Author - Jerry Paxton

First GRID 2 Gameplay Trailers

Los Angeles, Calif. – Sept. 27, 2012 – Codemasters® today launched the first two gameplay videos for GRID® 2™, the long-awaited sequel to the BAFTA-award winning, critically acclaimed GRID™. Revealing races at two of the game’s new locations, Chicago and California Coast, the GRID 2 gameplay videos are captured from pre-alpha, work-in-progress code and are now showing at www.youtube.com/gridgame.

The Chicago video features a Street Racing stage where muscle cars, including the Camaro SS, Z06 Corvette and Boss Mustang, charge through skyscraper-lined streets and chase through tunnels. The California Coast video follows a head-to-head, point-to-point duel between a contemporary Boss Mustang and a classic Mustang Mach 1 on a tight and twisting sprint for the line.

GRID 2 will make its consumer debut at this week’s Eurogamer Expo (www.eurogamerexpo.com) at London’s Earls Court (September 27-30), where gamers can experience the return of the race themselves. Players can take to the streets of Chicago or hit the California Coast’s spectacular roads, each offering a different racing challenge, yet sharing the game’s core relentless, high-impact, aggressive competition.

GRID 2 will challenge players to be fast, be first and be famous as they enter a stunning new world of competitive motorsport. Following the success of GRID, which set new standards for damage, AI, visuals and introduced the Flashback time rewind feature – now adopted by many racing games – GRID 2 will again raise the gameplay and technological bar for motorsport gaming and remain true to the series’ core value – it’s all about the race. GRID 2 will also introduce the new TrueFeel™ Handling System, which uses real physics to hit a sweet spot between accessibility and simulation to deliver handling that is approachable yet challenging to master.

Going behind the wheel of a handpicked selection of automotive icons spanning four decades and three continents – North America, Europe and Asia – players will race their way to the top of GRID 2’s new, evolving world of motorsport. From Paris to Dubai, Miami to the sun-kissed California coast and beyond, beautifully created city streets, licensed circuits and twisting mountain roads will become home to the most visceral and exhilarating races in games.

GRID 2 will also set new standards for a racing multiplayer experience with an entirely distinct and extensive gameplay component and unique progression system. Deep customization options and integration with RaceNet* – the online community portal for Codemasters Racing games which tracks player’s races, rewards and rivals – will offer further immersion and connectivity to extend each player’s GRID 2 experience.

GRID 2 is in production at Codemasters Racing Studios and is available to pre-order ahead of its summer 2013 release for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system and Windows PC. Fans can keep up with all the latest updates straight from the studio by speeding over to www.gridgame.com and www.facebook.com/gridgame or follow the team at www.twitter.com/gridgame.

Chicago Street Racing

ROCCAT Unveils New Gaming Mice

Hamburg, 27 September 2012 – ROCCAT Studios, the Hamburg-based manufacturer of competition gaming peripherals, is set to expand their high-performance mouse portfolio with the upcoming debut of three new game-changing devices: the ROCCAT™ Kone XTD – Max Customization Gaming Mouse, the ROCCAT™ Kone Pure – Core Performance Gaming Mouse and the ROCCAT™ Lua – Tri-Button Gaming Mouse.

ROCCAT has tapped the Kone XTD to be the successor to the legendary Kone[+] gaming mouse, packing the XTD with a hefty increase in the already formidable capabilities of the Kone[+] – while keeping the beloved Kone design completely intact. The German manufacturer also kept the legendary Kone form when designing the Kone Pure – but slimmed it down to 91% the size of the Kone[+], while also adding more competition-crushing power to the original Kone[+] performance specs.

Keeping the world famous Kone design when creating the new Kone models was extremely important, says ROCCAT, because legions of Kone fans worldwide have shown such a strong devotion to it.

ROCCAT engineers designed the ultra-sleek Lua, meanwhile, to deliver superb combat performance to gamers of all hand sizes.

The Kone domination dynasty continues

Both the Kone XTD and Kone Pure are powered by an astounding performance package loaded with the latest 8200 DPI Pro Aim R3 laser sensor, a commanding 32-bit Turbo Core 2 72MHz ARM MCU processor, and the most advanced Tracking & Distance Control Unit around – all working in clockwork unison to deliver world-beating battle ability.

