Author - Jerry Paxton

Universal Studios Hollywood Invites Guests to Become Annual Pass Members

2024/02/28

“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 21^st 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

GameScent Available Now

2024/02/27

Jerry Paxton

Geek News, News, Tech News, Trailers / Videos

GameScent is a groundbreaking new device that fully enhances player immersion by automatically releasing scents that correspond with gameplay, without the need for any specific game development. As players dive into a game, GameScent’s patent-pending adaptor captures audio in real-time. These real-time audio cues are processed by GameScent’s innovative AI to release scents that correspond with the on-screen action. Inhale the smoky aroma of battle, the exhilarating scent of speeding race cars, the calming fragrance of a forest, or the fresh smell of rain after a storm. Developed by a team with extensive backgrounds in consumer electronics, health and wellness, and gaming, GameScent is fully compatible with gaming consoles, PC and VR.

“Studies have shown that the sense of smell imprints in long-term memory more strongly than anything else”, said Casey Bunce, President. “With GameScent, we’re hoping to elevate gamers’ experiences to be more exciting and memorable than they ever have been before.”

GameScent allows players to experience the atmosphere of their games more vividly with a diverse Scent Palette that includes:

Gun Fire: Experience the intensity of a firefight.
Explosion: Feel the magnitude of a blast.
Racing: Sense the speed and thrill of the track.
“Clean Air”: instantly neutralizes any scents in the room.
Storm: Immerse yourself in the fresh smell after a storm.
Forest: Connect with the soothing aura of nature.

These easy-to-swap cartridges keep the sensory adventure going while the Air Neutralizer allows players to manually trigger “Clean Air” to neutralize all scents after a gaming session. Additional scents will also be available for purchase separately in the future, such as Blood, Ocean, Sports Arena, and Fresh Cut Grass. All of GameScent’s cartridges feature scents created alongside world-class perfumists to deliver a best in class experience.

GameScent will be attending this year’s PAX East with a dedicated booth #11038. PAX East attendees will be able to experience GameScent along with giveaways and more.

GameScent is available now on GameScent.com, Amazon.com, BestBuy.com and Gamestop.com.

Terror at Oakheart Launch Trailer

2024/02/27

Jerry Paxton

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

Developer Tainted Pact and publisher Assemble Entertainment have released sidescrolling retro-inspired horror adventure Terror at Oakheart on PC via Steam. Visit the town of Oakheart, where you’ll encounter a horrifying killer named Teddy, who terrorizes the community. As the body count rises, you must uncover the secrets behind this masked menace and the town of Oakheart itself. Do so – if you dare!

Inspired by slasher films from the ’80s and ’90s, Terror at Oakheart follows a wide cast of characters, each of whom is destined to perish at the hands of the psychotic serial killer known as Teddy. But all is not what it seems, as Teddy is under the sway of a Lovecraftian beast, adding even more intrigue to the already mysterious events that unfold. Play as Eric, Ethan, Rose, Tyler, and others, and see who will survive the onslaught, while working to uncover the truth behind Teddy’s motivations.

In Terror at Oakheart, you will move through a number of sets throughout the town, such as Teddy’s house, the nearby police station, a ranger station, camp areas, and others. As you explore, you’ll investigate and uncover more about Teddy and the town of Oakheart in this horrifying retro-inspired adventure.

Reminiscent of games and films from the ‘80s and ‘90s, Terror at Oakheart has a gorgeous, vibrant pixel art style that gives it a nostalgic touch. The terror is turned up to 11 thanks to the atmospheric presentation that will surely keep you on the edge of your seat.

Turtle Beach VelocityOne Race Universal Wheel & Pedal System Out Now

2024/02/27

Jerry Paxton

Geek News, News, Peripherals News, Trailers / Videos

Buckle-up, grab the wheel and floor it because best-selling gaming headset and accessory maker Turtle Beach Corporation (Nasdaq: HEAR), today announced its first-ever racing gaming simulation setup, the Turtle Beach® VelocityOne™ Race, is now available. Designed for Xbox and Windows PCs, this groundbreaking universal wheel & pedal system comes from the brand’s multi-award-winning VelocityOne simulation team and features the latest technologies and premium materials to help drivers take pole positions and checkered flags. VelocityOne Race is available today for $649.99 MSRP at www.turtlebeach.com and participating retailers worldwide.

“VelocityOne Race leaves competitors in the dust with its incomparable racing simulation performance, overall design, and build quality,” said Cris Keirn, Interim CEO and SVP of Global Sales, Turtle Beach Corporation. “Turtle Beach has once again delivered a gaming simulation accessory that resets the bar for the category. VelocityOne Race features the latest technologies serious sim racing fans and drivers will love, at a price that is hard to beat.”

Racing sim fans will experience high-fidelity direct-drive force feedback through VelocityOne Race’s custom-built 7.2 Nm rated K: Drive™ motor. The K:Drive motor delivers ultra-realistic, powerful feedback while maintaining smooth steering and detailed reactions to in-race events and track conditions. At drivers’ feet, VelocityOne Race’s aluminum pedals and Dynamic Brake Tek™ load-cell brakes simulate true-to-life braking performance, so racers will feel the G’s and brake-fade in every turn. A removable, hand-stitched leather wheel provides enhanced realism and improved grip while banging through gears using Mag-Shift™ paddle shifters that deliver fast, reliable, and consistent shifts. Plus, two additional analog paddles with magnetic Hall Effect sensors provide precise clutch and handbrake control.

Real-time race telemetry data in supported racing games and customized controls are quickly and clearly visible on VelocityOne Race’s revolutionary integrated Race Management Display™. Customization doesn’t stop on the display, as VelocityOne Race’s remappable buttons and Tuner companion app – available on Xbox, Windows PCs, and supported mobile devices – ensures that no matter the car or race, drivers are in-tune with the status of their car while competing.

For full details on Turtle Beach’s VelocityOne Race universal wheel and pedal system, watch the debut video here. For more information on VelocityOne Race and the latest Turtle Beach gaming accessories, visit www.turtlebeach.com and be sure to follow Turtle Beach on TikTok, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and YouTube.