Author - Jerry Paxton

Hyperkin Announces E3 2013 Plans

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EL MONTE, CA (MAY 2013) – Hyperkin will be an exhibitor at the upcoming Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3), the premier trade show for the video game industry, taking place on June 11-13, 2013 at the Los Angeles Convention Center. Hyperkin will be in South Hall, Booth #417. Hyperkin is honored to be among the biggest names in video games and looks forward to giving attendees an exclusive first look into their latest products.

Hyperkin will be featuring the highly anticipated RetroN 5, a retro console with modern amenities that allows gamers to play their favorite classic cartridges in full HD via a HDMI output.  With cartridge slots for the NES, SNES, Famicom, Genesis, Game Boy Advance, the RetroN 5 is also compatible with Super Famicom, Mega Drive, Game Boy and Game Boy Color games, as well as having full compatibility with both PAL and NTSC games.

Also being shown will be the ComRad Gaming Audio Helmet, a replica military helmet designed to play both game and chat sounds with an attached microphone. Hyperkin has acquired a license with Oculus VR to create and develop new peripherals for the Oculus Rift, with the ComRad Gaming Audio Helmet as one of the first peripherals designed to work with the Oculus Rift.

“As the gaming industry is evolving, so is Hyperkin.” said Steven Mar, Hyperkin’s Executive Director, “This year’s E3 is a very exciting and bold step for Hyperkin, as we have put our full efforts into creating products that only exist in people’s imaginations.”

Hyperkin hopes to see all of its industry partners at E3 2013.

Hellraid Q&A and Screenshots

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Techland has released a Q&A for their upcoming co-op slasher, Hellraid, as well as some new gameplay screenshots.

What is Hellraid?

We’re calling Hellraid a first-person co-op slasher. We invented this genre to capture the idea behind our game, which blends elements of classic hack & slash titles with a more advanced combat system based on timing and precision, RPG’s, shooters and multiplayer games into one unique experience seen in very immersive, first-person perspective.

Will gamers experience Hellraid only in co-op? What is the main difference between playing solo and in co-op?

Hellraid can be experienced both in single-player and in co-operation. While playing solo you explore the world, complete quests, gather loot and develop your character. In co-operation tension rises when you struggle to achieve mission goals while competing with your friends for points granted for each kill, team-plays and automatically generated challenges throughout the game.

What does the gameplay in Hellraid look like?

In Hellraid you travel between levels using a web of magic portals. Each level can be played an unlimited number of times to complete the story campaign, side quests and to defeat forces of evil with friends while competing for experience, points, rewards and places on leaderboards. During the game players can use a variety of melee, ranged and magical weapons. Combat is expanded with a set of unique active skills for each character class which gives the team additional tactical capabilities while searching for treasure, completing objectives, avoiding deadly traps, fighting the hordes of enemies and boss battles.

Will gamers be able to develop their characters, or customize the weapons and armor?

Each of the four character classes available in Hellraid (Warrior, Mage, Paladin and Rogue) will have their own skill tree that can be developed during the game. Along with that players can customize their weapons using an advanced crafting system or change their combat capabilities and appearance with armor that can be bought in shops, traded between the players or found during the game.

Who or what is Game Master?

Game Master is a complex system inspired by pen and paper role-playing games that makes each play through of Hellraid a different, completely new experience. In co-operation mode,  Game Master carefully selects competitive challenges for players and awards the best ones at the end of each level. It changes where and how you and your friends complete quests, placement, numbers and types of enemies you encounter as well as deploying treasure chests and loot.

Will Game Master work in single-player as well?

Yes, Game Master will alter the experience in single-player the same way it does in co-op but without the competitive challenges which are unique for playing with your friends.

How long is Hellraid and when it will be released?

Thanks to Game Master and the varied experiences that it provides, Hellraid will give players hundreds of hours of pure fun. The game will be released in 2013 for PC, Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.

