Author - Jerry Paxton

DreadXP and Paramount Game Studios Announce Paranormal Activity Video Game

2024/02/28
Jerry Paxton
Geek News, Halloween, News, Trailers / Videos, Windows PC News

DreadXP — one of the most recognized horror video game publishers in the industry — DarkStone Digital, and Paramount Game Studios today announced plans to produce an all-new interactive game experience based on the blockbuster Paranormal Activity franchise. Known for hit titles such as The Mortuary Assistant, My Friendly Neighborhood, and the Dread X Collection series, DreadXP’s Paranormal Activity pairs the video game publisher’s expertise in crafting unique, unforgettable terrors with one of the biggest horror properties in the world.

DreadXP’s Paranormal Activity video game will bring the franchise’s groundbreaking found-footage style to horror enthusiasts in surprising new ways, immersing them in a story that expands upon the lore and world of the films. DreadXP co-director and creative director Brian Clarke (AKA DarkStone Digital), the developer of the acclaimed The Mortuary Assistant, leads the development of Paranormal Activity. The game will feature an advanced “Haunt System,” which will dynamically alter the types and intensity of scares players will encounter based on their actions.

“We are thrilled to work with Paramount Game Studios and to have the opportunity to bring the world of Paranormal Activity to gamers everywhere,” said Epic Pictures CEO and DreadXP producer Patrick Ewald. “The films are steeped in rich lore and creative scares, and under the stewardship of creative director Brian Clarke, DreadXP’s Paranormal Activity video game will honor those core tenets and offer horror fans one of our most terrifying games yet.”

“The success of the Paranormal Activity franchise epitomizes the power and reach of the horror genre,” said DreadXP co-director and creative director Brian Clarke. “If you thought The Mortuary Assistant was scary, we’re taking what we learned during the development of that title and cranking it up with a more reactive and horrifying haunting system. It’s going to be intense!”

Crown Wars: The Black Prince Gameplay Overview Trailer

2024/02/28
Jerry Paxton
Geek News, News, PlayStation 5 News, Trailers / Videos, Windows PC News, Xbox Series X News

A new gameplay video for Crown Wars: The Black Prince was released today, which shows all the main gameplay features of the turn-based tactics and strategy game. A pre-release demo of the game was playable during Steam Next Fest in early February. It received lots of positive reviews and attracted more than 10,000 players, placing it in the top 100 of most played demos. The game will launch on 14 March 2024 on PC, PS5TM and Xbox Series X|S.

Crown Wars: The Black Prince pays homage to turn-based tactical and strategic games genre, and aims to respect the conventions that this gaming community loves, including:

  • Mechanics for cover, positioning and skill combos: use the terrain and environment to your advantage
  • Complex turn-based tactical situations
  • Multiple primary and secondary objectives to complete
  • A wide variety of weapons to choose from and upgrade based on class and desired strategy
  • Over 100 class skills per character to unlock with a range of different effects (damage, slowing, healing, etc.)
  • A wide variety of finishing move cutscenes
In Crown Wars: The Black Prince, you are plunged into the middle of the Hundred Years’ War as several royal families engage in violent conflicts to decide who will control the most powerful kingdom in the western world. But a powerful Evil lurks in the shadows, and it could change the course of history. An occult and unholy organization known as the Order is sowing chaos across the kingdom in its quest for power.

FOAMSTARS Season 2 Groovy Disco Trailer

2024/02/28
Jerry Paxton
Geek News, News, PlayStation 4 News, PlayStation 5 News, Trailers / Videos

Today, SQUARE ENIX® announced FOAMSTARS™, the recently released online 4v4 foam party shooter, will launch its newest season, “GROOVY DISCO”, on March 8, 2024, at 5pm PST. New and returning players will soon have access to a new character, new modes, and a variety of new Free and Premium cosmetic content. FOAMSTARS is now available as a February PlayStation® Plus monthly game and PlayStation Plus subscribers can redeem, download, and play the game at no extra cost until March 4, 2024.

Season Two “GROOVY DISCO” is the second season of FOAMSTARS and will be available to all players beginning March 8, 2024, at 5pm PST, until April 12, 2024, at 5pm PST.

Season Two updates and highlights include:

  • A New FOAMSTAR Slides into the Party: Unlock and compete with the newest FOAMSTAR, “Coiff Guy“, teased in the Happy FriYAY Party event from Season One Starry Pop. “Coiff Guy” can be acquired by all players for free as a Tier 31 reward for the Season Pass or can be obtained immediately by purchasing the Premium Pass.
  • More FOAMSTAR Missions: Missions 4-6 have been added to FOAMSTAR Missions. Experience even more of the individual stories of the FOAMSTARS, learning more about their backgrounds and how to play as each character in the process and go head-to-head in a boss battle against “Dark Ramzey” in Mission 6.

The season will also feature the following limited-timed events:

  • Ranked Party: Rise in the FOAMSTARS ranks by competing in two limited-time seasonal events, the solo player-based Ranked Party Lonestar and team-based Ranked Party Tribe-Vibe. There are seven ranks to progress though – Bronze Star, Silver Star, Gold Star, Platinum Star, Diamond Star, Superstar and Party Legend. Earning enough Rank Points allows players to take part in the Rank-Up Trials.
  • Extreme Party: Challenge players in two special themed modes; the All Coiff Guy Party – where every player team competes to chill opponent teams as Coiff Guy, and the Super Duel Party, where players battle 1-on-1!
  • Happy FriYAY Party: A weekend-only party event with no winners or losers, just the opportunity to try-out next season’s FOAMSTAR.

Seasonal Event Dates*

  • Ranked Party Lonestar
    • Ranked Party Lonestar Dates: March 11, 2024, until March 28, 2024
  • Ranked Party Tribe-Vibe
    • April 4, 2024, Sunday, until April 7, 2024
  • Extreme Party – All Coiff Guy Party
    • March 22, 2024, until March 24, 2024
  • Extreme Party – Super Duel Party
    • March 29, 2024, until March 31, 2024
  • Happy FriYAY Party
    • Event Timings: First Half
      • March 14, 2024, and March 16, 2024
    • Event Timings: Second Half
      • April 4, 2024, and April 5, 2024

* Timings are PST. For local event timings, please visit the FOAMSTARS website and social channels

Universal Studios Hollywood Invites Guests to Become Annual Pass Members

2024/02/28
Jerry Paxton
Geek News, News

“Thank you for making us feel valued and special.” This is an overwhelming sentiment shared by Universal Studios Hollywood Annual Pass Members who visit the world-class entertainment destination regularly to enjoy innovative thrill rides and attractions at their own pace, whether it’s for a whole day or to pop in for a favorite ride or to enjoy an exclusive Pass Member opportunity.

With the purchase of a Universal Studios Hollywood Annual or Season Pass, guests can enjoy non-stop fun and flexibility over and over again. While each of the Passes has unique offerings, they have one thing in common: exclusive benefits, such as Pass Member Appreciation Days, Pass Member Park Takeover events, access to special events, including new rides and attraction previews, discounts in the theme park and at Universal CityWalk Hollywood and sweepstakes. The Platinum Annual Pass includes the coveted after 3pm Universal Express pass with access to participating rides, attractions and seated shows in a separate queue with a shorter wait time.

As Universal Studios Hollywood embarks on the 60th anniversary of the world-renowned Studio Tour and the one-year anniversary of SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™, the theme park is extending a special offer to prospective Annual and Season Pass Members: now through April 10, 2024, guests can save up to $50 when purchasing an Annual Pass online. Current Annual and Season Pass members, who pay in full for their passes, can also continue to enjoy a 15% discount on Annual Pass membership renewals and upgrades.

A Universal Studios Hollywood Annual or Season Pass is the ultimate ticket to ride that affords guests the opportunity to customize their visits. When SUPER NINTENDO WORLD opened, Pass Members were among the first to experience the land with an exclusive preview. With an Annual or Season Pass, guests can return to the Mushroom Kingdom to play at their leisure and improve their score on the “Mario Kart™: Bowser’s Challenge” ride, all while collecting stamps and digital coins with their Power-Up Band™.

For guests who prefer a twilight walk in the park, an Annual or Season Pass will surely illuminate the way, especially when the after-hours Pass Member Park Takeover events shine a spotlight on seasonal events and exclusive Pass Member access, like meeting the Grinch™ for a photo op during the Grinchmas™ holidays.

