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Baldur's Gate: Enhanced Edition Pulled From App Store

Kyle Hilliard — Thu, 20 Jun 2013 02:36:00 GMT

A message recently appeared on developer Beamdog's website announcing that Baldur's Gate: Enhanced Edition has been pulled from Apple's App Store, and that the follow-up game, Baldur's Gate II: Enhanced Edition, has been put on hold.

The message comes from president of Beamdog, Trent Oster. He cites "contractual issues" as the reason for the games sudden freeze. You can check out the full message below:

Dear Friends of Baldur's Gate,

We recently removed Baldur's Gate: Enhanced Edition from sale on Beamdog and the Apple App Store. We've taken this step at our publishing partner's request as we attempt to resolve a number of contractual issues.

Unfortunately, until this matter is resolved, we are unable to release the latest Baldur's Gate: Enhanced Edition patch or Baldur's Gate: Enhanced Edition for Android.

This also prevents the launch of Baldur's Gate II: Enhanced Edition. I sincerely apologize to the series' fans and promise we are working diligently to remedy the situation.

[Source: Baldur's Gate via NeoGAF]

The War Z Is Now Called Infestation: Survivor Stories

Kyle Hilliard — Thu, 20 Jun 2013 01:13:00 GMT

The War Z, the controversial PC game that was pulled from Steam shortly after release, and then re-instated, has changed its name. The game is now called Infestation: Survivor Stories.

The game was pulled from Steam shortly after players called the game for not delivering on its promised features.

Developer Hammerpoint Interactive decided to change the name of its game in order to prevent confusion with the other zombie game, DayZ.

"The War Z, has officially changed its name to Infestation: Survivor Stories today, in part to help fans differentiate the popular game from similarly titled brands. OP Productions initially filed The War Z trademark early last year, but soon found out from the United States Patent and Trademark Office that the name was comparable to another property. After months of trying to resolve the issue, OP Productions decided the best option to avoid confusion among players was to rename the game. Current players will not experience any change or interruption with the exception of the change in name and game logo."

For more on the game, you can check out our Test Chamber, or check out the game's official website.

Head to page two to read the full press release on the name change.

Xbox One Chief Product Officer Marc Whitten Discusses Microsoft's Reversal

Mike Futter — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 23:15:00 GMT

Following today's big announcement that Microsoft has changed its mind on used game restrictions and online check-ins to refresh licenses, we spoke with Xbox chief product officer Marc Whitten. We discussed pricing, changes to digital titles, and how Microsoft is positioned following E3 last week.

We started off by clarifying a comment made in an earlier interview with Kotaku. According to that story, the Xbox One needs an always online patch to enable offline play. This isn't entirely accurate, Whitten explained.

"There's always been a plan to have a day one update for Xbox One," Whitten told us "It's just the difference between the hardware schedules and the software schedules. We're just being clear that it still exists." In other words, you'll need to connect the Xbox One once in order to get it up and running.

One of the biggest negative changes in the DRM and online connection shift is that users will no longer be able to share their digitally-purchased games with nine family members. Whitten explained that the original plan was to apply policies to games regardless of purchase mechanism, hence the sweeping change.

We spoke with Microsoft about the mood after the Sony press conference at E3. Whitten told us that despite Sony's clear jabs at Microsoft and the $100 price difference the team "had a really great day." Whitten continued, "I knew we were going to get a ton of feedback. What we heard is that people love our games, but there were a couple of areas where they want more choice."

When we asked about the two remaining differentials, price and the mandatory use of Kinect, Whitten was clear: "[$499] is our price for Xbox One."

"We believe in the value that we're delivering, not just for day one, but for the system to grow and evolve," Whitten explained. "To us, things like Kinect are part of that. It's a toolset for game creators that has never existed before. Users are just going to have a better experience."

As for pre-orders following a week of feedback that was often inhospitable, Whitten told us simply, "We're excited." We asked if the same sentiment was shared by publishing partners.

Whitten chuckled. "I've been on the phone all day and haven't had a chance to see how it's landing online yet," he said.

CONFIRMED: Microsoft To Drop Used Game Restrictions, Online Requirements

Mike Futter — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 20:03:00 GMT

Update 2:

This has appeared on the linked (and heavily trafficked) page on the Xbox website. The following statement comes from Microsoft's president of the interactive entertainment business Don Mattrick:

Last week at E3, the excitement, creativity and future of our industry was on display for a global audience.

