https://www.gameinformer.com/ From the latest company acquisition to exciting game reveals and announcements, Game Informer covers the latest, breaking news in the industry. en https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/07/26/mortal-kombat-1-khaos-reigns-story-dlc-arrives-in-september-new-guest-fighters-and <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/26/390a94e0/mortal_kombat_1_khaos_reigns_official_announcement_trailer_thumbnail.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Mortal Kombat 1: Khaos Reigns" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Mortal Kombat 1’s much-anticipated story expansion has been revealed, and it’s called Khaos Reigns. It unfolds after the events of the story campaign and centers on the invasion of Titan Havik from an alternate reality, who seeks to spread anarchy across all timelines.</p> <p>The expansion's cinematic story introduces new playable characters, Noob Saibot and the now female Sektor and Cyrax. These three fighters make up half of Kombat Pack 2 and will be available when the DLC launches on September 24. </p> <p>In keeping with the tradition of prior games, the second half of Kombat Pack 2 features guest fighters from various films. <em>Scream</em>’s Ghostface, <em>Terminator 2</em>’s T-1000, and Conan the Barbarian are on the way, but there’s no release window for their arrival. Kombat Pack 2 comes included with Khaos Reigns and cannot be purchased as a standalone character bundle. </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PF7nFD80g3M" width="640"></iframe> <p>Animalities are making their return as a free content update upon Khaos Reigns’ release. First introduced in Mortal Kombat 3, these beastial finishing moves see fighters morph into animals to eviscerate opponents. The trailer reveals Mileena can turn into a giant, horrifying praying mantis, for example, and a press release states every playable fighter will have an Animality (which would include the movie-born guest fighters for an interesting thought). </p> <p>Speaking of free content, today, owners will receive the MK95 Scorpion skin modeled after his appearance in the live-action 1995 Mortal Kombat film. </p> <p>Khaos Reigns launches digitally on September 24 for all platforms MK1 is available on. It will run for $49.99 on every platform except for Switch, where it costs $39.99. You can read our review of the base game <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/mortal-kombat-1/gory-glory">here</a>.</p> Fri, 26 Jul 2024 18:18:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 123147 https://www.gameinformer.com/gamer-culture/2024/07/26/netflixs-bioshock-film-now-has-a-smaller-scope-due-to-budget-cuts <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/17/12f65c45/bioshock-2k-remastered-remake-new-franchise-iteration.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Bioshock film Netflix " typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Netflix’s upcoming film adaptation of Bioshock is still happening, but it won’t be as grand as originally planned. During a panel at the San Diego Comic-Con yesterday, the film’s director and producer revealed the movie now has a reduced scope due to budget cuts.</p> <p>As reported by <em><a href="https://variety.com/2024/film/news/bioshock-movie-scaled-down-netflix-more-personal-1236085711/">Variety</a></em>, producer Roy Lee (<em>Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire</em>, <em>The Lego Movie</em>) revealed during Collider’s Producers on Producers panel that since the film’s <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2022/02/15/netflix-partnering-with-take-two-on-a-bioshock-film">announcement</a> in February 2022, a regime change at Netflix has affected the project. Netflix’s film chief at that time, Scott Stuber, has since been replaced by Dan Lin. While Stuber emphasized large spending for an expansive film slate, Lin has scaled back to a more modest strategy. This means the Bioshock film’s budget has been reduced, with director Francis Lawrence (<em>I Am Legend</em>, <em>The Hunger Games: Catching Fire</em>) stating its been reworked as a “more personal film”. </p> <p>“The new regime has lowered the budgets,” Roy Lee said. “So we’re doing a much smaller version. … It’s going to be a more personal point of view, as opposed to a grander, big project.”</p> <p>A partnership between Netflix, Bioshock publisher Take-Two Interactive, and Vertigo Entertainment is bringing the Bioshock film to life. In addition to Lawrence and Lee serving as director and producer, respectively, Michael Green (<em>Loga</em>, <em>Blade Runner 2049</em>, <em>American Gods</em>) was announced as its writer in <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/gamer-culture/2022/08/25/netflix-has-found-a-director-and-writer-for-its-bioshock-movie">August 2022</a>.</p> <p>[<em>Source: <a href="https://variety.com/2024/film/news/bioshock-movie-scaled-down-netflix-more-personal-1236085711/">Variety</a></em>]</p> Fri, 26 Jul 2024 11:01:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 123146 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/07/26/fall-in-love-with-sexy-household-objects-in-date-everything <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/26/456ca0e3/dateeverythingmagicals_fridge.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Date Everything trailer" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>In Date Everything, those looking for romance don’t need to look any further than their refrigerator, smoke alarm, or dining room table. That’s because this wacky sandbox dating sim by developer Sassy Chap is all about forming relationships with everyday household objects that, it turns out, are actually pretty hot.</p> <p>The game bestows players with special “Dateviator” glasses that allow them to speak with objects and see them in their true, absurdly attractive forms. Dozens of objects await your affection – even elements like air and water can be courted – and branching dialogue can lead to three relationship resolutions for each character (Love, Friend, Hate). Whatever you decide will be reflected in the ever-changing 3D overworld that is your house. </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dlxxzmOXRf0" width="640"></iframe> <p>Date Everything boasts over 100 voiced characters played by performers that include Felicia Day (<em>Critical Role</em>, <em>Supernatural</em>), Johnny Yong Bosch (<em>Mighty Morphin Power Rangers</em>, <em>Bleach</em>), and Grey DeLisle (<em>Scooby-Doo, Avatar: The Last Airbender</em>). Given the huge amount of speaking roles, Date Everything boasts 1.2 million words and 70,000 voiced lines. </p> <p>Date Everything looks delightfully silly, but it unfortunately doesn’t have a release window. It will be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch, and PC.</p> Fri, 26 Jul 2024 09:15:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 123145 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/07/25/dragon-age-the-veilguard-is-verified-for-steam-deck <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/19/ec9d7d09/bellara_lutara_3.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Dragon Age: The Veilguard Steam Deck" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Dragon Age: The Veilguard is one of the year’s biggest RPGs, and now players will be able to take it on the go. BioWare has updated the game’s <a href="https://store.steampowered.com/app/1845910/Dragon_Age_The_Veilguard/">Steam page</a> to confirm it’s been verified for Steam Deck.</p> <blockquote class="tw-align-center twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">We're making great progress towards our fall launch date, and can confirm early that <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DragonAge?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DragonAge</a>: The Veilguard is going all-in on <a href="https://twitter.com/Steam?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Steam</a> features!<br /> ⚔️We're verified on Steam Deck.<br /> ⚔️We'll be Steam native - meaning the EA App will not be required to play the game.<br /> <br /> Details on…</p> — Dragon Age (@dragonage) <a href="https://twitter.com/dragonage/status/1816511768044163410?