Author - Jerry Paxton

Thrustmaster AVA Flightstick Base Out Now

2024/05/23

Geek News, News, Peripherals News, Trailers / Videos

Thrustmaster is thrilled to unveil its new modular and scalable base for flight simulation joysticks. AVA (Advanced Versatile Aviation) has been carefully designed to perfectly meet your needs and preferences, offering you a multitude of tailor-made configurations that are great for all types of aviation.

Create your ideal configuration from the many adjustment possibilities offered by the AVA base’s various interchangeable elements: the axis curve, the resistance, the travel and the damping. AVA’s design was specially created for quick modification of all its elements, allowing for customization between flights, and on-the-fly adjustments.

In addition, a real ecosystem is taking shape around the AVA base — with the introduction of a metal plate designed for desktop use, an offset adapter that lets you adjust the position of the grip to 15° or 30° in the joystick’s central position, as well as the announcement of future add-ons and accessories. You’ll also want to discover the comprehensive bundle featuring the AVA base, metal plate and offset adapter, which includes Thrustmaster’s world-famous F/A-18C Hornet™ grip.

Excellent for military, civil, space or helicopter piloting, the AVA base will adapt to your requirements and transport you into a world of simulation that’s more realistic than ever before.

TAKING THE WARTHOG TO THE NEXT LEVEL

Discover the AVA base — a revolutionary leap forward for owners of the iconic HOTAS Warthog. Take a step up from the fixed configuration of the HOTAS magnetic base, to an infinity of settings for the joystick’s axes with the new modular AVA base. Carefully designed to meet your needs and preferences, AVA allows for a wide range of customization options.

A WORLD OF FLIGHT CONFIGURATIONS

Thanks to its all-metal mechanism, you can easily modify the four functional elements of your flight simulation joysticks: the axis curve, via two sets of cams; the resistance, via three sets of springs; the travel, via three different deflection mask sizes; and the damping, via a damper.

The AVA base’s design has been created to make it quicker and easier to modify the settings of the internal elements. Make the final adjustments without disassembling the base, thanks to “on-the-fly” accessibility allowing you to adjust the stick’s resistance.

VERSATILITY IN THE SKIES

The AVA base’s versatility makes it compatible with all types of aviation, offering a limitless variety of configurations to suit all profiles. Whether you’re a fighter aircraft pilot looking for firm joystick tensioning, an airliner captain, an intergalactic fleet admiral or a helicopter pilot maneuvering with subtlety and precision, AVA will meet all of your requirements.

SUPERIOR PILOTING PERFORMANCE

Enjoy optimal precision and center point behavior thanks to the combination of two cutting-edge technologies. First off, by way of integration of two AXY (Accurate X&Y) sensors, allowing for precise and independent adjustment of the center point, progressiveness and resistance.

Secondly, the AVA base incorporates proprietary H.E.A.R.T magnetic technology, ensuring surgical precision (16-bit resolution, with 65,635 values) in all your flights.

THE FUTURE OF FLIGHT SIMULATION

Explore the range of possible configurations of the scalable AVA base, thanks to its vast ecosystem of current and future accessories (additional grips, extensions, cams, springs, dampers, cyclical brake…).

THE AVA F/A-18 SUPER HORNET BUNDLE

Take to the skies right away with the AVA F/A-18 Super Hornet bundle. If you don’t already own any Thrustmaster grips, this bundle is a great way to get your hands on the entire AVA ecosystem currently available.

The AVA F/A-18 Super Hornet version includes the AVA base, along with a metal support plate for desktop use, an offset adapter that lets you adjust the position of the grip to 15° or 30°, and an accurate 1:1-scale replica of the F/A-18C Hornet™ flight stick featuring a panel of 19 action buttons and developed under official Boeing license.

The metal plate and the offset adapter are also available for sale separately.

Commercial information

The AVA base is available at a suggested retail price of £249,99 / $299.99 / €279.99 in the following regions: Europe, Asia, the Middle East, North America.

Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Physical Editions Announced

2024/05/22

Jerry Paxton

Geek News, News, PlayStation 4 News, PlayStation 5 News, Trailers / Videos, Windows PC News, Xbox One News, Xbox Series X News

Aspyr and Crystal Dynamics are excited to announce new physical editions of Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Starring Lara Croft, coming Sept. 24, 2024*! Pre-orders begin today at major retailers for the Base, Deluxe, and Limited Run Games Collector’s Editions.

Three physical editions of Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Starring Lara Croft are available to pre-order starting today:

Base Edition:
- Includes a physical copy of Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Starring Lara Croft and a jewel case.
- Available on PlayStation®5, PlayStation®4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One and Nintendo Switch for $34.99/€34.99/£29.99.
Deluxe Edition:
- Includes a physical copy of Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Starring Lara Croft, a SteelBook, an exploration map book (featuring over 80 pages full of secrets, including all maps from all three games and their expansions), a collectible tuck-in box, and the collection’s original soundtrack**.
- Available on PlayStation®5 and Nintendo Switch for $54.99/€54.99/£49.99.
Limited Run Games Collector’s Edition:
- Includes a physical copy of Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Starring Lara Croft, a SteelBook, two replica Lara Croft pistols in a lit shadow box, three 12×16 posters, a set of premium trading cards, the full collection’s original soundtrack (in both physical CD and digital download formats), a map book, and Lara Croft polygonal figurines from each title.
- Available on PC, PlayStation®5, PlayStation®4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One and Nintendo Switch for $199.99.

* The Limited Run Games Collector’s Edition release date will be announced in the future.

** Deluxe Edition copies in the Americas will receive all three games’ original soundtracks as DLC. Deluxe Edition copies in Europe will receive all three games’ original soundtracks as DLC, plus a “Greatest Hits” OST physical CD.

Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Starring Lara Croft is a three-game bundle of the first three Tomb Raider titles plus their bonus content expansions (Tomb Raider + the “Unfinished Business” Expansion, Tomb Raider II + the “Golden Mask” Expansion, Tomb Raider III + “The Lost Artifact” Expansion). The collection features upgraded graphics and performance enhancements, as well as quality-of-life improvements such as camera lock-on and achievements.

Step into the boots of the iconic hero in her first three adventures like never before with the ability to toggle on the fly between enhanced and original graphics, as well as switch between classic and modern joystick schemes. Experience the classic action and innovative 3D gameplay that spawned a beloved franchise which has sold more than 95 million copies worldwide and made Lara Croft one of the most recognizable video game characters in the world.

SpaceRocket Games and Toplitz Productions Announce Permafrost

2024/05/22

Jerry Paxton

Geek News, News, Trailers / Videos, Windows PC News

Developer SpaceRocket Games and publisher Toplitz Productions announce Permafrost, an exciting new addition to the survival game genre and one with a chilling narrative; Permafrost thrusts players into a bleak, open-world urban landscape where survival is not just a choice—it’s a necessity.

In the wake of the cataclysmic ‘shattering’, an apocalyptic moon phase phenomenon, humanity finds itself teetering on the brink of extinction as the world succumbs to an eternal deep freeze. The game reveals the collapse of existing political and economic structures and the deadly winter cold that has resulted in the deaths of billions of people.

As a survivor, adaptability is key. Brave the bone-chilling sub-zero temperatures which will have an effect on character capabilities, hunt elusive prey, and repurpose salvaged machinery to craft the tools needed for survival. But beware, for in this frozen wasteland, danger lurks at every turn—from hostile factions vying for control to the ever-present threat of natural predators.

Players of Permafrost have the opportunity to prevent the further extinction of humanity by building a shelter and establishing peace for the scattered communities that survive.

