Author - Jerry Paxton

The Alters Delayed Until Q1 2025

11 bit studios announced today that The Alters has been delayed until Q1 2025.

The Last Plague: Blight Early Access Launch Trailer

Solo developer Original Studios is proud to announce that its authentic open-world survival craft game, The Last Plague: Blight, is available now in Early Access on PC via Steam.

After a mysterious disease ravaged Earth, leaving it desolate and reclaimed by the wild, players become one of the last human survivors. Having barely escaped the Blight’s devastating effects themselves, the protagonist finds themselves alone, exhausted, but ready to risk it all to fight back against this disease.

Players will face an unforgiving and uncompromising open world filled with threats of all kinds. Wolves, coyotes, and bears become much more ferocious when infected with the Blight, and players will need to set traps, be quick on their feet, and aim well with their throwing spears and other crafted weapons to take down enemy animals.

Keep an eye on the protagonist’s vitals as players will need to forage and hunt for food, gather water, and stay rested. The Blight also poses a significant threat, and clouds of its diseased smog are to be avoided. The protagonist may have survived the disease once, but they’d be wise not to chance fate a second time.

The Last Plague: Blight’s approach to realism includes complex systems and an intentionally high level of difficulty. Water must be boiled before drinking, raw materials must be treated before turning into tools, and each survival task eats up precious time, further depleting hunger, hydration, and exhaustion levels. The Blight is far from the only threat in this world.

There is, however, the option to call for backup. Become humanity’s last few hopes with online co-op multiplayer, allowing up to four players to fend off the threats together. While the perils may not let up, fighting a world-threatening disease certainly feels more manageable with friends.

Truck Driver: The American Dream Gets Steering Wheel support

Take the driver seat as SOEDESCO® proudly announces the release of the much-awaited Truck Driver ®: The American Dream Steering Wheel Support update. Now available on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, this latest update introduces full Steering Wheel Support, elevating the trucking adventure to new levels of immersion and realism.

The Steering Wheel support update is part of Truck Driver®: The American Dream PS5 Patch #17 – 0.9.9.9 & Xbox Series X|S Patch #10 -0.9.9.9

About Truck Driver: The American Dream

Years after the death of your father, a famous and well-respected truck driver, you decide to get your life back on track by stepping into your father’s shoes. However, this new path doesn’t come without its hardships, as the road to becoming a successful truck driver might be a hard and lonely one. So, strap yourself in and be ready for anything as you chase the American Dream in this brand-new adventure!

Features

  • Follow Nathan’s story about becoming a successful truck driver
  • Work on your relationships as you get closer to your family and the local community with each job
  • Customize your truck to your heart’s content with tons of new parts and paint jobs to choose from
  • Navigate the open road as you encounter different landscapes and interesting locations
  • Immerse yourself in breathtaking visuals made in Unreal Engine 5, featuring ray-tracing effects, dynamic weather, and seamless day-night cycles

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge Ultimate Edition Announced

Limited Run Games, a premium publisher of physical games, today made the most radical of announcements, with pre-orders opening today for the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge Ultimate Edition coming soon to PlayStation®5 and Nintendo® Switch™!
Yours to bring home in glorious physical form, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge Ultimate Edition arrives fully loaded, complete with four new playable characters from the Dimension Shellshock and Radical Reptiles DLCs, plus Survival Mode and exclusive color palettes!
But that’s not all! In turtelly awesome news, Limited Run Games is delighted to announce the gnarly Collector’s Edition, a must-have for any self-respecting turtle fan! Presented in a shellegant Deluxe Gatefold Box, the Collector’s Edition includes:
●     Physical copy of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge Ultimate Edition
●     Lithograph Set
●     Complete 3 Disc CD Soundtrack
●     Set of Four Exclusive Game Inspired Playmates Toys TMNT Figures
Joining the two Ultimate Edition releases, Limited Run Games have yet more surprises in store for fans, with two new vinyl releases open for pre-order today!
Inspired by the music of one of the most iconic pop-culture licenses of all time, the Teenage Mutant Nina Turtles: Shredders Revenge Radical Remixes is an all-new original soundtrack composed by Tee Lopes, remixed in the spirit of a NES™ soundtrack.
Sean Bialo (Penny’s Big BreakawayMighty Morphin’ Power Rangers: Rita’s RewindDouble Dragon Gaiden) is on board to supervise the sound identity of the soundtrack, with several esteemed guests invited to add their own unique touch to the album:
●     Anamanaguchi, the legendary chiptune-based pop & rock band from NYC behind Scott Pilgrim vs. the World OST, has remixed the ever-popular ‘Panic in the Sky!’, while Jake Kaufman, the composer of chiptunes such as Shovel Knight, has remixed ‘It Won’t Fly!’.
●     Button Masher, Grammy Award Winning Video Game Music Artist and frontman of the current chiptune scene gives his own inspired spin on ‘Rumble in The Zoo’.
●     Keiji Yamagishi, one of the original 80’s composers of the Ninja Gaiden series, and considered a pioneer of chiptune music, produced the 8-bit version of ‘The Lost Archenemies’.
●     Tomoya Tomita, member of Konami’s audio team in the 90’s and part of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles III: The Manhattan Project has leant his talents, remixing ‘A Few Screws Loose’.
Alongside the standalone album, Limited Run Games is also producing an epic 4 LP Vinyl Boxset, including the Radical Remixes, as well as all the original music from Shredder’s Revenge and the Dimension Shellshock DLC.