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2024</a></blockquote> <p>As spotted by <a href="https://x.com/Hrungry/status/1816450818658500668">Hrungr on X</a>, this means that The Veilguard will be fully functional on Valve’s handheld, which has not been confirmed until now. Consider this a quick PSA for PC players who enjoy playing their role-playing games on the small(ish) screen. </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_-MRprT3Fnk" width="640"></iframe> <p>To learn more about Dragon Age: The Veilguard, you can catch up on a bevy of exclusive in-depth previews about the game from our last cover story by visiting this <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/DragonAgeTheVeilguard">hub</a>.</p> Thu, 25 Jul 2024 11:12:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 123141 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/07/25/stalker-2-heart-of-chornobyl-hit-with-another-delay-now-launching-in-november <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/06/09/3fd449fa/stalker1.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Stalker 2 delayed to November 20" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl has suffered yet another delay. The long-awaited post-apocalyptic shooter was slated to arrive on September 5 but will now launch on November 20 to give developer GSC Game World more time to address technical issues.</p> <p>Additionally, the studio announced it will release its first-ever Developer Deep Dive video to give a comprehensive behind-the-scenes look at the game. The video will feature new gameplay footage, overviews of its world and locations, a full walkthrough of a story quest, and developer interviews. It is being made in collaboration with Xbox and will premiere on August 12. </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vxeGyXSM5Pc" width="640"></iframe> <p>The delay marks another bump in the road for S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl. It was <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/xbox-games-showcase/2020/07/23/stalker-2-is-coming-to-xbox-series-x">formally unveiled in 2020</a> after years of teases at the Xbox Games Showcase but has hit snags along the way, including garnering backlash for now-canceled <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2021/12/15/stalker-2-developer-announces-auction-for-metahuman-nft-that-will-appear-as-in-game-npc">plans for NFT implementation</a>. The biggest disruption was <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2022/03/03/gsc-game-world-puts-stalker-2-development-on-sidelines-amidst-ongoing-ukraine-conflict">Russia’s invasion of Ukraine</a>, where GSC Game World is based, which upended development and forced the staff to relocate to Prague, Czech Republic (though some team members actively fought and <a href="https://gamerant.com/stalker-developer-killed-ukraine-vladimir-fresh-yezhov/">sadly perished </a>in the war). Despite all of this, the game has managed to come together, and we even played it during <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/sgf-2024/2024/06/09/the-coolest-games-we-played-at-summer-game-fest-2024-and-more">Summer Game Fest</a> this year.</p> <p>S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl launches on November 20 for Xbox Series X/S and PC. It will launch day one on Xbox Game Pass. If nothing else, this delay gives players more time to catch up with the <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/xbox-partner-preview/2024/03/06/original-stalker-legends-of-the-zone-trilogy-is-available-on-xbox">Xbox re-release of the original games</a> that arrived earlier this year. </p> Thu, 25 Jul 2024 09:06:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 123140 https://www.gameinformer.com/gamer-culture/2024/07/24/heres-the-final-trailer-for-borderlands-ahead-of-its-premiere <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/24/6d942371/brdrlnds-dom-1sht.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Borderlands movie final trailer" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>We’re not far off from the August 9 premiere of <em>Borderlands</em>, and Lionsgate is giving the final hard sell for the upcoming adaptation in the form of a new trailer.</p> <p>Like the first game, <em>Borderlands</em> centers on a group of gun-toting Vault hunters searching for treasure on the planet Pandora. They also get roped up to save a mysterious girl who holds the key to a great power. If you’re still not sure what to make of the film after watching its <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/gamer-culture/2024/02/21/the-borderlands-movies-first-trailer-looks-as-ridiculous-as-the-games">first trailer</a>, hopefully, this last preview will help you decide whether or not you’ll be making the trip to theaters in a couple of weeks to see it. </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Icnysn53neU" width="640"></iframe> <p><em>Borderlands</em> is directed by Eli Roth and stars Cate Blanchett (Lilith), Kevin Hart (Roland), Arianna Greenblatt (Tiny Tina), Jack Black (Claptrap), Edgar Ramírez (Atlas), Florian Munteanu (Krieg), Gina Gershon (Moxxi), and Jamie Lee Curtis (Tannis).</p> Wed, 24 Jul 2024 12:52:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 123136 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/07/24/warner-bros-games-acquires-multiversus-developer <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/24/74dbae80/mutliversus_batman_shaggy.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Warner Bros. Game Acquires Player First Games" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Warner Bros. Games has acquired Player First Games, the developer of its cross-over platform fighter MultiVersus. The price of the sale was not disclosed, but according to a <a href="https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240722944100/en/Warner-Bros.-Games-Acquires-Player-First-Games">press release</a>, Player First Games will continue to operate under its current leadership of co-founders <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/interview/2022/05/30/an-interview-with-multiversus-director-tony-huynh">Tony Huynh</a> and Chris White. </p> <p>The announcement comes only a couple of months after MultiVersus' <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/03/11/multiversus-is-back-in-action-this-may" target="_blank">relaunch</a> on May 28. Player First Games served as a work-for-hire studio on the game, and Warner Bros. is apparently pleased enough with its performance to formally bring the studio in-house. The move comes only a few days after Warner Bros. <a href="https://www.ign.com/articles/mortal-kombat-mobile-game-to-shut-down-a-year-after-launch-as-developer-netherrealm-suffers-layoffs">shuttered the entire mobile division</a> of Mortal Kombat developer Netherrealm Studios. </p> <p>“We have worked with Player First Games over several years to create and launch MultiVersus, and we are very pleased to welcome this talented team to Warner Bros. Games,” said David Haddad, president of Warner Bros. Games. “The bright and creative team at Player First Games adds to our extensive development capabilities.”</p> <p>“Our team is excited to join the Warner Bros. Games family, and we feel that this will be great for MultiVersus overall,” Huynh said. “We are working to make the MultiVersus game experience the best it can be and having our development team integrated with the publisher is optimum for the players.”</p> <p>MultiVersus is a 2v2 spin on the Super Smash Bros. blueprint that pits a variety of characters from different Warner Bros. properties against each other. It was first launched in open beta in 2022 (read our review of that version <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/multiversus/packing-a-punch">here</a>), then taken down months later to be rebuilt and expanded before returning this year. MultiVersus recently kicked off its second content season, and it has received new fighters such as <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/13/check-out-the-jokers-multiversus-gameplay-and-the-batman-who-laughs-alternate-costume">The Joker</a>, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/20/multiversus-launch-trailer-reveals-jason-voorhees-and-the-matrixs-agent-smith">Agent Smith</a>, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/23/jason-voorhees-gets-a-dedicated-multiversus-trailer">Jason Voorhees</a>, and the recently announced <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/07/22/samurai-jack-and-beetlejuice-are-headed-to-multiversus">Samurai Jack and Beetlejuice</a>.</p> Wed, 24 Jul 2024 12:10:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 123135 https://www.gameinformer.com/exclusive/2024/07/24/the-casting-of-frank-stone-welcome-to-cedar-hills-exclusive-behind-the-scenes <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/23/cacd8c33/tcofs_bts2_tn.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="The Casting of Frank Stone behind the scenes video" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>The Casting of Frank Stone is <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/cover-reveal/2024/07/23/cover-reveal-the-casting-of-frank-stone"><em>Game Informer</em>’s latest cover story</a>, and we can exclusively premiere a new behind-the-scenes video peeling back the curtain on the game's development. </p> <p>In this video, you’ll learn more about the game’s setting of Cedar Hills from Supermassive Games' creative team. You'll also see the tools and technology used to bring this deceptively quaint town to life. </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_m7li889gqM" width="640"></iframe> <p>The Casting of Frank Stone launches on September 3 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. Be sure to visit our cover story hub for more exclusive stories and videos by clicking the banner below.</p> Wed, 24 Jul 2024 10:00:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 123131 https://www.gameinformer.com/exclusive/2024/07/24/heres-your-first-look-at-dark-horses-upcoming-the-art-of-dragon-age-the <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/19/5b74fe5a/dragon_age_header.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Dragon Age: The Veilguard Art Book Dark Horse Comics" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p><em>Game Informer </em>can exclusively reveal Dark Horse's upcoming art book for BioWare's <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/DragonAgeTheVeilguard">Dragon Age: The Veilguard</a>, aptly titled "The Art Of Dragon Age: The Veilguard." Additional details about the book, including a price and release date, will arrive at a later time.</p> <p>However, with today's news that such an art book is in the works, we have your first look at it, with its cover image below: </p> <a class="linkoriginal" data-featherlight="image" href=""> <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/2024/07/19/544b13fb/dragon_age_art_cover.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt="" /> </a> <p>Coming from Dark Horse Comics, a publication company responsible for all kinds of video game related books and comics, including a similar art book for 2014's Dragon Age: Inquisition, "The Art of Dragon Age: The Veilguard" will likely feature official game art, concept art, and more. That's just a guess for now, though – we'll have to wait to learn more. </p> <p>In the meantime, <a href="https://subscription.gameinformer.com/">Dragon Age: The Veilguard graced the cover of our last </a><em><a href="https://subscription.gameinformer.com/">Game Informer</a> </em>issue. <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/cover-reveal/2024/06/09/cover-reveal-dragon-age-the-veilguard">You can check that out here</a>, and in case you missed it, <em>Game Informer </em>has an entire <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/DragonAgeTheVeilguard">hub</a> full of exclusive details about the game from our visit to BioWare earlier this year. There, you'll find deep dives into companions, behind-the-scenes features, interviews with some of the leads of Dragon Age: The Veilguard, and much more. Head there by clicking the banner below. </p> Wed, 24 Jul 2024 08:00:00 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 123117 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/07/23/helldivers-2s-biggest-content-update-yet-escalation-of-freedom-arrives-in-august <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/23/f6486ae3/helldivers2eofart.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Helldivers 2 Escalation of Freedom" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Helldivers 2 has been one of 2024’s biggest successes, and developer Arrow Head Games is prepping to launch its most substantial update yet. Escalation of Freedom is an upcoming update that adds new missions, new hazards, and, of course, new bugs.</p> <p>Arriving on August 6, Escalation of Freedom challenges players with a new level 10 difficulty and introduces new mission objectives, such as locating and extracting a crying larva that attracts Terminids. The game also receives new, larger fortress-like outposts for players to capture. The swamp biome gets a spookier facelift, and acid storms can now reduce the armor for players and enemies so both sides take greater damage. New Terminids and Automatons will clash with players, and Arrow Head Games teases that Escalation of Freedom features more surprises players will have to discover on their own. Check out the trailer for a look at what's to come. </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pQl2BmhSCsA" width="640"></iframe> <p>Escalation of Freedom also brings quality-of-life improvements including an update to address grief kicking. Per the <a href="https://blog.playstation.com/2024/07/23/helldivers-2s-biggest-update-yet-escalation-of-freedom-drops-august-6/">PlayStation Blog</a>, the game is getting "a system where if a player is kicked, they will spawn into a new session as the host with all of the team’s loot from their previous session. All items can now be picked up by the player before extraction. The squad doing the kicking will see a message in the chat widget that a player has been kicked, yet their loot remains unchanged."</p> <p>For more on Helldivers 2, check out <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/helldivers-2/bullet-heaven">our review</a>.</p> Tue, 23 Jul 2024 13:27:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 123132 https://www.gameinformer.com/digital-issue/2024/07/23/the-casting-of-frank-stone-digital-issue-is-now-live <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/24/ed50847d/the-casting-of-frank-stone-portal.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="The Casting of Frank Stone Game Informer cover story" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>If you subscribe to the digital edition of Game Informer, you can now read all about our trip to learn about The Casting of Frank Stone from the universe of Dead by Daylight! Following <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/cover-reveal/2024/07/23/cover-reveal-the-casting-of-frank-stone">the cover reveal</a> our digital issue is now live on <a href="http://www.gameinformer.com/magazine" target="_blank">web browsers</a>, <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/game-informer/id526096699?mt=8" target="_blank">iPad/iPhone</a>, and <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.gameinformer.tablet&hl=en_US" target="_blank">Android devices</a>.</p> <p>Alongside our 10-page The Casting of Frank Stone cover story, you will also find a six-page feature on the development and success of Dead by Daylight, a deep dive into how the Splatoon 3 community developed a speedrun for the game's latest DLC, an in-depth retrospective on the creation of Vampire Survivors with its creator, six pages on Visions of Mana, a look at the success of publisher Devolver Digital on its anniversary, and lots more! We've also got previews for Avowed, Lego Horizon Adventures, Monster Hunter Wilds, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom, Infinity Nikki, and reviews for Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree, Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail, Destiny 2: The Final Shape, Still Wakes the Deep, Super Monkey Ball Banana Rumble, Nintendo World Championship: NES Edition, and much more!</p> <p>If you love print as much as we do, you can subscribe to the <em>physical</em> magazine:</p> <p style="text-align:center;"><a class="button-subscribe" href="https://subscription.gameinformer.com" target="_blank">Subscribe Now</a></p> <p>You get 10 issues for $19.91, or two years and 20 issues for $34.99. Individual issues are also now available <a href="https://www.gamestop.com/search/?q=gi+magazine&lang=default" target="_blank">for purchase at this link</a> or in any GameStop store.</p> <p>You can download the apps to read the issue <a href="http://www.gameinformer.com/magazine" target="_blank">by following this link</a>.</p> Tue, 23 Jul 2024 12:50:00 CDT Kyle Hilliard 123104 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/07/23/call-of-duty-modern-warfare-iii-comes-to-xbox-game-pass-tomorrow <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2023/11/13/b1735c88/ss_d211e5ca254c63c734d38ee674418ed27ca86d8b.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III Xbox Game Pass" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Last year's Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III will be available on Xbox Game Pass tomorrow, July 24. This marks the next big Activision Blizzard title to join the service. </p> <p>The move comes less than a year after Modern Warfare III launched last November and represents the fruit of Microsoft's $69 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard last year. It’s also the biggest AB title to appear on Game Pass since <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/03/19/marchs-xbox-game-pass-line-up-has-diablo-iv-and-cars-galore">Diablo IV was added to the library</a> in March.</p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/azOmcIVpj6Y" width="640"></iframe> <p>This gives subscribers a chance to check out last year’s entry before 2024’s installment, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/preview/2024/06/09/hoping-to-sprint-in-the-right-direction">Call of Duty: Black Ops 6</a>, launches on Game Pass on October 25. It also comes ahead of the new <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/07/10/price-increases-and-new-tiers-are-coming-to-xbox-game-pass">Game Pass price increases and subscription tier</a> arriving in September, a move the FTC <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/07/19/the-ftc-pushes-back-against-xbox-game-pass-price-increases">has taken issue with</a>.   </p> <p>You can read our review of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/call-of-duty-modern-warfare-iii/not-so-special-ops">here</a>.</p> Tue, 23 Jul 2024 12:02:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 123130 https://www.gameinformer.com/exclusive/2024/07/22/everything-we-know-about-dragon-age-the-veilguards-bellara-lutare <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/19/615a5542/bellara_lutara_2.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Dragon Age: The Veilguard Bellara Lutara Deep Dive elven Mage Dalish Game Informer" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>We've reached the end of <em>Game Informer's</em> Dragon Age: The Veilguard cover story coverage as we prepare to launch our next exciting issue. But I still have this one last feature to publish, and it's about Bellara Lutare, the Dalish elf and member of the new Veil Jumpers faction in the game. During my visit to BioWare's Edmonton, Canada, office earlier this year, I checked out <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/exclusive/2024/06/27/a-deep-dive-into-dragon-age-the-veilguards-expansive-character-creator">the game's expansive character creator</a>, its in medias res prologue, and the first mission after said prologue.</p> <p>Though BioWare released a big look at Veilguard's prologue via a <a href="https://youtu.be/CTNwHShylIg?si=tvYCaZjeSa-qkIRQ">20-minute gameplay trailer</a> last month, they haven't released much about that subsequent mission, where you meet and recruit your first companion, Bellara. I learned a lot about this character, and knowing I was one of the first outside of the studio to see the mission where you meet her, I spent a chunk of my interviews with the team's leads talking about Bellara. So, for my final feature on Dragon Age: The Veilguard, here's everything I learned about this quirky elven mage. </p> <h2>Everything We Learned About Bellara Lutara In Dragon Age: The Veilguard</h2> <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/06/15/82be02a5/bellara.jpg" alt="Dragon Age: The Veilguard Dreadwolf Game Informer Cover Story" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /> <p>In talking with BioWare's various leads, like game director Corinne Bushce, creative director John Epler (who is personally responsible for writing Bellara and leading her development), and BioWare general manager Gary McKay, it's clear the team has a deep love for this character. She's energetic, effervescent, and academic, and as a companion for combat, she's a character I’m pretty excited to use in my party. </p> <p>"I love Bellara, I think she's fantastic," McKay tells me. "I see people that I know in her and so that's how she really resonates with me. I love the whole tinkerer aspect to her. It was a collective to bring that character to life. It was everything from the writers, to the editors, the animators, to character modelers, to the texturing, to how we light her. I'm really proud of that character." </p> <h3>Bellara In Combat</h3> <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/19/ec9d7d09/bellara_lutara_3.jpg" alt="Dragon Age: The Veilguard Dreadwolf Game Informer Cover Story" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /> <p>When I ask Busche about Bellara, she gives me some insight into what I can expect of the mage on the battlefield. And Bellara sounds like an excellent choice for both support and elemental combos. </p> <p>"Oh my goodness, she is amazing," Busche says. "So, first of all, she is a mage. She is an explorer of ancient Elven ruins. She is an elf herself and a member of the Veil Jumpers faction. They investigate the ancient ruins of Arlathan. Everything about her character as a mage leans into that, but she also challenges the kind of archetypal idea of a mage." </p> <p>She does that by attacking with a bow at range using electrically charged arrows. But she's also casting spells that slow down time or heal allies and Rook. She does that by channeling magical energy into her gauntlet. Busche says she starts as a support character in combat, thanks to her healing spells, but notes players don't have to build her out that way. She also leans into electrical damage, and "damage type really matters a lot when we get into the strategy and tactics," Busche says. </p> <p>"You can spec her out in a way where she's unleashing this devastating vortex that pulls in all enemies into an electrical storm. Maybe then we unleash our own [area of effect attack] with all the enemies clumped together," Busche adds. "She can debuff all the enemies with the shocked affliction, where they're taking passive damage. I mentioned she can slow time, she can heal. She is one of the characters that you can build out [to have her] healing spells heal you autonomously, so if you're the kind of player that likes to be on the frontlines [...] Bellara might just be the perfect companion for you." </p> <h3>Bellara's Place In The World</h3> <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/19/596b2f34/bellara_in_arlathan.jpg" alt="Dragon Age: The Veilguard Dreadwolf Game Informer Cover Story" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /> <p>Epler, who writes Bellara, tells me about her place in Thedas as an elf and the connection elves have to the magic of the world. He says if you've paid attention to the franchise, you likely already know that elves are historically an oppressed people in the games. Now, with two of their gods on the loose in Veilguard, magic has poured back into the world in a big way. </p> <p>"She represents the Veil Jumpers," Epler explains. "Now, the Veil Jumpers are a faction that's appeared in the comics before, but otherwise, this is the first time it's appeared in the games, and they are the ones journeying through Arlathan, where the ancient elven empire used to exist and left a lot of artifacts when it disappeared. When the elves fell from immortality thousands of years ago, they still left a lot of their artifacts and a lot of their, for lack of a better term, magical technology behind, and Bellara represents this yearning to find the truth of who the elves were because not only did they lose their magic and their immortality, they lost a lot of their history. </p> <p>"A lot of what they know of their past is based on myth, it's based on rumor. Bellara is a knowledge seeker. She wants to find out what's true, what's not; she wants to find the pieces of who the elves used to be and really understand what their story was, where they came from, as well as figure out where they're going next, and find a future for the elves. And within the context of The Veilguard, she joins the team, first of all, to help stop the gods because Bellara feels at least partially responsible since they are elven gods, but also to maybe find a little bit more of who they used to be. Because again, you're dealing with these elves that were around millennia ago that have now reemerged into the world, and who better to teach her who the elves used to be than them."</p> <h3>A Quick Detour: Magic</h3> During my discussion, Epler spoke about magic's place in the world and how it differs in Veilguard from previous Dragon Age games. Here's what he said: "Historically, as you've mentioned, we've been in the south of Thedas and south Thedas is Ferelden, Orlais. Both are fairly still oppressed, they still have circles. Mages are viewed with suspicion, but Tevinter has always been this land where mages rule, mages are in charge, mages make the rules, mages run the show. So what does that look like? And as we've gone through [Dragon Age: Origins, Dragon Age II, Dragon Age: Inquisition], magic has become more and more present. And part of that is because Solas has been slowly preparing this ritual for longer than anyone in the Dragon Age universe is really aware of, but also, just going into the spaces where magic is, by definition and by the lore, much, much more present. And it's been fun because, again, we do have rules; we want to make sure we're not violating the lore or violating things we've said before. But it's also, again, that permissiveness of, 'Okay, what is the most interesting way to do this? What's the most interesting way to tell the story? [In] Origins, II, on the Eclipse engine, we could talk about this fantastical magic, but the engine didn't really allow us to show it. For the first time, we're really able to let the visuals speak for themselves and not have to tell the player, 'Trust us, it's spectacular; this magic is really cool.' We can actually show you and let you drink it in." <p>For one of my last questions to Epler, I was curious about the contrast between Bellara, an elven mage who is optimistic and bubbly, and Solas, a determined and tragic character. He indicated there might be more to Bellara than meets the eye. </p> <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/06/14/c105380b/solas.jpg" alt="Dragon Age: The Veilguard Dreadwolf Game Informer Cover Story" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /> <p>"Solas sees himself as the tragic hero," Epler says. "He's not capable of really being happy, he can't let himself be happy, partially because he carries the guilt of what he did bringing the Veil, doing what he did to the world. Whereas Bellara is somebody who has seen tragedy, and as you get into her character arc and get into her backstory, you realize this is a character who has seen a lot of tragedy. But that tragedy, instead of wallowing in it, she's forced herself to push past it. She looks at her regrets, and she tells herself, 'I don't want to feel regret.'</p> <p>"Whereas again, Solas tends to wallow in his to a large degree. And it allows us to create a very big differentiation. Part of it is also because Solas is an ancient elf, whereas Bellara is a Dalish elf, but she just sees a problem and wants to solve it. She feels a tremendous amount of responsibility to her people [...] to the Dalish, and to the Veil Jumpers, and that drives her forward. That said, she does have her moments where she has doubt, she has moments where she has a more grim outlook, and there are moments where you realize that some of her sunny, optimistic outlook is kind of a mask that she puts on to hide the fact that she's hurting, she's in pain. But in general, she doesn't see any benefit to wallowing in those regrets."</p> <p>We learned today that Bellara will be voiced by Jee Young Han, known for her roles in <em>Perry Mason,</em> <em>Unprisoned,</em> and as Sentinel Dax in a previous Bioware game, Anthem. To see the rest of the cast, along with Rook's four voice options, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/07/22/heres-the-main-voice-cast-for-dragon-age-the-veilguard">click here</a>.</p> <p>[Editor’s Note: This article has been updated to reflect that Bellara’s last name is Lutare, not Lutara as it previously incorrectly stated]</p> <p><em>For more about the game, including exclusive details, interviews, video features, and more, click the Dragon Age: The Veilguard hub button below.</em></p> Mon, 22 Jul 2024 14:00:00 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 123119 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/07/22/samurai-jack-and-beetlejuice-are-headed-to-multiversus <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/22/41648185/multiversus_season_2_art_crop.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="MultiVersus Samurai Jack Beetlejuice" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>MultiVersus has two new fighters on the way in the form of Jack from Cartoon Network/Adult Swim's beloved animated series <em>Samurai Jack</em> and Beetlejuice of, well, <em>Beetlejuice</em> and its upcoming sequel (don’t make me write it a third time). The game is also getting a ranked mode.</p> <p>Samurai Jack and Beetlejuice are part of the Season 2: Back in Time content, which kicks off tomorrow, July 23. Jack becomes available at launch, letting players cut down opponents using his signature katana (as you can see in the trailer below). Beetlejuice arrives later in the season at an unknown date, so we don't get to see him in action just yet. However, Warner Bros. confirms he’ll become playable before the September 6 theatrical premiere of <em>Beetlejuice Beetlejuice</em>. </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/j5AtpYPz2Ic" width="640"></iframe> <p>Season 2 also introduces a new ranked mode, allowing players to battle for leaderboard points to earn exclusive rank-based cosmetics. A new map, the Warner Bros. Water Tower, will also be added.</p> <p>MultiVersus is available now on PlayStation and Xbox consoles as well as PC. Since its return, the game has been bolstered by new fighters such as <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/13/check-out-the-jokers-multiversus-gameplay-and-the-batman-who-laughs-alternate-costume">The Joker</a>, The Matrix's<a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/20/multiversus-launch-trailer-reveals-jason-voorhees-and-the-matrixs-agent-smith"> Agent Smith</a>, and Friday the 13th's <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/23/jason-voorhees-gets-a-dedicated-multiversus-trailer">Jason Voorhees</a>. </p> <p style="margin-left:-16px; margin-right:-8px; margin-bottom:-12px"> </p> Mon, 22 Jul 2024 13:09:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 123127 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/07/22/heres-the-main-voice-cast-for-dragon-age-the-veilguard <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/22/60d6a672/dragon-age-veilguard-companions.jpeg" width="800" height="450" alt="" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>We've spent the past several weeks covering Bioware's upcoming RPG Dragon Age: The Veilguard as part of our cover story, and part of that content has focused on the game's colorful cast of characters. Today, <a href="https://www.ea.com/games/dragon-age/dragon-age-the-veilguard/news/voices-of-the-veilguard">Bioware has revealed the actors voicing this lineup of characters</a>, including the different options for the protagonist Rook's voice. Here they are, alongside roles you might recognize them from:</p> <ul> <li><strong>Rook </strong>will be played by <b>Alex Jordan</b> (Cyberpunk 2077, <em>The Amazing World of Gumball</em>), <b>Bryony Corrigan</b> (Baldur’s Gate 3, <em>Good Omens</em>), <b>Erika Ishii</b> (Apex Legends, Destiny 2), and <b>Jeff Berg</b> (Battlefield 1, <em>NCIS</em>)</li> <li><strong>Harding </strong>will be played by<strong> </strong><b>Ali Hillis</b> (Mass Effect 3, <em>Naruto</em>)</li> <li><strong>Davrin </strong>will be played by <b>Ike Amadi</b> (Mass Effect 3, Halo 5: Guardians, Marvel's Spider-Man)</li> <li><strong>Bellara </strong>will be played by <b>Jee Young Han</b> (<em>Perry Mason</em>, <em>Unprisoned</em>)</li> <li><strong>Neve </strong>will be played by <b>Jessica Clark</b> (<em>True Blood</em>, <em>Pocket Listing</em>)</li> <li><strong>Taash </strong>will be played by <b>Jin Maley</b> (<em>Star Trek: Picard</em>, <em>Silicon Valley</em>)</li> <li><b>Emmrich </b>will be played by <b>Nick Boraine</b> (Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, <em>Black Sails</em>)</li> <li><strong>Manfred </strong>will be played by <b>Matthew Mercer</b> (<em>Critical Role</em>, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth)</li> <li><strong>Lucanis </strong>will be played by <b>Zach Mendez</b> (Horizon Forbidden West, <em>Married Alive</em>)</li> </ul> <p>Finally, Solas and Varric's voice actors, Gareth David-Lloyd and Brian Bloom, respectively, will reprise their roles from Dragon Age Inquisition.</p> <p>For more on the cast of Dragon Age: The Veilguard, check out our features on <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/exclusive/2024/07/15/a-deep-dive-into-biowares-companion-design-philosophy-in-dragon-age-the">Bioware's companion design philosoph</a>y, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/exclusive/2024/07/08/how-romance-and-relationships-work-in-dragon-age-the-veilguard">how companions can romance each other</a>, and <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/exclusive/2024/06/27/a-deep-dive-into-dragon-age-the-veilguards-expansive-character-creator">ways to customize Rook's appearance</a>, outside of their four voice options. Or, feel free to click the link to the hub below.</p> Mon, 22 Jul 2024 11:24:31 CDT Charles Harte 123125 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/07/22/snk-vs-capcom-svc-chaos-comes-to-pc-ps4-and-switch-with-new-features <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/22/009014ec/snkvscapcomsvcchaos1.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="SNK vs. Capcom: SVC Chaos re-release" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Perhaps the most unexpected announcement at EVO 2024 was the reveal that 2003’s SNK vs. Capcom: SVC Chaos is being re-released. Not only does this make it available on modern platforms with new bells and whistles, but you can play it right now. </p> <p>The game was originally launched in 2003 for the Neo Geo arcade before it was ported to PlayStation 2 (in Japan) and Xbox in the U.S. It pits 36 fighters from SNK franchises such as The King of Fighters, Samurai Shodown, and Metal Slug 2 against Capcom fighters from series like Street Fighter, Mega Man, Darkstalkers, and more.</p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/JqjMpn6JrYQ" width="640"></iframe> <p>SVC Chaos now features quality-of-life updates such as a hitbox viewer, rollback netcode for online play, and an art gallery. It also makes formerly secret characters Athena and Red Arremer available from the start. The game's surprise launch on Steam on July 20 followed its reveal, and it comes to PlayStation 4 and Switch today. You can pick it up now for $19.99.</p> Mon, 22 Jul 2024 10:17:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 123124 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/07/22/the-tesla-cybertruck-will-be-added-to-fortnite-tomorrow <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/22/499d9b71/cybertruck-x-fortnite.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>On an almost weekly basis, Fortnite announces new crossover events, adding characters to its Battle Royale, Lego, and Festival modes. Whether it's a fictional character like Jack Sparrow or a real person like Ariana Grande, it's hard to find a corner of pop culture the game hasn't touched. These crossovers, however, are almost always exclusive to characters, but Fortnite players don't always have to traverse the Battle Royale map on foot – there are vehicles as well. Today's crossover comes in the form of a particularly polygonal vehicle: Tesla's Cybertruck.</p> <blockquote class="tw-align-center twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">Pulls ♾️<br /> <br /> Catch a ride in the <a href="https://twitter.com/Tesla?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@tesla</a> Cybertruck in Fortnite tomorrow! <a href="https://t.co/CA8xuYQreS">pic.twitter.com/CA8xuYQreS</a></p> — Fortnite (@FortniteGame) <a href="https://twitter.com/FortniteGame/status/1815386568263110908?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 22, 2024</a></blockquote> <p>For the unfamiliar, the Cybertruck is one of Tesla's latest electric vehicles, a futuristic-looking pickup truck with a distinct shape and stainless steel exterior. It's a vehicle that, quite frankly, always looked like it belonged in a video game, both because of its angular aesthetic and the word "cyber" in its name.</p> <p>It's unclear exactly how the truck will be present in Fortnite, as the trailer doesn't include any actual gameplay, but it's likely a vehicle skin that can be purchased from the in-game store. With car skins attached, whenever a player enters a vehicle, it will morph into the selected skin of their choice, and it's available in Battle Royale and Rocket Racing alike. This is purely speculation, however – it's equally possible the vehicle is introduced in some other limited-time event.</p> <p>The Cybertruck will be added to Fortnite tomorrow. If you drive one, just pray your opposing players <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=udxR5rBq_Vg">aren't wielding a steel ball</a>.</p> <p><em>how do you feel about the Cybertruck being added to Fortnite? what other vehicles would you like to see in the game? Let us know in the comments!</em></p> Mon, 22 Jul 2024 09:58:00 CDT Charles Harte 123122 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/07/22/heihachi-is-back-and-comes-to-tekken-8-this-fall <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/22/6ac2ec5f/tekken-8-heihachi-mishima.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Tekken 8 Heihachi" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Tekken 8’s next Season 1 fighter was revealed during Evo this weekend, and it’s none other than Heihachi Mishima. The mainstay villain has apparently survived his presumed death (again) and is ready to reclaim his throne. </p> <p>A cinematic trailer rolls out the red carpet for Heihachi, setting up his return after he was seemingly killed (i.e., tossed into a volcanic lava river) in Tekken 7. The video doesn’t explain how Heihachi managed not to melt into goop, but he does sport a Kazuya-esque scar on his chest now, so he didn’t walk away completely unscathed. </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QZWDIKKvNrc" width="640"></iframe> <p>Heihachi becomes available sometime this fall. He follows<a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/01/15/eddy-gordo-is-tekken-8s-first-dlc-fighter-opening-cinematic-released"> Eddy Gordo</a> and <a href="http://sobieska">Lidia Sobieska</a>, who joined Tekken 8 in the spring (i.e., July 25) and summer, respectively, leaving one fighter left for the winter season. Owners of Tekken 8’s Deluxe, Ultimate, or Collector's Editions automatically receive these fighters, and each can also be purchased individually for $7.99.</p> <p>For more on Tekken 8, check out our <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/tekken-8/aggressively-absurd">review</a>.</p> Mon, 22 Jul 2024 09:36:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 123121 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/07/19/the-ftc-pushes-back-against-xbox-game-pass-price-increases <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2022/12/27/17de8935/xbox_v_ftc.png" width="800" height="450" alt="Xbox Game Pass FTC" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Last week, Xbox <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/07/10/price-increases-and-new-tiers-are-coming-to-xbox-game-pass">announced</a> it was introducing new Game Pass tiers and raising its subscription prices for existing members on September 12. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) took issue with these changes in a filing yesterday to the US Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit.</p> <p>In case you missed it, Microsoft revealed a new tier called <strong>Xbox Game Pass Standard</strong>, a $15 monthly subscription for new members that excludes day-one releases, EA Play, PC Game Pass, and cloud gaming. <strong>Xbox Game Pass Ultimate</strong>, which includes those perks, will have its monthly price raised from $17 to $20. <strong>Xbox Game Pass Core</strong>, which only offers online play and a smaller library, is raising its yearly sub from $60 to $75 (the $10 monthly fee remains unchanged). <strong>PC Game Pass</strong> is increasing from $10 per month to $12. </p> <p>Additionally, the $10.99 <strong>Game Pass for Console</strong> is no longer be available to new subscribers as of July 10. If existing subscribers fail to renew their membership, they will be permanently locked out of this tier and must subscribe to another, more expensive membership. </p> <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/10/f0177764/xboxgamepass.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt="" class="image-style-body-default" /> <p>In the <a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.ca9.344453/gov.uscourts.ca9.344453.121.0_1.pdf">filing</a>, the FTC blasts Microsoft’s discontinuation of Game Pass for Console, stating that users must pay a substantial price increase (81%) to switch to Game Pass Ultimate. Those unwilling to do so must settle for Game Pass Standard, which the FTC describes as a “degraded product” since it excludes day-one releases. </p> <p>“[Game Pass Standard] costs 36% more than Console Game Pass, and withholds day-one releases," says the FTC in the filing. "Product degradation—removing the most valuable games from Microsoft’s new service—combined with price increases for existing users, is exactly the sort of consumer harm from the merger the FTC has alleged."</p> <p>The FTC was the primary opposition against Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard and sees this move as proof of its concerns over the purchase, stating: </p> <p>“Microsoft’s price increases and product degradation—combined with Microsoft’s reduced investments in output and product quality via employee layoffs[…]—are the hallmarks of a firm exercising market power post-merger.”</p> <p>The FTC goes on to call the price increases "inconsistent" with the case Microsoft made during the <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2023/07/11/microsoft-and-xbox-win-case-against-ftc-to-acquire-activision-blizzard">Xbox FTC trial last year</a>. It states, "Microsoft promised that 'the acquisition would benefit consumers by making [CoD] available on Microsoft’s Game Pass on the day it is released on console (with no price increase for the service based on the acquisition).' Microsoft’s post-merger actions thus vindicate the congressional design of preliminarily halting mergers to fully evaluate their likely competitive effects, and judicial skepticism of promises inconsistent with a firm’s economic incentives."</p> <p>That last portion references <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/06/09/call-of-duty-black-ops-6-release-date-set-for-october" target="_blank">Call of Duty: Black Ops 6</a>'s (the first new entry to release post-acquisition) October 25 launch on Game Pass Ultimate, roughly a month after the subscription tier's price increase. </p> Fri, 19 Jul 2024 12:04:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 123118 https://www.gameinformer.com/gamer-culture/2024/07/19/paramount-cancels-halo-series-after-two-seasons <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/19/b1d71d76/haloseason2.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Halo the series canceled" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Paramount has canceled <em>Halo</em>, the live-action TV adaptation of Xbox’s flagship franchise, after two seasons. The show’s second season premiered on Paramount+ earlier this year. </p> <p>According to <em><a href="https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/halo-canceled-paramount-plus-2-seasons-1235952581/">The Hollywood Reporter</a></em>’s sources, <em>Halo</em> showrunners Amblin, Xbox, and 343 Industries are seeking a new outlet for a potential third season, with Paramount reportedly supporting the move. </p> <p>“Paramount+ can confirm that ‘Halo’ will not move forward with a third season on the service,” Paramount said in a statement. “We are extremely proud of this ambitious series and would like to thank our partners at Xbox, 343 Industries and Amblin Television, along with showrunner and executive producer David Wiener, his fellow executive producers, the entire cast led by Pablo Schreiber as Master Chief and the amazing crew for all their outstanding work. We wish everyone the best going forward.”</p> <p>After years of development, <em>Halo</em> premiered on Paramount+ on March 24, 2022, and stars Pablo Schreiber as Master Chief. Season 1 received a mixed reception from critics and fans, with many lambasting it for deviating from the games’ established lore and characterizations. Season 2, which premiered earlier this year on February 8 and concluded on March 21, was received more positively, with several critics and viewers hailing it as a dramatic improvement. Season 1 currently sits at 70% on Rotten Tomatoes/61 on Metacritic. Season 2 garnered a 90% on Rotten Tomatoes/64 on Metacritic. </p> <p>For our thoughts on <em>Halo</em> Season 1, check out our <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/video-podcast/2022/03/25/halo-series-episode-1-review-unmasking-the-pilots-highs-and-lows">video reviews of each episode</a>. You can also read our February <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/02/05/how-halo-paramount-season-2-hopes-to-feel-more-like-halo">interview with the showrunners</a> about how they planned to make Season 2 feel more faithful to the games. </p> Fri, 19 Jul 2024 08:41:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 123115 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/07/18/forestrike-is-a-puzzle-like-kung-fu-game-by-the-makers-of-olija <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/17/e7516cb0/forestrike_06.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Forestrike video game" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Skeleton Crew, the team behind the 2021 side-scrolling action game <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/olija/olija-review-cast-away-any-doubts">Olija</a>, and Devolver Digital have revealed an intriguing new project: Forestrike. The game sports a unique premise: as a martial artist, you can foresee and simulate future combat encounters, allowing you to perfect your execution before laying a finger on anyone. </p> <p>The fighter battles to free a captive Emperor from an evil Admiral, and doing so involves mastering Foresight, a meditative technique to mentally predict and play out battles before they unfold (for Dragon Ball fans, think of image training). Gameplay-wise, players are pitted against different combinations of enemy types. They use Foresight to play the battle in advance to find the optimal approach to defeating them while taking little to no damage.</p> <p>For example, using Foresight may help you learn to dodge a charging enemy so they trample an ally, then finish him off by lobbing a nearby weapon. Determining the best approach may take several Foresight attempts, but once you have your strategy down, you then execute the battle in real-time. After winning a fight, a replay feature allows you to rewatch it using slow-motion and other editing tools to study your strategy or generally feel cool about your performance. </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZFPzYid2agw" width="640"></iframe> <p>Using the Foresight makes Forestrike's combat feel puzzle-like in its execution, and winning fights as flawlessly as possible matters. That’s because you have limited health to fight through multiple stages in a roguelike-style branching map. Along the way, you’ll earn upgrades that carry over to future runs, as well as perks called Techniques that enhance your abilities. </p> <p>Forestrike is a neat spin on the action genre, and it's slated to launch sometime in 2025 for Switch and PC.</p> <section class='type:slideshow'><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/17/a8028d01/forestrike_04.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/17/a48dc98a/forestrike_01.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/17/2f708e70/forestrike_08.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/17/abb36510/forestrike_09.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/17/b90db34c/forestrike_03.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/17/13c31142/forestrike_02.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/17/553c2db4/forestrike_10.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/17/db37eae3/forestrike_07.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/17/c3211dae/forestrike_05.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/17/e7516cb0/forestrike_06.jpg'></figure></section>   Thu, 18 Jul 2024 20:00:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 123106 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/07/18/splitgate-2-leaps-out-of-a-new-portal-next-year <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/16/b3869989/splitgate2_7.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Splitgate 2" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Splitgate’s combination of Halo-esque first-person shooter with Portal-inspired portal jumping mechanics made it quite the sensation when it launched in open beta in 2021. With its servers regularly buckling under the weight of its players, the game caught lightning in a bottle but petered out when the game finally went 1.0 and <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2022/09/02/splitgate-launching-in-10-but-feature-development-will-cease-to-focus-on-new-project">simultaneously ceased receiving support</a> in 2022. Now, developer 1047 Games is back with Splitgate 2 and aims to refine the original's winning formula. </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8zPMku7q9hU" width="640"></iframe> <p>Like the first game, Splitgate 2 will be a free-to-play 4v4 shooter that arms players with a portal gun and more traditional firearms to battle each other in aerial, dimension-hopping combat. The sequel is being built in Unreal Engine 5 and has a new emphasis on factions. Players can suit up to compete in the Sol Splitgate League as members of one of three groups: the agile Aeros, the time-manipulating Meridian, or the trigger-happy Sabrask. According to a press release, “Factions will grant players the ability to choose and progress based on their preferred gameplay style or competitive strategies.” Splitgate 2 will feature new objective-based game modes across new arenas and upgradable weapons. </p> <p>Additionally, a special Splitgate 2 companion app is available to download now. The app lets players explore the game’s universe through collectibles that unlock in-game rewards when Splitgate 2 launches. It also features quizzes and a new comic series called Splitgate: The Games We Play. The five-issue series will flesh out the backstory of the characters featured in the announcement trailer and additional issues will arrive monthly. </p> <p>Splitgate 2 launches in 2025 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC. Check out the first batch of screenshots below. </p> <section class='type:slideshow'><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/16/52c69b28/splitgate2_1.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/16/e0c9741e/splitgate2_6.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/16/28e3c6bf/splitgate2_5.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/16/ca979bd7/splitgate2_4.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/16/b8119a21/splitgate2_3.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/16/08d9ca57/splitgate2_2.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/16/b3869989/splitgate2_7.jpg'></figure></section>   Thu, 18 Jul 2024 08:00:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 123098 https://www.gameinformer.com/exclusive/2024/07/17/bioware-on-returning-to-the-dragon-age-series-10-years-after-inquisition <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/17/8c7b9766/veilguard.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Dragon Age: The Veilguard Dreadwolf Game Informer Cover Story" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>With 10 years between 2014's Dragon Age: Inquisition, the most recent release in the series, and the upcoming Dragon Age: The Veilguard, the latter has much riding on it. It's both a follow-up to a beloved game from a decade ago in one of BioWare’s most beloved series, and it's the first BioWare game since the launch of 2019's <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/anthem/grinding-gears#:~:text=Anthem%20should%20have%20been%20all,back%20from%20being%20truly%20engrossing.">Anthem</a>, a live-service multiplayer effort <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2021/02/24/anthem-20-canceled-by-bioware">EA sunset less than two years later</a>. </p> <p>Curious about the pressure surrounding the release of Veilguard, I spoke to BioWare about lessons learned from following up on Inquisition and what it's been like returning to this series so many years later. </p> <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/17/406d0311/dragon_age_franchise.jpg" alt="Dragon Age: The Veilguard Dreadwolf Game Informer Cover Story" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /> <p>"We start out in pre-production," BioWare general manager Gary McKay tells me when I ask about BioWare's guiding principle for developing Veilguard. "We spent a lot of time iterating, experimenting, and innovating on different things. At one point, it was multiplayer – we did a hard look at multiplayer, but we felt we really couldn't return to our roots. And when we asked ourselves, 'What is the game that we want to develop,' we really wanted to get back to our roots, which is amazing storytelling. It's about those unforgettable characters. And it's about having the opportunity to influence the world. </p> <p>"And we really felt multiplayer wouldn't do that. But single-player RPG is really where we wanted to spend our time, so after spending that time in pre-production, really honing in on what the vision of this game is, and [being] afforded the opportunity to deliver on the creative promise of this game, [now] we're really excited about what's coming out."</p> <p>McKay says Veilguard blends seasoned veterans with new voices and perspectives, and "that's really important for this game." For example, people like former Dragon Age producer Mark Darrah, who left the studio in 2021 but is now consulting for Veilguard, and creative director John Epler together have decades of experience at BioWare. They work with people like game director Corinne Busche, who joined BioWare shortly after the launch of Anthem (but brings in a love of Dragon Age from the series' 2009 start), every day to develop the game we'll be playing this fall. </p> <section class='type:slideshow'><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/06/15/20b31547/mage_combat.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/06/15/03f6cfed/rogue_combat.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/06/15/61ed6a07/combat_wheel.jpg'></figure></section>   <p>"[You] want to have different perspectives, different backgrounds," McKay says. "If you bring a bunch of people together that have only known one thing, that's not where you see creativity. That's not where innovation comes from. Innovation comes when you have [...] that past history and blend it with some new voices and perspectives." </p> <p>Darrah has been attached to BioWare in some capacity since its early Baldur's Gate days, and when I ask him about the studio's progression from that series to the next Dragon Age, he says it's been amazing. "The thing that is so amazing about Veilguard is this is the game where we finally said out loud that BioWare's greatest strength is telling stories through characters. If you go all the way back to Baldur's Gate 1, Baldur's Gate 2, these games are telling stories through characters, but there wasn't an intentionality behind that. And in this game, we're finally putting that intentionality first and foremost, putting the characters first, building the game around that, around those character moments, which is really the best way that BioWare knows how to tell stories." </p> <p>I ask Darrah if there's anything Veilguard is doing that BioWare wanted to do on previous games but couldn't, and he says, "Storytelling through animation." In previous games, each character moves in "exactly the same way," and everyone is homogenous in that way, he says. "If you put on a suit of armor, and you put it on Alistair, you looked exactly the same standing right beside each other.</p> <p>"Now, we're able to keep the character coming through in the visuals and the motion, even as you're customizing them, which just wasn't possible in the past." </p> <p>He also mentions BioWare's confidence in its game development engine for Veilguard, which, like Inquisition, uses EA's proprietary Frostbite. "Dragon Age: Origins and Dragon Age II were doing what they could with the technology they had; Dragon Age: Inquisition did a good job of using Frostbite respective of the engine," Darrah says. "But with this game, there's a better understanding of the engines over a lot more time, but also, the technology of the hardware that the game is going to be played on moving forward [is] able to do a lot more stuff [and] execute it visually to a degree that just wasn't possible in the past." </p> <h2>On Inquisition</h2> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Y_61F9GBGq4" width="640"></iframe> <p>With 10 years between Inquisition and Veilguard, BioWare has to balance satisfying longtime fans of the series with newcomers jumping in for the first time. