NeocoreGames is happy to announce that the Hierophant Class DLC for Warhammer, 40,000: Inquisitor – Martyr is now available on Steam for $14.99, with a 10% launch discount. To celebrate the new class, the base game, the Definitive Edition, and the Sororitas Class are all discounted by 80%.
By playing the Hierophant Class, you will assume the role of an Inquisitor who can call in multiple acolytes to form an Inquisitorial Retinue. You will have to use your devotion and authority to inspire your acolytes to carry out the Emperor’s will, manage them like a true leader and teach the Imperium’s truth to all the heretics in the Caligari Sector.
Key features:
Inquisitorial Retinue: The Hierophant has access to a whole new feature within the game – Retinue Management. Travel and fight alongside up to four AI companions (Crusader, Assassin, Psyker, Battle Sister), commanding them in battle. Customize their gear, unique skill trees and reach a maximum level of 100 with them.
Issue orders to your Retinue Members through the brand new Orders Bar. Orders are special skills that modify the behavior of Retinue Members while applying various buffs and bonuses.
Improved AI for Retinue Members
New Class Backgrounds: Confessor, Cardinal, Drill Abbot
New Weapons: Wield two new off-hand weapons (Dialogous Staff, Libram) that offer additional benefits for the Retinue.
New Belt Gear: Gear your Hierophant up with Curios, a unique class-specific belt gear, and support your allies with passive Auras and on-use effects.
Unique Class Resource: Use Devotion points to unleash devastating spells against your foes.
New Perks: Utilize maximum class replayability and build variety with 14 new Perks and a completely redesigned Perk System for this class.
New Skill Trees: Reach level 100 with your Hierophant and tap into its full potential by unlocking the Retinue Tactics, Blessings and Utility skill trees.
New Blessings and Spells: Purge the heretics of the Caligari Sector with the Hierophant’s powerful Blessings – spells that either have an area of effect or apply directly to the target – or unleash mayhem with his active Spells.
New Enchantments: Enhance your build with several new Relic and Primary Enchants.
The Elder Scrolls Online Update 44 is available for free on Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 4, and PlayStation 5 consoles. This latest update introduces a series of improvements and additions to The Elder Scrolls Online including upgrades to the Battlegrounds PvP mode and introduces two new Companions.
As a base-game update, Update 44 is now available on Xbox and PlayStation consoles, following the launch for PC/Mac on October 28. More details on what’s featured in this update can be found below.
Update 44 introduces big changes to the fast-paced combat of ESO’s PvP Battlegrounds. In this update, Battlegrounds are shifting to two-sided PvP matches, instead of the traditional three-sided. At launch, there will be two main Battlegrounds match types:
4v4—a competitive mode between two teams of four
8v8—a standard mode featuring powerups and two teams of eight
The traditional 4v4v4 game mode will no longer be available for queues; however, it may return in the future for limited times during special mini-PvP events. This new two-sided format also includes seven brand-new maps to battle your fellow players within.
To celebrate the launch of the new PvP Battleground mode, we’re teaming up with content creator SypherPK and Alienware for the ESO Battlegrounds Brawl livestream at twitch.tv/bethesda at 12:30pm ET on November 20. SypherPK will join forces with ESO devs to take on any players who think they have what it takes to win in the Battlegrounds, with Twitch drops and other prizes available to win. ESO Stream Team members will also be going live over the coming weeks to put their PvP skills to the test.
Update 44 also introduces two brand-new Companions to ESO: Tanlorin and Zerith-var. Tanlorin is a scrappy High Elf who mixes Soul Magic with Dragonknight abilities, while the stoic Khajiit Zerith-var utilizes the power of Necromancy. At launch, you can acquire both new allies for free with an active ESO Plus membership or purchase them with crowns from the in-game Crown Store.
