Author - Jerry Paxton

Baldur’s Gate 3 Out Now on Mac and Adds Appearance Changing Ability

Mac users and chronic character re-creators rejoice! Today’s Baldur’s Gate 3 update brings the full release of the critically acclaimed RPG to Mac, and finally allows players to change their characters’ appearance in-game via the Magic Mirror.

Patch 3 also contains many pages of bug fixes, tweaks and improvements. Does your dog begin to float away when he senses the postman is near? Patch 3’s got a fix for that! Read the full patch notes on Steam.

Magic Mirror

The Magic Mirror lives in the party’s camp and allows players to change up their appearance whenever they’d like. There are some restrictions: your appearance, voice, pronouns and nether region can be changed, but race/subrace and body type cannot. Origin characters, hirelings, and full illithids cannot use the Magic Mirror, and any cosmetic modifications that are a consequence of gameplay choices will persist – Hag got your eye? Swallow any interesting tadpoles lately? There’s no Magic Mirroring those big life decisions away!

Mac Support

Where previously Mac support was limited to early access, the full release of Baldur’s Gate 3 is now available to Mac players via Steam.

As with BG3’s launch on PC earlier this year, early access saves on Mac will not be compatible with the full version of the game. To minimize potential compatibility issues, early access players are encouraged to fully uninstall the early access version of Baldur’s Gate 3 and ensure all mods are removed before installing the latest version of Baldur’s Gate 3. Players can follow this pre-launch guide for best results: Baldur’s Gate 3 – Preparing for Launch

Baldur’s Gate 3 is out now on PC, Mac and PS5, and coming to Xbox later this year.

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 or the official Discord server.

Pageant of the Monsters Starts October 27th

In a bone-chilling announcement, the Festival of Arts and Pageant of the Masters has unveiled the theme for the much-anticipated Pageant of the Monsters haunted house: “Maze of the Minotaur.” Only resurrected every 5 years, this spooktacular family-friendly Halloween event will return to Laguna Beach on October 27, 28, 29, and 31, 2023. Tickets are on sale now at www.foapom.com/monsters.

This fall, the Pageant of the Masters’ creative team of artists and technicians have reunited to conjure up the acclaimed Halloween Haunted House as part of the Pageant of the Masters 90th Anniversary celebration. Guests will be directed through the amphitheater, Pageant workshops, and stage, which have been transformed into a series of eerie artistically presented vignettes inspired by ancient Greek mythology and the legend of the terrifying Minotaur.

Those daring enough to enter the Pageant of the Monsters haunted house will find themselves descending into the chilling depths of the labyrinth where the monstrous Minotaur, a nightmarish fusion of man and bull, has been imprisoned. Guests will join the valiant Warrior Theseus who has been tasked with a harrowing mission: to rescue the Minotaur’s captives before they are devoured by the hideous beast. But the peril doesn’t end there; you must also navigate the labyrinth’s twisting passages and unearth its secrets to find a means of escape. It’s an A-MAZE-ing adventure!

After escaping the labyrinth, more ghoulish fun awaits on the Festival of Arts grounds. Tricks and treats abound with spooky side shows, photo opportunities, face painting, games, art projects, and more. Food and drink will also be available to purchase.

Tickets are $20 for adults in advance ($25 at the door) and $10 for children 12 and under. This event is not recommended for children under 5. Tickets are available online at www.foapom.com/monsters or by calling (800) 487-3378. Costumes may be worn by guests ages 12 and under. Guests 13 and older are not permitted to wear costumes. The event will take place at Festival of Arts, 650 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651.

Funds for this event are provided in part by the lodging establishments and the City of Laguna Beach. For more information on Pageant of the Monsters visit www.foapom.com/monsters. To stay up to date on all things Pageant of the Masters and Festival of Arts, follow the Festival on social media at @FestivalPageant and visit www.foapom.com.

Blood Bowl 3 Season 2: Underworld Denizens Trailer

Cyanide Studio and NACON are pleased to announce that the second season of Blood Bowl 3 starts today. New for this season: a new faction, spectator mode and a new Blood Pass! As a reminder, Blood Bowl 3 is available on PC, PlayStation®5, PlayStation®4, Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One.

The second season of Blood Bowl 3 introduces a new faction called the Underworld Denizens, a team composed of the worst creatures of the underworld: Skaven, Goblins, Snotlings & Trolls. The players in this faction are despised by everyone because of their repulsive appearance – caused by mutations from warpstone-infused mushroom elixirs – and because of their particularly underhanded tactics. Although they are quite lightweight in the strength department, except for the Rat Ogres & Trolls, players in this faction can still be formidable opponents because they are highly mobile, and their unusual use of Snotlings as cannon fodder adds strength in numbers. The Underworld Denizens arrive alongside a new, faction-themed pitch, coach, cheerleaders and ball.

Would you rather enjoy the electric atmosphere of Blood Bowl 3 matches from the comfort of the stands? You can now watch matches with the new spectator mode! You can also enjoy new Blood Pass rewards, which can be unlocked throughout Season 2. Coaches who want to refine their strategies will soon be able to relive key match moments and sharpen their analytical skills with the replay mode coming later in the season.

Razer Unveils Host of New Products at RazerCon 2023

Today, Razer CEO and co-founder Min-Liang Tan addressed crowds at the fourth annual RazerCon – a digital celebration of all things gaming!

During his keynote, Min announced the latest products, collaborations, and innovations at Razer, showcasing the company’s mission to seamlessly blend gaming and lifestyle. Announcements included:

Razer Huntsman V3 Pro line: The newest gaming keyboard line, designed in collaboration with esports pros, the Huntsman V3 Pro line will offer an unmatched blend of innovation, precision, and durability. Included in the line are the Huntsman V3 Pro, Huntsman V3 Pro Tenkeyless, and Huntsman V3 Pro Mini.

Razer Blade 16 x Automobili Lamborghini Edition: Created in partnership with Lamborghini, this state-of-the-art gaming laptop combines Razer’s leading gaming technology with Lamborghini’s iconic design.

Ready to Game with Dolce & Gabbana: This newest collab with a world renowned fashion house, Dolce & Gabbana, highlights Razer’s entry into the world of luxury fashion. This collection will feature a thoroughly-curated range of apparel that showcases the essence of both companies. It will also feature the world’s first Razer Chroma RGB gaming chair, the Dolce&Gabbana.

Razer Fujin Pro Chair: Introducing the newest addition to Razer’s award-winning chair line-up. Designed using mesh material, the Fujin Pro provides ultra-breathable mesh and a unique tilt mechanism that adjusts to the user’s movements for peak comfort and lumbar support.

Sustainability: Razer’s sustainability targets were met ahead of schedule, making the event a carbon-neutral livestream. By the end of 2022, 100% of Razer offices worldwide were powered by clean or renewable energy, which is 3 years ahead of the commitment date of 2025.

Razer Axon Create: The AI upgrade of Razer’s well known Axon, which offers high-resolution Razer Chroma integrated wallpapers to millions of users worldwide. With Axon Create, gamers can now harness the power of AI to  design their own high-resolution wallpapers and add their own Chroma effects.

Razer Aether Line: This line consists of several room lights which will extend Razer Chroma RGB beyond the PC, offering a diverse range of lighting options tailored for any style. Products include the Aether Lamp Pro, Aether Lamp, Aether Light Bulb, Aether Light Strip, and Aether Light Strip Extender.

Razer Synapse: Built on three years of insights from Razer users, this reinvented software will perform up to 30% faster than its predecessor, Synapse 3.

Razer Chroma App: A stand-alone app enabling full control of all RGB lighting devices across brands. Now, gamers can choose to utilize Razer Synapse and Razer Chrome independently.

Hellsweeper VR Launch Trailer

Hellsweeper VR, the highly anticipated action-combat virtual reality game from the creators of Sairento VR and published by Vertigo Games, is out now on Meta Quest 2, PlayStation VR 2, PICO and PC VR.

A high-octane mission of destruction that takes players into the seething pits of the damned, Hellsweeper VR offers:

  • Intense Limitless Movement – A daring, no-holes-barred locomotion system that pushes the limits of even the bravest of VR players. Defy earthly physics with intense wall-running, power sliding, backflips, jumps, bullet time and more.
  • Master Your Combat Style – Summon, wield & master various weapons and magic combinations. Customize your playstyle by experimenting with various skill traits. Cleave through an undead horde with a claymore; snipe down flying foes from a distance with an antique rifle; turn a foe into a pincushion by summoning a salvo of piercing ice shards or group enemies together with a gravitational vortex and more.
  • Faithful Hellhound Companion – Amid the ceaseless chaos, find solace in the silent loyalty of your hellhound, a faithful companion on your nightmarish journey.
  • Survive in Various Game Modes – Fight through multiple missions and epic boss battles and reap the rewards behind every deathly risk in Roguelike Mode as a single player or in a team of two. In Challenge Mode, prove your mettle in fortnightly challenges and etch your name into the leaderboards. Or define your own rules in the Training Room mode.
  • Content-Rich Experience with High Replayability – Conquer 18 maps, over 10 enemy types with elemental variants and multiple mission types, offering a unique gameplay experience with every run.

