

In the early beta days of League of Legends (yes I've been playing that long), Taric was one of my mains. Sure his ranked viability wasn't tops depending on the meta, but I loved playing him with aggressive teammates over Teamspeak. Now, he's getting a much needed rework, with an interactive comic to boot.

Riot is overhauling his look and moveset, with the full details available here. He still has his Paladin-esque "support tank" role, just with a new twist and a more versatile kit. I can't wait to try him out myself.

Taric [League of Legends]

League of Legends' Taric has been updated, looks dreamier screenshot

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Do you ever see video games in real life?

Posted: 07 Apr 2016 05:00 AM PDT

I was walking on a path behind my house this morning, as I tend to do on my infrequent writing breaks, and came across a beaten area that habitually causes issues. If it rains for so much as a minute, the entire worn road is filled with mud for days on end. The problem? It cuts out a ton of time to get to the nearby shopping center.

So I figured out a system (pictured above) for getting through it. Much like solving a pressure plate puzzle in a tomb in a video game, it took time, but I figured out the spots that were dry, and now I can navigate it (it's tougher than it looks as some patches are deceptively muddy!). This same sensation came across me after playing The Witness, which I'm sure is exactly what Jonathan Blow wanted. I began to see patterns in just about everything, trying to connect the dots to a non-existent goal. Whenever I marathon Tony Hawk games, it's the same thing -- I'm constantly looking at places to grind and wrack up a high score.

It's a neat phenomenon, but as I've come to realize over the years, it's far from an isolated one. Feel free to share your stories below.

Do you ever see video games in real life? screenshot

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Telltale's next venture is '7 Days to Die' on consoles

Posted: 07 Apr 2016 04:45 AM PDT

Not content with just three separate zombie subseries from The Walking Dead (and one spinoff), Telltale has announced that it will publish 7 Days to Die, an "open world survival game" that also involves elements of FPS, tower defense, RPGs, and horror.

The trailer is live action and doesn't really give us a whole lot of in-game insight, but it should provide the basic gist, in that crafting, loot, and character progression is a go. It's also already on PC in Early Access form, so there's plenty of information out there already.

7 Days to Die will hit the PS4 and Xbox One in June for $29.99. Pre-ordering will net you five Walking Dead skins, including Michonne and Lee. New multiplayer modes, including split screen local play, are being added to the console edition, with DLC to follow.

Telltale's next venture is '7 Days to Die' on consoles screenshot

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Star Fox Guard will have amiibo support too

Posted: 07 Apr 2016 04:30 AM PDT

We already knew that Star Fox Zero would allow players to tap the Fox and Falco amiibo to Wii U GamePad to unlock new Arwing skins, but now Nintendo is spilling the beans on the functionality as it pertains to Star Fox Guard.

According to this new video from Nintendo of Japan's YouTube account, players can use the figures to call down airstrikes on enemies with the same two figures. Neat!

Stay tuned for our reviews of Zero and Guard later this month.

Star Fox Guard will have amiibo support too screenshot

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Nintendo Download: Game & Watch Gallery 4

Posted: 07 Apr 2016 04:00 AM PDT

Are you ready for another underwhelming week? C'mon, I know you're used to it.

The Wii U is rather low key this week, with Game & Watch Gallery 4, Emojikara, Epic Dumpster Bear, and Super Robo Mouse. Nintendo tried to pad the announcement noting that you can pre-order Star Fox Zero to get $5 towards Star Fox Guard. Or you can just buy it physically and get both forever.

The 3DS is somehow even more barren with Doll Fashion Atelier. Yes, it is related to that Atelier series! There's also set of Disney oriented Frozen, Mickey & Friends, Stitch & Company, and Little Mermaid 3DS themes available.

Nintendo Download: Game & Watch Gallery 4 screenshot

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What's that? Fable Legends may not be dead after all

Posted: 07 Apr 2016 03:30 AM PDT

When Microsoft dropped the news that Fable Legends was canceled, it was important to note that Lionhead Studios wasn't necessarily closed down entirely -- there were merely "discussions" to do so. That little tidbit may have saved the project, as multiple sources from MCV have reported that the game may be saved yet.

Apparently staff are being offered an opportunity to "continue working on Legends," or "accept a redundancy package." Freelancers have already vacated, but contract employees may have a chance at staying. It's a peculiar arrangement all around, but it was always a possibility given the wording Microsoft used.

