The Showdown Effect – New Trailer Highlights the Majestic Beauty

Mar 01, 2013

Paradox Interactive, a publisher that’s getting way too old for this, today released a new trailer for The Showdown Effect that highlights the game’s understated but haunting beauty. While the upcoming 2.5D action-combat multiplayer title from Arrowhead Game Studios is primarily about cramming as many bullets and 1980s one-liners as possible into a single game, there is a strange and pure heart that shines forth when the action is presented in slow-motion and set to waltz music. The new trailer can be watched – nay, witnessed – here:

[youtube=http://youtu.be/pw4dDAmuaVw]

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt – New Screenshots and Info about the Expansive Story

Mar 01, 2013

The Witcher 3 is full of impactful decisions, and gamers will choose between storylines that exclude one another in a single playthrough, ensuring extensive replay value. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt crowns the trilogy with the main narrative, revolving around Geralt’s search for his loved ones and his conflict with the Wild Hunt. As players travel through the game, they visit lands with their own unique atmosphere, communities and memorable characters. CD Projekt RED didn’t create an open world with a singular theme, but concentrated on delivering diversified and engaging environments, 30 times larger than those in The Witcher 2,” said Adam Badowski, head of CD Projekt RED studio.

This setting changes depending on gamers’ actions not only when completing Geralt’s personal storyline, but also because of his involvement in major local plotlines in each land visited and many other carefully-designed side quests. All threads of this player-crafted tale interact with each other and the world, creating an even more nonlinear experience than ever before. The main narrative accounts for around 50 hours of gameplay in one playthrough, and the additional stories add another 50 hours of role playing, giving around 100 hours of total gaming time.

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt announcement screenshots present the chilly islands of Skellige, one of the lands the players will visit during their adventures. Today CD Projekt RED has released a set of in-game images from this archipelago:

[box_light]The Witcher 3 will be available in 2014 for all high-end platforms, including PlayStation 4.[/box_light]

Heroes & Generals, the Free-to-Play PC strategy game goes into Open Beta

Mar 01, 2013

Square Enix, in partnership with Reto-Moto, today announces the official global launch of the Heroes & Generals – OPEN BETA. Developed by Reto-Moto, a Copenhagen-based studio specialising in the creation of original online entertainment software,Heroes & Generals is available on PC for everyone to play – for free.

Heroes & Generals is a new Free2Play Massive Online FPS with a Strategic Multiplayer Campaign, set in the midst of World War II Europe, where Axis and Allies fight for control. The game uniquely merges epic first-person shooter action with a rich strategic layer, where your decisions have the power to turn the tide in a battle among thousands of online players. Players can choose to play as ‘Heroes’, fighting in the trenches, flying planes, commandeering tanks and other vehicles, or take control of the Battlefield as ‘Generals’, determining the strategic direction of the war and supporting fellow players by managing battlefield assets, army units and reinforcements.

[youtube=http://youtu.be/WvaD71wO_ic]

Omerta – City of Gangsters Xbox 360 Demo and Upcoming Fixes

Feb 28, 2013

• New maps for multiplayer and sandbox modes
• Enemy gangs for Sandbox Mode – you’ll now have to fend of gangs that invade your turf and try to steal businesses out from under you
• Customizable game settings and goals for sandbox games
• Economy overview panel for current businesses with their efficiency, profit, ect.
• Visual representation of individual business types on the strategic map via icons
• Additional difficulty setting and “Iron Man” option (saving progress in strategic mode disabled)
• Massive overhaul of cover mechanics in turn-based combat
• Introduction of multiplayer chat and several other minor fixes/changes

You can read the full changes here: http://forum.kalypsomedia.com/showthread.php?tid=18261

The Headshots of Sniper: Ghost Warrior 2

Feb 28, 2013

CI Games, a fast-growing international publisher and developer of interactive entertainment, has released the new action-packed Headshots gameplay trailer for their upcoming modern military sniper experience game, Sniper: Ghost Warrior 2. Showcasing the power of a well-executed long-range takedown, the Headshots trailer gives players a glimpse into the unique and tactical gameplay they¹ll experience while stalking their targets across in-game sites based on real world locations.

[youtube=http://youtu.be/FM8FIO4j8r8]

Let’s look at the nondescript Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag box art

Feb 28, 2013

Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag, for what system(s)?

Where do you think we will see this game land on? Does this announcement surprise you, worry you? Let us know in the comments!

