Archive - 2016

SEGA Reveals PAX West 2016 Lineup

2016/08/24

Publisher SEGA is pleased to announce their official presence and stellar lineup of games that they will be bringing to PAX West 2016, held from September 2^nd through the 5^th at the Washington State Convention Center in Seattle, Washington. SEGA returns to PAX West unified under the official SEGA banner and are bringing a great lineup of games, all of which will be available for the public to come check out at the SEGA booth, #1115. Media can book demo appointments, interviews and live streams by reaching out to the appropriate contacts listed for each title below.

Ranging from hard core sci-fi strategy games to elegant sports management sims to the latest games featuring company mascot Sonic the Hedgehog, SEGA’s PAX West lineup offers a look at the wide range of exciting gameplay experiences that SEGA is bringing to their fans. The titles that will be on display at PAX West this year include:

Endless Space 2

Endless Space 2 is a turn-based, 4X space-strategy game that launches players into the space colonization age of different civilizations within the Endless universe, following the award-winning original Endless Space.Endless Space 2 will feature eight playable major factions, each with their own asymmetrical gameplay, storyline, spaceships, heroes and technologies.

Developer: Amplitude Studios / Publisher: SEGA of Europe

Platform: PC / Release Date: 2016

Motorsport Manager

Become the manager of a high-performance motorsport team. Motorsport Manager is a highly detailed, best-in-class management game for fans of motorsport. You’ll hire the drivers, build the cars and embed yourself in the dynamic world of motorsports.

Developer: Relic Entertainment / Publisher: SEGA of Europe

Platform: PC / Release Date: 2017

Sonic Boom: Fire and Ice

Sonic Boom: Fire and Ice is a Nintendo 3DS exclusive title, featuring the cast of characters of the hit animated series Sonic Boom. It infuses characters with Fire and Ice elements, enabling new special moves that enhance gameplay and help players defeat Dr. Eggman and the all-new adversary, D-Fekt. Controls make it easy to switch between characters as players make their way through the colorful world. Sonic Boom: Fire and Ice is both a single player experience and a two-player competitive mode. It will release onSeptember 27th in the North America and September 30th in Europe.

Developer: Sanazru / Publisher: SEGA of America

Platform: Nintendo 3DS / Release Date: September 2016

Sonic Mania

Sonic Mania is a completely new title and plays homage to the iconic Zones and Acts from previous classic Sonic titles by adding in new elements and Easter Eggs that will surprise and delight players. Additionally, it adds in never-before seen Zones like the recently debuted Studiopolis level along with three playable characters and new enemies into the mix. Sonic Mania is being developed by PagodaWest and Headcannon along with Christian Whitehead. Head of Sonic Team, Takeshi Iizuka and SEGA of America are offering development support. Sonic Mania will be a digital download and will be available for PlayStation® 4, Xbox One and PC in Spring 2017.

Developer: PagodaWest and Headcannon / Publisher: SEGA of America

Platforms: PlayStation® 4, Xbox One and PC / Release Date: Spring 2017

Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War III

In Dawn of War III you will have no choice but to face your foes when a catastrophic weapon is found on the mysterious world of Acheron. With war raging and the planet under siege by the armies of greedy Ork warlord Gorgutz, ambitious Eldar seer Macha, and mighty Space Marine commander Gabriel Angelos, supremacy must ultimately be suspended for survival.

Developer: Relic Entertainment / Publisher: SEGA of Europe

Platform: PC / Release Date: 2017

If you will be attending PAX West, we encourage you to stop by and see SEGA’s impressive lineup of titles. And if you are media or a content creator looking to book one-on-one time with the developers for a closer look at these games, please contact the relevant booking contact for each title.

DARK SOULS III: Ashes of Ariandel Announced

2016/08/24

Jerry Paxton

Geek News, News, PlayStation 4 News, Windows PC News, Xbox One News

SANTA CLARA, Calif., (August 24, 2016) – Leading interactive entertainment developer and publisher, BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment America Inc., today announced DARK SOULS III™: Ashes of Ariandel™, the first of two planned downloadable expansions to the critically acclaimed DARK SOULS III for the PlayStation®4 computer entertainment system, Xbox One, and PC via STEAM. Return to the world of DARK SOULS III and uncover a terrible secret that lies within the frozen land of Ariandel. Players will find themselves steeped in a brand new environment filled with terrifying new enemies, challenges, and exciting lore to expand the overarching DARK SOULS III storyline.

Players are tasked to enter the land of Ariandel and defeat the evil within to uncover the mystery of what has caused the land to become defiled. In addition to adding a new environment to DARK SOULS III, the DARK SOULS III: Ashes of Ariandel expansion will also include new weapons, armor sets, and magic for players to discover and experiment with, as well as new features for the game’s wildly popular competitive multiplayer mode.