The array of Annual and Season Passes available cater to a variety of needs and budgets:

  • Platinum Annual Pass: For the ultimate Universal fan, the Platinum Pass Member has no blackout dates, complimentary General Parking (valid only for entry after 6pm), one complimentary General Admission ticket to Halloween Horror Nights (select nights only and advanced reservation required), invites to special Pass Member events, 15% discount on food, beverage and merchandise at participating in-Park locations, 10%-15% discounts on food and shopping at participating Universal CityWalk locations and discounts on Halloween Horror Nights tickets. As an added bonus, Platinum Annual Pass members can skip the regular lines with a one-time per day, after 3pm Universal Express with access to most rides, attractions and seated shows.
  • Gold Annual Pass: Visit Universal Studios Hollywood for over 325 days of the year, including complimentary General Parking (valid only for entry until 6pm), invites to special Pass Member events, 15% discount on food, beverage and merchandise at participating in-Park locations, 10%-15% discounts on food and shopping at participating Universal CityWalk locations and discounts on Halloween Horror Nights tickets.
  • Silver Annual Pass: Visit Universal Studios Hollywood for over 275 days of the year, plus receive invites to special Pass Member events, 10%-15% discounts on food and shopping at participating Universal CityWalk locations and discounts on Halloween Horror Nights tickets.
  • California Neighbor Pass: With more than 150 days to visit, the California Neighbor Pass provides invites to special Pass Member events, 10%-15% discounts on food and shopping at participating Universal CityWalk locations and discounts on Halloween Horror Nights tickets.

Bluey First Special Sets Premiere for April 14th

2024/02/28
Jerry Paxton
Geek News, Movie News, News

Disney Branded Television, BBC Studios Kids & Family and Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) have announced that the next installments of “Bluey,” including an extended length special, will premiere this April, marking the series’ first global rollout. The first new episode, “Ghostbasket,” will premiere on Sunday, April 7, teeing up the debut of the 28-minute special, “The Sign,” premiering a week later on Sunday, April 14. Both episodes will air first via ABC Kids in Australia and then roll out globally the same day across Disney+, Disney Junior and Disney Channel in all other available regions (with the exception of China and New Zealand).

“The Sign” marks “Bluey’s” longest ever episode. “Ghostbasket” is a standard length episode. Both episodes are penned by series creator and writer Joe Brumm, directed by Richard Jeffery, and produced by Ludo Studio.

“Bluey” closed out 2023 as the No. 1 series for preschoolers and kids and was the No. 2 most-streamed series across all audiences, according to Nielsen. Ten new episodes of the series premiered on Disney+ in January and will begin rolling out on Disney Channel and Disney Junior beginning March 25-April 5.

Since launching in Australia in 2018, “Bluey” has gained millions of fans around the world, widely lauded for its heartfelt and funny portrayal of family life and celebration of play. The series follows Bluey, a loveable and inexhaustible Blue Heeler dog who lives with her Mum, Dad and little sister, Bingo.

A global ratings hit, the critically acclaimed series has been recognized with numerous awards, including a fifth consecutive AACTA Best Children’s Programme award, International Kids Emmy® Award, the Television Critics Association Award, BAFTA Children & Young People Awards, Critics’ Choice Award nominations and many more.

Jointly commissioned by ABC Children’s and BBC Studios Kids & Family, “Bluey” is created and written by Joe Brumm and produced by the multiple Emmy Award-winning Ludo Studio in association with Screen Queensland and Screen Australia. The series streams to U.S. and global audiences (outside of Australia, New Zealand and China) across Disney Channel, Disney Junior and Disney+ through a global broadcasting deal between BBC Studios Kids & Family and Disney Branded Television.

Autopsy Simulator Re-Announcement Trailer

2024/02/27
Jerry Paxton
Geek News, Halloween, News, Trailers / Videos, Windows PC News

Woodland Games and Team17 Digital have announced that the medical-horror sim Autopsy Simulator will arrive on PC in 2024. Originally announced in 2022, the first-person horror experience will give players control of a forensic doctor battling his inner demons while undertaking autopsies in the 1990s. Release date soon to follow.

Autopsy Simulator will see players study realistic case files, created in collaboration with real-world forensic practitioners, to help guide their examinations and dissections. Utilising medically authentic tools and procedures, players will learn all they can about the deceased before unraveling the mystery of their deaths.

In the standalone story mode, Dead Memories, players will dive into the story of Jack Hanman. After his life takes a turn for the worse, Jack must battle his inner demons while performing a range of gruesome post-mortem procedures in this narrative-driven psychological horror experience.

Autopsy Simulator Key Features:

  • Gruesome anatomical detail and medically certified autopsy procedures: Dissect anatomically accurate bodies using a range of autopsy procedures and tools authentic to real-world practice.
  • Realistic true crime scenarios: Study a range of case files designed by real-life pathomorphologists and forensic doctors, then use what you learn to guide each autopsy.
  • Narrative-driven story mode with simulation gameplay: In Autopsy Simulator: Dead Memories, follow a gripping personal mystery while performing medically accurate autopsy procedures vetted by a certified pathologist.

Ed Out Now for Street Fighter 6

2024/02/27
Jerry Paxton
Geek News, News, PlayStation 4 News, PlayStation 5 News, Trailers / Videos, Windows PC News, Xbox Series X News

Duke it out with Ed, the Psycho-powered boxer, and newest and 21st character to join the Street Fighter™ 6 roster starting today across PlayStation®5, PlayStation®4, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam! Ed is now live across all three unique game modes where players will be able to face off with Ed in Fighting Ground, increase your bond with Ed as the latest Master added to World Tour, and equip your avatar with the silky-smooth boxer’s moves in Battle Hub.

To check out the Ed Launch Trailer, please visit YouTube, and for the latest assets and information on Street Fighter 6, visit the official Street Fighter 6 website.

Also coming to the game are a handful of battle balance tweaks. Please note that there will be a major balance update later this year.

Additional new content and updates coming to the game alongside Ed’s release include:

  • World Tour
    • Ed’s Master Missions added
  • Fighting Ground
    • Ed’s story added to Arcade Mode
  • Shop
    • Shop now includes Ed’s Outfit 2 and Ed colors 3-10

Starting today, players can unlock Ed by owning or purchasing the Street Fighter 6 Deluxe Edition, Ultimate Edition, Year 1 Character/Ultimate Pass, or purchase Ed individually for 350 Fighter Coins which also includes his Outfit 1 and Colors 1 & 2.

There’s still tons of new content to look forward to with Akuma and much more coming to Street Fighter 6 in the months ahead!

McFarlane Toys and AMC to Produce New The Walking Dead Collectibles

2024/02/27
Jerry Paxton
Geek News, Movie News, News

McFarlane Toys, a leader in the collectibles category, proudly announces the signing of a new licensing agreement with AMC for The Walking Dead Universe.

This strategic partnership allows McFarlane Toys to bring both physical and digital collectibles to fans worldwide, spanning the expansive The Walking Dead Universe, including the latest series, The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live, with new episodes currently airing Sundays on AMC and AMC+, following the epic love story of two fan-favorite characters, Rick and Michonne.

“The Walking Dead has captivated audiences on a global scale with its compelling storytelling and unforgettable characters. We are thrilled to rekindle our collaboration with the AMC team on this iconic franchise, to bring fans an extraordinary collection of high-quality collectibles,” said Cristy Collins, Vice President of Licensing at McFarlane Toys.

“As The Walking Dead Universe enters its epic second chapter, the timing couldn’t be better to expand our partnership with McFarlane Toys,” said Clayton Neuman, Head of Games and Franchise for AMC. “Our fans are always hungry for more, and McFarlane’s unique, detailed figures inspired by our exciting new series will be a welcome addition to any collector’s shelf.”

CORSAIR Expands iCUE LINK Ecosystem with Performance RX Series Fans

2024/02/27
Jerry Paxton
Geek News, Hardware News, News

CORSAIR (Nasdaq: CRSR) today launched the iCUE LINK RX Series of PC cooling fans, further expanding the company’s groundbreaking iCUE LINK ecosystem. This launch marks a significant step in the evolution of CORSAIR’s portfolio of DIY components, reinforcing the company’s dedication to innovation and excellence in the dynamic DIY PC market.

RX Series fans represent a pinnacle of engineering, incorporating CORSAIR Magnetic Dome bearings, AirGuide technology, and in-house fan blade development optimized for unparalleled cooling efficiency in both radiator and PC case applications. Their integration into the unique iCUE LINK ecosystem exemplifies the company’s commitment to making the PC building experience more accessible and welcoming to a broader audience.

RX fans set a new standard in build quality and airflow performance for both radiator and case applications. This superior performance is the culmination of exhaustive research and development, meticulous performance optimization, and the integration of cutting-edge materials like Liquid Crystal Polymer (in non-RGB models). Furthermore, the construction of the fan blade and frame incorporates glass fiber reinforcement, enhancing their durability.

The RX Series features digital control through the iCUE LINK ecosystem so you can precisely set your preferred fan speeds – up to 2,100 RPM (120mm) or 1,700 RPM (140mm). Preset fan curves are easy to set up within CORSAIR iCUE software, as well as advanced fine-tuning to optimize your system’s thermal demands.

“We made it our mission to create a fan that could achieve top performance as either a radiator fan or a case fan,” said Aaron Neal, Director of DIY Product Marketing at CORSAIR. “We also wanted to incorporate iCUE LINK technology for the best possible build experience. With the RX Series, we believe we’ve hit all of those criteria and more.”

CORSAIR’s proprietary Magnetic Dome bearing creates almost no friction, minimizing noise while enhancing the fan’s longevity. RX and RX RGB fans are also the first to include CORSAIR Quikturn™ screws featuring unique threading for installation in just a single twist.

Since its release last year, the iCUE LINK ecosystem has been enthusiastically received in the DIY market for its transformative approach to PC building. With the ability to chain different component types together using a universal standard connector, CORSAIR has made the building process more intuitive and streamlined. Smart technology integrated into all iCUE LINK products enables intelligent, bi-directional communication with a single System Hub, sending both data and power to the entire series of devices through a single port. The result is dramatically reduced build times and simplified cable management – removing key barriers to entry for newcomers.

CORSAIR iCUE LINK RX RGB fans are available in black or white, while non-RGB RX fans are available in stealth black variant. Starter kits include three 120mm or two 140mm fans along with an iCUE LINK System Hub. Single fan expansion kits enable you to add more to your iCUE LINK cooling setup.

Haunted House Renovator Heading to Kickstarter

2024/02/27
Jerry Paxton
Geek News, Halloween, News, Trailers / Videos, Windows PC News

Haunted House Renovator, a game that promises to redefine renovation gaming with its spine-chilling twists, is heading to Kickstarter on March 6th. In Haunted House Renovator, players step into the shoes of a paranormal renovator tasked with restoring dilapidated houses plagued by supernatural phenomena. From battling ghosts to dispelling curses, the game challenges players to confront the unknown while breathing new life into haunted dwellings.

Key features:

  • A first-person paranormal renovator simulator experience that plunges players into the heart of the supernatural.
  • Atmospheric graphics that set the stage for a truly eerie adventure.
  • Encounters consisting of various hauntings, possessions, and curses players have to combat while navigating through each haunted house.
  • Diverse locations worldwide, each presenting its challenges and mysteries.
  • Unbound creativity with decorating, enabling players to transform these haunted houses into inviting homes.

Why Kickstarter? Developers aim to exceed their initial scope set for the game, enabling them to add more content beyond what they originally planned.

This crowdfunding empowers backers to play a role in shaping the final iteration of the game. Even if the game doesn’t reach its fundraising goal,  Haunted House Renovator will still see the light of day.

Going on Kickstarter allows developers to add more features, for example, an expanded array of furniture and decorations, enriching the overall gameplay experience.

Those who contribute a minimum of CA$ 5 will be able to immerse themselves in this first-person paranormal renovator simulator’s demo ahead of time, battling ghosts and dispelling curses as they breathe new life into haunted dwellings. Players who contribute CA$ 15 or more will get the full version of the game once it launches.

Kickstarter link: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/playway/haunted-house-renovator-expanded-and-console-edition