Artstorm Studio and Gaijin Entertainment have announced the launch of a new military online shooter, MWT: Tank Battles, which is available on iOS and Android platforms. The game includes more than 150 modern and future military vehicles, such as tanks, aircraft, helicopters, and combat drones.
MWT: Tank Battles is a dynamic shooter dedicated to modern ground warfare, where armored vehicles and their air support fight over territory. For example, the T-14 and Abrams X tanks go into battle, with Su-57 and F-22 fighters covering them from above. Ground and air vehicles in the game are based on military hardware that either serves in modern armies or is under development.
At launch, four maps in fictional locations are available: “Khazbari Island” (a desert area with an oil refinery and a town by the lake), “Quarry” (a mountainous area where minerals are mined), “Golden Resort” (a resort town at the foot of a volcano) and “Eastern Province” (a military base with nuclear missile silos).
Regular updates with new vehicle models, maps, game modes and other content are planned for MWT: Tank Battles.
The Razer Barracuda X Chroma is a multi-platform wireless gaming headset that aims to provide a seamless audio experience whether you’re battling opponents on your PC, immersed in a console adventure, or jamming to your favorite tunes on your phone. With its lightweight design, dual wireless connectivity, and customizable RGB lighting, it certainly ticks a lot of boxes for gamers seeking versatility and style. But does it deliver on its promises?
Comfort and Build Quality
One of the standout features of the Barracuda X Chroma is its exceptional comfort. Weighing in at 285g, it’s still relatively light on the head, making it suitable for extended gaming sessions. The breathable memory foam earcups provide a snug yet gentle seal around the ears, effectively isolating outside noise without feeling too constricting. The adjustable headband, also padded with memory foam, ensures a secure and personalized fit for a variety of head sizes.
While the overall build quality is decent, the extensive use of plastic might raise some concerns about long-term durability. The earcups swivel smoothly to accommodate different head shapes, but the mechanism feels a tad less robust than those found in headsets with metal components. However, the lightweight construction is undoubtedly a contributing factor to the headset’s comfortable fit.
Sound Performance
Powered by Razer’s TriForce 40mm drivers, the Barracuda X Chroma delivers a respectable audio performance that caters well to gaming and music listening. This innovative driver design allows for the individual tuning of high, mid, and low frequencies, resulting in a clearer and more nuanced sound. The sound signature is generally balanced, with crisp highs and detailed mids that allow for accurate positional audio in games. Explosions and gunfire have a satisfying punch, while dialogue remains crisp and intelligible. Bass is present and provides a decent rumble without overwhelming the other frequencies, making for an immersive gaming experience.
While the headset doesn’t reach audiophile levels of fidelity, it certainly holds its own in its price range. The inclusion of virtual 7.1 surround sound further enhances the gaming experience, creating a wider soundstage and helping to pinpoint the direction of in-game sounds. However, the effectiveness of this feature can vary depending on the game and individual preferences.
Features and Functionality
The Barracuda X Chroma boasts a range of features that contribute to its versatility and user-friendly experience. The dual wireless connectivity, with both 2.4GHz wireless for low-latency gaming and Bluetooth 5.2 for mobile devices, is a major highlight. Razer’s SmartSwitch technology allows for seamless switching between the two modes with a simple button press, making it effortless to transition from gaming on your PC to taking a call on your phone. You can even pair to a 2.4GHz and Bluetooth device simultaneously for true multitasking. As a test, I wore these for an entire day – starting in the morning with business meetings and ambient audio while working, then moving to lunch and listening to audio from my smartphone, then ending the day with playing some various games on my PC. Despite some ear wear (wearing any headphone all day is a bit odd), the headphones worked great and I wouldn’t hesitate to do it again if I needed to.
The detachable Razer HyperClear Cardioid Mic is another welcome addition, offering flexibility for those who prefer to use a separate microphone or simply want to use the headset for music listening without the mic getting in the way. The microphone quality is decent, providing clear voice transmission for in-game communication thanks to its noise-suppressing design.