“DARK SOULS III: Ashes of Ariandel continues FromSoftware’s track record of providing best-in-class post game downloadable content support,” said Eric Hartness, Vice President of Marketing for BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment America Inc. “With hours of new challenges, new bosses, new mysterious locations to explore, new items to obtain, and new ways to challenge other players online, it’s the perfect time to jump back into one of the best games of 2016.”

DARK SOULS III: Ashes of Ariandel is rated “M” for Mature and will be available for download on the PlayStation 4 system, Xbox One, and PC via STEAM October 25, 2016 for a MSRP of $14.99. A season pass for DARK SOULS III which includes DARK SOULS III: Ashes of Ariandel and a second expansion, expected to be released in early 2017, is available for purchase for $24.99 for all versions of the game.

PlayStation Now and DualShock USB Coming to PC

2016/08/23

boothby

Geek News, News, PlayStation 4 News, Windows PC News

August 23, 2016 – We’re excited to announce that PlayStation Now is making the jump to Windows PC. The app launches overseas in parts of Europe soon and will come to North America shortly thereafter.

his will bring a wide selection of PlayStation exclusive titles to Windows PC for the very first time, including entries in the Uncharted, God of War, and Ratchet & Clank franchises, as well as beloved PS3 games like The Last of Us and Journey. Current subscribers have a new way to access PS Now’s library of over 400 games, and the PC app provides a new way for even more gamers to discover and play the service.

We’re also introducing a new device, the DualShock 4 USB Wireless Adaptor, which launches in early September for a suggested retail price of $24.99. This adaptor will let you connect a DualShock 4 to PC and Mac wirelessly, and will enable every feature of the controller you know and love: buttons, analog sticks, touch pad, light bar, motion sensors, vibration, and stereo headset jack – as long as the gaming application supports these features.

The adaptor is a great match for playing PS Now on a computer, but you can also use it for PS4 Remote Play on PC and Mac. If you haven’t yet downloaded Remote Play on your PC or Mac, grab the installer here. Of course, owning the USB Wireless Adaptor isn’t required, as you can connect a DualShock 4 using a USB cable.

Here are the recommended specs for running PS Now on your PC:

Windows 7 (SP1), 8.1 or 10
3.5 GHz Intel Core i3 or 3.8 GHz AMD A10 or faster
300 MB or more; 2 GB or more of RAM
Sound card; USB port

A minimum 5Mbps connection is required to use PS Now on any device. We recommend a wired Internet connection for the optimal experience.
We’ll be in touch to confirm the exact launch date of the PlayStation Now Windows PC app in North America, and stay tuned for some exciting games that will be added to the library.

For more info on PS Now, including the full library of games, visit: PSNow.com.

Square Enix Announces PAX West Lineup

2016/08/23

boothby

Geek News, News, PAX

LOS ANGELES, CA (August 23, 2016) – Hands-on demos, previews and panels are just a few of the exciting activities offered from SQUARE ENIX® during this year’s PAX West, taking place fromSeptember 2-5. The hands on experiences featured at the booth will include: FINAL FANTASY® XV,DRAGON QUEST BUILDERS™, FINAL FANTASY XII: THE ZODIAC AGE, KINGDOM HEARTS HD 2.8 Final Chapter Prologue, WORLD OF FINAL FANTASY™ , HITMAN®, Deus Ex: Mankind Divided®, Rise of the Tomb Raider®: 20 Year Celebration and Valentino Rossi: The Game.

FINAL FANTASY XV will have a dedicated booth at #2309 where fans can get their hands on with the game, experience the Warp Strike, take part in the mini-games featured in-game, and get FINAL FANTASY XV-themed T-shirts.

The Square Enix Members team will also be on the show floor running sweepstakes throughout the entire show for exclusive Square Enix Members Rewards.

Square Enix will host a number of panels at the show giving fans an opportunity to get the latest development updates and converse with the creative minds behind the games.

DEVELOPING RISE OF THE TOMB RAIDER: 20 YEAR CELEBRATION
Friday 1:30-2:30 Wyvern Theater
Join members of the Rise of the Tomb Raider: 20 Year Celebration development team as they chat about the latest title and the features that celebrate 20 years of Lara Croft®. Culminating with Lara’s landmark achievement of 20 years of an icon in gaming and pop-culture, Rise of the Tomb Raider: 20 Year Celebration releases later this year with nostalgic throwbacks like Croft Manor, classic outfits, and complex puzzles only those worthy of the Croft name can solve. Watch a sneak peak of the all-new PlayStation VR capabilities to explore Croft Manor, and have a look at Co-Op Endurance, a new mode where players can team up to survive the wilderness and gather relics and artifacts.

