Total War: ROME II Assembly Kit Beta Now Available

2014/01/16

January 15, 2014 — A Beta version of the Total War™: ROME II Assembly Kit, a suite of mod-tools specifically designed to help modders get creative with ROME II, is free to download now in the Tools section of Steam.

The Assembly Kit contains a series of tools to help modders edit ROME II’s database and variants, and process data such as textures, models, animations and campaign-game start positions. A suite of exporters also enables users to then edit unit models and animations using third party software.

To get modders started, the Assembly Kit comes packaged with example data, such as naval vessels, soldiers, animation sets, and the complete ROME II database backend. When a mod is complete, it can be uploaded directly to the STEAM Workshop via the ROME II launcher, where over 1000 user-created mods can already be found.

Beyond the Beta phase, Creative Assembly aims to expand The Assembly Kit over time with further tools as they are developed. Early documentation and instructions on how to grab the Kit are available on the ROME II wiki: http://wiki.totalwar.com/w/Total_War_Rome_II

Total War: ROME II is out now.

Blackguards Character Class Guides Announced

2014/01/16

Jerry Paxton

News, Trailers / Videos, Windows PC News

Hamburg, January 16th, 2014 – In the course of the next weeks, Daedalic Entertainment will release a series of video guides on their Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/daedalic) which will show new players the ropes of the complex set of rules silently running in the background of Aventuria’s world. The first video guide is already available:

The Dark Eye is Europe’s most successful pen-and-paper system and has constantly expanded since its first appearance 30 years ago. For Blackguards, the world not only provides the continent of Aventuria and an environment with depth to it; Daedalic’s developers also faced challenges in form of a complex set of rules that needed to be implemented as true to the original as possible, yet still kept simple enough to be welcoming for players completely new to the Dark Eye’s world.

The Dark Eye’s rules are particularly recognizable when it comes to Blackguards’ level-up system and character development. Instead of classic level-ups, each battle rewards Adventure Points that can be spent to increase attributes like agility or courage, but also various spells or skills at any time. This way, developing a custom character from the base-classes becomes a very dynamic process. As Daedalic Entertainment recently announced, free character customization right from the beginning will also be implemented upon the game’s release, due to the feedback during the Early Access phase.

Who wants to take on Aventuria right away can have a taste by playing the first four chapters of Blackguards on Steam’s Early Access program.

Blackguards’ will be released on January 24th, 2014 for PC and Mac via Steam. The Standard Edition will be available for US$39.99/ €39.99/ RUR699/ £29.99 and the Blackguards Collector’s Edition for US$ 59.99/ €59.99/ RUR999/ £44.99.

Namco Bandai Games to Distribute The Witcher 3 in Australia and New Zealand

2014/01/16

Jerry Paxton

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

January 15, 2014 — CD Projekt RED, the developer and publisher behind the highly anticipated fantasy RPG The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, is excited to announce that NAMCO BANDAI Games Australia and New Zealand, a leading video game publisher, developer and distributor, will distribute the third part of The Witcher saga and join the studio in bringing the series to the key markets of Australia and New Zealand. Namco Bandai will exclusively distribute and promote the game in these territories.

“We’re really excited to continue to develop our relationship with NAMCO BANDAI Games and, as a result, introduce The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt to even more gamers across the globe. Thanks to our shared passion for games and our partner’s understanding of what core values constitute The Witcher series, I’m confident we can make the launch of The Witcher 3 something really special,” said Adam Badowski, Head of Studio, CD Projekt RED.

“CD Projekt RED is a world class developer that cares passionately about its games and its fans. We are therefore delighted and proud to again be their chosen partner in Australia and New Zealand and we are very excited to add the eagerly awaited ‘The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt’ to our 2014 line-up.” said Gerard Noonan, SVP, NAMCO BANDAI Games Asia Pacific. “The Witcher series is one of the industries most revered video game franchises and with the power of the new generation of consoles we expect CD Projekt RED will take the series to even greater heights”.