And for those who wish to destroy demons with an ally, the maw of hell opens ever wider:

  • Rogue-like mode: Fight rounds with various objectives, to end on a final boss fight. Get rewarded with loot and progress your upgrade your character, weapons or Hellhound
  • Cross Play Support: Thanks to the cross play support it’s as easy as ever to play with your friends. No matter which VR platform they are using.

As you delve into the realm of the deceased, consider our special Digital Deluxe edition of HellSweeper VR, loaded with exclusive extras. Revel in a deeper dive into the grim universe of the game with a digital art book, find solace in your mystic hound companion as you tread through this terrifying journey, and enhance your experience with a chilling soundtrack that perfectly complements your eerie adventure. To discover more, follow these links: Steam VR, PS VR 2 and Meta Quest.

Step forth into the abyss and answer the call of the damned! Follow Hellsweeper VR on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and join the conversation among Hellsweepers on Discord.

New Just Dance 2024 Map Announced: A Night in the Château de Versailles

Today Ubisoft, the French National Center of Cinema and the Moving Image (CNC), and the Palace of Versailles announce that Just Dance® 2024 Edition, the next installment of the #1 Music Video Game Franchise of All Time,* will bring the 18th century to life with a modern pop twist in an all new Just Dance map: A Night in the Château de Versailles.

The partnership between the CNC, Palace of Versailles and Ubisoft developed as part of the Cultural Olympiad program. As part of the lead up to the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the Cultural Olympiad program is set up by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to promote dialogue between sport and culture across its territory.

In A Night in the Château de Versailles, players will bust a move throughout the world heritage site of the Palace of Versailles, immersing themselves in its beautiful gardens, the Latona Fountain, and the majestic Hall of Mirrors to a modern pop arrangement of two baroque musical pieces: Lully’s “Marche Turque” (March for the Turkish Ceremony) and Rameau’s “Les Sauvages (The Savages).”

All aspects of A Night in the Château de Versailles, including the music, dancing, costumes and locations, mix historical authenticity with upbeat pop elements that fans of the Just Dance franchise know and love to create an extravagant party experience. Developed and designed through the joint efforts of Ubisoft and the Palace of Versailles department, Château de Versailles Spectacles, and with support of the CNC, the choreography combines modern dance moves with classic court dances.

Players can immerse themselves in King Louis XIV’s court in A Night in the Château de Versailles, when Just Dance 2024 Edition launches on October 24 on Nintendo Switch, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S.

For the latest information on Just Dance 2024 Edition, please visit justdancegame.com. Follow Just Dance on Twitter @justdancegame and use hashtag #JustDance2024.

Aerosoft Truck & Bus Wheel System Unveiled

Aerosoft are proud to announce the launch of the studio’s first proprietary, specialized piece of hardware, the Aerosoft Truck & Bus Wheel System, the world’s first Steering Wheel System dedicated to truck and bus enthusiasts, ready to be explored and pre-ordered here at a 10% pre-order discount!

With an impressive 15.7-inch diameter, a 1080° steering wheel angle, and ultra-realistic force feedback, the Aerosoft Truck & Bus Wheel System was designed to immerse virtual truck and bus drivers in a world of unparalleled realism, having been developed to advance the overall enjoyment of heavy vehicle simulations. Aerosoft plans to release the complete hardware system early next year.

The Aerosoft Truck & Bus Wheel System was engineered to bridge the gap between current generic or car-based steering wheel systems and a community of heavy vehicle enthusiasts who are currently lacking specialized hardware to recreate the ultimate feel of being at the wheel of their favorite busses and trucks.