Microsoft declined to comment of course, but it's possible that Fable Legends may rise one day from these ashes.

Fable Legends may live on [MCV] Thanks Jeff!

What's that? Fable Legends may not be dead after all screenshot

Review: Aegis of Earth: Protonovus Assault

Posted: 07 Apr 2016 03:00 AM PDT

Aegis of Earth: Protonovus Assault is a frustrating game. Not because it’s difficult (it sure isn’t) and not because of its nonsense mouthful of a title (although that sure doesn’t help). It’s frustrating because there is a legitimately neat idea at the core of the game. A new, kind of quirky, and potentially fun twist on the tired tower defense genre.

Unfortunately, that neat little idea is buried under hours of cloying anime cliches, repetitive grind, and a muddy, lazy presentation.

Review: Aegis of Earth: Protonovus Assault screenshot

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Final Fantasy 7 Remake's 'episodes' will be the size of 'full Final Fantasy games'

Posted: 07 Apr 2016 02:30 AM PDT

This is rather unexpected.

For months fans have been speculating regarding Final Fantasy VII Remake's episodic strategy. After finding out that the game will not indeed be a full-on single release that provides a 1:1 look at VII's world, fans started to get worried that they would take the adventure game route and only provide a few hours of content at a time. It didn't help that the developers were as vague as possible about it.

But according to the new issue of Game Informer, each episode will be a "full-scale game on par with installments of the Final Fantasy XIII sub-series." Well, those are indeed 40-hour JRPGs, so, it checks out.

Funnily enough the developers were quick to backpedal on any comparisons to XIII, noting that it will not take the "multi-angle" approach for the narrative because VII already has a pre-existing story.

Final Fantasy 7 Remake [Game Informer via IGN]

Final Fantasy 7 Remake's 'episodes' will be the size of 'full Final Fantasy games' screenshot

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The new Attack on Titan game is coming in August in the west

Posted: 07 Apr 2016 02:00 AM PDT

After much anticipation, Koei Tecmo has finally revealed the release date for Attack on Titan in the west -- August 28, 2016 in Europe, and August 30 in the US. It also noted that the final name will in fact be "Attack on Titan" in the US, no fancy subtitle involved, though Europe gets "Wings of Freedom" attached.

Interestingly enough, the game is confirmed for PS4 and Xbox One physically outside of Japan, and digitally on PS3, Vita, and PC. It's important to note that while the game was released in February in the east, the PC and Xbox One versions are new announcements. This isn't unprecedented, as Koei Tecmo has used this exact same strategy with Arslan this year.

So yeah -- there's that! Hopefully it won't just be another full retread of Season 1 of the anime, and we'll get some new insight.

The new Attack on Titan game is coming in August in the west screenshot

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My wallet gently weeps: Nintendo to release amiibo dioramas

Posted: 07 Apr 2016 01:00 AM PDT

Although they haven't been announced in the west, Nintendo's Japanese site has been updated to provide a look at its official upcoming amiibo diorama line -- which, at present, consists of a Kirby and Super Smash Bros. model.

They're both marked at 864 yen each (roughly eight US dollars), and are absolutely adorable. The Kirby one looks like a scene out of the classic Bubbly Clouds world, and the Smash diorama is from the arena "Battlefield." Apparently they fold up like a board game, too -- you can see for yourself in the gallery below.

I...want them, since it would give me an excuse to complete my Kirby collection.

amiibo [Nintendo]

My wallet gently weeps: Nintendo to release amiibo dioramas screenshot

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One year later, the Sons of Anarchy game may have been a scam

Posted: 07 Apr 2016 12:00 AM PDT

Back in August 2015 it came to my attention that the episodic Sons of Anarchy game, released six months prior, had virtually no updates regarding a follow-up -- despite the fact that a Season Pass was sold upfront. The developer and publisher had seemingly gone silent, and a small collective of buyers started getting antsy. I mean, that kind of delay between episodes isn't unheard of (Republique didn't finish its story for almost three years), but to have no communication on the matter was unsettling, to say the least.

Having reached out to all parties involved, I found out that the co-developer, Silverback Games, was merely a "consultant," and is not responsible for the release schedule. For that, I'd have to contact developer Orpheus Interactive, who obtained the license. Silverback informed me that they "simply do not know what they are up to or what their plan is." Not a good sign.

