Archive - 2017

Square Enix Unveils NYCC 2017 Lineup

LOS ANGELES (Sept. 28, 2017) – At this year’s New York Comic Con (booth # 1804), SQUARE ENIX® will offer hands-on demos for the newly announced Secret of Mana® and Spelunker Party!™ , as well asDISSIDIA® FINAL FANTASY® NT, FINAL FANTASY XV POCKET EDITION, FINAL FANTASY XV MULTIPLAYER EXPANSION: COMRADES, FINAL FANTASY XV WINDOWS EDITION, GRAVEL, LIFE IS STRANGE™: BEFORE THE STORM™ LOST SPHEAR™ and Project Hikari.

Show attendees are invited to take part in the DISSIDIA FINAL FANTASY NT tournaments for a chance to win limited edition prizes, including themed battle tours t-shirts. Fans can also try their hand at competing in the FINAL FANTASY TRADING CARD GAME Drafts and Sealed Tournaments.

Outside of the convention, SQUARE ENIX will also host the FINAL FANTASY TRADING CARD GAMEPetit Cups, a series of community meet-up events where players can challenge each other in informal tournaments to win prizes. The event calendar kicks off on October 6 at Silk Road Gaming (30 Mott St. New York, New York) for gunslinger-style challenges, followed by an official FINAL FANTASY TRADING CARD GAME tournament the following day, October 7. More information on both the Petit Cup and on-site events will be available on the FFTCG Official Facebook Page.

The Square Enix Members team is hosting a text message sweepstakes for exclusive Members Reward items. Those that sign up will have daily chances to win, as well as to receive free giveaways throughout the show. On October 7 at 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM, Square Enix Members will also be hosting a special signing session at the booth with FINAL FANTASY BRAVE EXVIUS Global Producer, Hiroki Fujimoto.

Finally, SQUARE ENIX will host the below panel at the show, giving fans an opportunity to get the latest development updates and converse with the creative minds behind the games:

Bringing Images to Life: First Look at Square Enix’s Take on Japanese Manga in VR
Thursday, October 5 from 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM – 1A21
For many fans, SQUARE ENIX is synonymous with some of the biggest titles in gaming, but is also home to some of the most beloved titles in Japanese Manga history. At their offices in Tokyo, a team of manga loving veterans from both the game and anime industry have been hard at work to create the next generation of Japanese manga utilizing the latest in VR technology. Come join the team as they share a glimpse of what they envision to be the future of manga.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to play several Square Enix titles, including:

DISSIDIA FINAL FANTASY NT
Platform: PlayStation®4 computer entertainment system
Developer: Square Enix / Team Ninja (Koei Tecmo)
ESRB: Not yet rated
Release: January 30, 2018
Developed in partnership with Team NINJA, DISSIDIA FINAL FANTASY NT is a team-based brawler based on one of Japan’s top arcade games. The game pits legendary heroes and villains from FINAL FANTASY’s 30-year history, including recently revealed FINAL FANTASY XV’s Noctis, against each other in epic and strategic 3 vs. 3 battles. Players will choose a team from a roster of more than 20 belovedFINAL FANTASY characters across twelve iconic battle arenas and call forth fan-favorite summons. With a deep customization and progression system, players will gain experience points and unlock EX skills, weapons, skins and more as they develop their favorite FINAL FANTASY characters, their way. At New York Comic Con, winners of each free play round will receive an exclusive Warrior of Light Gil Coin while supplies last.

FINAL FANTASY XV MULTIPLAYER EXPANSION: COMRADES
Platform: Xbox One®, the all-in-one games and entertainment system from Microsoft, PlayStation®4 computer entertainment system
Developer: SQUARE ENIX
ESRB: Not yet rated
Available: October 31, 2017
The world of FINAL FANTASY XV continues to grow with the release of FINAL FANTASY XV MULTIPLAYER EXPANSION: COMRADES. Players will be able to create their own avatars and participate in exciting multiplayer quests with their friends to bring the Light back to the Kingdom of Lucis.

FINAL FANTASY XV POCKET EDITION
Platform: iOS, Android, and Windows 10 devices
Developer: SQUARE ENIX
Available: Fall 2017
FINAL FANTASY XV POCKET EDITION features the main characters and story of the console version in an episodic format, with a completely redesigned art style and casual touch controls optimized for mobile gameplay. All ten episodes will be available when the game launches, with the first episode available to download for free.