“Our company has been living and breathing simulations for over 30 years now, and the Aerosoft Truck & Bus Wheel System is a fruit of our passion, it represents our commitment to continue to redefine the world of simulation for the better,” said Winfried Diekmann, CEO at Aerosoft. “That’s why we’re thrilled to introduce this product to the world. It was built to be a game-changer for truck and bus enthusiasts looking for extra immersion, so we hope to meet the unique needs of heavy vehicle enthusiasts and elevate their experience!”

In addition to the steering wheel, the Aerosof Truck & Bus Wheel System also includes an extensive gearshift lever unit featuring 12 programmable action buttons with light indicators, H-shift and sequential shift modes, and a splitter selector. This complete system is further enhanced with a 3-way pedal set consisting of an accelerator, clutch pedal, and brake pedal with exponential compression force!

The Aerosoft Truck & Bus Wheel System will be released for PC in early 2024. Find all the specs below. To pre-order, visit Aerosoft’s store here. To get more information about the product, visit the official product page here.

Aerosoft Truck & Bus Wheel System Specifications:

Key Features of the Wheel:

  • 15.7-inch center-suspended steering wheel
  • 1080° steering wheel angle
  • Ultra-realistic force feedback
  • 8-directional D-pad
  • 4 action buttons
  • 2 menu buttons
  • 3D thumb stick
  • 4-directional turning indicator lever with beam light (3 levels turn and push button)
  • 2-directional retarder lever with (3 levels turn and push button)
  • DC power socket for force feedback feature
  • RJ12 socket for pedals
  • Big horn button
  • Big red engine start button
  • Detachable wheel knob
  • Metal clamps for desk mounting
  • 1.5 m USB-A to USB-C cable
  • USB-C socket

Key Features of the Gear Stick:

  • 12 programmable action buttons with light indicators
  • 2 big action buttons with light indicators
  • H-shift and sequential shift modes
  • Activation switch for 1st and 2nd gear
  • Splitter selector
  • Mounting device for phone/tablet
  • Adjustable metal brackets for desk mounting
  • 1.5 m USB-A to USB-C cable (connects to PC directly)
  • USB-C socket

Key Features of the Pedal Set:

  • Accelerator
  • Clutch pedal
  • Brake pedal (with exponential compression force)
  • 2.0 m RJ12 cable for steering wheel connection

Space for Sale Tools of the Trade Trailer

So… you are a cute little astronaut who recently bought a solar system. And now you want to build homes for eccentric alien clients on exotic planets? Heads up, because being a space realtor is a demanding profession! But we are here to help. Check out the new Tools of the Trade trailer for Space for Sale:

Remember, you’ll need the right tools for the job: Transportion to travel across foreign landscapes of unknown planets (how else would you explore a planet? By walking?!), scanning devices (make sure not to touch anything that might try to harm you), and in case it does, you’ll also need the creature pokers! For your own safety, we advise to bring armor and a stick (if you enjoy surviving).

Space for Sale is developed by Mirage Game Studios in Karlstadt, Sweden and will be available for PC at an SRP of € 29.99 / $ 29.99 / £ 24.99.

Links & Info:
Steam: https://thqn.net/sfs-steam
Website: https://spaceforsale.thqnordic.com
Discord: https://discord.gg/Fu9cxydQ4j

PAYDAY 3 Official Launch Trailer

Starbreeze and Deep Silver (PLAION) are excited to announce that PAYDAY 3, the ultimate co-op heist shooter fantasy, is available today for gamers worldwide on PC, Xbox Series X|S, and PlayStation 5.

To celebrate the global release, Starbreeze has released an official launch trailer for PAYDAY 3. Whether you are a fan or a newcomer, get ready to immerse yourself into the world of high-stakes criminal endeavours.

Watch the PAYDAY 3 launch trailer on YouTube:

PAYDAY 3 features eight compelling heists and includes six playable characters at launch, including the original gang of clown-masked criminals (Dallas, Hoxton, Wolf, and Chains) plus two brand-new characters (Pearl and Joy).

PAYDAY 3 is available on PC via PC Game Pass, Steam, and the Epic Games Store, as well as Xbox Series X|S and Console Game Pass, PlayStation 5, and GeForce NOW. MSRP $39.99.

For more information on PAYDAY 3, please visit: https://www.paydaythegame.com

Official Central Perk Themed Coffee House Opening in Boston

Warner Bros. Discovery Global Themed Entertainment with Central Perk Coffee Co. and CenPer Holdings, LLC, proudly announces the eagerly anticipated debut of Central Perk Coffeehouse in the historic Back Bay neighborhood of Boston, MA opening October 2023. Nestled within a Newbury Street brownstone, this remarkable coffeehouse, inspired by the legendary FRIENDS hang-out, is poised to become a landmark destination where cherished memories, extraordinary coffee and food converge.