Fast forward to this week, eight months later -- I still haven't heard anything from Orpheus, but I did get a notification from Apple directly, informing me that I am entitled to a refund for my purchase of Sons of Anarchy: The Prospect. Orpheus Interactive has not published anything else on iOS, and their entire company listing, as well as the listing for the game itself, has been removed from Apple's servers. Their support center hasn't been updated in over a year, providing the same message: "Our team is hard at work on episodes 2-10 of Sons of Anarchy: The Prospect. We will release all information via our SOAgame.com site and social media channels when new episodes or developments are ready."

How did this even happen? Sons of Anarchy is one of the biggest shows in FX history, a subsidiary of FOX, who were directly involved in the game's creation, have yet to issue a statement. Either way, for all 10 of you that also bought the game, contact Apple for your refund if you haven't already.

One year later, the Sons of Anarchy game may have been a scam screenshot

Here's when you can buy tickets for BlizzCon 2016

Posted: 06 Apr 2016 09:00 PM PDT

Blizzard has announced the dates and ticket prices for BlizzCon 2016.

BlizzCon 2016 - which marks the convention’s tenth anniversary - will take place on Friday, November 4, 2016 and Saturday November 5, 2016 in the Anaheim Convention Center, California, USA. 

Tickets go on sale on April 20 at 7pm PST, and then again at 10am PST on April 23 and will set you back a cool $200, plus the usual taxes and fees. 

We don’t yet have details on the virtual tickets or what we can expect on the schedule, but we’ll let you know as/when we know more.

Better get savin’!

Here's when you can buy tickets for BlizzCon 2016 screenshot

These guys turned a PS3 into a skateboard

Posted: 06 Apr 2016 08:00 PM PDT

I used to have a Sonic the Hedgehog skateboard. My dad modified it to let me turn it into a scooter whenever I wanted, and it was the coolest thing in the history of forever… until I tried to do an ollie.

I, in all my nine-year-old stupidity, didn’t understand I had to actually jump to do the trick. Instead, I stamped on the front of the board with all my weight and expected to be catapulted into the air, pulling off a "wicked sick" ollie to be remembered through the ages.

Instead, the skateboard just snapped in half and somehow launched splinters right into my buttcheeks. I vowed to never take up the board ever again, and this, to this day, is biggest loss skateboarding has ever faced.

Anyway, check out this PS3 skateboard made by pro-skater Aaron Kyro of Braille Skateboarding. This is an actual Sony PlayStation 3 slim with wheels screwed onto it.

It’s not the most elegant skateboard, but they do manage to pull off some tricks with it. I’m honestly shocked it even supported a load of fully-grown adults’ weight for as long as it did. The PS3 was tough as nails, apparently.

These guys turned a PS3 into a skateboard screenshot

Sign up for the Pokemon newsletter, and nab the three legendary birds

Posted: 06 Apr 2016 07:00 PM PDT

Apparently Nintendo isn’t happy with only giving us one measly mythical Pokémon each month this year. It's giving away Regice, Regirock, and Registeel to Pokémon Bank subscribers, and now it's giving away the three legendary birds through the Pokémon Trainer Club newsletter.

Codes for Articuno, Zapdos, and Moltres will be sent to newsletter subscribers soon, so you still have time to sign up for it if you want to nab them. Like all other gift Pokémon at the moment, they’ll be available for players of X, Y, Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire.

They each come with pretty nifty hidden abilities too:

  • Articuno has Snow Cloak, which increases evasion in-battle by 25% when it’s hailing, and decreases the wild Pokémon encounter rate by 50% in snowing areas.
  • Zapdos has Static, giving you a 30% chance of paralysing a Pokémon that makes physical contact with it, and also increases the chance of encountering Electric-type Pokémon in the field as long as it is in your first party slot.
  • Moltres has Flame Body, meaning there’s a 30% chance any Pokémon physically attacking Moltres will be burned. It’s also great for breeding, as it halves the time it takes for eggs to hatch if Moltres is first in your party.

At the moment, you can only ever catch one of the three in X and Y, and which one is decided by which starter you picked. Being given all three will be really handy, especially in ORAS where they’re absolutely nowhere to be found!

You can sign up for the newsletter on the Pokémon website.

Oh, and as a reminder, you can get Jirachi this month through the Mystery Gift.