They will have the freedom to forge their own path, whether it’s banding together to rebuild society or carving out a place for themselves in the unforgiving wilderness. Construct intricate shelters from scrap, cultivate crops to stave off hunger, and harness the power of technology to fend off threats both human and environmental. Navigating the frozen remnants of civilization with vehicles and on foot plays a huge part in exploration and discovery as players strive for survival.

It’s not just the brutal elements that are a threat, in Permafrost players will use deadly combat to defend against threats using primitive weapons or firearms, whether facing hostile enemies or natural predators in this relentless battle for survival.

“At Toplitz Productions, we are increasing our presence in the survival genre with both, crossover titles like Medieval Dynasty and Sengoku Dynasty as well as hardcore titles like Serum. Teaming up with the skilled developers at SpaceRocket Games is the next step in this journey. Together we are thrilled to unveil „Permafrost“ – our newest venture in the survival segment – a title that combines a modern post-apocalyptic setting with intricate resource management and deep survival mechanics, promising players an immersive and dynamic gaming experience.” said Matthias Wuensche, CEO of Toplitz Productions.

Permafrost will provide both single player and co-op play for up to 4 players and is scheduled to launch on Steam early access in 2025 on PC.

An eternal winter is coming.

Fix It – The Handyman Simulator

2024/05/22

Jerry Paxton

Geek News, News, Trailers / Videos, Windows PC News

VIS Games and Aerosoft are thrilled to announce the highly anticipated Professional DIY Simulator, Fix It – The Handyman Simulator, will be released on Steam for PC on June 4th 2024. You can already wishlist the game on Steam for PC!

Fix It – The Handyman Simulator puts players in the work boots of a real tradesperson ready to run their own handicraft business. Start your self employed life by putting your skills on the market, invest in the right tools and skills and be on hand to support your clients with all of their very important requests.

From electrical and gardening work to installing plumbing systems, painting walls, and laying floors, the game offers a wide range of activities to keep players busy, working and earning a living. Invest in a vehicle to get your equipment from A to B, schedule work calls efficiently and do your job well!

Key Features:

Own and manage your own business, balancing finances and inventory management
Complete various tasks, including electrical work, installation, gardening, renovation, and more
Explore an open game world, navigating through a detailed and lifelike landscape
Choose from three different vehicles and three purchasable locations to expand your business
Utilize a wide range of tools and building materials to redesign and renovate properties
Earn money by completing jobs and invest in new vehicles, locations, and design options

“We are pleased to finally reveal the release date for Fix It – The Handyman Simulator, we truly hope our game will resonate with players who enjoy simulation games and are searching for something refreshing and engaging. We can’t wait for June 4th, we’re looking forward to seeing how well tradespeople everywhere will do when they open their businesses!” – Aerosoft

Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II Available Now

2024/05/22

Jerry Paxton

Geek News, News, Trailers / Videos, Xbox One News, Xbox Series X News

Today we are proud and excited to launch Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II on Xbox Series X|S, PC, Xbox Cloud Gaming and Game Pass.

In Hellblade II, the sequel to Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice, we see the return of Senua in a brutal battle for survival through the myth and tyranny of Viking Iceland. It is a game from the heart, where our small team of around 80 developers have crafted an experience that aims to immerse you in Senua’s world and story. Our bold mission as a studio is to ‘Craft Life Changing Art with Game Changing Tech’, by which we mean we aim to push the boundaries of technology and techniques in order to create a game, and an experience, that leaves you thinking and feeling.

Immersion drives our work at Ninja Theory, with our belief being that if we can immerse you in Senua’s Saga, we can take you on an unforgettable journey. Our belief is also that believability is the route to this immersion, and so our team has painstakingly worked to bring our reality into Senua’s.

The game is set in real locations in Iceland, recreated through satellite data and photogrammetry. Our characters are digital doubles of real people and their costumes first made as real clothing through historically authentic techniques and materials. And all our character animations starts life as real movement from our incredible cast on our performance capture stage.

It is not only our presentation that is based in ground-truth reference, but so to are the narrative themes in Senua’s journey – in particular Senua’s experiences of psychosis. Senua is a person who lives in an unshared reality. She sees things that others don’t, hears things that others don’t and has unique beliefs about the world.

In order to realize Senua’s experiences of psychosis in a truthful way we have, as we did on Senua’s Sacrifice, worked closely with our friends and partners in the world of neuroscience and lived-experience. Their generosity, openness and support has given us the opportunity to understand what living with psychosis can be like, in the hope that Senua feels like a real person going through a very personal mental health journey.

I’d like to take this as an opportunity to thank our team and collaborators for devoting themselves to Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II as a true passion project. I’d also like to thank you, our fans, for your support throughout the development of Hellblade II. It has meant so much to us.

Now, it is time to turn down the lights, put your headphones on and join Senua for, what we hope is, an unforgettable journey into Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II.

Larian Studios Announces New Warsaw Office

2024/05/22

Jerry Paxton

Geek News, Industry News, News

Larian Studios, the independent game developer behind Baldur’s Gate 3, the critically acclaimed RPG and winner of over 200 Game of the Year awards, is about to set up base in one of the greatest RPG development hubs in the world with the launch of a new studio in Warsaw, Poland.

As the team ramps up development on its next games, Larian is excited to boost its existing 24-hour development cycle with the addition of this seventh studio. Larian Studios Warsaw will be joining a global team of sister studios in Quebec, Dublin, Guildford, Barcelona, Ghent, and Kuala Lumpur.

“The decision to open a permanent studio in Warsaw shows how serious we are about encouraging creativity, collaboration, and innovation in the heart of Poland’s lively gaming scene,” said Ula Jach, Head of Studio. “We’re thrilled for the opportunity to collaborate with the abundant talent and expertise of the region, especially considering Poland’s strong reputation as a hub for RPG and gaming enthusiasts.”

Swen Vincke, CEO of Larian Studios, said, “Visiting the Game Industry Conference last year confirmed what I’d been thinking for a while – there’s a lot of talent here and a lot of devs who think like us. On top of that, many of them want to work on RPGs, so it’s a match made in heaven.

“Our plan for the Polish studio is very simple. Build a team that can work on our two – very ambitious – new RPGs and enjoy the fruits of their labor. We’re a very bottom-up company, so I’m eager to see what new things they’ll bring us. I think it’ll work really well.”

More information on Larian Studios Warsaw, including job listings, can be found on the studio’s website.

Baldur’s Gate 3 is out now on PC, Mac, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.

More information on Baldur’s Gate 3 is available on the official website. You can stay up to date with the latest Larian Studios news via Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and the official Discord server.

Survival: Fountain of Youth Launch Trailer

2024/05/22

Jerry Paxton

Geek News

Survival: Fountain of Youth, the single-player open-world survival crafting game set in the 16th-century Caribbean islands from developer Odinsoft and publisher Twin Sails Interactive, drops anchor for its 1.0 release on PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store today. PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S versions will follow later this year.

The 1.0 release caps off Survival: Fountain of Youth’s Early Access voyage with a treasure trove of content including Bimini Island, the fifth and final region. Discover new additions including quests, challenges, survival tasks, skill effects, perks, animals, weather types, achievements, a fearsome final boss, the Ark ship, quality-of-life updates, and this tale’s epic conclusion.

Join Juan Ponce de Leon’s legendary expedition to find the fabled Fountain of Youth and set sail for the Caribbean islands. Raging storms render the crew shipwrecked and scattered across the mysterious archipelago. Survive the unforgiving elements and battle wildlife using skill and what little the islands have to offer. Establish a base, collect materials, craft equipment, manage resources, and uncover the secrets of the mythical Fountain of Youth.

Explore the islands in search of supplies, surviving crew members, and a means to escape. Harvest trees and stones to cobble makeshift structures, rafts, tools, and weapons. Discover raw materials and upgrade to cabins, full-fledged ships, and even firearms. Hunt down local fauna from chickens to buffalo, or fight for survival against blood-thirsty predators like jackals, sharks, and pumas.

