Author - Jerry Paxton

The Walking Dead: 400 Days Launch Trailer Released

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Telltale Games have released the official launch trailer for their new expansion for The Walking Dead, The Walking Dead: 400 Days.

Available today on PSN in North America, release dates for other platforms are as follows:
  • Wednesday, July 3rd – PC/Mac (Steam, Telltale Games Store, Worldwide)
  • Friday, July 5th – Xbox Live Marketplace (Worldwide)
  • Wednesday, July 10th – PlayStation Network (SCEE, Europe)
  • Thursday, July 11th – iOS App Store (In-App Purchase, Worldwide)

Trailer

Mimoco Announces Special Chewbacca Mimobot for SDCC

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Boston, MA – July 2nd, 2013 — Mimoco® (www.mimoco.com), the Boston-based consumer electronics design studio is preparing for their annual pilgrimage to San Diego Comic-Con, where in 2005 they launched their company and MIMOBOT® brand of designer USB flash drives merging art toy aesthetics with the functionality of personal data storage devices. Over the past eight years Mimoco has pioneered the licensed flash drive category with their MIMOBOT platform blooming into a veritable powerhouse showcasing dozens of pop-culture franchises and hundreds of iconic characters in MIMOBOT form and function, all preloaded with exclusive Mimory® content. Over the next month, week by week, Mimoco will let fans in on their newest collaborations – eight limited edition MIMOBOT flash drives, one for each year of their existence, each a sparkling candle burning bright in Mimoco’s metaphoric birthday cake!

Mimoco continues the celebration with their Star Wars x MIMOBOT line, their longest-running co-branded licensed collection with Lucasfilm that started in 2006. Now in Series 9, Mimoco re-releases Chewbacca MIMOBOT in a hand-numbered limited edition run of 1000 units, in up to 128GB capacities, as well as in USB3.0 speeds. As with all Star Wars x MIMOBOT drives, these will be preloaded with bonus digital Mimory® content including the MimoDesk® personalization suite of wallpapers, icons, and avatars, and the exclusive MimoByte® sound software.

Chewbacca Variant MIMOBOT is a complete redesign of Mimoco’s Star Wars Series 1 Chewbacca MIMOBOT and this time around he’s brought a friend with him! The temporarily disassembled C-3PO is hanging out on the back of everybody’s favorite Wookiee spitting all sorts of complaints into his ear. This Star Wars Series 9 MIMOBOT joins dozens of Star Wars characters including the recently released Jar Jar Binks and R2-A6 limited editions announced earlier this year. But act fast because only 1000 Chewie Variants will be manufactured.

Mimoco CEO, Evan Blaustein said: “The theme of our eighth anniversary is friendship and this is clear in the redesign of the Chewbacca MIMOBOT. Fans will remember that in The Empire Strikes Back, Chewie saves C-3PO and carries him until proper repairs can be made.”

“Furthermore we look forward to growing the bond that Mimoco has made with Lucasfilm over the years and for years to come,” added Blaustein. “We’re proud to bring back Chewbacca after all these years first as a Star Wars collector’s item to help celebrate our eighth anniversary together with fans and friends.”

A portion of the limited edition Chewbacca Variant MIMOBOT is now available at www.mimoco.com for pre-order before its official release at Mimoco’s booths in the Toy Grower section (#5338) and in the Star Wars Pavilion (#2913M) on July 17-21 at San Diego Comic-Con International.

DARK to Support Oculus Rift and Anaglyph 3D Modes

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July 2, 2013, Ridgewood, NJ – Kalypso Media is excited to announce that their upcoming vampire stealth-action game, DARK, will feature support for both 3D via supported televisions, and through conventional Anaglyph (red/blue glasses) 3D. Even more exciting is that DARK will support the upcoming Oculus Rift virtual-reality head-mounted display on Windows PC.  For those gamers without a 3D TV or Oculus headset, you can still enjoy DARK in 3D by simply using the classic stereoscopic (red/blue) 3D lenses on a standard monitor! With these additional visual support options for DARK, you will be able to hunt your enemies and unleash stunning vampire powers in magnificent 3D and virtual reality!

Trailer

gamigo Acquires Airwin Entertainment

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July 2nd, 2013 — gamigo AG acquires 100% of the Austrian company Airwin Entertainment GmbH from A1 Telekom Austria AG. The company hereby expands its Online games portfolio to mobile games. Airwin Entertainment was founded in 2011 and has a platform for the distribution and billing of games for mobile telephones. This is scalable and offers a wide range of mobile games: from casual and skill games to complex games and real-time betting. This platform is usable as an own brand as well as white label or B2B platform for feature and smart phones.

Remco Westermann, Chairman of the Board at gamigo, says the following about the meaning of the mobile sector: “Studies show that the mobile sector has the highest percentage of growth. Both the supply and demand are growing constantly and the market distinguishes itself with an extreme dynamic.”

Airwin Entertainment will use the synergies from gamigo, but will also keep its own separate location in Vienna. Cooperation with A1 Telekom Austria AG will thereby continue in the future. Furthermore, Online games shall be made available via other networks from international mobile providers.

gamigo AG’s company goal is to encourage both organic growth, for example by expanding the games portfolio, as well as inorganic growth by acquisitions in the area of Online and mobile multiplayer games. In order to be able to use the chances of the fast-growing market of multiplayer Online games, gamigo successfully placed a company bond a short while ago. gamigo AG consequently implements its strategy with the acquisition of Airwin Entertainment GmbH.

EA’s Sean Decker Joins CCP Games

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REYKJAVIK, ICELAND – July 2, 2013 – CCP Games, the world’s leading independent developer of massively multiplayer games, today announced it has hired Sean Decker as its new senior vice president of product development. Decker will lead the company’s worldwide game development, overseeing the company’s studios in Reykjavik, Shanghai, Atlanta, and Newcastle.

Decker comes to CCP from game developer and publisher Electronic Arts (EA), where he spent the last 12 years in a variety of key production leadership roles. Most recently Decker was vice president of EA’s “Play4Free” group, built from the ground up as an integrated organization focused on building, publishing and operating games based on the free-to-play business model. In that role, Decker ran numerous studios around the world that released games played by tens of millions of registered users.
[blockquote]“Sean’s extensive experience in the games industry will be extremely valuable for us as we enter the second decade of the EVE Universe,” said Hilmar Veigar Pétursson, CEO of CCP. “The next few years will be the most important in the company’s history, as we build on the launch of DUST 514, expand EVE Online, continue development of World of Darkness, and kick start our efforts in mobile gaming.”[/blockquote]
Prior to his time leading EA’s “Play4Free” group, Decker served as vice president and general manager at DICE, where he oversaw the Battlefield and Mirror’s Edge franchises, and at EA’s Los Angeles studio, where he directed the Medal of Honor and Command & Conquer franchises.
Decker’s hire at CCP comes on the heels of the launch of DUST 514, the groundbreaking free-to-play first-person shooter exclusively for the PlayStation®3, and EVE Online: Odyssey, the latest free expansion for CCP’s critically acclaimed massively-multiplayer online game EVE Online, which boasts more than 500,000 subscribers worldwide.
Decker will be based at the company’s Atlanta studio, and will report to CEO Hilmar Veigar Pétursson.
“I’m looking forward to helping CCP continue its tremendous growth,” said Decker. “I’ve admired the company’s commitment to its games and players from afar for years, and now I’ll be able to be a part of that effort from the inside. I can’t wait to get started.”