For those who like to personalize their gaming setup, the 6-zone Chroma RGB lighting on the earcups adds a touch of flair. With customizable colors and effects controlled through Razer Synapse software, you can synchronize the lighting with other Razer peripherals for a cohesive aesthetic. This lighting works with over 300 games and 500 devices.
Software and Battery Life
Razer Synapse software provides a centralized hub for customizing the headset’s settings, including EQ adjustments, lighting effects, and microphone controls. While the software offers a decent level of control, it can occasionally be buggy, requiring restarts or updates to function properly.
Battery life is excellent, with up to 70 hours of use on a single charge. This ensures that you can enjoy extended gaming sessions without worrying about running out of juice. The headset can also be used while charging, which is a convenient feature for marathon gaming sessions.
Final Verdict
The Razer Barracuda X Chroma is a compelling option for gamers seeking a versatile and comfortable wireless headset that can seamlessly transition between different platforms. Its lightweight design, good sound quality courtesy of the TriForce drivers, dual wireless connectivity with SmartSwitch, and long battery life make it a strong contender in its price range. While the build quality could be more robust and the software has occasional hiccups, the overall package is impressive.
Overall Rating: 4 out of 5
Pros:
Relatively lightweight and comfortable design
Good sound quality with TriForce 40mm drivers and virtual 7.1 surround sound
Dual wireless connectivity (2.4GHz and Bluetooth) with SmartSwitch for seamless transitions
Detachable Razer HyperClear Cardioid Mic with noise suppression
Customizable 6-zone Chroma RGB lighting compatible with a wide range of games and devices
Long battery life (up to 70 hours)
Cons:
Primarily plastic construction may raise durability concerns
Today during a special developer livestream, the Star Wars: The Old Republic team revealed the next major update coming to the beloved MMORPG with Game Update 7.6 – Galactic Threads. This game update includes Dynamic Encounters, character art modernization, a new lair boss, Skeleton Crew inspired items, and more and will begin to roll out to players worldwide this December with story missions arriving in 2025.
We’ve included additional details on all of the updates arriving in Game Update 7.6 – Galactic Threads at the following recap blog for your reference.
New Story Missions: Galactic Threads begins immediately following the events from the Desperate Defiance storyline. Players and their Alliance race to find Darth Malgus and stop whatever plans he has set in motion. At the same time, players will also seek answers surrounding Darth Nul’s holocron and the Hidden Chain’s ambitions. Story Missions will be taking players to Hoth, Tatooine, and the digsite at Nul’s temple of Elom.
Dynamic Encounters: Dynamic Encounters is new world content that players can experience to help bring life to the worlds they inhabit. As players explore planets, they will naturally come across Dynamic Encounters or they can actively search them out on their map. Dynamic Encounters can range from taking out Hidden Chain forces to herding escaped Banthas running amok in a space port. These Encounters will debut on Hoth and Tatooine with 7.6 and will have a variety of rewards for players to earn!
Propagator Core XR-53 Lair Boss: The Propagator Core XR-53 is the newest lair boss coming to the game and will be launching in both Story and Veteran difficulties. The Propagator Core XR-53 originated from one of the many broken pieces when the Emperor’s Fortress crashed onto Ilum. The XR-53 is a Rakatan droid replicator trying to fix itself by harvesting resources but its core functions have gotten a bit disrupted….
Character and Planet Art Modernization: Modernization of the Star Wars: The Old Republic experience continues with art updates coming to Tython, Korriban, Hoth, and Ilum (with a large focus on the starter planets). Character models, specifically heads, will also see improved fidelity across the game! Players will see updates to their character via updated character textures, along with ocular specularity and with lighting, and shader improvements. Texture changes are starting in this update with Human, Chiss, Cyborg, Miralukan, Mirialan, Togruta, Rattataki, and Zabrak models.