FINAL FANTASY XV WINDOWS EDITION
Platform: Windows PC
Developer: SQUARE ENIX
ESRB: T for Teen
Available: Early 2018
The ultimate fantasy adventure heads to Windows PC, offering cutting-edge technology provided by NVIDIA® Gameworks™ and native 4K (maximum 8K) support for high-resolution displays and HDR10. FINAL FANTASY XV WINDOWS EDITION boasts a wealth of bonus content from the console versions originally available through the Season Pass and free updates, while the new first-person mode allows a more immersive experience than ever before.

GRAVEL
Platform: PlayStation®4 computer entertainment system, Xbox One®, the all-in-one games and entertainment system from Microsoft, Windows PC
Developer: Milestone
ESRB: RP
Available: Early 2018
Milestone, one of the leading and longest established racing game developers in the world, is proud to announce its new IP dedicated to the four-wheeled off-road world: GRAVEL. GRAVEL is the first four-wheeled racing game that the Milanese production house is developing with the help of the Unreal® Engine 4 by Epic Games, demonstrating a real hike in technological standards compared to previous games. There are four different disciplines to compete in and get the heart racing on board the most powerful machines: Cross Country, vast areas that reproduce some of the most evocative places on planet Earth, where you can compete right until the final checkpoint; Wild Rush, to enjoy some of the most exotic and savage locations at full gas; Speed Cross, for those who want to race on some of the most beautiful tracks in the world; and Stadiums, arenas with spectacular layouts packed with jumps.

LIFE IS STRANGE : BEFORE THE STORM
Platform: Xbox One®, the all-in-one games and entertainment system from Microsoft, PlayStation®4 computer entertainment system, Windows PC
Developer: Deck Nine
ESRB: M for Mature
Available: Now
LIFE IS STRANGE: BEFORE THE STORM features Chloe Price, a 16-year-old rebel who forms an unlikely friendship with Rachel Amber, a beautiful and popular girl destined for success. When Rachel’s world is turned upside down by a family secret, their newfound alliance gives them the strength to overcome their demons.

LOST SPHEAR
Platform: Nintendo Switch™, PlayStation®4 computer entertainment system and Windows PC (STEAM®)
Developer: Tokyo RPG Factory™
ESRB: Not yet rated
Available: January 23, 2018
Expanding on the beloved I AM SETSUNA™, the LOST SPHEAR adventure begins in a remote town where a young boy, Kanata, awakens from a devastating dream to find his hometown disappearing. To stop the world from being lost forever, Kanata and his comrades set out to rebuild the world around them with the power of Memory by manifesting thoughts into matter. Fans can snag a photo with cosplayers “ItsYoru” and “PrincessGigglesnort” dressed as Kanata and Lumina. Those who preordered the game on the SQUARE ENIX online store can stop by the booth with their confirmation email to pick up a LOST SPHEAR T-shirt.

Project Hikari (Working Title) featuring the Manga Series, “Tales of the Wedding Rings”
Platform: Oculus Rift, HTC Vive
Developer: SQUARE ENIX
ESRB: Not yet rated
Available: TBD
Project Hikari is an immersive virtual reality experience that adapts existing manga into a fully modeled 3D world through state-of-the-art VR technology. The experience combines Japanese voice acting as seen in anime, use of real hand-drawn manga panels and 3D and 2D black and white art to offer a unique way for readers to experience storytelling like never before.

Secret of Mana
Platform: PlayStation®4 system, PlayStation®Vita handheld entertainment system and Windows PC (STEAM)
Developer: SQUARE ENIX
ESRB: Not yet rated
Available: February 15, 2018
Secret of Mana is a faithful remake of one of the greatest RPGs of all time, reborn for the first time with modern 3D graphics, voice over and updated gameplay. New and old fans alike will be able to experience the same magic and fantasy found in the original classic.