For us, the future comes in the form of Xbox One, a system designed to be the best place to play games this year and for many years to come. As is our heritage with Xbox, we designed a system that could take full advantage of advances in technology in order to deliver a breakthrough in game play and entertainment. We imagined a new set of benefits such as easier roaming, family sharing, and new ways to try and buy games. We believe in the benefits of a connected, digital future.

Since unveiling our plans for Xbox One, my team and I have heard directly from many of you, read your comments and listened to your feedback. I would like to take the opportunity today to thank you for your assistance in helping us to reshape the future of Xbox One.

You told us how much you loved the flexibility you have today with games delivered on disc. The ability to lend, share, and resell these games at your discretion is of incredible importance to you. Also important to you is the freedom to play offline, for any length of time, anywhere in the world.

So, today I am announcing the following changes to Xbox One and how you can play, share, lend, and resell your games exactly as you do today on Xbox 360. Here is what that means:

An internet connection will not be required to play offline Xbox One games– After a one-time system set-up with a new Xbox One, you can play any disc based game without ever connecting online again. There is no 24 hour connection requirement and you can take your Xbox One anywhere you want and play your games, just like on Xbox 360.

Trade-in, lend, resell, gift, and rent disc based games just like you do today – There will be no limitations to using and sharing games, it will work just as it does today on Xbox 360.

In addition to buying a disc from a retailer, you can also download games from Xbox Live on day of release. If you choose to download your games, you will be able to play them offline just like you do today. Xbox One games will be playable on any Xbox One console -- there will be no regional restrictions.

These changes will impact some of the scenarios we previously announced for Xbox One. The sharing of games will work as it does today, you will simply share the disc. Downloaded titles cannot be shared or resold. Also, similar to today, playing disc based games will require that the disc be in the tray.

We appreciate your passion, support and willingness to challenge the assumptions of digital licensing and connectivity. While we believe that the majority of people will play games online and access the cloud for both games and entertainment, we will give consumers the choice of both physical and digital content. We have listened and we have heard loud and clear from your feedback that you want the best of both worlds.

Thank you again for your candid feedback. Our team remains committed to listening, taking feedback and delivering a great product for you later this year.

If you can get in, you can see the page on the official site here.

Update 1: Microsoft is preparing to share changes to its Xbox One policies. The page containing those details is not yet live.

Here's the statement on its Q&A page:

Update on June 19, 2013: As a result of feedback from the Xbox community, we have changed certain policies for Xbox One reflected in this blog. Some of this information is no longer accurate — please check here for the latest.

Original Story:

In what might be the most dramatic reversal in the gaming industry, Microsoft is reportedly changing course on many of the concerns related to the Xbox One. These include a 180 degree shift on used games and online requirements.

According to a report published on Giant Bomb, Microsoft will be dropping the 24-hour license renewal "check ins" we were told the system requires. Additionally, retail discs will be handled identically to what we experience now on the Xbox 360. This includes trading in and loaning to friends. An internet connection will only be required when setting up the console, and region locks will be disabled.

This news follows our interview with Microsoft Studios corporate vice president Phil Spencer, who assured us that Microsoft is listening to community feedback. We've reached out to the company for comment.

[Source: Giant Bomb]

The Plethora Of New Enemies In Borderlands 2: Tiny Tina's Assault On Dragon's Keep

Mike Futter — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 20:00:00 GMT

Gearbox has pulled out all the stops for the fourth (and possibly final) Borderlands 2 expansion. Not only does Tiny Tina's Assault on Dragon Keep feature all new environments, but the eight to ten hour expansion features eleven new enemy types with different sub-varieties. We've got the complete rundown for you.

Skeletons

When we played the Assault on Dragon's Keep expansion a few weeks ago, the Gearbox team told us that the overwhelming number of skeletons far exceeded their requests. It seems that someone on the art team just loves the boney things.

Assault on Dragon's Keep has 13 of the suckers, from kneecap-biting midgets to towering giants and "Skeletaurs" that need to be separated from their magical swords to be put down permanently. Skeletons' limbs and head can be knocked off, which has the expected impact on mobility and targeting.

Treants

Two different versions of these ugly suckers populate Tiny Tina's world. Killing them isn't easy (unless you have some fire-elemental weapons). Even after they go down, the wisps they release slow players down.

