Author - Jerry Paxton

Pathfinder: Kingmaker Announced

2017/05/17

Owlcat Games studio is proud to unveil it is developing Pathfinder: Kingmaker – the very first isometric computer RPG based on the highly popular Pathfinder Roleplaying Game. Additionally, helping shape the game’s narrative is Chris Avellone, who has worked on a variety of RPGs over the years, including Fallout 2, Fallout: New Vegas, Planescape: Torment, Neverwinter Nights 2, and Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic II.

Pathfinder: Kingmaker will take players on a tour through the infamous Stolen Lands, the dangerous and turbulent territories well known within Pathfinder fandom. The computer RPG will revisit familiar characters and well-known locations of the series’ lore as well as treat players to brand new adventures, deadly foes and unforeseen twists and turns. Fans of the fantasy pen-and-paper RPG will experience its epic, heroic universe in new ways while computer RPG gamers will discover their favorite genre in a more contemporary light.

“I’m a Paizo fan, and a Pathfinder fan. I like the setting, the art style, the adventure paths, the card game, and the iconic characters. I’ve enjoyed playing Pathfinder with my friends (we used to be part of an Ocean’s-11 style game), and I’ve enjoyed the comics, the world, and the overall setting,” said Chris Avellone.”I’m excited by the prospect of bringing Pathfinder to the computer RPG world, and hope gamers will enjoy playing in the Pathfinder universe.”

Owlcat Games is working very closely with Paizo Inc., the company behind the world-famous pen-and-paper RPG, to ensure a truthful digital adaptation of Golarion.

“I am very excited to be working with Owlcat Games on the first computer RPG for Pathfinder,” said Lisa Stevens, Paizo CEO. “Kingmaker is one of my all time favorite Pathfinder Adventure Paths, and from what we’ve seen from Owlcat Games, it is in good hands and promises to be an amazing addition to the computer RPG field.”

Pathfinder: Kingmaker will challenge players as both adventurers and rulers as they will be able to claim explored lands and carve their own kingdom from the wilderness. Kingdom founding will go beyond simple stronghold-building to become a true reflection of the hero’s character and choices made throughout the game. Each kingdom will be a living thing shaped by alignment, choices, allies and the hero’s ability to lead his or her people.

Owlcat Games is excited to show its unique ideas for Pathfinder: Kingmaker during PaizoCon 2017 this month in Seattle. For more details about Pathfinder: Kingmaker, please visit the project’s official site: www.owlcatgames.com

Turtle Beach Unveils XO Three and RECON 150 Gaming Headsets

2017/05/17

Jerry Paxton

Geek News, News, Tech News

San Diego, CA – May 16, 2017 – Turtle Beach Corporation (NASDAQ: HEAR) today revealed two new models for its 2017 lineup of acclaimed gaming headsets for Xbox One and PlayStation®4. Similar in style to the company’s best-selling XO FOUR STEALTH, the new XO THREE officially licensed gaming headset for Xbox One and RECON 150 offer the same rugged and robust design as their predecessor, with large 50mm speakers and Turtle Beach’s renowned high-sensitivity mic to deliver the unbeatable game and chat audio needed to secure victory on the multiplayer battlefield. The XO THREE and RECON 150 are planned to launch at participating retailers this July for a MSRP of $69.95, with the RECON 150 headset available only at Best Buy in the U.S., and at participating retailers in the UK and Australia, and in select territories across Europe.
Additionally, last month Turtle Beach redefined what gamers should expect from a chat headset with the all-new RECON CHAT for Xbox One and PS4™, which are now available globally at participating retail outlets for a MSRP of $19.95.

“Part of our consistent success in this category is rooted in the breadth and quality of our lineup because we have a gaming headset for every type of player,” said Juergen Stark, CEO, Turtle Beach Corporation. “The XO THREE and RECON 150 headsets are great additions to our mid-range line of products, delivering amazing game audio, crystal clear chat and comfort at a great price.”

In addition to the large, high-quality 50mm speakers and Turtle Beach’s renowned high-sensitivity mic, the XO THREE and RECON 150 include convenient in-line controls that put Master Volume and Mic Mute right at your fingertips. The XO THREE also delivers immersive virtual surround sound on Xbox One via Windows Sonic for Headphones, making your games, movies and music a more in-depth experience.

Full details on Turtle Beach’s XO THREE and RECON 150 are below:

Rugged & Comfortable Design – The XO THREE and RECON 150 have a thick, rugged and robust frame with a plush leather-wrapped headband and breathable fabric-wrapped ear-cushions that allow you to play for hours in complete comfort.
Surround Sound Ready* – The XO THREE is surround sound ready for Windows Sonic for Headphones on Xbox One (and compatible Windows 10 PCs) so you can experience your games, movies and music with deeper immersion. *Windows Sonic for Headphones only available on Xbox One (and compatible Windows 10 PCs) with update from Microsoft.
Large 50mm Speakers – Hear every crisp high and thundering low with these large, high-quality 50mm over-ear speakers.
Crystal Clear Chat – Turtle Beach’s renowned high-sensitivity mic picks-up your voice loud and clear, and can be removed when watching movies or listening to music.
Convenient In-line Controls – Convenient in-line controls place Master Volume and Mic Mute right at your fingertips.
Versatile Compatibility – Works great with PS4 and Xbox One controllers with a 3.5mm jack, as well as with PC, Mac® and mobile/tablet devices with a 3.5mm connection. Other Xbox One controllers require the Headset Audio Adaptor (sold separately).

For more information on the latest Turtle Beach gaming headsets and audio accessories, visit www.turtlebeach.com, and be sure to follow Turtle Beach on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Corsair Unveils T1 Race Gaming Chair

2017/05/16

Jerry Paxton

Geek News, News

FREMONT, CA – May 16th, 2017 – CORSAIR®, a world leader in enthusiast memory, PC components and high-performance gaming hardware today announced the launch of its first gaming chair, the T1 RACE. Inspired by racing, crafted for comfort and built to last, the T1 Race joins CORSAIR’s award-winning range of mice, keyboards, headsets and mousepads to complete the ultimate gaming experience. Built using a solid steel skeleton and dense foam cushions, the T1 RACE has the strength to ensure a lifetime of sturdiness, while it’s 4D-movement armrests raise, lower, shift and swivel to put gamers in the most comfortable position every time. Styled to turn heads and finished with immaculate attention to detail, the T1 RACE is the gaming chair your desk deserves.

Upholstered in luxurious PU leather on seating surfaces and available in five different colors, T1 RACE lets you choose your seat to match your style, in either Yellow, White, Blue, Red or Black trim, finished with automotive color-matched stitching and base accents. Nylon caster wheels, often an optional upgrade on office and gaming chairs, are included with T1 RACE as standard, ensuring stability and smooth movement on any surface.

T1 RACE’s sculpted race-seat design and included neck and lumbar PU leather pillows provide adjustable support for day-long gaming sessions, while its 4D-moment armrests effortlessly adjust in height, width, position and angle to put your arms precisely where they need to be. A steel construction Class 4 gas lift provides reliable height adjustment, while the seat itself tilts up to 10° and can recline anywhere between 90° to 180°, lying completely flat for when you need to take a break from the action. Finishing the T1 RACE’s attention to detail, the CORSAIR logo is tastefully embroidered into the rear of the chair, and lightly embossed into the headrest for maximum comfort.

Availability, Warranty and Pricing:

The T1 RACE Gaming Chair is available immediately from the CORSAIR worldwide network of authorized retailers, and distributors and is backed by a two-year warranty and the CORSAIR worldwide customer support network.

For up-to-date pricing, please contact your local CORSAIR sales or PR representative.