Spelunker Party!
Platform: Nintendo Switch and Windows PC (STEAM) (digital only)
Developer: Tozai, Inc.
ESRB:  E for everyone
Available: October 19, 2017
Spelunker Party! is a cave exploration adventure game featuring single player, local and online co-op multiplayer modes with up to three other players. Following the story of Spelunkette and her friends, explorers can adventure solo or with up to four players in local and online multiplayer mode, avoiding dangerous pitfalls, boulders and wicked creations. In multiplayer mode, players can also join together to access new areas and revive teammates. With over 100 thrilling stages to challenge, players will discover Litho-stones hidden throughout each map to unlock new items, equipment, and faithful pets to customize their characters and aid in cave exploration.

Castle Park Announces Castle Dark and Happy Hauntings Events

Riverside, CA. (September 26, 2017) – The Inland Empire’s favorite daytime and nighttime Halloween events, Happy Hauntings and Castle Dark, are back for tricksters of all ages at Castle Park. Happy Hauntings is filled with family friendly Halloween fun and festivities during the daytime hours, and when darkness falls, Castle Park transforms into its heart-racing, exhilarating Halloween haunt, Castle Dark. Beginning October 6 th through the 29th , every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday the gates will creek open at 7:00pm for Castle Dark. Venture throughout the park to three all new haunted maze attractions and the brand new virtual reality attraction, Ghost Manor™.

NEW FOR 2017: Ghost Manor™ VR Experience – Modal has brought an immersive new dimension of fun to Castle Dark! Enter into a fun and spooky virtual reality walk-through experience unlike anything you have seen before. Explore the haunted grounds on a spellbinding journey full of magical illusions, eerie sights, and sometimes frightening encounters with the unknown in this virtual reality walk-through attraction. “Castle Park has proven to be an ideal partner for Modal. They are a forward-thinking company and they truly understand Modal’s mission to make magical VR experiences affordable for everyone.” – Nolan Bushnell, cofounder of Modal.

Ghost Manor™ VR Experience is an additional $5.

2017 Mazes include the following:

  •  Castle Peak Cavern (NEW) – Dare to enter into a cryptic cavern, filled with the spirits of a family that were buried alive after a cave-in took their lives.
  •  Shiverton Keep Maze (NEW) – Take a journey into the forbidden kingdom of the living dead who have been infested with the deadly plague.
  •  Carnival of “S”laughter (NEW) – Mimes and clowns have gone mad and are feuding, trying to kill anyone that gets in their way. Join the mayhem that lies ahead.

For guests looking for more cheer than fear, Castle Park’s Happy Hauntings is the perfect place for fright-less family fun every Saturday and Sunday, October 7-29. The ride park opens at noon and Happy Hauntings activities for guests 12 and under are from 3:00-5:00pm.

  •  Costume Contests – Kids are welcome to wear their favorite Halloween costume for a chance to win a prize, at 3:00pm inside of the Big Top.
  •  Pumpkin Painting Contests – At 4:00pm, kids are welcome to join in a fun Halloween pumpkin painting contest.
  •  House of Halloween Maze (NEW) – Witches and ghouls ages 12 and under can venture into a friendly Halloween maze where they’ll find a special treat spot at 5:00pm!

Castle Park’s Happy Hauntings and Castle Dark admission tickets start as low as $9.99 for each event when you buy online. Happy Hauntings ticket price includes all activities, available every Saturday and Sunday, October 7 – 29. Castle Dark opens at 7:00 pm, Friday through Sunday, from October 6-29. Both events will also have rides, arcade, and miniature golf open. Hours of operation may vary. Visit castlepark.com for more details.

Please note:

Castle Dark is rated PG for Pretty Gruesome and not recommended for children 12 and under. Masks are NOT permitted to be worn into the park during Castle Dark. No outside food or beverages are permitted.

POLAROID Official Trailer

From the producers of the THE RING and THE GRUDGE and based on the award-winning short by Lars Klevberg, comes the next iconic and bold new vision in horror: POLAROID. High school loner Bird Fitcher has no idea what dark secrets are tied to the mysterious Polaroid vintage camera she stumbles upon, but it doesn’t take long to discover that those who have their picture taken meet a tragic end.

Polaroid will develop in theaters near you come December 1, 2017!