Sign up for the Pokemon newsletter, and nab the three legendary birds screenshot

MMO News

MMO News


Killing Floor 2 Revenge of the Zeds Update Now Live

Posted: 07 Apr 2016 04:24 PM PDT

Tripwire Interactive today officially released the latest content update to their co-op sci-fi horror FPS game, KILLING FLOOR 2, which is currently available for PC via Steam Early Access for $29.99 (US), ₤19.99 (UK) and €26.99 (EU). The brand new Revenge of the Zeds Content Pack includes the long-awaited Versus Survival PvP game mode that allows players to take control of the deadly Zeds for the first time ever in the franchise's history. Choose from over 10 dangerous and blood thirsty Zed specimens such as the Clots, Fleshpound, Stalker, Siren and even the infamous fan-favorite boss, The Patriarch. Each Zed has their own special ability, and is completely hell-bent on taking out any form of human life in sight!

The Revenge of the Zeds Content Pack also welcomes players, whether human or Zed, into the fortified abandoned Prison, with the introduction of the brand new map. Nothing is safe in this eerie new setting as players must escape the darkness and defeat their foes. The lever action rifle and crossbow are included in the Revenge of the Zeds Content Pack as Offperk weapons and the previously announced Sharpshooter Perk is well on its way for a future update.

Available now with the release of the Revenge of the Zeds Content Pack, players will be able to further explore the horrific world of KILLING FLOOR 2 with brand new features including the following features listed below. A full detailed list of all content additions, bug fixes and tuning can be found on the Official KILLING FLOOR 2 Game Group on Steam.

The brand new Revenge of the Zeds Content Pack for KILLING FLOOR 2 includes the following:

  • New PVP Game Mode – Versus Survival. Players can take control of either Humans or Zeds
  • New Map – the Prison.  New map achievements are also available
  • New Offperk Weapons – Sharpshooter perk and remaining weapons will follow
    • Winchester
    • Crossbow
  • New Item Crafting System – Craft weapon skins or cosmetic accessories
  • Over 70 new community workshop items in 4 new supply crates and 5 new USBs Bug fixes and improvements…and much more!

To celebrate the release of the Revenge of the Zeds update, KILLING FLOOR 2 is being featured on Steam now as a Weekend Deal for 33% off until Monday, April 11th at 10:00AM PST.

The post Killing Floor 2 Revenge of the Zeds Update Now Live appeared first on MMOHuts.

ASTA’s First Major Content Update Arrives April 19

Posted: 07 Apr 2016 04:09 PM PDT

WEBZEN, a global developer and publisher of free-to-play MMO games, today announces the first new content release for the Asian fantasy MMORPG ASTA – The War of Tears and Winds, currently in Open Beta.

Following on from the Open Beta launch on the 2nd of March, this content release includes a brand-new Team Arena Map and an additional difficulty mode for the current 10-player raid dungeon, providing additional challenges and new ways to enjoy the game. More details and release notes can be found on the official site at http://asta.webzen.com.
Richard Moon, Head of Global Business at WEBZEN, commented: “ASTA has received a fantastic response from current and new WEBZEN players and we are extremely pleased with how much fun players are having.” He is also keen to note that: “We are nowhere near finished improving ASTA. This content update is the first of many based on player feedback and analytical data, and we are striving to make the best game possible for our players.”

The release of this new content update also coincides with the 7th anniversary of Webzen.com, a leading gaming portal for free-to-play online video games and MMOs. The portal was launched with the objective of providing multiple games to players via a single login account. Since its launch in 2009 there have been many MMO games released, including the full-3D MMORPG MU ONLINE, the hugely popular Age of Wulin and the classic MMORPG Rappelz. More details can be found on the official site at http://webzen.com/.

The post ASTA’s First Major Content Update Arrives April 19 appeared first on MMOHuts.

SMITE Guan Yu Grim Horseman Skin Reveal

Posted: 07 Apr 2016 04:04 PM PDT

SMITE reveal’s the latest Guan Yu skin, Grim Horseman, part of the Escape from the Underworld event.

The post SMITE Guan Yu Grim Horseman Skin Reveal appeared first on MMOHuts.

The Skies Announce Beta Keys via Steam Early Access

Posted: 07 Apr 2016 03:57 PM PDT

Eforb announced today that their highly anticipated MMORPG, The Skies, will soft launch on Steam Early Access on April 11th, 2016. Participation in the Steam Early Access will be available through beta keys obtained from participating websites between April 11th and 15th, and through The Skies' community pages.