Spiders

Elemental spiders, suicide spiders, and poisonous spiders are to be expected. Arachne, a spider with a human torso, is a bit odd. It's the "SpiderPants" enemies with a top hat, monocle, and human legs that are probably going to give us nightmares, though.

Pixies

These little fairies can be of great value to the intrepid vault hunter. Capturing one bestows a temporary buff. Just watch your fire. Hit one by accident and you'll have an angry, hard-to-kill pixie on your hands.

Orcs

Ah, the orcs. Ten different varieties can be found in the expansion. Two of them are particularly challenging, as they'll level up during the battle. Be careful when engaging them, and take them down quickly.

Knights

Boring and human, but a necessary evil. There are ten different types, including lowly squires, archers, electrically charged storm knights, and spell-casting paladins.

Dwarves

Watch out, Salvadore. The dwarves have their own Gunzerker. It's the standard dwarf warriors that have us concerned, though. Apparently, they leap at the player. That's not okay. Down, boy.

Golems

These guys come in standard "Rock" and "Badass" forms. We'll let you figure out which is more challenging. (Hint: It's the one with the giant spiky maul on his left hand.)

Wizards

Spellcasters come in a variety of flavors. The standard type casts a simple magic missile. You'll see other types unleashing fire, ice, electricity, and the undead.

Dragons

Ah, at last. These beasts are menaces on ground and in the sky. You can anticipate what types of attacks you'll be facing thanks to their handy color-coded genetics. Fire dragons are red, acid-spitting drakes are green, shock and fire wielders are blue, and the pink wyverns both slag and shock.

Mission-related foes and bosses

The eleventh group is made up of bigger and badder varieties of the core groups. Here you'll find thematically appropriate versions of the other groups. For instance, the Skeleton King's head can detach itself to attack the player. When it returns to the rest of the body, the King levels up. The big bad of the expansion is the Handsome Sorcerer (pictured above). I wonder who he could be modeled after.

Gearbox's brief descriptions for these foes indicate that many have unique traits to keep players guessing. These boss battles promise to switch things up and keep things interesting.

You'll be able to see all 71 new enemies on June 25. Tiny Tina will be running her tabletop game of Bunkers and Badasses in Assault on Dragon Keep on PC, Xbox 360, and PlayStation 3.

Company Of Heroes 2 Open Beta Extended

Adam Biessener — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 18:54:00 GMT

Relic Entertainment has relaxed the end date for its World War II real-time strategy game’s open beta period.

The new schedule has COH 2’s open beta running through midnight Pacific time on Sunday, June 23. Additionally, the final weekend will be a double-experience weekend.

As previously reported, all beta experience progression will carry over to live accounts for players who purchase the game and link it to their same Steam account within 60 days of launch.

Relic has unlocked the entire progression tree and is adding new multiplayer maps to the rotation from now until the end of open beta.

Company of Heroes 2 comes out for PC on June 25.

Defiance Gamer Makes It Onto TV Show

Adam Biessener — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 17:51:00 GMT

Zachary Prast has won the first contest Trion and SyFy ran to feature a gamer from the 360/PS3/PC MMO shooter on the cable show of the same name.

By earning more than triple the average rate of salvage per hour – meaning he farmed monsters and loot drops more efficiently than anyone else – during the April 30-May 12 contest period, Prast has earned the honor of appearing in an upcoming episode of Defiance on SyFy. The show’s artists are rendering his image into a “special place” in the final episode of the show’s inaugural season.

Prast is the first, but Trion hopes he isn’t the last gamer to cross over into the television show.

Curious about Defiance? Listen to our podcast on the game and read my extensive critique.

Click over to page two to read the full press release.

Bethesda: Prey 2 “Simply Not Good Enough”

Adam Biessener — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 17:01:00 GMT

The publisher’s VP of PR and marketing Pete Hines said at E3 that the delayed and rumored-dead project is a disappointment internally and vowed to keep fans in the loop if and when the game moves forward.

“We appreciate that folks are displeased that we haven’t had any update or any info on Prey 2, but whatever your displeasure is, you can’t even be remotely as unhappy about it as us,” Hines told IGN. “We spent years and millions of dollars and a ton of effort trying to help Human Head make a great Prey 2 game. What we said the last time we said anything was that it’s not up to our quality standards."

Prey 2 has been in development at Human Head Studios, which developed the original (and also long-delayed to the tune of over a decade) Prey that released in 2006. The project’s status is currently unknown, though unsubstantiated rumors from a few weeks ago alleged that Dishonored developer Arkane Studios has taken over and is rebuilding the game from the ground up.

Hines cast the decision as a business reality that has nothing to do with an aversion to the series, the subject matter, or Human Head. “What is the chance that we have some amazing, unbelievable game and we’re just not talking about it for no reason? Zero,” Hines said. “This is a business. We do have bills to pay and people to employ. They have families that they would like to provide for. You don’t just keep throwing money at something or going down a path that you’re not happy about.”

It would seem that Bethesda is eager to put the days of Rogue Warrior and Brink behind it.

[Source: IGN]

Rumor: Steam Game Sharing Could Be Coming

Mike Futter — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 16:47:00 GMT

Intrepid NeoGAF users have found hints that a significant new feature could be coming to Valve's Steam service in the near future. If so, this would be a smart marketing hook, especially for games with significant multiplayer components.

According to the bits of code, it seems that a shared game can only be played on one account at a time. Should the owner decide to step in, the guest will receive a message that it's time to step aside.

There are a lot of reasons why this would be an intelligent move. First, it has the potential to eliminate some piracy. If players can legitimately enjoy a game without paying, they may be less likely to seek unauthorized copies.

Shared games would also allow Valve to track interest in a title and offer that data back to publishers. This could help guide pricing, implementation of discounts, and an understanding of how users who aren't faced with a sunk cost dilemma interact with the product.

Finally, for multiplayer games, shared titles would be a brilliant sales tool. Players can try the title out without investment, but if they want to play with friends, each is going to need a copy. Building a critical mass in social circles faster will facilitate sales.

Microsoft is planning on executing something similar with the Xbox One. Games can be shared with up to ten "family members," and it seems that the relationship will be defined loosely, allowing friends to operate in the same circles.

The Steam game sharing could just be errant lines in a beta build. Don't get your hopes up quite yet. We've reached out to Valve for clarification and comment. Our fingers are crossed that game sharing is something that we'll see go live soon.

[Source: NeoGAF]

Joe Danger PC Trailer Shows Minecraft And Team Fortress 2 Additions

Kyle Hilliard — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 15:27:25 GMT

Joe Danger and its sequel are coming to Steam later this month, and it looks like this version of the games will have some PC exclusive additions.

In the trailer for the game below, you will see Steve from Minecraft as a playable character as well as a Minecraft-themed level. You will also be able to play as the Heavy from Team Fortress 2, who is clearly on a mission to make a cameo in every game he possibly can.

Joe Danger and Joe Danger 2: The Movie are both coming to Steam on June 24.

(Please visit the site to view this media)

See The PlayStation 4 Interface In Action

Matthew Kato — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 15:11:00 GMT

E3 has come and gone, but Sony continues to divulge more information about its PlayStation 4 system. This informative video shows some of the console's interface, social functions, and seamless game access.

(Please visit the site to view this media)

The video from Sony's official YouTube channel offers some insight into how some of the PS4's components like video sharing and friends functionality work with each other and in games. Here are a few of the takeaways.

Main Interface & Friends

The panel-based page shows your games, your friends' recent activities (such as what they are playing/have purchased), access to the PlayStation store, and more
Clicking into friends' profiles shows their Trophies (including when they won it and what for), their friends, recent activities, shared videos/personal info, etc. Sony has confirmed that you can choose to appear by your PSN ID to outsiders and by your real name to friends
Friends' activities can be "liked"

Videos

After watching a friend's shared video, you can hit the onscreen Start command to begin playing that game (assuming you own it) or hit the PlayStation button on your controller to return to another title you're already playing
The clips in this demo video are both 32 seconds long. It's unknown if this will be the maximum time allowed for clips

Game Purchasing

Game pages allow you to start downloading a title's single- or multiplayer modes separately after purchase. It's unknown if this will be available for all games
A game's page also shows any demo options, shared videos about the title, and video previews and offers from the developer
An "Activity Feed" is listed for each game. This could surface any videos, messages, etc. about that title, but it's unknown exactly what you'll see here
While a game is downloading, you can return to your game by hitting the PlayStation button on the controller

Phones, Messaging & Multiplayer

The PS4 features text-predictive messaging if you type with your controller
Message indicators from your friends will overlay on top of the screen while you're playing
Your responses to friends' messages will appear below their initial text. It's unknown how long a single conversation can be. Chat sessions with multiple people/responses are possible
Multiplayer sessions will show who's in that session, its elapsed time, and more before you enter that session
Clans can be formed among your PSN friends of at least 18 people
PS4 gameplay videos from friends can be viewed on your phone. Games can also be purchased and downloaded to your PS4 from your phone

[Source: Sony]

PlayStation 3 Update Version 4.45 Causing Problems

Kyle Hilliard — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 14:23:00 GMT

Update: The official European PlayStation Twitter account has offered an update on the update. It has been pulled down for the time being.

Hi guys, we're aware of reports that the recent PS3 update (4.45) has caused. We have temporarily taken 4.45 offline and are investigating.
— PlayStation Europe (@PlayStationEU) June 19, 2013

We will announce when the system update is available for download as soon as possible and we apologise for the inconvenience.
— PlayStation Europe (@PlayStationEU) June 19, 2013

Sony also reached out to Joystiq with a statement saying, "We are aware of reports that the recent PlayStation 3 system software update (version 4.45) has caused the XMB to not display on a small number of PS3 systems. We have temporarily taken 4.45 offline and are investigating the cause of the problem. We will announce when the system update is available for download as soon as possible. We apologise for the inconvenience."

Original story:

For the time being, it's probably a good idea to decline the latest system update for the PlayStation 3. Many users are reporting bricked consoles after updating.

Not all users are encountering problems after updating, but if Sony's official message boards are any indication of how widespread the issue is, it certainly couldn't hurt to wait.

We'll make sure to update this story when Sony responds or makes a suggestion about what to do.

[Source: PlayStation 3 Forums via Joystiq]

Seven More Titles Get The Steam Greenlight

Kyle Hilliard — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 01:17:00 GMT

While we were away at E3 playing the biggest games of the upcoming year (and beyond), Valve announced seven new titles that received the Steam Greenlight.

Steam Greenlight allows gamers to vote on software they'd like to see added to the digital distribution platform, and the latest batch of approved games proves Steam users have pretty good taste. Here's a list of the new games, along with descriptions from the developers.

Assetto Corsa
DreadOut
Ether One
GunZ 2: The Second Duel
Heaven Benchmark
Stonehearth
The Forest

You can find out more about each of the titles by clicking the links above.

[Source: Steam]

Free-To-Play Steel Diver On The Way From Nintendo

Kyle Hilliard — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 00:28:00 GMT

The mostly forgotten Steel Diver 3DS launch title is coming back, and this time it's going to be free.

Nintendo's Shigeru Miyamoto revealed that Steel Diver is getting a free-to-play entry to IGN. Nintendo had previously revealed that it was investigating the free-to-play model in a recent investor and analyst presentation. At the time, it didn't reveal what franchise was going to be used, but it did assure Nintendo fans that it wouldn't be a high-profile franchise like Mario.

The new free-to-play Steel Diver will be an all new game. Miyamoto told IGN, "There is something we’re doing with the Steel Diver idea that I think is going to open things up with that game... It’s going to be very fun. We’re exploring from a perspective of where we can take that from a multiplayer standpoint - it's going to have this four-player battle mode that I think is going to be very interesting."

Miyamoto did not reveal any other details but said that he was hoping to show something soon. For more on Steel Diver, you can check out our review of the 3DS game.

[Source: IGN]

The Controllers Were The Best In Mobile At E3

Mike Futter — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 22:30:00 GMT

E3 isn’t typically a thriving playground for mobile titles, and this year wasn’t much different. Square Enix offered only a small, cramped row of five iPads for its headline title, Deus Ex: The Fall. EA squirreled away its entire catalog far off the show floor in the JW Marriott, a fifteen minute walk from the Los Angeles Convention Center. The games weren’t the highlight of my mobile experience (though there were some good ones), it was the hardware that got me most excited.

I spent time with two manufacturers that are working hard to bridge the gap between home console experiences and those offered by dedicated portable gaming systems. For iOS, I had the chance to speak with the makers of the Bladepad. This slim-profile device is small enough to fit in one’s pocket. Currently, 50 games are supported, including inXile’s The Bard’s Tale, Wayforward’s Shantae: Risky’s Revenge, and Halfbot’s The Blocks Cometh.

The Bladepad offers zero latency and 18 hours of battery life, and the device is sure to get a bump thanks to iOS 7’s gamepad integration. This also means that new competition is coming.

Last year, I had the chance to test out the first MOGA pocket controller for Android. The small device wasn't the most comfortable, but it certainly increased the viability of shooters and other twitch-based genres in the mobile space. Since then, the company has been innovating and refining for comfort, with a new Pro model and upcoming devices that serve as a battery backup for your phone.

Testing the MOGA Pro last week, which now also supports Windows 8 Phones, was a surprisingly satisfying experience. I played a game of Madfinger Games' Dead Trigger, successfully dodging around the oncoming undead with ease. Headshots were no problem, and the MOGA Pro was extremely responsive. The company is also working on compatibility with iOS devices, and I'm eager to see how experiences on my iPhone and iPad are improved.

Control pad support would further enhance two of the more exciting games I saw at the show. In speaking with Andrew Spinks (creator of Terraria) and David Welch (the iOS version's producer), it was clear that the conversion to touchscreen controls has been painstaking.

In order to deal with a diminished level of precision, an auto-jump has been added, as has the console version's auto cursor for digging and chopping. Crafting has been revamped to make it easier for players to identify necessary ingredients and apparatus. The day/night cycle has been sped, and monster spawns and stats are being tweaked to support a more casual play style.

Because of memory limitations, the generated worlds are likely to be smaller, though the specific sizes are still being figured out. The iOS version will support local multiplayer, Game Center, and Facebook screenshot sharing. Android and Windows Phone versions are being considered. Again, a gamepad would help alleviate some of the precision issues faced by fat fingers on a touch device.

The other mobile title that caught my eye at E3 is Zynga's new "Speed MOBA," Solstice Arena. If you've ever played League of Legends and hoped for a faster experience with less farming and more player-vs-player interaction, this one is worth investigating.

Solstice Arena is a free-to-play title, and it operates much like League of Legends and others in the genre. Real money can be used to unlock heroes and costumes, but more casual players can simply jump and use one of the rotating slate of heroes for free.

Matches play quickly, lasting between 10 and 15 minutes, as players scramble to take out the opposing team to power down towers. Once vulnerable, these are quickly destroyed. While Solstice Arena doesn't need gamepad support, having played Monolith's Guardians of Middle Earth, I can see how some players might prefer it.

With controller integration becoming more prevalent in the mobile space, genres that were previously cumbersome might get new life. Shooters have been attempted, but it's only thanks to a gamepad that they have a chance at success. The big news in mobile out of E3 wasn't new games, but the better ways we can play them.

Kongregate's Top Three Free Games: June 2013

Mike Futter — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 22:03:00 GMT

As they do each month, our sister site Kongregate has once again provided us with details about their current best offerings. All of these games are playable for free, and the selections and descriptions below have been provided by Kongregate's Rebecca Francis. Give them a chance and let us know what you think in the comments section.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Last Stand: Dead Zone

We’ve all got to face the fact that a zombie apocalypse is imminent, and this game is perfect preparation. Claim your territory, collect supplies, and rescue survivors in order to fend off the endless hoards. Best of all, you can choose between trading with other players or raiding their compounds!

Giants and Dwarves TD

It’s your responsibility to lead the dwarves to victory in this multi-level tower-defense extravaganza. Utilize two-story defense strategies, or simply direct your soldiers to scale the legs of these mighty foes. This game definitely provides a welcome twist on the classic TD.

Questopia

If you’re looking for a good dungeon crawler, this is it. Explore over 20 levels of a mysterious pyramid in order to unlock the secrets (and booty!) inside. This brilliant game solves the problem of too much loot. Don’t just drop it; sacrifice it for a boost in XP! Face up against dozens of creative enemies, learn spells, and clean out one floor at a time.

Check out last month's picks.

Congressmen File Bill To Regulate DVRs And Other Monitoring Devices

Mike Futter — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 21:19:00 GMT

While we were in Los Angeles spending time with upcoming hardware and games, two United States Congressmen were at work filing a bill to protect Americans from prying electronic eyes. Massachusetts representative Mike Capuano (D) and North Carolina representative Walter Jones (R) have filed the "We Are Watching You Act."

The bill doesn't mention Microsoft or Kinect, only cable boxes and DVRs with built-in cameras and microphones, but it's hard to imagine the Xbox One peripheral wouldn't be swept up in the legislation. The proposal calls for an opt-in procedure, consumer receipt of detailed information about the kind of data that will be captured, and a list of who will be able to access the information.

Furthermore, should the legislation be enacted, a large message will be displayed on-screen during recording stating, "We are watching you." These proposals come just days after news broke about the NSA's snooping program, PRISM.

The Congressmen were spurred to action by patents filed by Verizon, but the company states it has no intention right now of implementing the technology. Microsoft, on the other hand, has touted that the Kinect will remain in a low-power state by default for the purposes of voice activation.

Addressing privacy concerns, Microsoft has indicated that the device can be paused or turned off at will. However, it must be connected to enable core Xbox One operations. The mechanisms for pausing the Kinect device's monitoring have not been made clear yet.

[Source: House.gov via International Business Times]

Battle It Out In Dungeons & Dragons: Chronicles of Mystara, Available Today

Liz Lanier — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 20:44:00 GMT

Only a few months after we told you about the announcement of Dungeons & Dragons: Chronicles of Mystara, it’s ready for you to play.

Chronicles of Mystara is a remastered version of the arcade games Dungeons & Dragons: Tower of Doom and Dungeons & Dragons: Shadow of Mystara. The original Mystara title even made our list as one of the top 10 Dungeons & Dragons video games.

In this side-scrolling RPG, up to four friends can battle mythical beasts with a multitude of magical and melee attacks.

Dungeons & Dragons: Chronicles of Mystara is available for download today on the PlayStation network and on Steam. It will be available Wednesday, June 19, on the Xbox Live Arcade and at a later date for Wii U.

(Please visit the site to view this media)

What do you think? Worth a download? Let us know below.

Reminder: July 2013 Digital Issue Available Now

Mike Futter — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 20:14:00 GMT

You may have missed it last week as the ocean of E3 news washed over you, but our July 2013 digital issue is currently available for download. Now that tides have receded and you've come up for air, feel free to take a moment to download it on your iPad or Android tablet or view it right away on your PC or Mac.

Headlining the issue is Respawn Entertainment's Titanfall, which also came away from E3 2013 with our "Best in Show" award. This issue also features detailed information on the Xbox One, previews on a number of current- and next-generation titles, and all the latest reviews.

Print subscribers should be getting their issues in the next week or so. Not a digital subscriber yet? Convert your print subscription here or start a new subscription here. You can also purchase individual issues or subscribe via the appropriate apps.

Yes, The New Black Ops II DLC Is Called Vengeance

Mike Futter — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 18:54:56 GMT

Earlier today, we reported that promotional materials for the next Call of Duty: Black Ops II DLC is called Vengeance. We can now confirm that to be accurate.

The new map pack will include four brand new maps (Cove, Detour, Rush, and Uplink). Longtime Call of Duty fans should find familiarity in Uplink, which recreates Summit from the original Black Ops.

Additionally, Vengeance comes packed with a new zombie adventure called Buried. The fan-favorite Ray Gun returns as the new and improved Mark II. Vengeance joins the two previous Black Ops II Revolution and Uprising

The Vengeance DLC will arrive on July 2, 2013 on Xbox Live. PC and PlayStation 3 players will see the pack later.

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Bioshock's Ken Levine Tapped To Write Logan's Run Remake For Warner Bros.

Mike Futter — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 17:49:36 GMT

Irrational Games' Ken Levine is returning to his roots. No, that doesn't mean we're getting another System Shock. Levine, who started out as a film writer, will be penning the script for Warner Bros.' Logan's Run remake.

The original, released in 1976 and directed by Michael Anderson, was based on a book of the same name by William F. Nolan and George Clayton. While the details differ, both feature societies in which citizens are voluntarily executed for the good of the community upon reaching a certain age. Interestingly, Logan's Run is known in part for its unique setting, a domed city. Levine's experience with the unique backdrops of Rapture and Columbia make this a perfect match.

According to a Deadline report, Levine isn't abandoning the video game industry. He's just taking a little break.

Irrational's most recent title, Bioshock Infinite. The title, which met delays and creative departures, finally arrived in March 2013 to significant critical and commercial success. We've reached out to both Levine and 2K Games for comment and details.

[Source: Deadline]

More Layoffs At EA, This Time Analysts And Internal Reviewers

Mike Futter — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 17:05:00 GMT

Game Informer has received word that EA has orchestrated another round of layoffs. This time, the company made cuts to its internal analysis and reviews team.

This staff in this group are responsible for studying Metacritic trends and offering up critical response before titles get in the hands of journalists. This allows EA (and other publishers that employ similar departments), to get a feel for sales and reception before the titles arrive on store shelves.

First word came from now-former employee Kat Bailey, a games research analyst according to her LinkedIn profile.

@atweetingtwit Whole department just got cut. :(
— Kat Bailey (@The_Katbot) June 18, 2013

It's unknown how many people were included in the department Bailey refers to or how many were let go. These additional cuts follow the publisher's most recent financial earnings call, during which it was hinted that the full extent of planned layoffs had not yet been realized. EA decline to comment on the matter.

Gears of War: Judgment Lost Relics DLC Out Today For VIP Members

Mike Futter — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 16:35:00 GMT

If you've been itching to rev up your lancer, but have grown tired of the existing Gears of War: Judgment maps, perhaps today's new DLC will lure you back in. Epic Games has announced that today's new expansion, titled Lost Relics, brings four new maps, one new mode, and new character and weapon skins.

Three of the maps (returning arena Checkout and the new Lost City and Museum battlegrounds) are playable across most modes. The last, Ward, is exclusively designed for Overrun.

The new mode, Breakthrough, is an asymmetrical game type. The offense is tasked with carrying a flag to a goal point. The defense is responsible for making sure that doesn't happen. To make matters more complicated, the offense has a limited life pool, while the defense knows no such barriers.

Those who purchased the VIP pass can get in on the action today. Lost Relics joins the Call to Arms map pack, rounding out the content included with the VIP Pass. If you're looking to buy this DLC pack a la carte, you'll be able to do so next week for 1,000 Microsoft points ($12.50).

Volition May Invite Modders To Play In The Saints Row Sandbox

Mike Futter — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 15:33:00 GMT

One of the things that continues to tug console gamers toward gaming PCs is the openness of the platform. Sure, there are titles like Minecraft and Far Cry 3 that allow basic customization, but if you've ever seen the useful, absurd, or gorgeous mods that fill Skyrim's section of the Steam Workshop, you know there's so much more out there.

Volition is the latest developer to build a bridge between casual modders and the games they love. A Volition staff member by the name of Mike W. has chimed in on the SaintsRowModders.com forums to share the company's intention to support the Saints Row community moving forward.

Other members of the team have followed suit, answering questions in order to help set expectations and guide users. Mike W. (who goes by the forum name "Knobby") has indicated that Volition will release as much as possible, though some tools rely on internal systems and won't work in the wild.

Even then, the team is trying to figure out how to adapt those elements for distribution. Volition seems to be doing everything in its power to support the Saints Row faithful, even taking limited personal time during the lead up to Saints Row IV (which is out in only two months).

From a business perspective, a vibrant modding community enhances the trailing sales of a title by increasing the value of the purchase over time. As more user content is created, the life of the game gets longer. Additionally, strong relationships with the modding community complements an already tight rapport with average players.

That said, Saints Row is already an absurd experience. How are modders going to top running around as a cyber toilet bowl?

Thanks to Dan for the tip.

[Source: SaintsRowMods (1), (2)]

Call Of Duty: Black Ops II's Next DLC Could Be Called Vengeance

Matthew Kato — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 14:34:00 GMT

Update: It's true! The next Black Ops II DLC is called Vengeance and we have the details.

Original Story:

Two down, and two to go in Call of Duty: Black Ops II's DLC offerings. According to supposedly leaked promotional materials for the game, the third DLC installment is called Vengeance and features four new multiplayer maps.

COD Online has posted a YouTube video from user alextheend5 which shows the materials, which list the four maps: Cove, Rush, Uplink, and Detour. Vengeance will also reportedly contain a zombie map called Buried with the Ray Gun Mark II.

The materials and user appear to be from Germany. Regardless, Activision has a habit of letting its COD: Black Ops II promo materials getting into people's hands early.

[Source: alextheend5 via COD Online via GameSpot]