The first installment in the Witcher series was released in 2007 for the PC. The second installment hit the PC market in 2011 and was released for the Xbox 360 games and entertainment system from Microsoft a year later. The two games received over 200 awards. In February 2013, CD Projekt RED announced The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, which is scheduled for a 2014 release and has garnered over 88 awards so far. The game will be released simultaneously for the PC and next-generation consoles: PlayStation®4 and Xbox One.

Airsplat’s Thorsday Deals for January 16

2014/01/16

Jerry Paxton

Action Sports, Airsoft News, Articles, News

Here are Airsplat’s Thorsday Deals for January 16, 2014.

APS UAR Urban Assault Rifle AEG Tan V2

Reg. $205.99 Thorsday $139.99

WELL MB10 Airsoft Spring Sniper Rifle OD

Reg. $145.99 Thorsday $99.99

UHC Tactical 9 Spring Airsoft Rifle

Reg. $159.99 Thorsday $109.99

JG KS90 TR Airsoft Electric AEG Rifle 3A

Reg. $142.99 Thorsday $89.99

Deluxe 3 Point Tactical Rifle Sling

Reg. $14.99 Thorsday $5.99

Tenergy 6v-12v Universal Smart Charger

Reg. $24.99 Thorsday $18.99

DE M4 A1 RIS Airsoft Electric Gun AEG

Reg. $42.99 Thorsday $24.99

WE Katana M4A1 Airsoft Rifle AEG 400

Reg. $379.99 Thorsday $359.99

KRISS Group Unveils KRYTAC Airsoft Brand

2014/01/15

Jerry Paxton

Action Sports, Airsoft News, Articles, News

**UPDATED 06:30PM PT – The KRISS Group has released an official press release to go with their new airsoft/training brand, KRYTAC. Read the full release at the bottom of this story!

Kriss-Arms, known for their unique VECTOR sub-machine gun, has quietly unveiled their own airsoft brand called Krytac. Not much is known as of yet regarding their long term plans, but we know at least three “Trident” marked, Krytac M4-style airsoft guns are on display at their 2014 SHOT Show booth. Check out their official website to get on the mailing list for additional information as well as their Facebook page.

Press Release

January 15, 2014 – Las Vegas, Nevada, United States – KRISS Group announces the launch of KRYTAC, its latest brand dedicated to airsoft, non-lethal training and .22 caliber rimfire firearms. Taking advantage of KRISS Group’s experience in modern weapons design and precision manufacturing, KRYTAC will deliver innovative products that exceed the current market standards.

A limited viewing of KRYTAC airsoft prototypes are available to SHOT Show 2014 participants. The first product release of KRYTAC will include five airsoft models with various color options and are targeted to be available by the second quarter. Pricing and details will be released at the IWA 2014 exhibition in Germany. A more complete line of KRYTAC products will be shown later in the year which includes LWRC product lines, fully licensed to KRISS.

For more information about KRYTAC visit SHOT Show booth #432 or go to www.krytac.com.

About KRISS Group
KRISS Group, an innovative Swiss-based group, delivers proprietary technologies to the firearms industry enabling more efficient solutions, corresponding to the 21st century requirements for the global law enforcement, military and civilian markets.

Valve Kicks Off Steam Dev Days Conference

2014/01/15

Jerry Paxton

Geek News, News

January 15, 2014 – Valve kicked off its first-ever Steam Dev Days Conference by announcing the continued growth of Steam, a leading platform for PC, Mac, and Linux software. In addition, Valve detailed Steam’s 2013 geographic performance to the more than 1,200 Dev Days attendees.

In the trailing three months the number of active Steam accounts jumped 15%, to 75 million from 65 million (announced October 2013). The growth was realized during a busy holiday release season and Steam’s Pre-Holiday and Holiday sales.