Channeling the unforgettable camaraderie of Rachel, Monica, Phoebe, Joey, Chandler, and Ross, the inaugural Central Perk Coffeehouse transcends nostalgia, emerging as a fully functioning coffeehouse and contemporary haven that has been brought to life by a team of food, beverage, and design experts including Top Chef and James Beard Award Winner Tom Colicchio and award-winning New York architects, Glen & Co. With a menu that boasts a wide variety of tasty coffee and food options, in a setting that is modern yet reminiscent of the familiar coffeehouse from the beloved TV show, the soul of Central Perk remains intact, promising an unparalleled dining and coffee experience for locals and visitors alike. Two alluring outdoor patios and a charming streetside parklet invite patrons to savor their moments alfresco, while inside, the cozy Orange Sofa room, inspired by the iconic Central Perk couch, and surrounding area are also available to celebrate special moments and gatherings.

“Central Perk was far more than just a coffee shop; it stands as a living testament to the enduring legacy and adoration that fans hold for FRIENDS,” said Peter van Roden, SVP, Warner Bros. Discovery Global Themed Entertainment. “Central Perk Coffeehouse perfectly balances the modern and nostalgic, providing a contemporary atmosphere, complemented by food and beverage offerings that celebrates the iconic series. We are beyond thrilled t0 welcome fans from around the world to Boston, where they can savor a delicious cup of coffee and create new and lasting memories with their friends.”

“We are incredibly excited that the world class city of Boston will be the home of our new Central Perk Coffeehouse,” said Joe Gurdock, CenPer Holdings. “Newbury Street and the city’s Back Bay neighborhood are treasured gems, known and admired around the globe. We are so fortunate to have found the ideal first location for this concept. We can’t wait to open our doors and join the amazing collection of retailers in the community and neighborhood. We look forward to welcoming locals and fans alike to come in daily to create their own stories in this new updated space with a great cup of coffee and fantastic food!”

Culinary Guidance by Top Chef Tom Colicchio

With the benefit of the culinary advice of Top Chef Tom Colicchio, Central Perk Coffeehouse presents an eclectic FRIENDS themed menu that brings forth an array of beverages and dishes, playfully named to pay homage to the beloved characters and moments from the show. From Princess Consuela’s Banana Mocha blend and Chandler’s Chocolate Milk Cold Foam to a selection of beer, wine, and cordials including a creative twist on espresso martinis, there is something to satisfy every craving. Accompanying these exceptional drinks, guests will relish acclaimed Master Baker Melissa Weller’s Signature CP Bagel, Joey’s Meatball Sandwich, Rachel’s Side Salad, Grandma’s Chicken Salad, Weekend at Caesars Salad, Mama’s Little Bakery Cheesecake, and more. Central Perk Coffeehouse transcends the ordinary, where coffee craftsmanship meets culinary excellence creating an unforgettable experience for fans and food enthusiasts alike.

“It’s been a pleasure advising the culinary team at Central Perk as they developed the Coffeehouse’s menu featuring inviting, simple dishes prepared with fresh ingredients and best enjoyed with a cup of coffee or a premium cold brew,” said Tom Colicchio, Creative Advisor & member of CenPer Holdings, LLC.

A Brand Identity and Merchandise Refresh for Today’s Patrons

A dynamic blend of past and present, the 2023 Central Perk Coffeehouse is accompanied by a fresh updated logo and brand identity. This exclusive logo is being revealed initially in the Boston location and on a colorful new capsule collection of exclusive Central Perk Coffee Co. themed apparel, drink and kitchenware, as well as collectibles – all available for purchase at the Newbury Street coffee shop and online at CentralPerk.com. The Company’s six original coffee blends, in various formats (ground, whole bean and compostable capsules), are also available at the Boston location or online either as an a la carte purchase or as a customizable coffee subscription.

As of today, customers can also purchase all 6 coffee blends on Amazon and benefit from free shipping right to their doorstep. The collection features the best-selling single serve Central Perk Variety Pack. All Central Perk Coffee Co. offerings adhere to sustainable sourcing, production, and packaging practices that prioritize responsible environmental stewardship.