World of Warplanes Enters Open Beta

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July 2, 2013 — Wargaming, the leading free-to-play developer and publisher, today announced that the company’s highly anticipated free-to-play flight combat MMO World of Warplanes has officially gone into open beta testing, inviting all virtual pilots to climb into the cockpits of some of the most iconic warbirds from the 1930s to the early 1950s. Open beta goes live today in Russia and North America, and July 4th in Europe. In total, the closed beta saw more than 2.7 million applications from 194 different countries.

Featuring planes from the United States, the Soviet Union, Germany and Japan, players will be able to jump into white-knuckle 15 vs. 15 PvP matches, where supremacy of the skies is determined not only by skill, but also coordinated teamwork and cooperation.

World of Warplanes enters open beta with features including a real-time tactical feedback system to help players learn the best possible combat tactics, as well as crews and crew skills, consumables and  various types of ammunition. The game will also feature a brand new tutorial to give fledgling pilots a chance to learn the ropes before they hit the deadly skies.

At the late stages of the open beta, World of Warplanes will also see the official launch of the Unified Premium Account system, allowing players of either World of Tanks or World of Warplanes to purchase a premium account and have its benefits extend to both titles.

As a bonus, players who took part in the closed beta testing phase will also receive special prizes.

“We thank every single World of Warplanes player out there, whether they’re just getting into the game during open beta or have been with us since the very start,” said Victor Kislyi, CEO of Wargaming. “The game has grown and evolved tremendously since we first announced it and I’m confident virtual pilots are going to be extremely excited when they get behind the cockpits of the game’s truly amazing warbirds.”

To join the open beta, visit:

Company of Heroes 2 Review (PC)

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In 2006, Relic Entertainment and THQ revitalized the world of real time strategy titles with Company of Heroes. The game’s focus on unit tactics, realism, and lack of resource gathering in the traditional sense paved the way for a whole host of copy cats. Now, in 2013, Relic Entertainment has released a sequel, Company of Heroes 2 – this time under the publishing house of SEGA, who purchased the IP from THQ during its dissolution.

This time taking place in World War II’s Soviet vs German battles, Company of Heroes 2 offers players the chance to lead these armies against one another. The gameplay has largely remained the same as its predecessor, with the biggest difference being the new units of the two new armies as well as their different doctrines. The Soviets are built around a much larger number of troops and almost use a cookie-cutter approach to overwhelming their foes. The Germans are a bit more like the present-day US military in that they are smaller in number but much more effective on a per unit level. Tank gameplay has been altered somewhat in the sequel – the tracked vehicles are much more all-around useful and, depending on the particular model of tank, can fulfill several roles. While some reviewer’s criticized this aspect as being against the first game’s balance system, I applaud it as tanks really were the kings of the battlefield in the ground war. Additionally, Relic has added a couple of interesting features to the game, such as troops dying of hypothermia if they don’t stay in buildings or by camp fires, and AI Soviet commanders which randomly-shoot troops that try to retreat.

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Company of Heroes 2’s most fun moments come during multiplayer and co-op sessions. The game’s single-player campaign is a bit on the unpolished side, with poor cut-scenes and not-too memorable gameplay moments. Fortunately, the matchmaker has been greatly enhanced and players can select a particular battlefield commander/doctrine before going into battle a la Dawn of War 2. One interesting feature of Company of Heroes 2 is the in-game integration of the Twitch.TV streaming service. Players can easily stream their games via Twitch so that friends and gamers at large can watch.

Visually, Company of Heroes 2 is so much more beautiful than the original that it makes its predecessor pale in comparison. Environments are crisp and weather effects are truly inspired. Game audio is equally crisp, with sound effects coming in and out of focus depending on the location of the game’s camera. Speaking of the camera system, moving the camera around is just as annoying as it was the first one, with the camera only moving with the arrow keys or by moving the mouse to the corner of the screen.

Overall, Company of Heroes 2 has some very fun gameplay to offer the co-op or multiplayer gamer. Unfortunately, its single-player campaign should be looked at more as a tutorial to get players ready for the online stuff.

