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Wargaming.net League Announces 2017 Final Battle

November 28, 2017 — The Wargaming.net League’s 2017 Final Battle World of Tanks tournament will soon see its front-runners battling for their share of a $300,000 prize pool at this year’s WG Fest. A total of 12 teams will step into the eSports ring to compete in the crowning event of WGL Extended Season 2017, consisting of all the winners from regional tournaments.

Three teams from the EU—Kazna Kru, DiNG, and Oops—will take on three from the CIS—Tornado Energy, Rush, and Unique—with two teams from NA—Elevate, Top Tier Gaming—two from APAC—YaTo RSGaming, Seven Pirates—and two from China—YiNuo Gaming and Steel Man.

The Final Battle will run in two phases. The five days of playoffs (December 13–17) will narrow down the list of teams. The decisive match will be held at WG Fest (December 23). Both playoffs and the final rounds will be held at Moscow’s Expocenter.

Prize pool distribution:

  • 1st place—150,000 USD per team
  • 2nd place—75,000 USD per team
  • 3rd place—27,500 USD per team
  • 4th place—27,500 USD per team
  • 5th to 8th place—5,000 USD per team

Visit the official website for the latest information: http://en.wgleague.net/

ROCCAT Khan Pro Gaming Headset Review

ROCCAT has been making gaming peripherals since 2007. Recently, they released their Khan Pro gaming headset. A wired headset solution, the ROCCAT Khan Pro is available in white, silver/gray, and black color schemes. It also features futuristic styling and comfortable ear cup cushions. Most importantly, this is ROCCAT’s first gaming headset that has official “Hi-Res Audio” certification! But what does this mean for your gaming experience?

As aforementioned, the ROCCAT Khan Pro is available in black, silver/gray, and white color schemes – each attractive in their own way. Additionally, its headset band design looks like a headset from a sci-fi video game. It is a true head-turner in a veritable sea of gaming headphones, all vying for your attention. Setting up the ROCCAT Khan Pro is easy, as it connects via two 3.5mm jacks – one for the headset and the other for the microphone. Notice that this headset does not come with a USB sound card dongle, etc. And that is because the Khan Pro is marketed at e-Sports play, where sometimes computer specs have to be even across the board for fairness. Thankfully, this also keeps the Khan Pro’s price point more reasonable at just shy of $100 dollars.

The much-touted Hi-Res Audio certification is a first for ROCCAT. In 2015, the Japan Audio Society (JAS) and the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) developed a standard for high-res audio. This certification states that the product in question has to produce a high-end frequency of at least 40kHz. However, if you are playing some really cutdown MP3 file, you won’t notice any difference. You need to have an audio source that is capable of using the full range allowed by the headphones. The microphone attaches to the Khan Pro by way of a durable boom and, in my testing of IM and voice chat applications, seemed to provide the people I was communicating with a clear signal.

I got the chance to test out the ROCCAT Khan Pro gaming headphones in a variety of games – from blasting Stormtroopers in Star Wars: Battlefront II to wandering the post-nuclear Commonwealth of Fallout 4. I just didn’t try it out in shooter/RPGs either, I also downloaded some high-resolution audio files from the Web and took a listen. Overall, I was very pleased with the Khan Pro’s sound reproduction. It featured crisp highs, decent lows, and did so all while not becoming uncomfortable on my head after extended gaming sessions. In addition to the games and the high-res audio files, I just took time to listen to my iTunes music library for a bit. Even though the music files are not high-resolution, I enjoyed listening to them through the ROCCAT Khan Pro and had no issues using it for such a task. My music sounded great and that’s what matters to me most.

For just shy of $100 dollars, the ROCCAT Khan Pro gaming headset can be yours from a variety of online and brick & mortar retailers. It may only be stereo sound, but it is capable of producing some very good audio and if you are interested in listening to high-resolution sound without losing audio information, it is a sure way to do it. The ROCCAT Khan Pro is available now.


ROCCAT Khan Pro Gaming Headset Review Score

[mks_icon icon=”fa-star” color=”#81d742″ type=”fa”][mks_icon icon=”fa-star” color=”#81d742″ type=”fa”][mks_icon icon=”fa-star” color=”#81d742″ type=”fa”][mks_icon icon=”fa-star” color=”#81d742″ type=”fa”][mks_icon icon=”fa-star” color=”#81d742″ type=”fa”] (5 out of 5 Stars)


 

Six Flags Great Adventure to Attempt World’s Largest Snowball Fight

Jackson, NJ — November 28, 2017 — Six Flags will attempt to break the record for world’s largest snowball fight. This national Six Flags Snow Day presented by Hallmark Channel will take place in Six Flags theme parks across North America Dec. 9. Guests can participate locally at Six Flags Great Adventure’s third-annual Holiday in the Park® at 12:30 p.m. eastern time.