Bound by Flame unveiled by Spiders Studio and Focus Home Interactive

Feb 28, 2013

While part of Spiders Studio’s team finishes development of Mars War Logs, releasing soon on digital distribution platforms, we are pleased to unveil Bound by Flame. Bound by Flame is their bigger project, under development for months now and targeted for release on PC, PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 at the end of 2013.

We present Bound by Flame to you with the very first screenshot of the game. This action/role-playing game lets you play a mercenary possessed by a flame demon in an ambitious Dark Fantasy universe.

As a victim of this demonic influence, players will have to choose between the powers offered by this evil or to reject the demonic influence, developing heroic talents instead. Dangers, and enemies becoming more terrifying and fearsome in battle, will be temptations to acquire more power by giving up part of the hero’s soul to the demon. Progression of the demonic influence will be reflected by the transformation of the hero’s body.

Through its different chapters, Bound by Flame will offer many quests around a primary, epic adventure. Depending on the choices made by the player and the influence of the demon, some chapters will offer different scenarios and a different experience, adding important replayability to the game. Real-time battles are impressive and dynamic. If the player begins the game knowing only the basics of combat, fire magic, and assassination, he will be able to specialize by unlocking and improving many skills and powers, through 3 different skill trees.

Bound by Flame lets the players customize their character. During the creation of their hero, players will be able choose their gender and freely alter their facial characteristics. This will of course have an influence on the demon’s appearance. Bound by Flame also includes a crafting system, allowing them to create and improve equipment, including their armor and weapons. Several companions will join the player during his quest, and will, depending on the player’s actions, develop friendship, romance or rivalry.

Finally, the bestiary of Bound by Flame is rich and spectacular. Today’s screenshot introduces you to the terrifying Swamp Beast, but you will get to fight many other impressive creatures: shadow dragons, liches, undead, ice creatures… epic confrontations abound. Which path will the players take? Will they lust after the demon’s power and magic to annihilate their foes, or will they favor their combat skills and their bravery?

[box_light]Bound by Flame is targeted for release on PC, PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 at the end of 2013.[/box_light]

Nordic Games announces Deadfall Adventures

Feb 28, 2013

The traditional summer blockbuster is making the leap from movie house to home cinema this July, as Nordic Games and The Farm 51 announce Deadfall Adventures – a thrilling and immersive action adventure which seamlessly combines the first person shooter experience with puzzle-solving and exploration, taking players across the globe in Nordic Games’ most ambitious game to date.

The year is 1938. James Lee Quatermain is a man of many talents, yet holding on to money isn’t one of them. Quatermain isn’t all too keen on escorting Jennifer Goodwin, a US agent and former colleague of his, to an Egyptian temple complex in order to retrieve an ancient artifact – The Heart of Atlantis. Neither does he believe in the reputed invigorating qualities of this artifact, nor does he care that a division of the Ahnenerbe, the Nazi department specialized in the occult, is after The Heart as well.

But life has its ways of changing one’s perspective. Quatermain soon finds himself part of a hunt across the globe – from the stormy deserts of Egypt to the icy depths of the Arctic and all the way to the steaming jungles of Guatemala.

[youtube=http://youtu.be/FL39xbL8JCI]

11 bit studios reveal their “Secret Game”: Anomaly 2

Feb 28, 2013

Two weeks ago, 11 bit studios offered gamers a chance to buy its secret next game at half price. Today, that secret game was unveiled as 11 bit studios announces Anomaly 2, the sequel to the award-winning strategy game, Anomaly Warzone Earth. Coming to PC, Mac and Linux in Q2 2013 for just $14.99, Anomaly 2 will deliver a hardcore real-time strategy experience with exceptional tactical variety, intense multiplayer and remarkable visuals.

I find that this was a very safe game to announce with the dangerous “secret game” announcement and option to pre-purchase, given the venomous responses.

[youtube=http://youtu.be/gXDZNb_iKZc]

Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker (PSP) now available to download on PlayStation Vita

Feb 27, 2013

Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. has announced that the PlayStationPortable version of METAL GEAR SOLID: PEACE WALKER is now available for digital download for the PlayStation Vita system.

A blend of action RPG and RTS elements, METAL GEAR SOLID: PEACE WALKER features a gripping story that unfolds through the artwork of Yoji Shinkawa and acclaimed comic book artist, Ashley Wood. The game introduces new AI Weapons – giant unmanned behemoths that Snake must overcome to complete his mission – including airborne, tank, and mobile-fortress-style enemies that can each talk and sing during battle using VOCALOID technology.  Additionally, METAL GEAR SOLID: PEACE WALKER boasts extensive multi-player elements including four-player CO-OPS (COoperative-OPerationS), and a stunning three-against-three battle, wherein six players can form teams and engage in thrilling linked battles via the Sony handheld’s Ad Hoc capabilities that extend the gameplay experience allowing players to administer medical help to colleagues, share munitions, and provide defense for each other using the Snake formation to cover blind spots.