New and returning survivalists will be able to experience the final region of Bimini Island, a new ship called the Ark functioning as a fully mobile base, and fresh recipes including grenades, iron armor, trophies, and more. Face the final boss, a natural-born killer ready to protect the island’s most prized possession. The implementation of an advanced customizable difficulty system empowers explorers to choose between a tough-as-nails or casual experience.

Star Wars The Black Series Yoda Force FX Elite Lightsaber Review

2024/05/22

Jerry Paxton

Geek News, Misc Review, News, Reviews, Tech News

TBDFor Star Wars fans, wielding a lightsaber is a dream come true. The iconic weapon of the Jedi and Sith, lightsabers have captured imaginations since the franchise’s debut. Hasbro’s Star Wars The Black Series Yoda Force FX Elite Lightsaber brings that dream closer than ever before, offering a movie-quality replica packed with features that will have you feeling like a true Jedi Master.

Unboxing a Galaxy Far, Far Away

The Black Series packaging immediately sets the mood. Stark black with a glossy finish, the box features Yoda prominently, lightsaber ignited, ready to take on the Empire. The box also highlights the features of the saber, including advanced LED technology, progressive ignition, and movie-inspired sound effects.

Opening the box reveals the wonderfully crafted hilt, modeled after Yoda’s lightsaber from “The Book of Boba Fett.” It’s a chunky, bronze-colored hilt that fits perfectly in adult hands, but might be a bit large for younger wielders. Despite its size, the hilt feels lightweight and well-balanced, important for those extended lightsaber duels. All the greebling and markings on the hilt are meticulously detailed, giving it a truly authentic look and feel. The activation switch and button are situated comfortably on the lower part of the hilt, easily accessible for one-handed operation.

Illuminating the Force Within

Activating the lightsaber with a satisfying click ignites the blade in a dazzling display of light and sound. The advanced LED technology produces a vibrant green blade that simulates the actual effect from the movies. The blade illumination is smooth and seamless, no distracting flicker here.

But the magic truly comes alive with the sound effects. From the smooth whoosh of the blade igniting to the crackle of a blaster deflection, the sounds are crisp, clear, and perfectly in sync with the movement of the saber. The inclusion of a battle sequence mode adds another layer of immersion, letting you recreate iconic lightsaber battles from the movies with pre-programmed sound effects.

A Masterful Recreation, With a Few Quirks

One of the most impressive features of the Yoda Force FX Elite Lightsaber is its progressive ignition effect. Just like in the movies, the lightsaber blade ignites gradually, building in intensity until it reaches full power. This seemingly minor detail adds a significant amount of realism to the experience. Another great feature is the wall-cutting effect. Swinging the saber produces a pulsating white light at the tip, mimicking the effect of a lightsaber slicing through a wall. It’s a fun addition that adds to the sense of power and control.

However, the lightsaber isn’t without its minor drawbacks. The hilt, while beautifully crafted, might feel a bit too chunky for some wielders, especially those with smaller hands. Also, the blade itself is not removable, which some collectors might prefer. Another thing to consider is that this lightsaber is not intended for actual combat. The polycarbonate blade is durable enough for basic practice swings, but against anything more solid, it could break.

Overall: A Lightsaber Worthy of a Jedi Master (4.5 out of 5 stars)

The Hasbro Star Wars The Black Series Yoda Force FX Elite Lightsaber is a truly impressive replica that will delight Star Wars fans of all ages. The combination of advanced LED technology, movie-inspired sound effects, and features like progressive ignition and wall-cutting effects create an immersive and realistic lightsaber experience. While the hilt size might not be ideal for everyone and the blade is not removable, these are minor quibbles in the face of the saber’s overall quality and features.