[easyreview title=”Company of Heroes 2 Review Score” cat1title=”Overall Score (out of 5)” cat1detail=”” cat1rating=”4″ ]
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Lost Girl Comic-Con Plans Revealed

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JULY 1 – 2013 — Syfy’s supernatural drama Lost Girl, a Showcase original series, will be returning to San Diego Comic-Con this year! Appearing will be series lead Kris Holden-Ried who plays Dyson, the shape-shifting homicide detective and noble Light Fae warrior, Gemini Award-winner Ksenia Solo (Life Unexpected, Black Swan) as Kenzi, Bo’s human sidekick and street-smart confidante and Zoie Palmer, who plays the brilliant human doctor Lauren in competition with Dyson for Bo’s affection, along with Lost Girl series Executive Producers Emily Andras and Jay Firestone and Producer Vanessa Piazza. The panel takes place on Saturday, July 20 at 7:15pm in room 6BCF. All actors will take part in an autograph session earlier in the day from 3pm-4pm at the FUNimation/Giant Ape booth (#4135).

Lost Girl is a Showcase original series developed by Prodigy Pictures in association with Shaw Media. Executive Producers are Jay Firestone and Emily Andras. Vanessa Piazza and Wendy Grean are Producers.

Comic-Con Schedule:

Saturday July 20, 2013

  • 3pm-4pm Booth #4135
    • Autograph session with all actors at the FUNimation/Giant Ape booth #4135. One item may be signed, and posters will be supplied for the session.
    • Autograph bracelets will be available while supplies last from the FUNimation/Giant Ape booth #4135 on Saturday, July 20 as soon as the exhibit hall opens. An autograph bracelet guarantees only a place in line, and does not necessarily guarantee an autograph. Limit one bracelet per person.
  • 7:15pm-8:15pm Room 6BCF
    • Lost Girl: Season Three and Beyond – Prodigy Pictures and Giant Ape Media present a fae-tastic panel with cast members Kris Holden-Ried (Dyson), Ksenia Solo (Kenzi) and Zoie Palmer (Lauren), joined by Jay Firestone (Executive Producer) and Emily Andras (Executive Producer) for a Q & A session moderated by Vanessa Piazza (Producer). Get behind the scenes tidbits and the first look sneak peek at Season 4.

PROMOTIONS 

Limited quantities of the Lost Girl Wanderer Tarot Card, as well as character buttons will be available throughout San Diego Comic Con. Attendees can follow Giant Ape Media on Twitter (@GiantApeMedia) for notifications of when these free promotional items are being distributed at the FUNimation/Giant Ape booth #4135.

ITEMS FOR SALE

Faenatics have been waiting a while for this, Lost Girl merchandise will be making its debut at SDCC , a styling shirt featuring our favorite sexy succubus Bo will be for sale at the FUNimation/Giant Ape Booth #4135.

And if you haven’t already picked up Seasons 1 & 2 yet, they will also be available for sale on DVD and Blu-ray as well !!

Sound Flow Bluetooth Speaker Announced

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NEW YORK – July 1, 2013 – Pyle Audio, manufacturers of outdoor recreational gear and home, car and pro audio equipment, unveils the Sound Flow Bluetooth speaker. Portable and lightweight, the marine grade, shock resistant and waterproof Sound Flow speaker system withstands use in the most difficult environmental conditions. The ultra-light speaker also connects to most qualified Bluetooth devices wirelessly. Its built-in lithium battery and USB charging cable create both indoor and outdoor functionality, allowing users to enjoy hours of music wherever they go—rain or shine. Available at www.PyleAudio.com for $69.99.

With its easy-to-push controls, the sealed and rubberized shock absorbent Sound Flow speaker provides crystal clear audio and enhanced bass production. It features a wide range of low, mid, and high sound restoration amid streaming music, sacrificing nothing in sound quality, while catering to the most adventurous listener’s need for convenience and durability. Hang the rubberized Sound Flow speaker system from its preinstalled metal hook or place it on any surface. Once fully charged, the device provides up to seven hours of play time.