Web Pages:

For more information on the CORSAIR T1 RACE Gaming Chair, please visit:

http://www.corsair.com/t1-race-gaming-chair

Scare LA Tickets Half Off Pre-Sale

2017/05/16

Jerry Paxton

Geek News, Halloween, News

LOS ANGELES, CA – May 16, 2017 – All monsters can still take advantage of our Halfoween sale to receive 1/2 OFF General Admission and Fear Freak tickets (using the code HALFOSCARE at checkout). Fans must purchase tickets now before the extended treat expires!

The August 5-6 convention where all monsters come together attracted over 12,000 last year and is on track to be the biggest and most exciting yet and will be coming to one of the largest venues in Southern California, the Los Angeles Convention Center! As registered guests, all will receive exclusive updates of spooky thrills that will be part of the gathering.

ScareLA’s 2017 theme, “Monsters Come Together,” celebrates diversity, unity and tolerance. Created to bring people together in a celebration of the scary and unusual, the convention aims to build and strengthen community ties across diverse groups, backgrounds and interests.

For more information, visit www.scarela.com.

# # #

About ScareLA:

ScareLA is the world’s first summer Halloween convention. Situated in the entertainment capital of the world, the event celebrates the American scare season traditions and the diverse cultural heritage of the Greater Los Angeles region. Featuring hundreds of specialty vendors, education programming, world-class industry presentations, ScareLA draws thousands of professionals, fans and families from the U.S. and abroad to celebrate Halloween early every summer. ScareLA is one of the fastest growing independent fan conventions in the U.S. addressing a $10 billion Halloween industry worldwide.

Useful Links:

Official Hashtag: #ScareLA

ScareLA Website: http://www.scarela.com

ScareLA’s Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/ScareLAcon/

ScareLA’s Twitter Account: https://twitter.com/scarelosangeles

ScareLA’s Instagram Account: https://www.instagram.com/scarelosangeles

ScareLA’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/scarelosangeles

Merchandising Partners to Be Showcased at Destiny 2 Gameplay Premiere on May 18

2017/05/16

Jerry Paxton

E3, Geek News, News, PlayStation 4 News, Windows PC News, Xbox One News

May 16, 2017 – Bungie, in collaboration with Activision, aim to expand the Destiny 2 adventure through new and existing licensee partners for Destiny 2’s merchandising program.

Bungie has partnered with Funko to bring Destiny’s story characters to life in Pop! Vinyl form. This August, consumers can collect iconic characters from the Destiny 2 universe including Cayde-6, Ikora Rey, and Commander Zavala with other supporting characters at select retailers.

Destiny 2’s availability on PC for the first time also presents a strategic partnership opportunity with Razer featuring a product suite of gaming peripherals: the Razer Ornata Chroma keyboard, the Razer ManO’ War Tournament Edition headset, the Razer DeathAdder Elite mouse, and the Razer Goliathus Speed mouse mat.

Other Bungie licensee partnerships include, BioWorld (Apparel), KontrolFreek (Performance Thumbsticks for Gaming Controllers), Insight Editions (Art Books, Journals and Poster Books), Mattel – MEGA Construx (Construction Sets), McFarlane Toys (Action Figures and Collectibles), Think Geek (Accessories and Collectibles), ThreeA (Collectible Figures), and RockLove (Jewelry).

Partner brands will make an appearance at the Destiny 2 Gameplay Premiere taking place on May 18 in Los Angeles, California.

Destiny 2’s merchandising program continues to grow and evolve the franchise’s legacy while offering consumers new, exciting extensions to the universe beyond console and PC in key categories, including Apparel, Electronics and Accessories. Visit the Bungie store at: http://bungiestore.com.

Dreadnought Hits PC Open Beta

2017/05/16

Jerry Paxton

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

HOUSTON and BERLIN – May 16, 2017 – Grey Box, Six Foot and independent developer YAGER have announced the launch of the Windows PC open beta of the class-based spaceship action game Dreadnought. New captains can download the game and play in open beta now by visiting www.Dreadnought.com. Dreadnought’s open beta is free-to-play, but players can purchase specialized Hero Ships, experience boosts and cosmetic add-ons for their vessels.