Both also offer a range of ergonomic features designed for the longest play comfort – and a suite of the world’s most advanced gaming software for max customization – all designed to give users a masterful tool for dominating any gaming world they choose.

In addition, both new Kone models feature fully-customizable lighting systems designed to boost the mood of every gaming session. Flanking the sides of the Kone XTD are two shimmering light rails powered by four independent multi-color LEDs that gamers can set in their choice of a wide range of vibrant hues. Gamers can even program the light rails to execute effects, such as a “breathing” function, color rotation in their choice of shades, or game profile change notification – eye-catching displays sure to enhance any session.

The Kone Pure, meanwhile, boasts a large ROCCAT logo on its back that users can set in their choice of 16.8 million vibrant colors. It, too, can be programmed to carry out the “breathing” and color rotation functions.

The Lua: sleek and deadly

In designing the Lua, ROCCAT took the beloved three-button mouse model and injected it with loads of advanced gaming engineering – and then slimmed it down to fit any gamer’s hand.

Packing a fully-adjustable Pro-Optic sensor in a rugged, ambidextrous V-shape – featuring No-Sweat side grips, soft touch surface, and illuminated ROCCAT™ logo – the Lua gives props to the past while heading boldly into the future. Built for any hand and for any battle, the Lua is ideal for gamers who want an entry-level gaming mouse, but who don’t want to compromise on performance.

New standards in quality

Continuing a dedication to building the world’s highest quality gaming gear, each of the new mice is built mega-tough using only the highest-quality materials, inside and out. From robust exteriors to premium inner electronics, everything on the new devices is state-of-the-art and built to last.

ROCCAT has additionally announced that the Kone XTD and Kone Pure will feature an advanced new scroll wheel – the toughest and most reliable ever designed. The new wheel is “built to last and engineered to own”, says ROCCAT, with each having been constructed using the planet’s most robust and high-tech components – for a level of quality that sets a new standard in scrolling.

In addition, ROCCAT has built each new mouse model using ROCCAT™ Click Master switch tech – powered by Omron©. Using with the world’s most advanced switch components, Click Master technology ensures that every button press registers with extreme precision. Every click also delivers pronounced feedback, letting gamers feel their way to successful gaming. And because of their premium materials and rugged construction, Click Master systems deliver the longest life of hardcore gaming, click after click.

A dedication to excellence

“With the Kone XTD, Kone Pure and Lua, we have renewed our commitment to gaming excellence”, says René Korte, ROCCAT Founder and CEO. “These new mice are world beaters. They deliver an amazing combination of quality and performance, and they illustrate perfectly the difference between simply playing and engaging in some serious gaming.”

Coming soon

The Kone XTD, Kone Pure and Lua are expected to hit shelves end of October/beginning of November, 2012, with a suggested retail price of $89.99 (Kone XTD), $69.99 (Kone Pure), $29.99 (Lua).

The Old Republic Update 1.4: Terror From Beyond Live

Travel to the furthest reaches of the galaxy to come face-to-face with a horror never-before-seen in the Star Wars™ universe!  EA, BioWare and LucasArts announced today that Star Wars™: The Old Republic™ Game Update 1.4:Terror From Beyond is now available for download! Players will be able to get their hands on new high-level group content, new game features and new gear.

Here is what fans can expect in terms of new gameplay and game enhancements in Game Update 1.4: Terror from Beyond:

  • Operation: Terror From Beyond is an all-new unique group combat experience located on the remote world of Asation, where an ancient alien race known as the Gree are rumored to be guarding mysterious and dangerous archaic technologies. The Gree’s secrets have suddenly caught the interest of the Dread Masters, a treacherous group of Sith Lords who have discovered the key to unlocking the ancient Gree Hypergates. Once this portal is open, a passageway to an unknown place will unleash an unspeakable horror that will become a threat for the entire galaxy.
  • Improved Group Finder will now allow players to join a group for an Operation or Flashpoint and then return to their previous location once the mission is completed.
  • Legendary Dread Guard Gear will give players the chance to upgrade their characters’ effectiveness and appearance.
  • Unified Colors for Companions will give players the chance to select an option that will match all of their companions’ gear to their chest piece for a more stylish look.
  • New ‘Facial Expression’ Emotes are a new set of slash commands that will give players the chance to set their characters’ expressions to let the rest of the galaxy know how they feel!