Note: Transfarring is not available in this version of the game.

Mars War Logs: Combat Trailer

Feb 27, 2013

Mars War Logs is the cyberpunk role-playing game by Spiders Studio, has unveiled part of its universe and characters through screenshots and videos. Mars is an hostile planet, where many dangers lurk. Mutants, fanatical survivors, fearsome native creatures from Mars and huge, meters-long creatures are some of the dangerous enemies you will have to face in dynamic and intense battles. This 2 minute and a half video is a true survival guide, explaining in detail the combat system of Mars and the possibilities it opens to the player.

[youtube=http://youtu.be/0c3WeyCra4A]

War of the Roses update brings players Outside the Law

Feb 27, 2013

Paradox Interactive, a publisher of games and a local fire hazard monitor, today ignited the latest free content update for War of the Roses, the medieval squad combat title from Fatshark. The new update, titled “Outside the Law,” adds a new map, new weaponry, and new armor to the brutal warfare of War of the Roses, as well as a new method of attack for both Lancastrian and Yorkist archers: fire arrows, capable of igniting a foe from across the battlefield.

“Outside the Law” takes the ongoing war to Greenwood, an all-new forest map whose lush greenery will be spattered with red as armies fight across its hills and valleys, dodging fallen trees and abandoned tent camps. The fire arrows will fly relentlessly from both sides, especially with two new bows available for archers, the Elm Self Bow and the Yew Self Bow.

Hand-to-hand combatants will have to stay moving in order to dodge the fiery volleys, and strike back with new weapons including the Woodsman’s Axe, Headsman’s Axe, Shillelagh Mace, and Quarterstaff. Failing that, they will at least have access to new armor pieces such as the Bycocket Hat to keep them alive.

War of the Roses will play host to a free-to-play weekend this weekend, giving squires the chance to experience knighthood. To participate, check out http://store.steampowered.com/app/230940/.

For the uninitiated and veteran alike, Executive Producer Gordon Van Dyke and company will be hosting a live stream of War of the Roses to show off the fire-packed update and kick off the upcoming free-to-play weekend. Check out the broadcast on February 28 at 7 p.m. GMT (11 a.m. PST) by heading over to the official Paradox Interactive channel on Twitch TV at www.twitch.tv/paradoxinteractive.

The Divinity of the New Gameplay Trailer for Dragon Commander explains what it is

Feb 27, 2013

Larian Studios has been keeping relatively quiet about Divinity: Dragon Commander for the past few months, but that’s all about to change, starting with a brand new gameplay trailer that answers the simple question: “What is a Dragon Commander?”

[youtube=http://youtu.be/_9lbrq3BLQU]

ManiaPlanet comes to Steam, brings TrackMania² and ShootMania Storm

Feb 27, 2013

Today, Ubisoft and Nadeo announced that ManiaPlanet games and services, including the upcoming multiplayer first-person action game ShootMania Storm, will be accessible via Valve’s Steam service. TrackMania² Stadium, the racing game phenomenon with more than 11 million registered users, will also its debut on Steam. Both ShootMania Storm and TrackMania² Stadium open betas can now be accessed via Steam. Steam users can also download the full TrackMania² Canyon game via Valve’s platform.

ShootMania Storm is currently in open beta, inviting gamers of all levels from around the world to have a try at the fast-paced competitive slugfest. The open beta will allow Nadeo to fine-tune and refine the experience based feedback of the open beta players, as well as to test servers and introduce additional features. Several updates are already planned during the open beta period before ShootMania Storm releases on April 10.

“This partnership with Steam’s worldwide publishing platform allows us to introduce ShootMania Storm and all of the ManiaPlanet games and services to an even wider audience of PC gamers around the world. As a matter of fact, it is key to us that as many players as possible join the growing community so that everybody gets maximum fun with the game.”

“Through Steam, we’ll make “competition for everyone” a dream come true for even more gamers as well as amateur map-and-mod makers who create the user-generated content and activity that make ShootMania Storm so unique amongst shooters.” “I want to take the opportunity to thank whole-heartedly the players who have already joined ShootMania Storm and to welcome warmly the new comers — we’re looking forward to seeing all of them on the servers,” said Anne Blondel-Jouin, Nadeo Publishing Managing Director.