Skeleton Crew Inspired Items: The Skeleton Crew inspired items such as the Mysterious Rogue armor (with two variants), Fearless Buccaneer weapons, and new customizations will be coming to the Cartel Market. In addition, the Skeleton Crew inspired Meirm Cicada Mount comes with companion AND mini pet functionality. Now you can cruise the galaxy with your favorite companion and mini pet riding along with you. As a thank you to the community, the Meirm Cicada Mount will be free to players with an active subscription anytime between November 29 – January 4 and will be granted at 7.6 launch!
More on the Horizon:
Life Day: Star Wars: The Old Republic’s Life Day Winter Season Event will begin mid-December with two new rewards Tirsa G1-F7 Mount and Life Day Ornate Robes.
Mac Launcher Update: A new Mac Launcher will be released in the near future. More details will be coming soon!
Development studio Don VS Dodo and publisher Toplitz Productions proudly announce that Industry Giant 4.0 releases into Steam Early Access today. After more than 20 years, one of the cult franchises at the turn of the millennium is back with a vengeance.
Build dozens of industries, expand infrastructure, introduce production chains from resource gathering up to end consumer sales, keep an eye on your company’s finances and directly impact the growth of the cities in the vicinity: Those are the core components of Industry Giant, embraced by gamers for decades.
The fascination of those components and the underlying challenging business simulation rings true until today. But Don VS Dodo, the studio responsible for development, addresses a wider audience than only the franchise veterans. “Of course we are aware of the cult status that the franchise achieved” says Matthias Lutz, co-founder of Don VS Dodo and game producer. “But with Industry Giant 4.0 we rely on much more than sheer nostalgia or cult status. Our re-imagining of the classic gameplay is based on the franchise’s core principles, but modernizes all elements without sacrificing depth. We are convinced that both veterans as well as newcomers to business simulations will enjoy the game.”
With the release into Early Access the next development phase of Industry Giant 4.0 will be introduced. One of the focal points for the studio will be the community response. With the gameplay foundation in place and already numerous industries and close to 80 producible goods available for aspiring business titans, the feedback from players is key. Over the course of the Early Access period not only will new content and additional gameplay elements or features be introduced, but also the requests of the community will be honored.
The roadmap gives an outlook on the planned content that will be introduced in the coming weeks and months on the path to version 1.0.
Industry Giant 4.0 will be available today for PC in Early Access. For more information about the game, please visit the official product page on Steam or connect with us on Discord or our social media channels.
Earthshaker!™️, Banzai Run™️, and a third to-be-revealed table will launch in December 2024, on PC and consoles as part of the complete Williams™️ Pinball Volume 8 DLC pack!
The wait is almost over! For over a year, pinball fans have been waiting to get their hands on the next volume of Williams™️ pinball tables. Modern pinball meets nostalgia when the golden age of pinball starts with Earthshaker!™, a seismic classic from 1989 with renowned innovative features and earthquake-themed gameplay. Traverse through Zen Studios’ next retro table, Banzai Run™️, and defeat the king of the hill in a legendary motocross race to become number one. Show off your pinball skills through Pinball FX’s most nostalgic DLC yet and prepare for an unforgettable adventure with the previously announced Earthshaker!™️ and Banzai Run™️. Keep an eye out for the final pinball table reveal to complete the full Williams™️ Pinball Volume 8 collection!
First released in 1988, Banzai Run™️ is back and better than ever in this modern take to overthrow the king of the hill to become number one in an exciting daredevil motocross race
Get ready to feel the ground shake, rumble, and roar as you chase high scores through these two Williams™️ masterpieces
Prepare for an unforgettable pinball experience with Earthshaker!™️ that will be fully playable when Williams™️ Pinball Volume 8 releases
Nostalgia meets thrilling gameplay with each new legendary table
In Earthshaker!™️, you’ll experience the seismic excitement as the earth trembles beneath your flippers! Get ready to immerse yourself in this beloved table, which will bring hours of retro fun
Today, SQUARE ENIX® released DRAGON QUEST III HD-2D Remake, a stunning reimagining of the beloved, formative masterpiece DRAGON QUEST III. Featuring vibrant HD-2D graphics, new and modernized features, and a refined narrative, players are invited to set out on an epic fantasy adventure to save the world from a dark evil. The game is now available on Nintendo Switch™, PlayStation®5, Xbox Series X|S, PC via Steam® and Microsoft Store on Windows.