The Skies will be available to all players on April 16th with a Freemium pay model. A special Lifetime Premium Package will be available to players during the first month on Steam Early Access from April 16th to May 15th. The Lifetime Premium Package, available for a one time fee of $15, will grant players a variety of bonuses and unique perks that are only available for these early adopters. From May 16th Premium subscription will be available to players for $10 per month thus making the Lifetime Premium Package amazing value.

In the early 21st century increased solar activity culminates in the destruction of all of civilization on Earth. Chaos prevails as cities and forests burn out of control. Ash has intermingled with radioactive dust darkening the sky and causing poisonous rainfall. Those lucky enough found their way to shelters where they managed to remain for 150 years. Outside the protective walls of their steel and concrete bunkers, the dust settles and humanity once again climbs from the dust and into the sunlight. Your story begins here.

Speaking about the Steam Early Access The Skies, Lead Designer Anton Paramonov had this to say "Players in our early testing phase have helped us fine tune the vision we have for The Skies. We're proud and excited to show our hard work to the world."

The post The Skies Announce Beta Keys via Steam Early Access appeared first on MMOHuts.

League of Angels II Launch Trailer

Posted: 07 Apr 2016 03:50 PM PDT

Cinematic trailer teases the return of the updated League of Angels game.

The post League of Angels II Launch Trailer appeared first on MMOHuts.

Erectus the Game Closed Beta Announced

Posted: 07 Apr 2016 02:18 PM PDT

Dutch developer Maata Games is proud to announce the Closed Beta release of their free-to-play strategy based empire builder MMO, Erectus the Game. A limited number of players will be able to access the game and experience first hand the improvements made since the Alpha.

The name Erectus is taken from Homo erectus, the ancestor of modern man. Both human races want their space to live and became enemies in Erectus the Game. Players take on the role of Homo sapiens and build their empires with the end goal of defeating the Homo erectus armies. The story takes place 130,000 years ago and allows players to form alliances and unite against the common enemy as well as against each other.

Players' success will rely heavily on their strategic, economic and diplomatic management skills. As the game world shifts, players will have to quickly adapt their strategies and successfully micromanage their empire in order to expand and achieve greatness.

Maata Games Founder Paul Ludwig comments "For fans of strategy builder games, first and foremost we want to deliver the best player experience possible. We have focused heavily on offering flexibility and choice to our players which will ultimately bring a highly competitive game aimed at the strategist." Ludwig continues "This next phase of Closed Beta will allow us to gain player feedback and continue to improve the game".

The post Erectus the Game Closed Beta Announced appeared first on MMOHuts.

Offworld Trading Company Release Date Announced

Posted: 07 Apr 2016 01:35 PM PDT

Stardock and Mohawk Games have announced April 28, 2016 as the release date for Offworld Trading Company, the economic strategy game from Civilization IV lead designer Soren Johnson. Set in a future where humans have begun to colonize on Mars, the player will take on the role as an investor trying to control the Martian market and drive all of the competition out of business and back to Earth.

"Offworld Trading Company is a new direction for real-time strategy, where money is both your deadliest weapon and your toughest defense," said Johnson. "After all of the lucrative resource mining on the asteroid belt is claimed by mega-corporations, savvy business hopefuls turn to Mars to stake their claim to the red planet and build an economic engine capable of out-producing the competition."

The real-time, player-driven market is the foundation of the game, allowing players to buy and sell resources and materials – even the food and water that the colonists need to survive. Players will need to build up enough capital to gain access to the lucrative offworld markets so that they can buy out their rivals and claim the Martian economy for themselves. But this battle isn't limited to the board room. Players also have access to a black market that allows them to employ some more underhanded methods for victory, such as hiring pirate raiders or hackers to disrupt production or sending a covert electromagnetic pulse to an opponent's base.

"All of the feedback we've received from fans during our development process has been great," Johnson said. "We used it to refine and polish this game. We're really excited to share it with everyone."

Offworld Trading Company is currently available in Early Access on Steam or through Stardock. The full version with all of its intended features will be released on April 28, 2016.

The post Offworld Trading Company Release Date Announced appeared first on MMOHuts.