Both ShootMania Storm and TrackMania² Stadium are now available to pre-order on Steam with a 10 percent discount until release, as well as on the official website of the ManiaPlanet platform: ManiaPlanet.com.  The games can also be downloaded and played right away in their Open Beta versions on http://www.ManiaPlanet.com/download.

Developed by Ubisoft’s Nadeo studio, ShootMania Storm is a fast-paced multiplayer first-person action game designed from the ground up for online and eSports competition. With multiple game modes and diverse play styles,ShootMania Storm is an innovative twist on familiar multiplayer gameplay that focuses on skill, speed and strategy. The game also offers stout community support and interaction, with an easy-to-use mapmaker and sharing elements that, to date, have produced more than 15 player-made game modes, as well as more than 20,000 player-made maps.

[box_light]ShootMania Storm, TrackMania² Stadium and TrackMania² Canyon are part of the ManiaPlanet system and follow in the footsteps of TrackMania™, Nadeo’s successful arcade racing game. ManiaPlanet is a flexible and robust gaming and community platform that pushes cutting-edge graphics, enables limitless game types and encourages incredible community participation and user-made content.[/box_light]

ArmA III goes into a purchaseable Alpha on March 5th, includes Full Game

Feb 26, 2013

Bohemia Interactive today announced their plans for the upcoming PC-exclusive tactical military shooter game, Arma 3. From next week onward, Tuesday March 5th, all are welcome to try out the authentic military gameplay and assist in the game’s development by participating in the Arma 3 Alpha. The Alpha will feature a limited amount of playable and sandbox content, receive regular updates and remain accessible until Arma 3’s Beta starts – which is expected in the second quarter of this year. The full and final version of Arma 3 is scheduled for release in Q3 2013.

Featured in the Arma 3 Alpha are four showcase missions (Infantry, Vehicles, SCUBA and Helicopter), a limited subset of weapons and vehicles, two multiplayer scenarios, the powerful scenario editor and modding support. The 20 km² island of Stratis, which is positioned right off the coast from Arma 3’s main destination ‘Altis’ (270 km²), will form the backdrop of the Arma 3 Alpha.

Jay Crowe, Co-Creative Director on Arma 3, elaborates:

“The Arma 3 Alpha is a big milestone in the project’s development. Testing early and often puts us on the right track towards improving performance, stability and delivering on our goal of creating a robust final release. It’s also a big opportunity to get the game in the hands of our passionate community, which enables them to start work on their own creations, tailored to the fourth generation of the Real Virtuality engine.”

To participate in the Alpha, people can purchase the Arma 3 Alpha (24.99 EUR/19.99 GBP/32.99 USD) or Arma 3 Digital Deluxe Edition (39.99 EUR/34.99 GBP/49.99 USD) on Steam. Extras in the Digital Deluxe Edition include a digital soundtrack*, digital maps*, digital tactical guide*, and a Steam Gift of Arma: Cold War Assault (formerly known as Operation Flashpoint™: Cold War Crisis). Both versions include access to the Arma 3 Beta plus a digital copy of the complete game upon release. The price of each edition will increase once the Arma 3 Beta and final game become available.

Those who would like to sponsor development further, also have the option to purchase theArma 3 Supporter Edition (69.99 EUR/59.99 GBP/91.99 USD) from Store.bistudio.com. Besides the additional Arma development support, this edition ships with all the extras from the digital deluxe edition, a Steam Gift of Arma X, all future Arma 3 DLCs, a special forums medal and the opportunity to have their names featured in the game’s credits. The full overview of editions, and their conditions, can be found on Arma 3’s new website.

Last but not least, Bohemia Interactive also intends to release a free, limited version of the Alpha, named Arma 3 Alpha Lite. The Alpha Lite will be available one week after the initial Alpha release, on Thursday March 14th, and does not include a multiplayer component and modding support. Access to the Alpha Lite is invite-only and can be obtained from people who have purchased the Arma 3 Alpha. Invites will also be randomly distributed via the Arma 3 social channels and as giveaways by selected media outlets. The Arma 3 Alpha Lite expires on June 15, does not provide access to the Arma 3 Beta and does not include a copy of the final game.

The Arma 3 Alpha will be available on Steam next Tuesday March 5th, 2013. For more information on the Alpha, be sure to visit the brand new Arma 3 website at www.arma3.com

*These bundle extras will be available upon release of the full and final game.