“We’re always looking for opportunities to incorporate Bluetooth capabilities into our new product lines,” said Abe Brach, President of Pyle Audio. “However, it’s not just about simply creating a wireless speaker. We also take into consideration ease of use as demonstrated by the Sound Flow’s amazing durability and functionality.”

Sound Flow Features Include:

• Features ultra-lightweight, waterproof, shock-absorbent design for rugged weather performance

• Push control connection to virtually any Bluetooth enabled device (Smartphone, Tablet, PC, MP3 player, etc.)

• Built-in rechargeable lithium battery and USB charging cable

• Enhanced bass production delivers accurate lows, mids, and highs

The Sound Flow from Pyle Audio is available in black for $69.99 at www.PyleAudio.com.

Black Sails Coming to Comic-Con

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JULY 1 – 2013 — Zach McGowan (“Shameless”), Jessica Parker Kennedy (“The Secret Circle,” 50/50), Mark Ryan (TransformersThe Prestige), Hakeem Kae-Kazim (“24,” Hotel Rwanda) and “Black Sails” series creators Jonathan Steinberg (“Jericho,” “Human Target”) and Robert Levine (“Touch”) will lead the pirate uprising at Comic-Con 2013 with special appearances. The cast and creators will kick off the previously announced fan-only screening scheduled for Thursday night in San Diego. Additional surprise guest to be announced closer to Comic-Con.

Event Details:

WHAT:                  Exclusive sneak peek screening of the highly anticipated high-seas STARZ Original drama from Executive Producer Michael Bay, “Black Sails.” Series stars Zach McGowan, Jessica Parker Kennedy, Mark Ryan, Hakeem Kae-Kazim and series creators Jonathan Steinberg and Robert Levine to introduce the first episode which will be screened for fans only. Additional special guest to be announced.

WHEN:                  Thursday, July 18th. Details to follow.

ABOUT:                The pirate adventure “Black Sails” centers on the tales of Captain Flint (Toby Stephens) and his men and takes place twenty years prior to Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic “Treasure Island.” Flint, the most brilliant and most feared pirate captain of his day, takes on a fast-talking young addition to his crew who goes by the name John Silver (Luke Arnold). Threatened with extinction on all sides, they fight for the survival of New Providence Island, the most notorious criminal haven of its day – a debauched paradise teeming with pirates, prostitutes, thieves and fortune seekers, a place defined by both its enlightened ideals and its stunning brutality.

Zach McGowan stars as rival Captain Charles Vane; Toby Schmitz as Rackham, Vane’s right hand; Hannah New as Eleanor Guthrie, a determined young woman who runs the smuggling operation on New Providence; Hakeem Kae-Kazim as Mr. Scott, Eleanor’s retainer and right hand, Jessica Parker Kennedy as Max, a tortured young prostitute who sees the dark side of New Providence; Mark Ryan as Gates, Captain Flint’s Quartermaster and most senior member of his crew, Clara Paget as the beautiful but cold-blooded Anne Bonny and Tom Hopper (“Merlin”) as Billy Bones, boatswain of Flint’s ship.

“Black Sails” is executive produced by Michael Bay (Transformers, Armageddon, Pearl Harbor) and his Platinum Dunes partners Brad Fuller and Andrew Form, producers on The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (2003) andNightmare on Elm Street (2009). The series was created by showrunner and executive producer Jonathan Steinberg (creator “Jericho,” “Human Target”) and co-executive producer Robert Levine (“Touch”).

“Black Sails” will debut with an eight-episode season in January 2014, exclusively on STARZ.

“Black Sails” Online

Website: www.starz.com/originals/BlackSails

Facebook: facebook.com/blacksails.starz

Twitter: @BlkSails_Starz; join the conversation at: #BlackSails