Open beta introduces Ixion, Dreadnought’s biggest map yet. Situated in space 60,000 kilometers above Saturn’s largest moon, Titan, this new battleground forces players to maneuver around the colossal orbital ring that dominates its center. Narrow gaps within the superstructure allow ships to cross from one side to the other, but players must be wary of what dangers lurk on the other side. Open beta also adds night variations for two existing maps: Rings of Saturn and Red Sands.

Dreadnought puts players in command of massive capital ships on the front lines of tactical team battles across a variety of competitive online multiplayer modes. Captains must master their vessels and work together to succeed, utilizing their team’s strengths while exploiting the enemy’s weaknesses. There are more than 50 playable ships, spread across five distinct classes, that players can choose from to build their fleets. From close-quarters combat to long-range assault and strategic support, each vessel is designed to bring unique specializations to the fight and can be further customized with an array of weapons, modules, coatings and decals.

Dreadnought will continue to receive new content, features, balancing and more with regular updates guided by community feedback throughout open beta. The game is also currently in closed beta on the PlayStation®4 computer entertainment system, which players can sign up for at www.dreadnought.com/ps4. For the latest information as Dreadnought progresses, please follow the title on Facebook, Twitter and Twitch.

Arma 3 Jets DLC Launch Trailer

2017/05/16

Jerry Paxton

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

May 16, 2017 – Celebrated with a launch trailer, Bohemia Interactive today released the anticipated Jets DLC for its tactical military shooter game,Arma 3. The Jets DLC delivers three air-superiority jets, an Unmanned Aerial Combat Vehicle, a new Showcase scenario, and more. The package is complemented by a free Arma 3 platform update, which introduces massive content (literally!) in the form of an aircraft carrier, and implements various new gameplay features related to fixed-wing aircraft.

Arma 3 Jets DLC Key Features

F/A-181 Black Wasp II – The F/A-181 Black Wasp II is a fifth-generation, single-seat, twin-engine, all-weather tactical fighter jet. The aircraft was designed primarily as an air-superiority fighter, but also has ground attack capabilities. Its additional external hard points enable the aircraft to carry a wide variety of weapons configurations. The Black Wasp is fitted with the required equipment for carrier operations.
To-201 Shikra – The To-201 Shikra is a fifth-generation, single-seat, twin-engine, all-weather tactical fighter jet. The aircraft was designed by a CSAT and Russian joint syndicate with the goal to build a highly agile and maneuverable air-superiority fighter. Similar to the F/A-181, the To-201 also has ground attack capabilities, and is able to support various weapons configurations via its conventional pylons, but also its internal weapons bay.
A-149 Gryphon – The A-149 Gryphon is a fourth-generation, single-seat, single-engine, and all-weather tactical fighter jet. The aircraft was designed as a multi-role platform at an affordable cost, and unlike some of the larger air-superiority jets, it can also perform well in low-altitude flight. Despite its aging platform, the A-149 has still been upgraded with the newest sensors and weapons systems.
Sentinel – The Sentinel is a fifth-generation, state-of-the-art, twin-engine, all-weather tactical Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV). The Sentinel was designed primarily as a reconnaissance platform, but can also perform precision ground attacks. It typically operates from an aircraft carrier.
Showcase Fighter Jets – Take to the skies above Altis and engage in air-to-air and air-to-ground combat in a brand new Showcase scenario.

The Jets DLC is supported by the 1.70 platform update, which features new content and features. This platform update is free for all owners of Arma 3. Its highlights include:

Sensor Overhaul – A new radar interface for targeting guided weapons, powered by advanced Active Radar and Infrared sensor technology.
Extended Hitpoints – The damage model of fixed-wing aircraft has been upgraded to the level of detail of other vehicle classes in Arma 3.
Dynamic Vehicle Loadouts – Players can now customize their vehicle’s armament. In the case of jets, this means you can choose what kind of ordnance each pylon carries.
Other Improvements – Various audio enhancements, tweaked controls, several new scripted solutions such as ejection seat emergency procedures, and more.
Aircraft Carrier “USS Freedom” (CVN-83) – A nuclear-powered aircraft supercarrier which can carry various aircraft, and supports catapult take-offs and tailhook landings. The aircraft carrier is a static in-game object that can be positioned across the map via the 3D Scenario Editor, but cannot be ‘driven’.
Surface-to-Air Weapon Systems – The USS Freedom is outfitted with 3 autonomous defensive weapon systems: Praetorian 1C AAA, Mk-49 Spartan SAM, and Mk-21 Centurion SAM.

The Jets DLC is available for purchase on the Bohemia Store and Steam at € 9.99 / $ 11.99 / £ 8.99. To already enlist for all planned upcoming Arma 3 DLC, players can purchase the Arma 3 DLC Bundle 2 (€ 22.99 / $ 24.99 / £ 19.99), which saves more than 25% over purchasing the Jets, and upcoming “Orange” (working title), Tac-Ops, and Tanks DLC separately.

For a complete overview of the Arma 3 Jets’ content and features, check out the official website at www.arma3.com/dlc/jets. To keep track of all the latest news, also be sure to follow Arma 3 on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Steam.

Battlestar Galactica Deadlock Announced with Trailer

2017/05/16

Jerry Paxton

Geek News, News, PlayStation 4 News, Trailers / Videos, Windows PC News, Xbox One News

May 16, 2017 – Slitherine and Black Lab Games, in partnership with Universal Brand Development, are thrilled to announce the upcoming release of Battlestar Galactica Deadlock™ available on PC and consoles this summer. In the exciting new game, based on the award winning sci-fi universe produced by Universal Cable Productions and aired on SYFY for four seasons, created by Glen A. Larson, players will be able to build their fleet, fight tactical battles, and strategically defend the Twelve Colonies during the First Cylon War.

“Everyone at Black Lab Games is a big fan of Battlestar Galactica”, said Paul Turbett, managing director of the development studio. “Our main goal is to give the vast community of fans and followers a game that is deeply rooted in the franchise’s values. We are creating a game that tells new stories, but with familiar places, events and characters. And all of it will be captured in the depth that our strategy game will offer”.

Battlestar Galactica Deadlock is a deep strategy game that also features a strong narrative with an extensive cast of characters, both new and from the existing lore. Fans will find all their favorite ships from Vipers, Raptors and Battlestars, to Cylon Raiders and Basestars, in addition to a brand-new range of ships designed exclusively for the game.

“Battlestar Galactica Deadlock is one of the most exciting projects we have ever worked on”, said JD McNeil, Chairman of the Slitherine group. “The Battlestar Galactica universe has an incredibly loyal following and very high expectations. As a publisher, we understand what it means to work on a project that has to please a specific audience while delivering a deep strategic experience”.

Battlestar Galactica Deadlock is set to release this summer on PC, Xbox One and PlayStation 4. Check out the official product page for further information and to keep up-to-date with all future announcements.

ROKH Early Access Launch Trailer

2017/05/16

Jerry Paxton

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

Paris, France – May 16, 2017 – Darewise Entertainment and Nvizzio Creations are offering gamers the adventure of a lifetime – a (virtual) trip to Mars! Created by a team of esteemed artistic minds behind games including Thief, Half Life 2, Dishonored, Age of Conan and Assassin’s Creed, ROKH is set on the planet Mars and features a persistent world and multiplayer co-op. This trip won’t require anyone to go to astronaut school, or live in a cramped colony ship, enjoy the stunning experience that is ROKH, available on Steam today.

“ROKH is more than just a sci-fi survival game, it’s a complete colonization experience, with tailored crafting and construction, all taking place in a lovingly crafted visual world and wrapped up in a mysterious story,” said Benjamin Charbit, CEO, Darewise Entertainment. “We’ve focused our development efforts on cooperative building and crafting which brings free from creation to the genre.”

Available now on Early Access for $24.99 (USD), ROKH challenges players to uncover the cause of the destruction of the previous Mars colonies, while building new ones and restoring communications with Earth – all while adapting to the hostile Martian environment and creating the tools they need to survive and thrive on the forbidding Red Planet.

In ROKH, players must explore the Martian landscape as they scavenge through deserted human structures to gather the resources they need to survive. With few blueprints, players must use their ingenuity to create tools from a variety of materials and construct their own encampments with no design limitations.

ROKH places players on a cold and dry land that harbors a wealth of resources to extract and exploit. Players will explore Mars, paving the way for settlers to come, as Earth’s resources are tapped and the planet is dying. Mars is a hostile planet where joining forces with friends increases efficiency, and invites trade and barter to develop a habitable and customizable ecosystem.

To learn more about ROKH, visit www.rokhthegame.com. ‘Like’ the game on Facebook and follow the game’s development on Twitter @Rokhthegame for all the latest developer updates and news.

SOLO Rival Backpack Review

2017/05/15

Jerry Paxton

Geek News, Misc Review, News, Reviews

I have quested for a durable and comfortable backpack for quite some time now. I find myself using a different back for every convention these days – not because I necessarily like them, I just can’t find one that I love. That is, until now, when SOLO was nice enough to send over one of their Rival backpacks for us to take a look at.

The SOLO Rival features a darker color scheme, with lots of grays black shades gracing its polyester body. It has a “techy” feel but its construction, size, and sheer number of pockets alludes to more beneath the surface. The person who dons the SOLO Rival is prepared for anything (assuming they utilized the Rival’s internal space properly).

In terms of internal space, the SOLO Rival has it in spades. It has one big compartment that can hold up to a 17.3 inch laptop, a slightly smaller tablet pocket which can accommodate an iPad Pro 12.9 inch, and then three additional compartments of decreasing size. On its sides are two hardshell, zippered pockets which offer some protection to the items inside. The website advertises these as great places to store headphones, etc and I have to agree. They are rugged pockets and should provide decent armor to those things inside.The back of the SOLO Rival has a padded mesh which definitely makes it one of the least sweat inducing backpacks I have used – which surprised me, given its larger size.

Another great feature of the SOLO Rival is its cross-chest strap which pulls the backpack straps towards your breast bone, taking stress off of your underarms and shoulders. It also enables your arms to move more freely while wearing it. I find this extremely helpful – especially when I am also carrying a DSLR camera that I have to wield about in sometimes awkward positions to get a shot. Additionally, the backpack straps are padded and of decent comfort to boot.

I would have NO problem wearing this through the craziness of the San Diego Comic-Con – both inside the main hall as well as out in the Gaslamp District. In contrast, the SOLO Rival is hefty and rugged enough that I would consider taking it along camping with me – albeit I would probably not put my laptop inside. It has lightweight build quality and a lot of space for survival necessities. The only addition I would probably make for it in this regard would be some MOLLE panels, but I digress.

Overall, the SOLO Rival backpack is a great choice for those of you needing a lot of internal storage space while not sacrificing comfort. At $79.99, the SOLO Rival backpack is available now at SOLO’s official website as well as other online retailers.

SOLO Rival Backpack Review Score

[mks_icon icon=”fa-star” color=”#dd0d0d” type=”fa”][mks_icon icon=”fa-star” color=”#dd0d0d” type=”fa”][mks_icon icon=”fa-star” color=”#dd0d0d” type=”fa”][mks_icon icon=”fa-star” color=”#dd0d0d” type=”fa”][mks_icon icon=”fa-star” color=”#dd0d0d” type=”fa”] (5 out of 5 Stars)

Official Product Page

Official Features

Fully padded 17.3” laptop compartment
Internal iPad/ tablet pocket
Hardshell side zippered pockets protects most headphones
Built-in headphone port
Three full size compartments
Quick access pocket
Front zip-down organizer section
Padded shoulder straps with chest strap for added comfort
Cooling air mesh back padding
Reflective strip for increased visibility
Lightweight polyester body