Panelists: Greg Miller (Moderator), Noah Hughes, Franchise Creative Director; Chad Armstrong, Senior Designer; Alisha Thayer, Designer; Meagan Marie, Senior Community Manager

THE DEUS EX GO PUZZLE RUMBLE
Friday 3:30 – 4:30 – Hippogryph Theater
Hosted by Greg Miller and the Kinda Funny Crew, the Deus Ex GO: Puzzle Rumble won’t be your typical PAX Panel. Your favorite gaming personalities and members of the Deus Ex community will be tested in a challenge of speed and smarts with the most difficult puzzles the Square Enix Montreal team could come up with. Come scream and cheer as they attempt the toughest challenge of their lives under very special conditions.

In addition to the panel, join the team for their Deus Ex GO launch event and a Kinda Funny meet & greet. Come eat some poutine, meet the devs and win cool prizes.

DEUS EX GO & KINDA FUNNY PARTY
Friday September 2^nd
8pm until 2am
Hard Rock Café Seattle – 2^nd Floor
116 Pike St. Seattle, WA

FINAL FANTASY XV
Saturday, September 3, 2:30-3:30 p.m. – Wyvern Theater at Westin Seattle
Join Director Hajime Tabata as he dives into the gameplay and battle mechanics of how this generation’s action RPG, FINAL FANTASY XV will come to life.

EIDOS-MONTRÉAL PRESENTS: DEUS EX: MANKIND DIVIDED
Saturday 3:00 – 4:00 – Hydra Theater
Join Elias Toufexis (Actor, Adam Jensen) and other special guests for a unique discussion around Deus Ex: Mankind Divided, recently released on PS4, Xbox One and PC. Get your first look at the upcoming narrative DLC, which will see the return of… Find out in the panel!

WORLD OF FINAL FANTASY™
Saturday, September 3, 6:00-7:00 p.m. – Hydra Theater
Join game director Hiroki Chiba and other guests as they delve into the whimsical and magical WORLD OF FINAL FANTASY.

The full lineup of titles from Square Enix include:

DEUS EX GO®
Platform: iOS and Android
Developer: Square Enix Montréal (a Square Enix studio)
Age Rating: Pending
Available: Now
Deus Ex GO is a turn-based infiltration puzzle game set in a stylized interpretation of the Deus Ex Universe®. As double agent Adam Jensen, you’ll use hacking, combat, and augmentations to solve the most challenging puzzles of the entire GO series. Work alongside your allies in TF29 and the Juggernaut Collective as you infiltrate locations to unravel the conspiracy behind a terrorist plot.

DEUS EX: MANKIND DIVIDED
Platform: PlayStation®4 system, Xbox One®, the all-in-one games and entertainment system from Microsoft, Windows PC
Developer: Eidos-Montréal (a Square Enix studio)
ESRB: Rating Pending
Available: Now
Deus Ex: Mankind Divided, the sequel to the critically acclaimed Deus Ex: Human Revolution®, builds on the franchise’s trademark choice and consequence, action RPG based gameplay, to create both a memorable and highly immersive experience. Players will once again take on the role of Adam Jensen, now an experienced covert agent, and will gain access to his new arsenal of customizable state-of-the-art weapons and augmentations. With time working against him, Adam must choose the right approach, along with whom to trust, in order to unravel a vast worldwide conspiracy.

DRAGON QUEST BUILDERS
Platform: PlayStation®4 system (physical and digital), PlayStation® Vita handheld entertainment system (digital only)
Developer: Square Enix
ESRB: E10+ (Everyone 10+)
Available: October 11
DRAGON QUEST BUILDERS is a block-building RPG where players must recapture the continent of Alefgard from the Dragonlord. After the world is destroyed by the evil Dragonlord, players must rebuild by exploring the land, gathering materials and piecing back together the kingdom.

FINAL FANTASY BRAVE EXVIUS®
Platform: iOS, Android
Developer: Square Enix / gumi Inc.
Available: Now Available
FINAL FANTASY BRAVE EXVIUS is a brand new turn-based FINAL FANTASY adventure made for mobile devices and aimed at a worldwide audience. The game uses classic battle systems with a simplified mobile interface and a throwback pixel art style fused with rich 3D graphics. Adventures will begin their quest for a highly-coveted crystal, shortly meeting two knights from Grandshelt, and a young girl. Well-known FINAL FANTASY characters also appear in this game. The free-to-play mobile title has been downloaded over five million times worldwide (outside of Japan’s 6.5 million players) in the first month following its launch.

FINAL FANTASY XII: THE ZODIAC AGE
Platform PlayStation®4 system
Developer Square Enix
ESRB: Rating Pending
Available 2017
FINAL FANTASY XII: THE ZODIAC AGE improves upon the 2006 classic FINAL FANTASY XII, now more beautiful and easier to play than ever. The HD remaster introduces a reconstructed battle design and a revamped job system. With updated trophies and share functionalities, as well as stark visual and sound improvements, players both returning and new to the game will experience a grand adventure through the world of Ivalice in an entirely new and improved way.