Warframe Celebrates 3rd Anniversary on Consoles

Posted: 07 Apr 2016 01:02 PM PDT

Following three successful years of Warframe, independent developer Digital Extremes is proud to honor Warframe console players with a special anniversary giveaway and tons of new content with today’s launch of the Sands of Inaros update for PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. Since Warframe’s release in 2013, more than 22 million players have played 2.1 billion Missions, crafted more than 18.5 million Warframes in the Foundry, killed 13.8 billion enemy Grineer Lancers, and gained more than 53.9 trillion XP!

What better way to honor these accomplishments than give away free in-game Weapons and a major game update! Both PlayStation 4 and Xbox One players can look forward to receiving some powerful weapons as a ‘thank you’ for their loyalty in protecting the Solar System (PC players received these items in a previous update).

All console players that login to Warframe between April 8 at 2 p.m. ET and April 15 at 2 p.m. ET will automatically receive the Dex Sybaris, a Lotus-themed lever action rifle that’s equal parts elegance and executioner. Players will also receive the first and second anniversary gifts from previous years, the Dex Furis and Dex Dakra. Each is equipped with a Catalyst, includes a Weapon Slot and is ready for action.

Available today on consoles, the Sands of Inaros update introduces new gameplay modes for Orokin Moon, a new Quest, as well as Inaros, a mummy-themed Warframe with classic ancient Egyptian flair. Tenno may prove themselves worthy of Inaros’ strength and unlock this unique Warframe Blueprint by completing the all-new Sands of Inaros Quest.

Warframe Celebrates 3rd Anniversary

The post Warframe Celebrates 3rd Anniversary on Consoles appeared first on MMOHuts.

Warframe Sands of Inaros Xbox One Affinity Pack Giveaway

Posted: 07 Apr 2016 12:49 PM PDT

MMOHuts has partnered with Digital Extremes to celebrate the arrival of Warframe‘s “Sands of Inaros” update on Xbox One with Affinity Booster Packs!

Sands of Inaros offers is an improved Sabotage mode that allows for more than one way to destroy a faction ship, a new spy tileset for the Orokin moon, a preview of a new pet type called “Kavat”, a new Egyptian/Sand themed warframe and some new weapons to go along with the huge graphical update.

To Use Your Key In-Game:

  • Sign in to www.warframe.com/promocode. If you don’t have a Warframe account yet, sign up at www.warframe.com.
  • Enter your Code in the ‘Promo Code’ field and click ‘Submit’.
  • The item(s) will be activated on your account immediately. No need to Equip
    in-game!
  • Download/Start up Warframe and get your space ninja on!

The post Warframe Sands of Inaros Xbox One Affinity Pack Giveaway appeared first on MMOHuts.

SWTOR Release Visions in the Dark Story Chapter

Posted: 07 Apr 2016 12:38 PM PDT

BioWareTM and Lucasfilm today released the latest episodic chapter of Star WarsTM: The Old RepublicTM – Knights of the Fallen Empire. Visions in the Dark introduces a darker, more ominous story as the Outlander's battle intensifies both within his Alliance and the Eternal Empire itself.  In this chapter, the Outlander must face the Immortal Emperor Valkorion and confront the truth about his/her destiny…

Starting today, Star Wars: The Old Republic players will also gain access to new gameplay experiences:

  • New Alliance Mission – Rumors of a Sith artifact lead you to the planet of Yavin, where you discover the ancient Dashade warrior, Ak'ghal Usar, who you can recruit as your Companion. Free from captivity, Ak'ghal seeks vengeance against the captors who've nearly eliminated his species.
  • New PvP Challenges – Prepare for the fight against the Eternal Empire in the newest 8v8 Odessen Proving Grounds or fight to thedeath in the new 4v4 Rishi Cove Arena.
  • New "Visionary" Cartel Market Pack – Inspired by the latest chapter, the new "Visionary" Cartel Pack offers players the opportunity to get unique Jedi-inspired items, including Grand Master Satele Shan's gear, new Acklay creature mount, and more.

Players can embark on the Knights of the Fallen Empire storyline beginning with Chapter 1 through Visions in the Dark for free* as a Subscriber. Star Wars: The Old Republic players that are part of the Subscriber Rewards Program will also receive Early Access to future chapters and special in-game items such as HK-55's Sniper Rifle, Blaster Pistol and Vibrosword.

Find out more about the ongoing story of Star Wars: The Old Republic – Knights of the Fallen Empire at www.StarWarsTheOldRepublic.com/Fallen-Empire.

The post SWTOR Release Visions in the Dark Story Chapter appeared first on MMOHuts.

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