For more information about the game visit www.hellraid.com

Screenshots

Mionix Unveils AVIOR 8200 Gaming Mouse

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Vaxjo, Sweden – May 28th, 2013 – Mionix, the Swedish manufacturer of professional high-end gaming accessories today unveiled the new AVIOR 8200 high performance ambidextrous gaming mouse.

“We developed the AVIOR 8200 to offer maximum customization and engineered with the best technology. Whether you are right or left handed. Use a claw or palm grip we have created the most ergonomic ambidextrous mouse on the market, suitable for any gamer.” says Peter Nygren, CEO at Mionix.

The AVIOR 8200 is a sleek rubberized 9 button ambidextrous mouse. The unique designed shape of the mouse allows for right or left-handed use, with either a full palm or claw grip. The 32-bit ARM Processor, the 8200 DPI laser sensor and the other high-end components, will ensure great power, accuracy and durability. Together with the software this provides access to customize the buttons, sensor, LED colors, advanced macros and profiles. While gaming you will feel the smooth, responsive and accurate quality of the AVIOR 8200.

Features

  • Ambidextrous design
    Supported shape for use by both right and left handed gamers.
  • Palm or Claw grip
    Suited to both Claw and Palm grip
  • Maximum grip
    4 layers of rubber coating ensure a maximum grip and soft touch feel.
  • Lightning fast processor
    The 32bit ARM Processor running at 72Mhz is the powerful engine to power it all.
  • 8200 DPI laser sensor
    Remarkable tracking performance built for gaming.
  • 128kb built-in memory
    Bring your settings and recorded macros with you stored into one of 5 profiles.
  • Customizable LED lighting system
    Personalize your mouse with up to.16.8 Million color options.
  • Stunning Lighting effects
    Solid, Blinking, Pulsating and Breathing effects running single color or color shift.
  • S.Q.A.T™ – Surface Quality Analyzer Tool
    Surface Quality Analyzer Tool measures tracking quality of your gaming surface.
  • In-game 3 step DPI adjustment
    Set 3 DPI values and switch easily between them in-game.
  • 9 fully programmable buttons
    The buttons can be assigned to any key, mouse command or macro.
  • In-game profile switch
    Switch easily between stored profiles in-game.
  • Adjustable polling rate
    Tune it all the way up to 1000Hz and up to 1ms response time

AVAILABILITY & PRICING

Mionix™ AVIOR 8200 will be available worldwide to pre-order today and delivery in June 2013

Suggested retail price: $89.99 / €89.99 / £79.99 / 799 SEK

Tecmo Koei E3 2013 Games Line Up

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BURLINGAME, Calif., May 28, 2013 – TECMO KOEI America, a leading global publisher of interactive games, today announced its Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) 2013 lineup of titles. The artistic collaboration project of “cyber ninja zombie slashing” between renowned developers Team NINJA and comcept’s Keiji Inafune, YAIBA: NINJA GAIDEN Z, will be on-hand and playable as the centerpiece of a diverse lineup of titles across multiple platforms. In addition, TECMO KOEI fan favorite franchises DEAD OR ALIVE and DYNASTY WARRIORS make their triumphant return alongside exciting new properties. The TECMO KOEI booth is located in the West Hall, Booth #4700.

TECMO KOEI America also confirmed today that DEAD OR ALIVE 5 ULTIMATE will be available in stores and online retailers on September 3, 2013. Returning with a stunning amount of new fighters, stages, and integrated DOA5 Plus features, the widely recognized series continues to excite fans by building on the legacy that established the series as a true core fighter.

“With a strong portfolio of both signature franchises and original IPs, TECMO KOEI America continues its tradition of bringing a stellar lineup to gaming fans,” said Amos Ip, SVP and General Manager of TECMO KOEI America. “This year’s E3 will emphasize our commitment to push our signature properties to their limits through creative collaborations and innovative ideas that extend a core experience. In doing so, we will provide gamers with a host of unforgettable action packed gaming experiences.”