FINAL FANTASY XV
Platform: Xbox One, PlayStation®4 system
Developer: Square Enix
ESRB: T (Teen)
Available: November 29, 2016
FINAL FANTASY XV is the highly anticipated action RPG serving as the 15th installment in the landmark series. The game tells the engaging tale of Crown Prince Noctis and his comrades, out on the road and fending for their lives after the armed forces of Niflheim launch a surprise assault upon the Kingdom of Lucis. Featuring an open-world environment, a captivating cast of characters, breathtaking visuals and real-time combat, FINAL FANTASY XV is the ultimate experience for series veterans and newcomers alike. The game’s universe is expanded with KINGSGLAIVE: FINAL FANTASY XV, the fully CG animated movie from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment (SPHE) featuring the voices of Aaron Paul, Lena Headey and Sean Bean, along with an anime series titled BROTHERHOOD FINAL FANTASY XV. Fans who complete the demo will receive an exclusive t-shirt.

HITMAN
Platform: PlayStation®4 system, Xbox One®, the all-in-one games and entertainment system from Microsoft, Windows PC
Developer: Io Interactive (a Square Enix studio)
ESRB: M
Available: Now, New episodes throughout 2016
HITMAN will see players perform contract hits on powerful, high-profile targets in exotic locations around the world, from the highly fashionable Paris and sunny coast of Italy to the dust and hustle of the markets in Marrakesh in this creative stealth action game. Gameplay focuses on taking out targets in huge and intricate sandbox levels with complete freedom of approach. Where to go, when to strike and who to kill – it is all up to you. And for the first time HITMAN will lead with a digital release inviting players into a world of assassination.

KINGDOM HEARTS HD 2.8 Final Chapter Prologue
Platform: PlayStation®4 system
Developer: Square Enix
ESRB: Rating Pending
Available: December 2016
KINGDOM HEARTS HD 2.8 Final Chapter Prologue is a compilation that brings the popular KINGDOM HEARTS Dream Drop Distance to the PlayStation®4 system platform remastered in high definition. The newly improved title features brand new content with KINGDOM HEARTS 0.2 Birth by Sleep – A fragmentary passage –, a playable episode that is played from the perspective of Aqua taking place after the storyline of KINGDOM HEARTS Birth by Sleep and links to the upcoming KINGDOM HEARTS III. The title also includes KINGDOM HEARTS χ [chi] Back Cover, a new HD movie that tells the mysterious story of the Foretellers and connects to the earliest parts of the series’ history.

RIDE 2
Platform: PlayStation®4 system, Xbox One®, the all-in-one games and entertainment system from Microsoft, Windows PC
Developer: Milestone
ESRB: Rating Pending
Available: 2016
The second edition of Milestone’s innovative racing game is focused on the relationship between the rider and motorcycle, bringing the connection between man and machine even closer with career mode and other new features. Players can race the motorcycle of their dreams, thanks to unprecedented customization options for both rider and bike – and create the ultimate ride down to the finest detail. RIDE 2 offers more than 220 motorcycles from the most respected manufacturers, and new bike categories with the introduction of the Two Strokes, Supermotards and Café Racers added on top of the current list of bike types available, including the Nakeds, Supersports and many more.

RISE OF THE TOMB RAIDER: 20 Year Celebration
Platform: PlayStation® 4, Xbox One, Windows PC
Developer: Crystal Dynamics (a Square Enix Studio)
Available: October 11, 2016
Crystal Dynamics® and Square Enix continue to celebrate 20 years of Lara Croft, the gaming world’s iconic heroine, with Rise of the Tomb Raider: 20 Year Celebration. This new version will include the award-winning Rise of the Tomb Raider game; a completely new story chapter entitled “Blood Ties”, new co-op Endurance gameplay, PlayStation VR support for “Blood Ties”, all of the previously released DLC, more outfits, weapons, and Expedition Cards. With the exception of VR support, all of the new content in Rise of the Tomb Raider: 20 Year Celebration will also be available for Xbox One and PC players. Current Season Pass owners on Xbox One and PC will automatically receive the content for free, and moving forward the existing Season Pass will be updated to include the new content. There is no Season Pass on PlayStation 4, as all of the content is included in the initial release.

VALENTINO ROSSI: THE GAME
Platform: PlayStation®4 system, Xbox One®, the all-in-one games and entertainment system from Microsoft, Windows PC
Developer: Milestone
ESRB: Rating Pending
Available: Now
VALENTINO ROSSI: THE GAME brings the exciting worlds of MotoGP™ and VR|46 together in the most immersive and feature-packed motorcycle racing experience ever. Participate in the official 2016 MotoGP™ championship and discover the world of Valentino Rossi, with unique modes and all-new challenges dedicated to the career of the 9-time World Champion.