Star Wars: The Old Republic went live last December to critical acclaim around the world. Prior to today’s release ofTerror From Beyond, BioWare has already released three major free Game Updates, adding hours upon hours of new, higher level group gameplay, more PvP Warzones, special in-game events, new game features like the Legacy System, Group Finder, and continued improvements to the game. In November BioWare will introduce a new Free-to-Play option for Star Wars: The Old Republic.

For more information about Game Update 1.4, please visit www.StarWarstheOldRepublic.com, follow the game on Twitter® at http://twitter.com/swtor or “Like” Star Wars: The Old Republic on Facebook® at http://facebook.com/starwarstheoldrepublic. Press assets for Star Wars: The Old Republic are available at www.info.ea.com.

Mass Effect Trilogy Announced

REDWOOD CITY, Calif. – Sept. 26, 2012 – Winner of over 300 awards. Recipient of over 200 perfect scores. A universe that has expanded beyond games to comics, novels, apparel, collectibles, action figures and more. TheMass Effect franchise has become one of the most heralded series in video game history. BioWare, a division of Electronic Arts (NASDAQ: EA), today unveiled the Mass Effect Trilogy, a compilation of all three award-winningMass Effect games in one box. Available in stores beginning November 6, 2012 for only $59.99, the Mass Effect Trilogy is the perfect holiday gift for longtime fans or friends who have yet to experience Commander Shepard’s epic journey to save the galaxy.

Coinciding with the launch of Mass Effect Trilogy, BioWare will kick off the first annual “N7 Day,” a worldwide celebration of the Mass Effect franchise on November 7, 2012. Stay tuned to http://MassEffect.com for updates and announcements for a variety of in-game, online and live events which fans can congregate and fly their N7 colors.

The Mass Effect trilogy follows the rise of Commander Shepard from Alliance Marine to becoming the galaxy’s mostelite soldier – the only soldier who can lead an all-out galactic war against an ancient alien race known as the Reapers. Heart-pounding action meets gripping interactive storytelling as players decide how their unique story unfolds over all three games. With a team of loyal soldiers at their side, each player decides how they will save the galaxy, from the weapons and abilities they utilize to the relationships they forge or break.

The Mass Effect Trilogy will be available on the Xbox 360® videogame and entertainment system and PC on November 6, and will be available at a later date for the PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system. Mass Effect, the game which started it all, will be available on PlayStation 3 for the first time through the Mass Effect Trilogy and digitally as a standalone title via the PlayStation Network. For more information about Mass Effect Trilogy, please visit the game’s official web site at http://MassEffect.com. Fans can also receive more Mass Effect updates and “N7 Day” news on Twitter at http://twitter.com/masseffect, or on Facebook at http://facebook.com/masseffect.

INJUSTICE: Gods Among Us Collector’s Edition Revealed

Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment and DC Entertainment today unveiled details for the Injustice: Gods Among Us Collector’s Edition.  The North American package will be available beginning April 2013 in limited quantities for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PlayStation®3 computer entertainment, and will retail for $99.99.

The North American Injustice: Gods Among Us Collector’s Edition will include:

  • Exclusive DC Collectibles statue featuring iconic characters Batman and Wonder Woman, the Fortress of Solitude, and the Last Son of Krypton’s escape ship

o   Highly detailed statue that stands over 13” tall

o   Beautifully rendered with a combination of injected and hand painted decoration

o   Includes The Lasso of Truth, clear casted ice details and translucent smoke trail

  • Special Collector’s Edition of a brand new DC Comics series
  • Digital download of DC Universe animated film Justice League: Doom
  • Three exclusive skins based on Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman from DC COMICS – THE NEW 52

World of Tanks Update 8.0 Released

26th September, 2012 — Wargaming is proud to announce that Update 8.0 for its free-to-play action MMO World of Tanks goes live on September 26 for North America and on September 27 for Europe. The most important upgrade since the game’s release in April 2011 brings major overhauls to the game’s in-game physics engine, bringing realistic tank behavior and numerous tactical opportunities for the players.

Along with the improvement, Update 8.0 adds a newly optimized user interface, enhanced rendering system for more lifelike and realistic visuals, as well as adaptive camouflage and new mini-map functions. Players can also now choose the combat mode type before entering the battle and transfer free experience into crew experience.