The following list of games is scheduled to be on display from TECMO KOEI America:

YAIBA: NINJA GAIDEN Z

[PlayStation®3, Xbox 360® / Early 2014]

In YAIBA: NINJA GAIDEN Z, players will battle fierce zombies as Yaiba, a cyborg ninja who will do anything to get revenge and stay alive. Cleaved in two, he is brought back to life with cyber-technology. Brandishing his ninja sword and the mecha weapons in his cyborg arm, he slaughters zombies with brutal, over-the-top abandon. Step into a stylized living comic book where stunning graphics depict a world gone mad. Hordes of undead can only be stopped by Yaiba’s willingness to use any means necessary to get the job done. Will he kill by turning his cyborg arm into a razor chainsaw for slicing up undead—or just rip off an opponent’s arms to use as zombie nunchucks? Both possibilities fill Yaiba’s heart with twisted laughter in this upcoming collaboration between famed developers Team NINJA and comcept’s Keiji Inafune.

DEAD OR ALIVE 5 ULTIMATE

[PlayStation®3, Xbox 360® / September 3, 2013]

DEAD OR ALIVE 5 ULTIMATE heightens the signature DOA fighting style with the inclusion of new modes from DOA5 Plus, dynamic new stages, and deadly new fighters to deliver the ultimate in fighting entertainment. Players will take on the roles of their favorite DEAD OR ALIVE fighters—as well as combatants new to the franchise—in an intense, action-packed brawler set in visually striking locations from around the world. The famed DOA hand-to-hand combat is enhanced with new content that extends the experience. Along with a rich array of single-player modes including story mode, DEAD OR ALIVE 5 ULTIMATE offers online options with arcade-style matches, tournaments, and social features making it the most definitive DEAD OR ALIVE experience to date.

DYNASTY WARRIORS 8

[PlayStation®3, Xbox 360® / July 16, 2013]

DYNASTY WARRIORS 8 returns to the kingdoms of Wei, Wu, Shu, and Jin, through the actions of historical military and political figures of the time, as they fight to gain control over the Three Kingdoms of China. The much loved series takes one step further, merging numerous replay elements such as multi-endings and extra modes with synergies between action and game systems. With all new enhancements to Story Mode, new scenarios, new and returning characters, and more, DYNASTY WARRIORS 8 promises to offer fans the most complete Warriors experience to date. Take to the battlefield with the greatest warriors in history and carve your path to glory!

ATELIER MERURU PLUS: THE APPRENTICE OF ARLAND

[PlayStation® Vita / September 3, 2013]

ATELIER MERURU PLUS: THE APPRENTICE OF ARLAND is the next installment in the popular series from famed developer GUST. ATELIER MERURU PLUS adds new elements of land development to the RPG and simulation game system, providing additional depth and gameplay in this anime-style adventure. In addition, extra content and features are packed in including new costumes, new endings, and all the DLC from the PS3™ version. Fans will have an opportunity to see what unfolds in this third and final game in the Arland series.

TOUKIDEN

[PlayStation® Vita / Q4 2013]

TOUKIDEN takes Tecmo Koei’s expertise in historically themed games to an expansive fantasy world influenced by historical and traditional Japanese elements. Developed by the same studio that created the famed Dynasty Warriors series, this all-new franchise casts players in the role of a demon-fighting Slayer. Starting from the Utakata Village headquarters where they will accept quests, players will venture out to battle monstrous and deadly Oni (demons) before they destroy all of humanity.

In addition to hands-on demos with select titles, key members from Team NINJA and other TECMO KOEI divisions will be on hand and accessible for scheduled media appointments.

For more news about Team NINJA, visit http://teamninja-studio.com, and don’t forget to “like” us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/teamninjastudio and follow us on Twitter @TeamNINJAStudio.