WORLD OF FINAL FANTASY
Platform: PlayStation®4 system, PlayStation®Vita system
Developer: Square Enix
ESRB: E10+
Available: October 25, 2016
WORLD OF FINAL FANTASY combines classic RPG gameplay mechanics with fresh and imaginative visuals in an adorable adventure. As a brand-new addition to the FINAL FANTASY franchise, this game can be enjoyed by both fans and newcomers to the series as it expands FINAL FANTASY lore to a new generation of gamers. Players will lead a pair of twins through varied FINAL FANTASY worlds to collect, raise and take into battle the adorably familiar monsters including the Cactuar, Tonberry, and Behemoth. WORLD OF FINAL FANTASY dual-sided posters will be given away at the booth.

Endless Space 2 Enters Early Access in September

2016/08/23

Jerry Paxton

Geek News, News, Trailers / Videos, Windows PC News

Paris, France – August 23, 2016 – Fresh from a successful week at Gamescom, award-winning developer Amplitude Studios has announced that Endless Space 2 will be entering Early Access on Steam in September 2016. Endless Space 2 is a turn-based, 4X space-strategy game that launches players into the space colonization age of different civilizations within the Endless universe.

To celebrate the Early Access news, Amplitude Studios is excited to introduce the third faction reveal for Endless Space 2, the Lumeris faction, a society that revolves around trade, economic deals, economic growth, and successful business. Expansion and acquisition are the bywords of the Lumeris culture, and as an amphibious people they are prepared to make money in any environment. Their society is organized around a series of families that have traditionally run different parts of their economy, and the balance of power and negotiations between the families is what drives progress – or blocks it.

The Early Access version of Endless Space 2 will feature four of the eight factions planned for full release. Discover each faction’s story, from the AI gone berserk to the traditional family facing a dangerous young upstart. Feel like an emperor and see your population react to all your decisions, they will be the source but also the key to all your conflicts. Explore the Endless universe, discover its secrets, its new life forms and find your own path to galactic dominion.

Known for its deep, engaging, and gorgeous 4X strategy games including 2014’s celebrated Endless Legend and Dungeon of the Endless, Amplitude Studios won the venerable 2013 Golden Cube and Community Choice Unity Awards for Endless Space. For more information on Endless Space 2, visit Amplitude Studios on its website (www.amplitude-studios.com), like it on Facebook, and follow it on Twitter.

HTC VIVE Review

2016/08/23

Jerry Paxton

Geek News, News, Reviews, seal of excellence, Tech News, Tech Review

Recently, we got the chance to take a look at the HTC Vive virtual reality headset for a three week test run. With quite a few virtual reality headset options out on the market right now, we were interested in finding out what exactly sets the HTC Vive apart from the rest. Does the HTC Vive pull ahead of the competition or is it just one of the crowd? Read on and find out!

Housed in very thorough packaging, we removed all of the components of the HTC Vive VR system. Upon seeing the small USB pass-through box, two sensors, and all the cabling, we were worried as it looked quite complicated. Thankfully, setting up the HTC Vive is anything BUT complicated thanks to its setup software, which literally walks you, step-by-step, through what to connect where and when to do it.

The two sensors, or “lighthouses”, get mounted above the play area in opposite corners of the space (wall screws and drywall anchors are included). They only need to be plugged into a wall outlet via two included adapters. They do not need a wired connection to your computer to function, which is great! They do include an optional sync cable which allows to you connect the sensors together in spaces where line of sight is an issue (they need LoS with each other to sync up their sensor data), but we didn’t need to go this route.

One VERY smart thing that HTC has included in the HTC Vive system is a nifty pass-through box. Unlike other VR systems on the market, which requires the user to plug everything into the USB 3.0 ports on the back of the PC, this pass-through acts as a middle man of sorts. It plugs into the appropriate ports on the back of your PC then your HTC Vive plugs into the pass-through box. It’s a small thing, but also VERY important for increased ease of use.

Finishing setup, we powered everything up and Steam VR started automatically (I LOVE the integration with Steam). There is a separate HTC Vive environment but the integration with Steam is where it’s at for this gamer. Steam will run a first-time room setup application that allows you to setup your play area and style. In this, the HTC Vive can be configured for sitting/standing or room scale modes.

Sitting/standing is what most VR headsets do these days – but they Vive leaps ahead of the pack with room scale mode. In this mode, you are able to walk around a play area and more immersively interact with your virtual environment. The play area can be pretty large, and my 6ft x 6ft room was actually about the minimum size for the setup process.