In addition, members of the Steam publishing team gave attendees a geographic breakdown of Steam’s 2013’s sales revenue. While the data showed a virtual tie between North America (41%) and Europe (40%) for the lion’s share of Steam’s global activity, Russia and Brazil realized the largest year over year growth (2013 vs. 2012) as individual countries, respectively increasing 128% and 75%.

Steam Dev Days is a two-day conference in Seattle, WA for all developers and publishers working with Steam and/or the upcoming Steam Machines. For more information, please visit http://www.steamdevdays.com/

Six Flags Great Adventure to Host Massive Job Fair

2014/01/15

Jerry Paxton

Geek News, News

January 15, 2013 — Six Flags Great Adventure, New Jersey’s largest seasonal employer and the largest employer in Ocean County, is hiring more than 4,000 employees including 200 interns for the 2014 season, which will feature the debut of the world’s tallest drop tower, Zumanjaro: Drop of Doom.

The park will host entertainment auditions Feb. 8 beginning at 1 pm and a job fair Feb. 15 from 10 am to 4 pm. Before attending, new applicants must visit www.sixflagsjobs.com to complete an online application.

Six Flags offers a wide variety of positions and paid internships and provides team members many benefits including advancement opportunities, health and medical benefits, reward and recognition programs, scholarships, free park admission, incentives from area businesses and much more. According to the popular Warner Bros. game show “Let’s Ask America,” available on Scripps Television Stations, U.S. residents polled chose Six Flags as the most fun place to work.

Six Flags is looking for enthusiastic candidates of all ages and backgrounds, and has positions available in retail, games, park services, ride operations, food service, admissions, guest relations/VIP services, market research, loss prevention, security, landscaping, safari guides, lifeguards, entertainment performers and show technical support, accounting, cash control, human resources, graphic design and public relations.

The Six Flags Employment Center opens Feb. 10 with hours Monday to Friday from 1 to 6 pm, and Saturdays from 9 am to 5 pm. Walk-in applicants who have completed their online application and rehires are welcome.

The 2014 season kicks off April 12 and runs on a varied schedule through Nov. 2. More information is available at www.sixflags.com

Entertainment Auditions

Saturday, February 8 – 1:00 p.m. actors, 1:30 p.m. dancers, 2:30 p.m. show hosts, 3:00 p.m. specialty performers (i.e. stilt walkers, jugglers, drummers)

Showcase Theater, Six Flags Great Adventure, 1 Six Flags Blvd., Jackson, NJ 08527

Enter via Employment Entrance approximately one mile west of main park entrance and follow signs to theater.

Job Fair

Saturday, February 15 – 10 am to 4 pm

Six Flags Great Adventure’s Employment Center, 1 Six Flags Blvd., Jackson, NJ 08527

Enter via Employment Entrance approximately one mile west of main park entrance.

ROCCAT Unveils Siru Mouse Pad

2014/01/15

Jerry Paxton

News, Peripherals News

Hamburg – January 15, 2014 – ROCCAT today announces the availability of its cutting-edge gaming mousepad: the Siru. The unique, blade-thin gaming surface is less than a millimeter thick, making it one of the thinnest mousepads ever created. The ultra-thin, single-layer Siru is comprised of a battle-ready, easy-to-clean top that provides high glide and outstanding control; and a reusable, non-slip backing that anchors to your desktop. The innovative design of the mousepad provides direct desktop feedback, allowing for exceptionally precise tracking and lightning-fast aim corrections.

Available in two stylish colors – Cryptic Blue and Pitch Black – the Siru is the perfect gaming companion of both laser and optical mice.

BLADE-THIN DESIGN FOR THE SUPERB DIRECT RESPONSE

The Siru measures 13.35” x 9.84” x 0.01”, making it nearly invisible from the desktop surface. Its ultra-thin design allows the mouse to sit on the exact same level as your desktop, giving gamers a superb direct response that results in exceptionally true and precise tracking, and the ability to make rapid, accurate cursor corrections.

OPTIMIZED GAMING SURFACE FOR GLIDE AND CONTROL

The custom developed Siru surface is built for speed, letting your mouse glide over it unopposed while enhancing your ability to accurately track your enemies. The Siru’s innovative surface has been field-tested with over 80 laser and optical mice for precise control to prevent under-and-over aim, making it as stylish as it is deadly.

SOLID GRIP AND HOLD WITH REUSABLE NON-SLIP BACKING

The single-layer, blade-thin Siru makes no sacrifices when it comes to performance and grip. Crafted from the best materials, it features a reusable, non-slip backing that securely anchors to your desktop to guarantee a reliable, immovable surface that won’t drift when you go to war.

The 2014 International CES in Images

2014/01/15

Jerry Paxton

CES, Geek News, News, Screenshots / Photos

Here is our photo gallery from in and around last week’s International CES convention in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Photos

Knott’s Unveils 3 New Attractions for Camp Snoopy 30th Anniversary

2014/01/14

Jerry Paxton

Geek News, News

Buena Park, Calif. (January 2014) — 2014 marks the beginning of an exciting time in Knott’s history as its treasured Camp Snoopy celebrates the big 3-0 with a complete restoration of the entire land! Today, Knott’s Berry Farm is proud to announce the three new rides coming to the land of High Sierra fun: Charlie Brown’s Kite Flyer, Pig Pen’s Mud Buggies and Linus Launcher. The addition of the three new family rides, built by Zamperla, demonstrates Knott’s commitment to reinvestment in one of the most beloved children’s areas ever created.

Charlie Brown’s Kite Flyer invites campers to “fly a kite” with Charlie Brown and soar above the land’s winding paths and babbling streams – but watch out for the kite-eating tree! This 32-passenger adventure allows guests to sit side-by-side on 16 swings for a spin that whisks riders up to 18 feet above the ground. As the tree rises, good ol’ Charlie Brown is revealed upside down and all tied up in kite string! Charlie Brown’s Kite Flyer will replace Snoopy Bounce.

Pig Pen’s Mud Buggies lets tykes climb aboard their very own all-terrain vehicle for an adventurous ride around the High Sierras. Six four-seater ATVs will spin, bounce, and bump up to 24 guests at a time, while Pig Pen looks on from his center perch. Pig Pen’s Mud Buggies will replace Log Peeler.

Linus Launcher recreates that classic Peanut’s moment when Snoopy grabs Linus’ blanket and launches him on a wild ride. On Linus Launcher, guests lay on one of twelve “blankets” as they fly round and round. Up to 24 guests lay side-by-side while Snoopy launches them up almost 10 feet in the air. Guests will enjoy a Woodstock’s-eye view of Huff ‘n Puff, The Grizzly Creek Lodge, and all of Camp Snoopy below! Linus Launcher will replace Charlie Brown’s Speedway.

Get a sneak peak of the revitalized area with an all-new preview sketch at knotts.com, featuring the new rides. In the picturesque rendering, the three new attractions are stunningly depicted: Pig Pen’s Mud Buggies (front left); Charlie Brown’s Kite Flyer (front right); Linus Launcher (back right).

During construction, Knott’s will share exciting announcements and progress through a series of weekly updates on knotts.com. Over the next several weeks, Knott’s will unveil new changes to the land and take readers behind the scenes of this enormous construction project. Join the conversation on social media using #CampSnoopy to track even more updates on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Camp Snoopy construction began on January 6^th and will continue until the grand re-opening in early summer. Don’t miss any of the exciting news from Knott’s Berry Farm in 2014!

A 2014 Season Pass is a great way to experience all of Knott’s Farm Fresh Fun all year long! Knott’s Berry Farm Season Passes are now available online for just six easy payments of $14.00. For more information on Knott’s Berry Farm including admission, season passes, park hours, and events visit www.knotts.com or download the Knott’s Berry Farm app for your smart phone.

Author - Jerry Paxton

Press Release

Entertainment Auditions

Job Fair

Photos