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a casual fan looking to ignite your inner Jedi Master, the Hasbro Star Wars The Black Series Yoda Force FX Elite Lightsaber is a fantastic choice. Just remember, with great power comes great responsibility, so wield your lightsaber wisely. May the Force be with you!

Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner Restaurant Celebrates 90th Anniversary

2024/05/21

Jerry Paxton

Geek News, News

The story of Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner Restaurant begins in the 1920s when Walter and Cordelia Knott began farming their acres of leased land in the farm community of Buena Park. To make ends meet, Cordelia began serving hot biscuits and homemade preserves to customers of the family’s roadside produce stand. Word spread, and by 1934 it became necessary for Cordelia to expand her menu to include her now famous country-fried chicken.

On opening day on June 13, 1934, Cordelia served eight 65-cent dinners on her own wedding china. By 1940, visitors were standing in line for hours to enjoy Walter’s boysenberries and Cordelia’s chicken. The challenge of entertaining the crowds led Walter to create an authentic Ghost Town on the property and Southern California’s first “themed” amusement park was born. Today, Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner Restaurant serves an average of 1,000 chickens daily to eager diners.

As this year marks its 90th anniversary, we are celebrating the legacy of this beloved establishment through a wide range of offerings all year long:

May 25 – September 2 – Start your day in a berry special way at the Berry Family Breakfast event, featuring delicious dishes and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. Available on select weekends from 8 am to 11 am, starting from May 22 through September 2.
June 13 – Party like it’s 1934 and celebrate with us as we receive a Resolution of Recognition from the Office of Senator Janet Nguyen, commemorating our 90 years of excellence in the community. Those in attendance will be the first to grab exclusive anniversary merch.
Select Dates in June and July – Seniors 65+ can treat themselves to a delightful Early Bird Senior Buffet Dinner every Tuesday from 3 pm to 5 pm, starting from June 18, June 25, July 2, and July 9.
July 6 – Join us as we celebrate National Fried Chicken Day! Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner Restaurant has served over ninety million pounds of fresh chicken over the past 90 years! Enjoy special fried chicken dishes and celebrate this delicious occasion with photo ops and a discount only available on this day.
August – Experience a blast from the past with our new Throwback Happy Hour Flights. These flights will feature popular drinks from the past 9 decades and are only available at the bar from 11-3PM.
Select nights of Knott’s Scary Farm in September and October: Experience a spooky Midnight Breakfast Buffet every Friday to Sunday from 12 am to 3 am, featuring a variety of breakfast favorites and packaged with a commemorative Scary Farm T-shirt.
November: Join us for Cordelia’s Tea Party – A 90th Anniversary Celebration. Enjoy a traditional tea party experience, featuring unique tea blends, delicious treats, and a commemorative teaspoon.
December: Join us on select weekends from 8 am to 11 am for Santa’s Breakfast. Meet Santa Claus, enjoy a delicious breakfast and receive a commemorative plush.

WHEN: The 90^th Anniversary of Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner Restaurant will be celebrated all yearlong

WHERE: Knott’s Berry Farm – 8039 Beach Blvd, Buena Park, CA 90620

Dungeons and Dragons – Vecna: Eve of Ruin Available Today

2024/05/21

Jerry Paxton

Book News, Comics News, Geek News, News

The notorious lich Vecna is weaving a ritual to eliminate good, obliterate the gods, and subjugate all worlds in Vecna: Eve of Ruin – available for purchase everywhere starting today!

In this high-stakes adventure for characters level 10-20, Dungeon Masters and players will have the ability to unlock their full potential and travel through memorable locations that begins in the Forgotten Realms, before venturing into Planescape, Spelljammer, Eberron, Ravenloft, Dragonlance, and Greyhawk, as they race to save existence from obliteration. Guided by legendary allies fans may recognize from D&D’s lore, players may take on 30 terrifying new monsters from across the multiverse in their quest.

Buy Vecna: Eve of Ruin beginning today at Amazon, your local game store, or at D&D Beyond.