In addition, the USSR tech tree has been expanded with four new tank destroyers, and the first premium British machine, the Matilda Black Prince, rolled into the in-game shop for purchase.

About World of Tanks

World of Tanks is the first and only team-based, massively multiplayer online action game dedicated to armored warfare. Along with solid graphics, the game provides more than 160 tank models of the mid 20th century vehicles from United States, Germany, the Soviet Union, France and Great Britain carefully detailed with historical accuracy.

Join World of Tanks:

Assassin’s Creed III Minimum PC Requirements

In order to run Assassin’s Creed III properly, your PC MUST meet or exceed these minimum requirements:

Minimum System Requirements

Supported OS: Windows Vista (SP2) / Windows 7 (SP1) / Windows 8
Processor: 2.66 GHz Intel Core2 Duo E6700 or 3.00 GHz AMD Athlon 64 X2 6000+ or better recommended
RAM: 2 GB (4 GB recommended)
Video Card: 512 MB DirectX 9.0c-compliant with Shader Model 4.0 or higher (see supported list)*
Sound Card: DirectX 9.0c-compliant (5.1 surround sound recommended)
DVD-ROM: Dual-layer drive
Hard Drive Space: 17 GB
Peripherals Supported: Windows-compatible keyboard, mouse, optional controller (Xbox 360 Controller for Windows recommended)
Multiplayer: 256 kbps or faster broadband connection

Supported Video Cards at Time of Release:
AMD Radeon HD 3870 / 4000 / 5000 / 6000 / 7000 series or better
NVIDIA GeForce 8600 GT / 9 / 100 / 200 / 300 / 400 / 500 / 600 series or better

Laptop versions of these cards may work, but are not supported. These chipsets are the only ones that will run this game.

Screamfest LA 2012 Starts October 12

Los Angeles, CA., September 25, 2012 – Screamfest® kicks off its 12th annual festival on Friday, October 12 at 8:00 p.m. with the opening night horror The Collection, directed by Marcus Dunstan (writer of Saw IV, V, VI and Saw 3D: The Final Chapter). Screamfest®, the preeminent horror festival in the country, and what the LA Weekly calls “the best place to get a jump on tomorrow’s cult hits” presents the festival in Los Angeles on October 12 through October 21 at LA Live Regal Cinemas (1000 West Olympic Blvd., LA, CA).

From the writing-directing team Marcus Dunstan and Patrick Melton (Saw IV, V and VI) comes The Collection, a suspense horror film with nonstop thrills at every turn. Directed by Dunstan and starring Josh Stewart (The Dark Knight Rises, The Collector), Emma Fitzpatrick (The Social Network) and Christopher McDonald (“Boardwalk Empire,” Requiem for a Dream), the film centers on a traumatized man forced to help rescue a beautiful woman who has become the latest obsession of a crazed killer who “collects” humans in a booby-trapped house of horrors. Both Dunstan and Melton will be in attendance for the opening night screening as well as cast members Josh Stewart and Emma Fitzpatrick.

When ELENA (Fitzpatrick) is talked into attending an underground rave party with her friends, she finds herself caught in a nightmarish trap where the revelers are mowed, sliced and crushed to death by a macabre series of contraptions operated by a masked psychopath. When the grisly massacre is over, Elena is the only survivor. But before she can escape, she is locked in a trunk and transported to an unknown location.

Fortunately for Elena, one man-ARKIN (Stewart)-knows exactly where she’s headed, having just escaped from there with his life and sanity barely intact. Going back is the last thing on Arkin’s mind, but Elena’s wealthy father (McDonald) hires a crack team of mercenaries to force Arkin to lead them to the killer’s lair. But even these hardened warriors are not prepared for what they encounter: an abandoned hotel-turned-torture-chamber, rigged with deadly traps and filled with mangled corpses. Can Arkin and the team get to Elena before she too becomes part of his gruesome “collection?”

The film is written by Dunstan and Patrick Melton (Saw IV, V, VI, Saw 3D: The Final Chapter) and produced by Liddell Entertainment and Fortress Features. LD Entertainment is releasing The Collection on November 30th.

Look for additional titles to be announced soon.

For tickets and additional information, please contact info@screamfestla.com