Mad Catz Working on Xbox One Accessories

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San Diego – May 28, 2013 – Mad Catz Interactive, Inc. (“Mad Catz”) (NYSE MKT: MCZ) announced today that it has started working with Microsoft Corporation on the development of next generation accessories for the Xbox One.

“We are eagerly looking forward to the upcoming launch of the Xbox One and excited about the opportunity to develop a range of innovative products to support the platform.” said Darren Richardson, the President and Chief Executive Officer of Mad Catz Interactive, Inc.  “The launch of the Xbox One adds a new revenue stream and the enhanced performance of the Xbox One opens up additional scope for innovation.  Today’s announcement demonstrates our continued support of Microsoft’s console and entertainment business and is part of our long-term strategy to bring innovative products to passionate gamers.”

The Xbox One home entertainment system from Microsoft is expected to launch this holiday.

Endless Space: Disharmony Announced

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Haarlem, The Netherlands – May 28, 2013 — Videogame publisher Iceberg Interactive announced today Endless Space: Disharmony, the first full Expansion Pack for the popular 4X game Endless Space, will be coming to Steam this summer for $9.99. After four free DLC packs, Endless Space: Disharmony displays Amplitude Studios’ ongoing commitment to enhancing the wildly successful 4X space strategy game Endless Space, since its critically-acclaimed release last summer.

Check out the all new teaser trailer for Endless Space: Disharmony:

Endless Space: Disharmony brings a brand new experience to Endless Space players by debuting a new faction called “The Harmony.” Battles have never been so intense with the addition of fighters and bombers, battle formations, a new targeting system, a redesigned weapon system and enhanced invasion mechanics. The AI opponents will be significantly more unpredictable with the implementation of the new ‘Adaptive Multi-Agenda Artificial Intelligence System.’

“We’re lucky to have a motivated team and even luckier to have such an incredible community,” commented Mathieu Girard, CEO of Amplitude Studios. “Our expansion pack has been designed based on player requests and community G2G votes, and we hope that it fulfills – or surpasses – their expectations.”

Endless Space: Disharmony Game Features:

  • A brand new Faction called “The Harmony” with the main objective to ANNIHILATE DUST!
  • New fighters and bomber units that will completely change the shape of combat, especially with the new Battle Formation and Targeting systems
  • A complete rework of the Ship Design Interface giving an improved Weapon System that includes family types for modules (short, medium and long range)
  • New invasion mechanics have been added: prepare the population for bombardments, sieges and land invasions
  • Expect to face a real challenge when playing against AI opponents with the new Adaptive Multi-Agent Artificial Intelligence System (AMAS)
  • Other additions and features voted or requested by the community include:
    • ​Four new heroes (Games2Gether)
    • A new option to disable exchange of technologies, as a request from the Multiplayer community
    • New Rally Points feature for newly built ships to reduce micromanagement

Endless Space: Disharmony will be available both as DLC and as retail this summer for $9.99.

Wargaming Announces E3 2013 Line Up

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May 28, 2013 — Wargaming, the leading free-to-play developer and publisher, today announced the details of the company’s presence at the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) 2013 in Los Angeles, USA. With a massive 10,000 square foot booth located at 601 of the South Hall, Wargaming plans to showcase a number of titles to E3 attendees, some of which will be making their very first public debut.

World of Warplanes, with its white-knuckle aerial combat and completely revamped controls and graphics, will take E3 guests to the skies, where at the booth they’ll be able to compete with other attendees for supremacy of the air. Or, if ground combat is more to their liking, attendees will be able to test their metal at a number of World of Tanks gameplay stations.

Marking its very first public showing, Wargaming’s highly anticipated World of Warships will be presented in a behind-the-scenes theater demo, where guests will not only get to see the game in action, but also experience the sights and sounds of true naval combat in a revolutionary domed theater. World of Warships demos begin on the half hour each day of the show, with limited seating for each session.