Empyre: Lords of the Sea Gates – A Preview (PC)

Coin Operated Games is currently finishing up development on their newest title, Empyre:  Lords of the Sea Gates.  Empyre:  Lords of the Sea Gates is a role playing game that is set in an alternative New York during the Gilded Age of the United States.  With a release date of Oct. 4, 2017, I take a little look here to see how the development process is shaping up.

The story for Empyre:  Lords of the Sea Gates begins in 1899, when the coastal cities of the world were completely flooded.  New York was hit hard by the flooding and during the chaos that came after the disaster was split into multiple city-states, including the Mano Nera and the Tammany city-states.  The game properly begins in the year of 1911, with your city-state facing rash food shortages, undrinkable water, and political strife.  You are sent out to find a solution to the water and food shortages and make sure your city-state survives.

Before I get into my time with the story, I do need to address a few things that set me against the game to begin with.  One issue in making a historical game, even one set in an alternative timeline, is that developers usually get their naming wrong.  While choosing the names like Mano Nera and Tammany draws praise from me, calling Empyre:  Lords of the Sea Gates a “Neo Victorian” game shows where the developers didn’t understand their terminology.  The proper term for the time period the game is set in is the Gilded Age in the United States, or even the Edwardian Era if you wanted to use the British eras.  So, a word to developers in the future, be careful about your naming conventions when creating a historical game, especially if the person writing the preview is a historian.  It’s even harder to swallow when they use the line “we did our research” in their Steam advertising.  It’s the little things that can ruin a story for some.

Coin Operated Games does throw in real world places and people for you to run into, which brings the game back into my good graces.  Many locations are iconic, like the Brooklyn Bridge, but you will also see other places that are not as well know.  Likewise with characters you will run into, that is, if you are familiar with New York in the early 20th century.  The developers even went so far as to add real medicines and tonics from the era, but not all were still in use by 1911.  I know, I know…. Hammering a game on historical accuracy may not be what people care about, especially one that is set in an alternate timeline, but when a developer uses authenticity as a selling point, it sticks out to me.

Game play for Empyre:  Lords of the Sea Gates is pretty straight forward for an isometric-view role playing game and it plays pretty much as games of the genre do.  You will move around New York in real time, but will be able to pause time to set up your strategies and tactics, then un-pause time to see what transpires.  You begin the game with a tutorial, that allows you to explore the four different character classes in the game, which pretty much the same four classes you are used to in every RPG.  Empyre:  Lords of the Sea Gates does a good job in getting you up and running, but the user interface can be hard to navigate at times, especially trying to figure out where your next step is to be.

Empyre:  Lords of the Sea Gates does have some interesting bits that are not found in other games, such as their Nerve System or the lack of cash for vendors.  As your characters become injured or stressed, they become nervous and run the risk of failing their tasks at a higher rate.  Managing this stress through exposure to combat or medicine is crucial for key characters that you need.  Also, using weapons to barter for new weapons was an interesting change.  One that felt more immersive and story driven.

Empyre:  Lords of the Sea Gates is being advertised as a classic style RPG, which it is.  The game play is solid, even if the story and some historical facts are not.  If you are absolutely interested in a classic style role playing game that is set in an alternate New York, then Empyre:  Lords of the Sea Gates will be right up your alley.  My hesitancy in recommending this game to everyone looking for the classic RPG experience is that there are far better games out on the market, or even remastered versions of some of the best role playing games to ever be made.  Ultimately, whether Empyre:  Lords of the Sea Gates is worth your time is up to you, but I will be passing on this one when it’s fully released on October 4th.

Comic Con Revolution Announces 2018 Dates and Details

New York, NY September 27, 2017 Atomic Crush Events (ACE) is pleased to announce the return of Comic Con Revolution (CCR) to Ontario, California.  The second annual comic con will be twice as large as year one.  Over double the square footage, more exhibitors, more vendors and even more guests.  CCR will be held on May 19 & 20, 2018 at the Ontario Convention Center and will feature two full days of programming.

The initial guest list boasts some of the most incredible talent in the industry including Jason Aaron (X-Men, Star Wars), Sandy King Carpenter (Film Producer & Comic Writer), Ming Chen (AMCs Comic Book Men), David Lafuente (Archer & Armstrong), Dustin Nguyen (Descender), Stan Sakai (Usagi Yojimbo), Cat Staggs (Wonder Woman), Timothy Zahn (Star Wars Novelist).  Many more additional announcements will be made before Comic Con Revolution opens its doors for year two.

“We’ve been hard at work reaching out to exciting and talented creators over the last few months,”  commented ACE Co-Founder Mike Scigliano.  “As each one confirms their participation the first thing we think about is how our attendees will react to the news.”

Not satisfied with just growing exhibit hall and the guest list, Comic Con Revolution will now play host to two days of programming full of panels and events for the entire family.  They’ll also be producing the second annual Cosplay Revolution Costume Contest hosted by Ming Chen with the winners receiving one of the most unique awards ever.  The ultimate goal is to create a full weekend experience.

“We were overwhelmed with the support and love that Ontario and the entire Inland Empire showed Comic Con Revolution last May,” said ACE Co-Founder Drew Seldin.  “It’s driven us to produce a bigger and better experience for 2018.”

Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting the Comic Con Revolution website www.comicconrevolution.com/ontario/.

Also available are exclusive logo enamel pins, pint glasses and tees.

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Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Grinchmas Announced

Universal City, California – September 27, 2017 – It’s the most wonderful time of the year at The Entertainment Capital of L.A. as Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal CityWalk deck the halls for a wintry calendar of festive holiday experiences and an array of delectable treats that families and friends far and wide can enjoy.

The all-new “Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” experience will resonate throughout the immersive land this yuletide season transforming the iconic HogwartsTM castle into a dazzling light projection spectacular, while the quaint town of Hogsmeade village shines brightly with décor uniquely themed to each of the individual storefronts.

The a cappella Frog Choir, comprised of Hogwarts students and their giant throaty frogs, will perform all-new holiday themed songs.

A wide selection of all-new custom-made Christmas ornaments created especially for “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” will also debut this season. Collectibles include a variety of decorative Hogwarts castle snow globes, Hogwarts crest and mascot ornaments representing each of the houses, as well as a collection of unique tree toppers and house pennant garland.

Newly introduced holiday-themed fare and the eagerly-awaited seasonal return of hot Butterbeer will further complement the overall experience.

“Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” will take place daily from November 24, 2017 through January 7, 2018.

The all-new “Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” experience invites guests to celebrate this special time of year in J.K. Rowling’s compelling Wizarding World for themselves.

As night falls on Hogsmeade village, “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts TM Castle” will illuminate Hogwarts™ School of Witchcraft and Wizardry with colorful imagery and impressive dimensional animations that dance across Hogwarts castle in tandem to a musical arrangement from the Harry Potter movies.

“Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” represents the immersive land’s first holiday themed program since opening at Universal Studios Hollywood in 2016.

Grinchmas” returns to Universal Studios Hollywood with a Who-lebration of fun fit for The Grinch, his faithful dog Max and a roster of Who-ville Whos.  The annual event comes to life with a towering 60 foot tall whimsical “Grinchmas” tree where Martha May Who-vier and the Who Dolls will take center stage performing energetic musical sets to usher in the Christmas season in style.  The Who-liday Singers—a hip boy-band ensemble—will perform nightly a cappella concerts featuring a mix of Christmas favorites and pop rock.

“Grinchmas” will take place weekends on December 2-3 and 9-10, and daily from December 15 through December 31, 2017.

Spirited holiday décor and festive whimsy will permeate throughout the theme park including “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” and the adjoining “Super Silly Fun Land” as a crew of very merry and mischievous Minions gleefully spread Christmas cheer to visitors of all ages.

A spectacular 40-foot tall Christmas tree will glisten with 200,000 LED icicles choreographed to the lights and sounds of the season in the 5 Towers plaza. Santa Claus will make nightly appearances and offer special photo opportunities at 5 Towers.

The iconic, dancing water fountain situated at the heart of CityWalk will also make a splash this holiday season. This visually dynamic fountain, displaying over 230 individual power jets, will project streams of choreographed water into the air complemented by red and green LED lights and an array of holiday-themed music.

Free concert performances at “5 Towers” and an eclectic ensemble of talented street performers will make CityWalk the ultimate L.A. holiday destination.

The spirit of the season continues with a wintertime transformation of Universal CityWalk, beginning the day after Thanksgiving on Friday, November 24 through Sunday, December 23, 2017.