The current world record of 8,200 participants was set in Canada last year. Six Flags aims to break the record with 9,000 participants.

Six Flags Great Adventure registration tables will open at 11:15 a.m., and guests will begin filling the Main Street Christmas section at 11:30 a.m. for the 12:30 p.m. record attempt. Up to 1,000 guests will receive one soft, indoor snow ball for tossing. Following the event, guests will enjoy exclusive ride time on several rides prior to the official park opening at 1 p.m.

The event is free with Season Pass, Membership and theme park admission. Guests can receive a 40% discount on general admission December 9 by bringing a new, unworn, warm winter clothing item as a donation to the Salvation Army. The offer is valid for up to four tickets and acceptable items include gloves, scarves, hats, coats, boots, heavy socks, sweatshirts, sweatpants, sleeping bags, quilts, blankets and pajamas.

Guests of all ages are welcome to participate. Those under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian to sign registration forms and photo releases. Guests will receive a participation certificate. For more information, visit https://www.sixflags.com/national/snow-day

In 2016, Six Flags broke the Guinness World Records® title for most couples kissing under the mistletoe.

Six Flags Launches Donation Drive with Holiday Express

Six Flags Great Adventure has partnered with Holiday Express to help give to those in need. Guests who donate a daily necessity by bringing it to a Six Flags ticket booth any regularly scheduled operating day through Jan. 1, 2018 will receive a $25 discount on a main gate ticket to Holiday in the Park. Accepted donation items include toothpaste, individually wrapped toothbrushes, washcloths and deodorant.

Founded in 1993 by Little Silver resident and restaurateur Tim McLoone, Holiday Express delivers music, food, gifts, financial support and friendship to those with the greatest need for the gift of human kindness during the holiday season and throughout the year. The organization is comprised of 1,700 volunteers, including more than 100 professional musicians.

Six Flags Great Adventure magically transforms into a winter wonderland for Holiday in the Park weekends and select days through Jan. 1, 2018. More than a million glittering lights, dazzling holiday entertainment, delicious seasonal treats, Santa’s village and many popular rides provide a way for guests to create holiday memories at Six Flags Great Adventure this winter. This year’s event features two new shows, a newly-themed section, plus more shopping, dining and rides than ever before. Holiday in the Park is included with all Season Passes and active Memberships.

More information about Holiday in the Park is available at www.sixflags.com/greatadventure

Seven: The Days Long Gone Combat Trailer

November 28, 2017 – Today, Fool’s Theory & IMGN.PRO released the third in series of game mechanic trailers for their Thief-inspired 3D isometric cRPG, SEVEN: THE DAYS LONG GONE, which launches on Steam on December 1, 2017.  The first game mechanic trailer was for the first-ever climbing system for an iso-RPG. The second dealt with stealth and sneaking. The new game mechanic trailer is for when stealth and sneaking do not work, and you must fight your way out of a situation: COMBAT!!!!

In SEVEN: THE DAYS LONG GONE you play as Teriel, a master thief. As a master thief, players must sneak (video) around, leveraging environment and lighting, smoke screens, traps, using parkour skills and the first ever climbing system (video) to avoid detection. But sometimes, even the most carefully laid plans fail. What happens when Teriel cannot talk his way out of a tight spot? Then he must let the steal do the talking. Teriel can use one handed, two-handed, dual wielded, range, and energy weapons as well as some devious contraptions crafted by his own hands. Combined with his amazing ability to move and his lethal super natural powers, Teriel can be a deadly force to reckon with.

ABOUT SEVEN: THE DAYS LONG GONE

Launching December 1, 2017 on Steam, SEVEN: THE DAYS LONG GONE Standard Edition is 29.99 EUR/29.99 USD/27.99 GBP and the Digital Collector’s Edition for 39.99 EUR/39.99 USD/37.99 GB, which comes with a digital artbook, soundtrack, map, and guidebook.

You play as Teriel, a master thief possessed, in the most symbiotic ways possible, by an ancient daemon (Artanak) and deported to the prison island of Peh. Teriel, with Artanak help, unearth the island’s dark secrets and soon learn that the fate of the entire Vetrall Empire rests in balance. The post-apocalyptic world is filled with mysterious technology and Dark Age superstition, diverse communities that react to every action, and a rich ecosystem of creatures to interact with, from animals to people to monsters.  Freely explore the vast yet unforgiving open world, whether following the main story line or heading off on a side quest.

MAIN FEATURES

  • 3D Isometric RPG
  • Rich, interwoven storyline
  • Combat: multiple styles allow for players to be creative in how they tackle obstacles
  • Hero Progression System: Based purely on skill and equipment; progression unlocks new upgradable skills
  • AI Reactions: NPCs are responsive to actions
  • Open world perfect for exploration
  • Brand new climbing system
  • Stunning environments
  • Play Your Way – Stealth or brute force, freedom of choice

More information about the game can be found on the official website, and on the Facebook and Twitter profiles

Prison Architect’s Escape Mode Trailer

TEESSIDE, UK – NOVEMBER 27, 2017 – Publisher Double Eleven, in partnership with developer Introversion Software, have today announced Prison Architect’s Escape Mode, coming as a brand-new DLC for Xbox One and PS4. The Escape Mode DLC follows the earlier All Day and a Night and Psych Ward expansions.

The award-winning game’s upcoming Escape Mode content will be available to purchase in 2018, with more details to follow in the new year.

The Double Eleven version of the Escape Mode DLC will be based on the well-loved mode for the PC version of the game from Introversion, where players can take on the role of an inmate and attempt to escape the prisons built by themselves and others. The DLC will expand on those mechanics for the Prison Architect console community, as well as adding new content.

Players can keep up to date with Escape Mode progress by following Double Eleven on Twitter (@DoubleElevenLimited). Those already signed up to Double Eleven’s DoubleID program will be the first to know, so make sure to sign up if you don’t want to miss the news.

You can view the Escape Mode DLC teaser here:

Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus Free Trial Starts Today

November 22, 2017 – Today we’re happy to announce a free trial for Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus. Starting today players can download the free trial on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC, and play through the entire first level of the game. Should players choose to upgrade to the full version of the game, their save data will carry over.

Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus launched on October 27 on PlayStation 4, Xbox One and PC, to widespread praise from the critics and community.

Battlefield 1 Burning Tides Release Date

November 22, 2017 – Players will soon be able to experience battles on land, in the air, and at sea on the newest front with Battlefield 1 Turning Tides, the third expansion pack available for Battlefield 1.

Battlefield 1 Turning Tides will be released in two waves – the first wave is coming on December 11th for Battlefield 1 Premium Pass owners. Players will be able to fight across a duo of epic maps, including Cape Helles and Achi Baba. In a new Operation set on these maps, players can take part in the 1915 British amphibious assault of the Gallipoli peninsula. There will be a new Infiltrator Elite Class, six weapons and two melee weapons added to your arsenal, and you’ll get to rule the waves with the L-Class Destroyer.

The second wave, coming January 2018, puts players in the North Sea to tackle two other unique maps: Zeebrugge and Heligoland Blight, with the chance to charge into battle with the new Royal Marines and spawn on the C-Class Airship.

To learn more head to the Battlefield 1 blog here and check out the Battlefield 1 Turning Tides Official Teaser Trailer.

The Sims Teams with Threadless for Merchandise

November 21, 2017 – Best-selling life simulation game The Sims™ and global artist community shop, Threadless, teamed up to launch an exclusive product line that brings fans an official The Sims merchandise store for the first time ever. Starting today, fans can purchase t-shirts, cell phone cases, notebooks, mugs, and more, featuring 17 unique The Sims designs through the Threadless shop.

For over 17 years, The Sims has brought players the power to play with life and express themselves through video games. Through Sims, players create and control everything from hairstyles, skin color and outfits, to Sims’ homes, hobbies, and career aspirations. By supporting an online community of artists, Threadless shares that same passion for giving people the power to create and shape their image in real-life.

“The Sims and Threadless collaboration is a match made in creative-expression heaven,” said Jake Nickell, CEO, Threadless. “We are two brands that deeply believe in people having the power to show the world who they are and who they want to be, whether that world is virtual or real. We’re looking forward to bringing the Threadless audience a new avenue to bring their Sim’s world to life. We are thrilled that The Sims fans will be able to explore the branded shop, as well as other artist’s awesome artful products on our website.”

In addition to bringing fans official The Sims merchandise, Maxis also launched two fan-requested The Sims 4 games earlier this month. Available for PC and Mac players, The Sims 4 Cats & Dogs* is the furriest expansion yet, where players can design their purrrfect pet with unique features and personalities, while discovering new activities to enjoy in the coastal shores of Brindleton Bay.The Sims 4 base game is also available to Xbox One and PlayStation® 4 players, bringing the iconic game players know and love to new platforms.

In addition, an initial selection of fan-favorite downloadable Packs* is available for purchase on console, including The Sims 4 City Living Expansion Pack, The Sims 4 Vampires Game Pack, The Sims 4 Perfect Patio Stuff Pack and The Sims 4 Vintage Glamour Stuff Pack. View the The Sims 4 Bundle Official Trailer.

For more information on The Sims franchise, please visit www.TheSims.com.

*Requires The Sims 4 (sold separately) and all game updates to play.

Elgato 4K60 Pro Capture Card Available Now

SAN FRANCISCO – November 21, 2017 – Elgato Gaming announced today the launch of 4K60 Pro, their latest high-end capture card. 4K60 Pro is the first consumer-priced capture card that allows content creators to record stunning 4K visuals at a smooth 60 frames per second. Creators can also utilize 4K60 Pro to capture high frame rate content in lower resolutions, including 1440p at 144 FPS. When combined with Elgato’s custom-built software, capturing Ultra HD footage from a PS4 Pro, Xbox One X, or any other unencrypted HDMI device has never been so easy. 4K60 Pro is now available on Elgato and Amazon for an MSRP of $399.95.

“Elgato Gaming is dedicated to giving content creators the tools they need to succeed and stay ahead of the curve,” said Julian Fest, General Manager of Elgato Gaming. “4K60 Pro ushers in a new era of 4K viewership by giving the power to produce Ultra HD content to the public. Content creators are now able to surpass traditional broadcast media and give viewers the eye candy they crave.”

4K60 Pro joins Elgato Gaming’s established line of capture cards including the HD60, HD60 S, and HD60 Pro. By enabling content creators to record and produce ultra-high quality content, Elgato Gaming ensures that creators are no longer hindered by the limitations of their hardware and can focus on creating the best material for their audience.

4K60 Pro Highlights:
●     Ultra quality: capture your gameplay in immaculate 4K resolution at 60 FPS
●     Instant Gameview: power your workflow with superior low latency technology
●     Dedicated software: record with ease and export to your favorite editing app

Technical Specifications:
●     Interface: PCIe x4
●     Input: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, unencrypted HDMI
●     Output: HDMI (lag-free pass-through)
●     Supported Resolutions: Up to 2160p60
●     Dimensions & Weight: 178 x 121 x 21 mm, 270 g / 7 x 4.7 x 0.83 in, 9.5 oz

System Requirements:
●     Windows 10 (64-bit) 6th generation
●     Intel Core i7 CPU (i7-6xxx) / AMD Ryzen 7 (or better)
●     NVIDIA GeForce GTX 10xx / AMD Radeon RX Vega (or better)
●     PCIe x4/x8/x16 slot

Elgato Gaming is the leading provider of hardware and software for content creators. The company leverages decades of experience in creating innovative television recording technology from its parent company, Elgato. The result is an extensive portfolio of cutting-edge solutions designed for the ever-changing landscape of video entertainment. Elgato Gaming empowers all creators to produce high-quality, professional content by developing widely-accessible products that are both affordable and easy to use. The brand has established itself as a leader in game capture, with three powerful game capture cards and accompanying software that enables creators to easily record, upload, and livestream professional content.

Xanathar’s Guide to Everything Out Now

November 21, 2017 – Today marks the wide retail release of Xanathar’s Guide to Everything, the first major expansion for the fifth edition Dungeons & Dragons® fantasy role-playing game. The book provides players with new subclasses for every class in the game, as well as new tools and toys for Dungeon Masters. Anticipation for Xanathar’s Guide has been extremely high leading up the wide release today – it has been climbing up the bestselling list on Amazon, reaching as high as #7 and currently sitting at #9 rank in all books, as well as #4 in Teens and #1 for Games.

The beholder called Xanathar—Waterdeep’s most infamous crime lord—is known to hoard information on friend and foe alike. The tyrant catalogs lore about adventurers and ponders methods to thwart them. Its twisted mind imagines that it can eventually know everything!

New rules and story options include:

  • More than twenty-five new subclasses for the character classes in the Player’s Handbook, including the Cavalier (for the fighter), the Circle of Dreams (for the druid), the Horizon Walker (for the ranger), and the Inquisitive (for the rogue).
  • Dozens of new spells, a collection of racial feats, and a system to give each character a customized backstory.
  • A variety of tools that provide Dungeon Masters with fresh ways to use traps, magic items, downtime activities, and other material—all designed to enhance a campaign and push it in new directions.

Amid all this valuable lore, Xanathar offers its own bizarre observations about whatever its eyestalks happen to see. Pray they don’t come to rest on you!

Xanathar’s Guide to Everything is available with a standard cover, which features an illustration of Xanathar and its precious goldfish by Jason Rainville, as well as a limited edition alternative-art cover illustrated by Hydro74 available in game stores only. To find a store near you, use the store locator at dungeonsanddragons.com.

Plan on writing an article or review? Assets and review copies are available upon request, and additional information can be found on the D&D website at dungeonsanddragons.com. In addition to the printed versions, the book is available digitally on Fantasy Grounds and D&D Beyond, and will soon be available on Roll20.