Most excitingly, Wargaming will finally unveil their first console title under development by Wargaming West, formerly Day One Studios, announced earlier this year. E3 attendees will be the very first to get hands-on with this exciting new game.

World of Warplanes Pre-E3 Screens

World of Warships Pre-E3 Screens

Dogs of War Online Reveals First Three Factions

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Paris – May 28, 2013 – Cyanide today released official concept art and 3D renderings on the first three factions available at the launch of its multiplayer free-to-play game, Dogs of War Online, inspired by Rackham’s Confrontation miniatures game expansion. The knights of the Lion army, the fierce wolves of the Wolfen army, and the undead terrors of the Ram army will be present at roll call in Q3 2013!

– The army of the Lion –

The Barhan soldiers of the great kingdom of Alahan are the defenders of Virtue, Justice, and Light. Each day, their army fights against those who seek to enslave the inhabitants of Aarklash. Its emblem, the Lion, represents the memory of its divine ally, the Chimera, and for the qualities the legendary animal stands for: strength, courage, and nobility. On the battlefield, the Barhans are brave fighters, inspired by the feats of their ancestors. Their book of spells draws from the forces of the Elements and their knights, who are the dauntless heirs of tradition, never waver when charging at the enemy. Each battle waged by the Barhans is proof that with a valiant heart, nothing is impossible!

– The army of the Wolf –

Whether roaming the wild lands or defending their territories, the Wolfen, half-man, half-wolf predators, instill fear into the heart of their enemy. Born to counter the unwavering ambitions of the Craftsman, the god who sought to overthrow order, they are the protectors of nature and the keepers of the balance of Creation. On the battlefield, the Wolfen are formidable fighters, guided by their predatory instinct. With deadly claws and fangs, they possess no need for clever tricks, but may resort to crude weapons made of stone, wood, and bone when faced with the technologically advanced arsenal of other nations. The Wolfen worship the moon goddess Yllia, whom they consider their creator, and they revere the constellation of the Wolf.

– The army of the Ram –

A wave of un-dead, herded by lords reawakened from the grave, along with corrupt-minded living leaders make up the army of Acheron in all its macabre splendor. This army has its fearsome troops and the hunger for power driving the master necromancers at its side. With the Ram as its emblem, the symbol of the eternal alliance binding them to the horned lords of the Abyss, Acheron builds its strength century after century. All that matters to the liches and the necromancers who form the elite is the accumulation of power and knowledge, which feed their perversion. And the living who remain can only await their inevitable fate to be plucked from the dead as the elite’s most useful servants.

Different types of fighters will be available in each of the three factions, allowing players to create a group of mercenaries suited to the desired level and style of play. Players are then tasked with implementing arena combat strategy. Battles employ turn-based combat to reinforce the tactical aspect and maintain the spirit of the board game. The adventure continues when players are tasked with sending troops on missions, alone or in co-op mode with other players, to increase reward. Finally, players are tasked with maintaining harmony within their army as troops are prone to deserting and raising tension amongst themselves!

Dogs of War Online will satisfy both fans of the Confrontation license as well as fans of all strategy games. The game will be available for free on Windows PCs in Q3 2013.

Memorial Day 2013

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We would like to take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices and lives lived by the fallen men and women of our armed forces this weekend in honor of Memorial Day. And, to those currently serving in defense of liberty: Thank you. Unless news of huge proportion breaks, we will resume our regular programming on Tuesday, May 28th.

“It is foolish and wrong to mourn the men who died. Rather, we should thank God that such men lived.”
-George S. Patton

Mi-8MTV-2 Flight Sim Screenshots

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The Belsimtech team, developers of DCS: UH-1H Huey, are currently working on an Mi-8MTV-2 flight simulation for Eagle Dynamics DCS. Today over at the Eagle Dynamics Facebook page, they posted up some work in progress screenshots. Looking good!

Screenshots