Developed by SQUARE ENIX, DRAGON QUEST III HD-2D Remake uses the acclaimed HD-2D style, which blends beautifully rendered and dynamic 3D backgrounds with classic 2D pixel sprites. This approach retains the spirit of the classic DRAGON QUEST III, and provided the creative opportunity to make it more accessible and appealing, with more detailed lighting and shading effects, a more visually spectacular world to roam, and beautifully rendered monsters.
Numerous enhancements to improve the gameplay experience make the overall experience feel like a more modern game, including quality-of-life improvements, full English and Japanese voice acting, and auto-saves. The game also delivers a refined take on the classic turn-based battle system, with new animations, adjustable battle speeds, an auto-battle setting, and more.
As players explore the vast world map, they will notice an abundance of rich and captivating locations to discover, accompanied by an immersive soundtrack that captures the timeless essence and magic of the DRAGON QUEST universe, composed by Koichi Sugiyama and performed by the Tokyo Metropolitan Symphony.
Additionally, the classic DRAGON QUEST III story fans know and love, which is chronologically first in the “Erdrick Trilogy,” has been refined to better tie-in to the events of DRAGON QUEST I & II HD-2D Remake, which is releasing next year.
Today, Paradox Interactive released Hearts of Iron IV: Götterdämmerung, an expansion that adds depth to the game’s World War II strategies, brings a larger German focus tree, alternate historical paths, and Special Projects that boost technological advancement. Götterdämmerung is available on Steam for $24.99.
Check out the release trailer here:
Players can shape different historical outcomes with character-driven events and expanded research options. Key features include:
Larger German Focus Tree: Additional political paths for Germany, including democratic restoration, alternate militarist options, and character events that bring unique challenges and rewards.
Austrian, Hungarian, and Belgian Focus Trees: Rewrite the history of these nations with options for an independent Austria, a reformed Austro-Hungarian Empire, or a Belgian government-in-exile utilizing resources in the Congo.
Special Projects: Drive specialized research in nuclear physics, rocketry, advanced tanks, and more to enhance military capabilities.
Raids: Execute precise strikes against enemy ports, research sites, and other critical targets to disrupt opponents.
And More: Enhanced map visuals, AI improvements, and expanded atomic warfare mechanics.
Sony Pictures Virtual Reality (SPVR) and XR Games are proud to announce that Starship Troopers: Continuum is out now for Meta Quest 2, Meta Quest 3 and Meta Quest 3S for $19.99 / £14.99 / €17.99.
Featuring Casper Van Dien reprising his role as the legendary ‘Johnny Rico’, Starship Troopers: Continuum is set 25 years after the Battle of Klendathu. The war between the Federation and the Arachnid is deadlocked, but the planet Janus-4 holds a secret that threatens to tip the balance of the war: The Continuum.
Key features:
2-3 player online squad-based combat – team up to survive!
Single-player campaign – take on the bugs alone to earn weapon and trooper upgrades, perks, customisation options, and more!
20+ weapons – aim well and reload quickly if you want to live!
The classic bugs return and bring new friends – all mean, all hungry, all lethal!
Boss battles against Tankers and Plasmas – plus something new!
Immersive weapon reloading with perks – players can choose manual reloading for a faster, more immersive experience, earning a buff with each successful reload, or select automatic reloading for convenience, tailoring gameplay to their preferred pace and style!
Epic missions in both familiar and unexplored terrain – bugs can come from anywhere!