The holidays at Universal Studios Hollywood is included in the price of theme park admission.  More information is available at www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com. Like Universal Studios Hollywood on Facebook and follow @UniStudios on Instagram and Twitter.

Admission to Universal CityWalk is free. More information available at www.CityWalkHollywood.com

A similar holiday program will also take place at Universal Orlando Resort.

Noir Matter Unveils QUARK Action Cam Stabilizer

(Los Angeles, CA) – September 27, 2017 – Noir Matter today introduced QUARK, the world’s smallest waterproof stabilizer for GoPro and other action cameras. Perfect for video makers and action sports enthusiasts, QUARK is the ultimate tool for capturing fully stable videos because of its horizontal (“roll”) stabilization which keeps the horizon “straight,” ensuring the captured action is always level. An Indiegogo campaign (https://igg.me/at/quark) which has a funding goal of $100,000 USD, features limited Super Early Bird specials of $145 USD (27% off retail) and several other rewards for early backers.

QUARK, a one-axis waterproof stabilizer (can be set for “Roll” and “Yaw” axis) for GoPro and other action cameras, stabilizes the attached camera on the selected axis by gathering motion information from different embedded sensors linked to the camera. By analyzing the gathered information, QUARK drives its powerful, custom motor to ensure users can record fully stable and level videos.

QUARK is the world’s first waterproof (up to 1m/3ft) stabilizer for GoPro and other action cameras, so users can use it during any water activity (i.e.: kitesurfing, surfing, kayaking, etc.) And, because of its size (76x67x31 mm / 3×2,6×1,2 in), users can keep it attached to their camera at all times. Lightweight (240g / 0.53Pound / 8.5 Oz), QUARK can be mounted on any mount, pole, helmet, ski, surfboard, etc.

“After using a variety of different 3-axis stabilizers, we realized that they were not practical and truly adapted for action cameras,” said Lancelot Gelas, founder, Noir Matter. “Most of them are too big, bulky, complex and heavy. By miniaturizing the technology, we have been able to create a product that you can use everywhere.”

Additional QUARK Specs:
• STABILIZATION: Electric with a Brushless DC Motor
• SENSORS: 3-axis gyroscope (“Roll,” “Pitch” and “Yaw” axes), accelerometer
• ONE SWITCH: Press the On/Off switch for easy activation or shut down
• BATTERY: Lithium Polymer, life of 3h (Recharge in 2h)

About Noir Matter
Noir Matter is an innovative startup located in Los Angeles, CA changing the way non-professional and professional filmmakers create great quality content. It’s flagship product, Quark, is the world’s smallest waterproof stabilizer for GoPros, mobile phones and other personal cameras. The company’s mission is to help content creators and filmmaking enthusiasts alike create videos that are of the best quality and not today’s typical shaky, low quality production. For more information, visit www.noirmatter.com, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram or Vimeo.

Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Wildlands Multiplayer Update Trailer

SAN FRANCISCO — September 27, 2017 — Today, Ubisoft® announced that Ghost War, the new PvP mode update for Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon® Wildlands, will be available on October 10. Ghost War will be free for all players who own the base game and will receive regular updates with new content added post-launch.

In Ghost War, two groups of players will take part in a 4v4 team deathmatch experience that builds on the tactical squad play from the main game, where strategy is equally as important as skill. Teams will choose from a roster of varied classes across three categories including Assault, Marksman and Support, fulfilling specific roles on the battlefield as they navigate large-scale open maps and take down their enemies. Using one of the twelve distinct classes, each with their own varied characteristics, weapons, perks and customization options, players will engage with enemies across eight unique maps. Ghost War will also integrate new PvP mechanics, including suppressing fire and sound markers, to create a strategic and intense team-based multiplayer mode. For all the detailed information on Ghost War, please visit: https://ghost-recon.ubisoft.com/wildlands/en-us/ghostwar/index.aspx

The development team plans to bring regular post-launch updates to Ghost War in order to enrich the overall PvP experience. “We are excited to continue refining and expanding Ghost War after its launch” said Lucian Istrate, lead game designer on Ghost War at Ubisoft Bucharest. “Expect more classes, more maps, and even new modes to be added in the future!”