After setup, I decided to start up some VR titles that I had previously downloaded via Steam. The first was Trials on Tatooine, a Star Wars themed VR demo. In the demo, you have to do some maintenance on the Millennium Falcon and even get to use a lightsaber to deflect blaster bolts. Using the two motion controllers to manipulate objects in VR space is simply outstanding. The feedback built into the controllers do a great job of syncing up with your virtual input to give your brain the impression of “hitting” a VR object.

The moment I ignited the lightsaber was one I shall never forget. Ever since I saw the original Star Wars film, I wondered what it would be like to wield one of the fabled weapons of the Jedi. Holding the saber in my hand and rotating it in front of my face, it felt like I was holding it for real. The sense of scale and presence are perfect. I also discovered that I apparently have NO Force Sensitivity whatsoever! I can’t deflect blaster bolts to save my life. I was more like Finn in The Force Awakens. But, I digress…

Now, a lot of the motion controller functionality has to do with how well the application or game has applied it but, for a developer worth their salt, these motion controllers are awesome and are truly a revolution in gaming.

One thing that should be noted is that the HTC Vive does not come with an integrated headset for audio. However, it does have an audio jack on the Vive unit itself that you can plug your headphones into. The nice part of this is that you can choose whatever headphones you like. HTC does include some simple earbuds in the box that you can use if you like, but they blocked out a lot of the ambient noise and I personally like hearing what’s going on around me while I am in the VR space.

Due to the increased comfort padding around the HTC Vive, there appears to be a slightly narrower field of view when compared to the Oculus Rift. Despite this, I actually found the visual clarity of the HTC Vive to be better than that of the Rift’s. Adjusting the width of the lenses that the wearer looks through is done by a digital rotary knob. This adjustment system is very easy to use and extremely precise (with an onscreen indicator) – as opposed to the Rift’s slider control which, while functional, gives no on-screen indication of current position.

While my experience with the HTC Vive was amazing, there were a couple issues that are worth noting which you might encounter when you use it. The first was the occasional “jittering” of my point of view when I skirted around the outskirts of my play area. It was as though one of the sensors was losing sight of me, causing the issue. Gamers with larger play areas shouldn’t experience this as much.

The second issue to be aware of is one of cable management. The cables coming from the HTC Vive are thick and rugged, but you will undoubtedly end up stepping on them and having to scoot them out of the way with your feet while walking around your room. There are some third part cable rigs that you can buy, but I haven’t had the chance to check them out yet.

The HTC Vive is the only choice you should consider if you are in the market for a good virtual reality headset right now. It has an extremely high immersion factor thanks to its room scale play and excellent motion controllers while also boasting great visual clarity. The HTC Vive retails for $799, which is very economical when compared to the Oculus Rift (which does NOT include motion controllers and only has one sensor). The HTC Vive gaming experience has to be seen to be believed, and I can’t wait for more AAA developers to start putting out games for it. Fallout 4 and Skyrim for HTC Vive can’t get here fast enough! We give the HTC Vive a 5 out of 5 and our “Seal of Excellence”.

Order an HTC Vive Here

HTC Vive Review Score: [mks_icon icon=”fa-star” color=”#dd3333″ type=”fa”][mks_icon icon=”fa-star” color=”#dd3333″ type=”fa”][mks_icon icon=”fa-star” color=”#dd3333″ type=”fa”][mks_icon icon=”fa-star” color=”#dd3333″ type=”fa”][mks_icon icon=”fa-star” color=”#dd3333″ type=”fa”] (5 out of 5 Stars)

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Deus Ex: Mankind Divided Season Pass Content Details

2016/08/22

Jerry Paxton

Geek News, News, PlayStation 4 News, Windows PC News, Xbox One News

MONTRÉAL, CANADA – August 22, 2016 – Today, Square Enix® and Eidos®-Montréal announced the content of the season pass of Deus Ex: Mankind Divided®, the latest instalment in the Deus Ex® seires.

The Deus Ex: Mankind Divided – Season Pass, which is composed of Narrative DLCs and in-game items, is loaded with content that will help to further flesh out the lore of the Deus Ex Universe. The Season Pass contains:

Story missions

System Rift – Available this fall.
A Criminal Past – Available Early 2017

In-Game Items – All available on August 23

Assault Pack: Prepare to advance and assault the enemy with a custom skinned Battle Rifle, the Chaff Augmentation, one pack of regular Battle Rifle ammo, one pack of armor piercing Battle Rifle ammo, 2 Frag Grenades, and 2 EMP Grenades.
Tactical Pack: Using distance to your advantage, eliminate your targets silently with a custom skinned Tranquilizer Rifle, the Micro Assembler Augmentation, one pack of tranquilizer ammo, 3 Smoke Grenades, and 2 Gas Grenades.
4 Praxis Kits – These additional Praxis Kits will allow you to further develop the augmentations of your choosing, moving you one step closer to unlocking Adam’s full potential.
5000 Credits – Bolster your wallet with additional credits, providing you with extra spending money to purchase Praxis Kits, ammo, weapons, or anything else you may find at the shops in Deus Ex: Mankind Divided.
1000 Crafting Parts – Use crafting parts to craft upgrades, such as increased damage and accuracy, for any weapon in your inventory.
5 Deus Ex: Mankind Divided – Breach Booster Packs – Open your booster packs to unlock new weapons and items, Praxis points, premium ammo, and more, helping to augment and enhance your avatar in Deus Ex: Mankind Divided – Breach.
20 Deus Ex: Mankind Divided – Breach Chipsets – Use your chipsets to acquire exclusive items in Deus Ex: Mankind Divided – Breach, such as premium Booster Packs and custom weapons.

The Deus Ex: Mankind Divided – Season Pass is included in the Digital Deluxe Edition and can also be secured on Xbox Live, PlayStation®Network and online stores for $29.99. Deus Ex: Mankind Dividedwill launch on August 23rd for PlayStation®4, the Xbox One all-in-one games and entertainment system from Microsoft, and Windows PC.

Related Links
Official Portal: deusex.com
Official Facebook Page: facebook.com/DeusEx
Follow @DeusEx on Twitter: twitter.com/DeusEx
Twitter Support: #CantKillProgress
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/DeusEx
Reddit: http://www.reddit.com/r/deusex
Tumblr: http://deusex.tumblr.com

2K Reveals Mafia III Licensed Soundtrack

2016/08/22

boothby

Geek News, News, PlayStation 4 News, Windows PC News, Xbox One News

New York, NY – August 22, 2016 – 2K and Hangar 13 today revealed the complete soundtrack of more than 100 quintessential 1960s tracks for Mafia III, the next installment in the popular organized crime game series launching on October 7, 2016 for PlayStation®4 computer entertainment system, Xbox One and Windows PC.

“Mafia III will treat players to an incredible soundtrack of more than 100 licensed songs from an iconic era in music,” said Christoph Hartmann, president of 2K. “I’m confident that the rich canvas of nostalgic artists and songs that defined the 1960s will further connect players to the immersive open world of 1968 New Bordeaux.”

Mafia III is set in the open world of 1968 New Bordeaux, a reimagined version of New Orleans bustling with activity and complete with era-inspired cars, fashion and an eclectic mix of music from the period. Players will enjoy over 100 tracks from some of the most memorable years in music, including:

The Rolling Stones: “Paint it, Black,” “Sympathy for the Devil” and more;
Creedence Clearwater Revival: “Bad Moon Rising,” “Fortunate Son” and more;
Sam and Dave: “Soul Man” and “Hold on, I’m Comin’”;
Steppenwolf: “Born To Be Wild” and ”Desperation”;
Aretha Franklin: “Respect” and ”Chain of Fools”;
Jefferson Airplane: “Somebody To Love” and “White Rabbit”;
Sam Cooke: “Wonderful World,” “Bring it on Home to Me” and more;
The Temptations: “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg” and ”I Wish It Would Rain”;
Cream: “White Room”;
Johnny Cash: “Ring Of Fire” and “Folsom Prison Blues (Live)”;
The Beach Boys: “Help Me, Rhonda” and “Wouldn’t it be Nice”.

For a complete track listing of the licensed soundtrack for Mafia III, visit https://mafiagame.com/en/news/view/en-more-than-100-songs-in-mafia-iii-licensed-soundtrack-details.

“The 1960s marked some of the best years for artistic expression. From rhythm and blues to the transformative progression of rock and roll, it is critical for us to represent this era accurately and authentically in Mafia III,” said Haden Blackman, studio head and creative director at Hangar 13. “This soundtrack immerses players into a golden age of music that includes some of the greatest and most beloved artists and music of all time.”

Consumers can listen to a sampling of the soundtrack on Pandora to begin immersing themselves in the world of 1968 New Bordeaux before Mafia III’s release on October 7, 2016. To listen to a selection of theMafia III soundtrack on Pandora, visit: http://www.Pandora.com/Mafia3Hitlist.

In addition to this highly compelling curated soundtrack, Mafia III also tapped two of the gaming industry’s greatest composers, Jesse Harlin and Jim Bonney, who composed an original score that will be featured during gunfights, cut scenes and other in-game moments. The Mafia III Original Game Score features 26 songs from the game, and will be available for digital purchase from participating online retailers soon. For more details, visit: https://mafiagame.com/en/news/view/en-more-than-100-songs-in-mafia-iii-licensed-soundtrack-details.

The limited Mafia III Collector’s Edition ($149.99 MSRP) is available for pre-order now and is packed with physical and digital items, providing a window into the sights and sounds of 1968 New Bordeaux, including the official soundtrack and original game score on 180 gram vinyl, a collectable art book, art prints, and more. For complete details on the limited Mafia III Collector’s Edition, visit: https://mafiagame.com/en/news/view/en-whats-inside-mafia-iii-collectors-edition/.

The standard and limited deluxe editions of Mafia III are also available for pre-order. Those who pre-order any edition of Mafia III from participating retailers will receive the Family Kick-Back, which includes three exclusive lieutenant-themed vehicle and weapon gifts available to players at launch.

Mafia III will be available October 7, 2016 for PS4™ system, Xbox One and Windows PC. Mafia III is rated M for Mature by the ESRB. For more information on Mafia III, subscribe on YouTube, follow us on Twitter, become a fan on Facebook and visit http://MafiaGame.com.

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

Lucasfilm Announces Rogue One Brand Tie-Ins

2016/08/22

Jerry Paxton

Geek News, News

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIF. (August 22, 2016)—Lucasfilm announced today that they are teaming up with five of the world’s most well-known brands—Duracell, General Mills, Gillette, Nissan and Verizon—for the launch of an extensive global promotional campaign in support of “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story,” opening on December 16.

“We are extremely pleased to be working with such a remarkable group of promotional partners for ‘Rogue One,’” said Lynwen Brennan, General Manager of Lucasfilm. “This first in a series of Star Wars standalone films represents an exciting new era for both Star Wars and Lucasfilm, and the partners joining us on this exciting journey have each designed a stellar campaign capturing the spirit and camaraderie of ‘Rogue One.’”

With their specific, custom-designed campaigns and innovative programs, the five internationally respected global brands are poised to complement the tempo and tone of the overall marketing campaign of this first-ever standalone Star Wars story.

DURACELL

Founded in the 1920s, the Duracell brand has grown to be the leader in the single-use battery market in North America. Its iconic brand is known the world over. Its products are trusted in the devices that keep people connected, protect their families, entertain them, and simplify their increasingly mobile lifestyles. The Duracell Company is owned by Berkshire Hathaway, a $210B holding company owning subsidiaries that engage in diverse business activities. Visit www.duracell.com for more information.

GENERAL MILLS
General Mills is a leading global food company that serves the world by making food people love. Its brands include Cheerios, Annie’s, Yoplait, Nature Valley, Fiber One, Haagen-Dazs, Betty Crocker, Pillsbury, Old El Paso, Wanchai Ferry, Yoki and more. Headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA, General Mills had fiscal 2016 worldwide sales of US $17.6 billion, including the company’s US $1.0 billion proportionate share of joint-venture net sales.

GILLETTE

For over 110 years, Gillette has delivered precision technology and unrivalled product performance – improving the lives of over 750 million men around the world. From shaving and body grooming, to skin care and sweat protection, Gillette offers a wide variety of products including razors, shave gel (gels, foams and creams), skin care, after shaves, antiperspirants, deodorants and body wash. For more information and the latest news on Gillette, visit http://www.gillette.com/.

NISSAN MOTOR CO.
Employing more than 37,000 team members in U.S., Canada and Mexico, Nissan’s operations include automotive styling, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. Nissan leads the world in zero-emission mobility, dominated by sales of the LEAF, the first mass-market, pure-electric vehicle. It is the best-selling EV in history. More information on the complete line of Nissan vehicles, our services and commitment to sustainable mobility can be found online at NissanNews.com.

VERIZON

Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ), headquartered in New York City, has a diverse workforce of nearly 162,700 and generated nearly $132 billion in 2015 revenues. Verizon operates America’s most reliable wireless network, with 113.2 million retail connections nationwide. The company also provides communications and entertainment services over mobile broadband and the nation’s premiere all-fiber network, and delivers integrated business solutions to customers worldwide.

SiREN Announced

2016/08/19

boothby

Geek News, Halloween, Movie News, News

August 19, 2016 – Chiller Films will be releasing SIREN in theaters on December 2, 2016 and on VOD, Digital HD and DVD December 6th.

The film stars Chase Williamson (The Guest, John Dies at the End), Justin Welborn (The Final Destination), Michael Aaron Milligan (Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri), Hayes Mercure (Mascots), Randy McDowell (Elvis), Hannah Fierman (V/H/S) and directed by Gregg Bishop (V/H/S Viral).

SIREN will be screening at the WIZARD WORLD COMIC CON in Chicago this weekend on Sunday, Aug. 21 at 8 p.m. at the Muvico Rosemont and then at FRIGHTFEST in London on Sunday, Aug. 28 at 6:30 p.m. at Discovery Screen Two.