Turtle fans will need to move with Ninja-like speed however, pre-orders open today and only extend until November 3rd, 2024!

For more information and to pre-order Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge Ultimate Edition, the Collector’s Edition, the Radical Remixes soundtrack or the 4LP Vinyl Boxset, please visit limitedrungames.com

Metal: Hellsinger VR Launch Trailer

Funcom® is excited to announce that Metal: Hellsinger®, the highly acclaimed rhythm FPS launches on Meta Quest today and will be available on PSVR2 and Steam starting October 3rd, offering VR players a unique, demon-slaying experience. Ported by Lab42®, Metal: Hellsinger VR includes all the original content from the base game and debuts alongside its three DLCs: Dream of the Beast, Purgatory, and Essential Hits Pack.

Originally developed by The Outsiders studio at Funcom, Metal: Hellsinger, the critically acclaimed and award-winning rhythm shooter, has garnered over 3.3 million players since its launch, boasting an overwhelmingly positive rating on Steam.

With the VR release, you can unleash your inner demon and experience the forces of hell and heaven at your fingertips. Engage in full VR gameplay with a diverse array of weaponry, including twin pistols, an explosive crossbow, a chatty skull, and a wicked blade.

Brace the fires of hell by diving headfirst into the blazing hot release trailer:

The Dream of the Beast DLC, which is still offered as a pre-order bonus for PSVR2, introduces Cristina Scabbia (Lacuna Coil) and Will Ramos (Lorna Shore) to the legendary roster, offering new outfits and a powerful weapon to enhance gameplay. The Purgatory DLC adds three new songs for you to headbang along to, plus a powerful bow, while The Essential Hits Pack contains chart-topping licensed songs from iconic bands such as Muse, Gorillaz, Depeche Mode and more.

Engage in intense gameplay, combining shooting, dashing, and slaying to the rhythm of the multi award-winning original soundtrack performed by metal giants such as Serj Tankian (System of a Down), Matt Heafy (Trivium), and Aliisa White-Gluz (Arch Enemy). Immerse yourself in the blazing VR world as you battle through hell to confront the Red Judge and reclaim your voice.

Metal: Hellsinger VR is now available on Meta Quest for 29.99 EUR/USD and will be launching on PSVR2 and Steam on October 3rd.

Parcel Corps Launch Trailer

Ding dong! Did someone here order a moderately amusing, satirical, bicycle courier action game? Because it’s on your doorstep right now! And by doorstep, we mean available to download on PC via Steam, PlayStation®5 (PS5™), and Xbox Series X|S!

That’s right, Parcel Corps is here! It’s all about high speed, high octane, low wage action, as you skid, bunny hop, and wallride your way through the streets of New Island. Choose from one of three bicycle courier corporations to swear your allegiance to, before racing against the clock to deliver parcels on behalf of an eclectic cast of business owners.

More of a group cyclist? Keen to mix it in the peloton? Jump online and compete against other couriers in furious knockout action to determine who rules the gig economy! Or post your fastest times in tricky trials via the Strift app and dominate the leaderboards. Who says gruelling physical labour can’t be fun-tastic?

Parcel Corps is available now on PC via Steam, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S.

SONIC X SHADOW GENERATIONS: Dark Beginnings Episode 2

oday, Sonic Team released the second episode of the SONIC X SHADOW GENERATIONS: Dark Beginnings prologue animation, following Shadow the Hedgehog as he dives into his tragic past to confront the origins of his haunting nightmares of conflict and loss. In Episode 2, Shadow’s search for answers brings him into the crossfire with his allies and Dr. Eggman, making him question if his quest for closure is worth the risks that accompany it. Check out the episode here:

The third and final episode of SONIC X SHADOW GENERATIONS: Dark Beginnings airs on October 10, 2024.

SONIC X SHADOW GENERATIONS is set to release both digitally and physically on October 25, 2024, starting at $49.99 USD on PlayStation®5 (PS5®), PlayStation®4 (PS4®), Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, the Nintendo Switch™ family of systems, and PC. Fans can pre-order today and receive a legacy skin for Modern Sonic based on his look from Sonic Adventure! Those who purchase the Digital Deluxe Edition can play the game three days early and receive additional content. Also, players who pre-order the Physical Day One Edition will also receive Gerald Robotnik’s 28-page journal, chronicling his experience creating Shadow and the Ark Space Station.

Sign up for our newsletter before November 1, 2024 to receive the Sonic Jam Legacy Skin for Classic Sonic, inspired by Sonic’s first 3D appearance. Please visit the SONIC X SHADOW GENERATIONS official website for full terms and conditions.

Train Sim World 5 Review – Setting a New Standard in Train Sims

Train Sim World 5, the latest installment in Dovetail Games’ renowned train simulation series, establishes a new benchmark for the genre, outshining many of its competitors in terms of realism, immersion, and sheer detail. While Train Sim World 4 was already a highly regarded simulation, TSW5 takes the experience to a whole new level, further solidifying its position as a leader in the train simulation market.

Unrivaled Visual and Auditory Immersion

One of the most striking aspects of Train Sim World 5 is its graphical fidelity, surpassing many other train simulation games in terms of visual realism. The game showcases meticulously detailed textures, realistic lighting, and dynamic weather effects that transform the world, creating an immersive experience that rivals even the most visually impressive simulations like Microsoft Flight Simulator. The sun setting over the iconic West Coast Main Line, or the rain-drenched streets of a bustling German city, are just a few examples of how TSW5 captures the distinct atmosphere of each route, drawing players into its meticulously crafted world.

Complementing the visuals is a meticulously crafted soundscape that rivals the best in the genre. The sounds of the trains themselves, from the rhythmic chug of the engines to the piercing squeal of the brakes, are remarkably realistic, capturing the nuances of each locomotive. The ambient sounds, such as birds chirping in the countryside or the distant hum of traffic in urban areas, further enhance the sense of immersion, making TSW5 a truly multi-sensory experience.

New Adventures and Iron Horses

TSW5 introduces three captivating new routes, each with its own distinct personality, offering a level of variety and detail that surpasses many other train simulation games. The West Coast Main Line, a staple of British rail travel, presents a fast-paced challenge with its high-speed trains and bustling stations, reminiscent of the high-stakes action found in games like Train Simulator Classic. The Dresden – Riesa route offers a more leisurely and scenic journey through the idyllic German countryside, evoking the peaceful ambiance of simulations like Fernbus Simulator. The Cajon Pass route, included in the Deluxe Edition, provides a thrilling test of skill as players navigate the steep gradients and challenging terrain of Southern California, rivaling the complexity and challenge found in games like Run 8 Train Simulator.

The game also boasts an extensive roster of meticulously recreated trains, catering to a wider range of rail enthusiasts than many other simulations. From sleek, modern high-speed trains like those found in Train Sim World 4 to powerful diesel locomotives and even classic steam engines reminiscent of those in Trainz Railroad Simulator 2024, there’s a train for every taste. Each train is faithfully modeled, with realistic controls and behaviors that add another layer of authenticity to the experience, setting TSW5 apart from simulations that offer less detailed or accurate train models.

Gameplay Refinements and Evolution

TSW5 introduces several gameplay enhancements that make the experience even more engaging and immersive than its predecessors and competitors. The new “Journey Mode” offers a series of scenario-based challenges that test players’ skills in various situations, from navigating complex signaling systems to dealing with unexpected delays, providing a level of depth and variety that surpasses many other train simulations. The Dovetail Games preservation crew is even planning to add compatibility with the much-loved “Livery Designer”, that allowed for extensive customization of trains, enabling players to add a personal touch to their favorite locomotives, a feature often lacking in other train simulation games. The addition of the Conductor Mode puts you into the role of a guard/conductor on any service – check tickets, operate the doors and ensure passenger safety.

While Train Sim World 4 was already a highly regarded simulation, TSW5 takes the experience to new heights, surpassing its predecessor and many other train simulation games in terms of graphics, soundscape, and gameplay refinements. The addition of new routes and trains provides a wealth of fresh content, ensuring that both veterans and newcomers will find plenty to explore, further solidifying TSW5’s position as a leader in the genre.

However, even with its many strengths, TSW5 is not without its minor shortcomings. Occasional bugs and performance inconsistencies can mar the experience, reminding players that even the most polished simulations are not immune to technical issues. Additionally, the learning curve remains steep for newcomers to the genre, potentially limiting its accessibility compared to more beginner-friendly simulations.

Overall Assessment

Train Sim World 5 stands as a testament to Dovetail Games’ commitment to delivering an authentic and immersive train simulation experience that surpasses many of its competitors. The game’s stunning visuals, realistic soundscape, and refined gameplay combine to create a captivating world that will enthrall rail enthusiasts and simulation fans alike. While not without its minor flaws, TSW5 sets a new benchmark for the genre, offering an unparalleled level of realism, detail, and immersion that will keep players engaged for countless hours.

Overall Rating: 4 out of 5

Pros:

  • Breathtaking visuals and immersive soundscape that rival the best in the genre
  • Diverse selection of new routes and trains, offering a wider variety than many competitors
  • Engaging gameplay enhancements, including Journey Mode and Livery Designer, adding depth and replayability
  • Significant improvement over its predecessor and many other train simulation games

Cons:

  • Occasional bugs and performance inconsistencies
  • Steep learning curve for newcomers

Razer Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition Review: Performance Minded and Reasonably Priced

The Razer Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition is a wired Xbox controller that caters to the discerning needs of competitive gamers. It eschews the bells and whistles often found in standard controllers, like wireless connectivity and rumble features, to deliver a purely performance-driven experience. This is a controller built for players who demand precision, responsiveness, and a level of customization that allows them to truly master their game.

Holding the Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition is akin to gripping a finely-tuned instrument. The ergonomic design, with its sculpted grips and non-slip texture, ensures a comfortable and secure hold even during the most intense gaming sessions. The controller feels remarkably solid and well-built, instilling confidence in its ability to withstand the rigors of competitive play.

But the true measure of a controller lies in its controls, and the Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition excels in this regard. The “Mecha-Tactile” action buttons are a revelation, offering a unique blend of speed and feedback. Each press registers with satisfying swiftness, providing a sense of immediacy that can be crucial in fast-paced games. The controller’s D-pad is equally impressive, with a precise and responsive feel that makes it ideal for fighting games, platformers, or any genre that demands accurate directional inputs.

What truly elevates the Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition to the next level, however, is its remarkable array of remappable buttons and triggers. The four back paddles are strategically positioned for effortless access, and their satisfyingly clicky, tactile switches evoke the feel of high-quality mouse buttons (mainly because they’re using their mouse button technology in the controller). These paddles, in conjunction with the two remappable shoulder buttons, unlock a world of customization possibilities. You can assign complex in-game actions, optimize your hand positioning for faster reactions, and gain a significant edge over your opponents.

The Razer Pro HyperTriggers are another testament to the controller’s focus on performance. These triggers can be transformed into hair triggers with minimal travel time, effectively turning them (essentially) into mouse clicks for scenarios that demand rapid-fire inputs. The inclusion of haptic feedback adds another dimension to the gaming experience, letting you feel the impact of every in-game action. Speaking of the trigger technology, each uses HAL effect sensors for added precision and drift reduction. These magnetic sensors are also less prone to wear and tear, ensuring your aim remains true even after countless hours of intense gameplay. Furthermore, you can fine-tune the thumbstick sensitivity through the Razer Controller App, tailoring the controller’s responsiveness to your individual preferences.

This Razer Controller App is more than just a configuration tool; it’s a gateway to unlocking the controller’s full potential. Within its intuitive interface, you can remap buttons, adjust thumbstick sensitivity, and create custom profiles for different games or playstyles. For PC gamers, the app also unlocks a “PC Mode” that elevates the polling rate to 1000Hz, further minimizing input lag and maximizing responsiveness. PC gamers should note that the controller is not yet compatible with the Razer Synapse software on your computer. Hopefully, they will make it compatible with it soon as I would LOVE to use the Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition as my primary PC gamepad for those games that need one. If you want to plug the controller back into the Xbox after using it on your PC, you will need to switch it back to Xbox Mode before playing (Xbox mode is locked at 250Hz polling).

Compared to its wireless counterpart, the Wolverine V3 Pro, the Tournament Edition makes a strategic trade-off. By forgoing wireless freedom, it achieves a lower price point and a wired connection that guarantees minimal latency. While the Pro boasts features like interchangeable thumbsticks, wireless use, and Chroma RGB, the Tournament Edition’s unwavering commitment to wired performance makes it a compelling choice for competitive players who prioritize responsiveness above all else. It’s a controller that speaks the language of esports, where every millisecond can make the difference between victory and defeat.

In conclusion, the Razer Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition is a meticulously engineered controller designed to meet the exacting demands of competitive gaming. Its fusion of responsive buttons, customizable triggers, precise thumbsticks, and comprehensive software support makes it a formidable weapon in the hands of a skilled player. While the lack of wireless connectivity and certain features may be a consideration for some, the Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition’s unwavering focus on performance and customization is undeniable. It’s less expensive than the Xbox Elite Controller 2 with more esports-minded features. If you’re serious about gaming and willing to invest in a controller that can elevate your gameplay to new heights, the Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition is a worthy contender for your arsenal.

Overall Rating: 5 out of 5

Pros:

  • Exceptional responsiveness and customization
  • Comfortable ergonomic design and built quality
  • Precise and durable Hall Effect thumbsticks
  • Clicky, tactile back paddles and buttons
  • Comprehensive software support

Cons:

  • Wired only
  • Can’t remap buttons without using the app

The Sleepy Hollow International Film Festival Returns for 2024

A Legendary Return: Sleepy Hollow International Film Festival Is Back! The historic towns of Sleepy Hollow and Tarrytown, New York, prepare to once again become the epicenter of cinematic enchantment with the return of The Sleepy Hollow International Film Festival (SHIFF) from October 10-13, 2024.

SHIFF, which is a celebration of outstanding genre cinema in the historic cradle of the American supernatural, will present a curated selection of premiere features, thought-provoking short films, and special presentations to celebrate the unknown, all from within the majestic Tarrytown Music Hall.

Disney enthusiasts will join the fun with the 75th-anniversary celebration of “The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad.” Walt Disney Archives Director Becky Cline and special guests will guide attendees through a magical evening filled with rare shorts, behind-the-scenes revelations, and special surprises that promise to delight fans both young and old.

The festival’s short film showcases will be a particular highlight, offering viewers a chance to bend their minds with two blocks of imaginative works. These collections will also spotlight the abundant creativity of New York and Hudson Valley filmmakers, proving that the spirit of Washington Irving’s legendary tales continues to inspire new generations of storytellers.

SHIFF will pay tribute to the inimitable Tim Burton with a 30th-anniversary screening of his “Ed Wood.” This offbeat masterpiece will be preceded by an exclusive sneak peek at filmmaker Tara Wood’s upcoming four-part docuseries, offering an unprecedented glimpse into Burton’s fantastic life and career.

The festival will dig into the darkness with a centennial tribute to Jonathan Frid, the actor who brought to life the tormented vampire Barnabas Collins in the cult classic series “Dark Shadows.” Cast members will also be on hand, reuniting to share memories with fans.

For those with a taste for the macabre, acclaimed filmmaker William Lustig will host a late-night screening of his controversial thriller “Maniac,” accompanied by technical advisor Randy Jurgensen, to shed light on this gritty gem of 80s cinema.

SHIFF’s connection to literary heritage will be further cemented with a screening of Disney’s adaptation of Ray Bradbury’s “Something Wicked This Way Comes,” accompanied by a tantalizing preview of an upcoming documentary on the film’s production and lasting impact.

Attendees will also be treated to Hudson Valley premieres of exciting new features like the US East Coast Premiere of Mark H. Rapaport’s sublime “Hippo,” “The Activated Man,” starring Tony Todd and our closing premiere feature “Get Away,” written by and starring genre fave Nick Frost. And bringing the celebration full circle to the very legend that give the region its enduring mystique, SHIFF will feature a 25th-anniversary screening of Tim Burton’s “Sleepy Hollow,” presented by Paramount Scares.

With passes and individual tickets available, cinema lovers are encouraged to secure their place now. To be part of this extraordinary event, tickets can be purchased at www.tarrytownmusichall.org. Additional inquiries may be directed to info@sleepyhollowiff.com.

Join us at SHIFF, October 10-13, 2024, for the inception of a new legend, where the breathtaking whirl of unthinkable sounds and visions witnessed will inspire us all for centuries to come!