Developed by Ubisoft Paris,* Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Wildlands is a military shooter entirely playable in up to four-player co-op or single-player from beginning to end. Players have total freedom to accomplish their missions how they want and watch as the world reacts to their actions. Players can choose to move quietly in the night, go in hot at dawn or work together to execute a sync shot that takes out enemies in one fell swoop. Each choice has a consequence, and players must improvise or adapt their plans to ensure the completion and success of each mission.

For the latest about Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Wildlands and all Ubisoft games, please visit ubiblog.com.

For more information about Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Wildlands, please visit ghostrecon.com, follow us on twitter.com/ghostrecon or facebook.com/ghostrecon and join the conversation by using #GhostRecon.

*In collaboration with Ubisoft studios including Annecy, Bucharest, Montpellier, Milan, Belgrade and Reflections.

Wizard World 2018 Calendar Released

LOS ANGELES, September 26, 2017 Pushing ahead with an aggressive move into new markets while retaining many of its most popular venues, Wizard World, Inc. (OTCBB: WIZD) today announced the first iteration of its 2018 calendar, securing a total of 11 events, including 11 holdovers from successful 2017 shows. The company also announced that five events in Biloxi , Miss., Montgomery, Ala., Peoria, Ill., Springfield, Mo., and Winston-Salem, N.C. have been postponed from their originally scheduled fourth-quarter dates in 2017 to similar dates in 2018.

The 2018 schedule, which will likely add some additional cities to be announced, is comprised as follows (*denotes new for 2018):

  • January 5-7, New Orleans, Ernest N. Morial Convention Center

  • February 2-4, St. Louis, America’s Center

  • March 2-4, Cleveland, Huntington Convention Center of Cleveland

  • April 13-15, Portland, Ore., Oregon Convention Center

  • May 17-20, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Convention Center

  • June 1-3, Des Moines, Iowa, Iowa Events Center

  • June 8-10, Columbus, Ohio, Greater Columbus Convention Center

  • *July 13-15, Boise, Idaho, Boise Centre

  • August 23-26, Chicago, Donald E. Stephens Convention Center

  • September 21-23, Madison, Wis., Alliant Energy Center

  • October 26-28, Oklahoma City, Cox Convention Center

  • Fall TBD, Austin, Texas, Austin Convention Center

  • *October/November TBD, Biloxi, Miss., Mississippi Coliseum & Convention Center

  • *October/November TBD, Montgomery, Ala., Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa at the Convention Center

  • *October/November TBD, Peoria, Ill., Peoria Civic Center

  • *October/November TBD, Springfield, Mo., University Plaza Hotel & Convention Center

  • *October/November TBD, Winston-Salem, N.C., Benton Convention Center

The rosters of celebrities and artists at each city are still being formed; to date, a few have already committed to several events, including New Orleans: Stan Lee (Marvel CEO Emeritus), Jason Momoa  (Aquaman, Justice League); St. Louis: Bonnie Wright ( Harry Potter franchise), Michael Rosenbaum (“Smallville,” Guardians of the Galaxy 2); Cleveland: Jon Heder  (Napoleon Dynamite, Blades of Glory), Holly Marie Combs (“Charmed,” “Pretty Little Liars”); Portland: Rosenbaum, Wright. Additional celebrities and creators, as well as entertainment and programming schedules, will be announced closer to each respective date.

“The confirmed portion of Wizard World’s 2018 schedule combines many of the cities which have proven most attractive to fans with some new markets that we believe will embrace us similarly,” said John D. Maatta, Wizard World President and C.E.O. “In moving five of our more recently announced shows to 2018, we are better equipped to put on the kind of successful pop culture celebration that our fans have come to expect.”

Wizard World Comic Con events bring together thousands of fans of all ages to celebrate the best in pop culture: movies, television, gaming, live entertainment, comics, sci-fi, graphic novels, toys, original art, collectibles, contests and more. Kids 10 and under are admitted free with paid adult.

Wizard World Comic Con is also the place for cosplay, with fans young and old showing off their best costumes throughout the event. Fans dressed as every imaginable character – and some never before dreamed – will roam the convention floor and participate in the famed Wizard World Costume Contest on Saturday evening at each show.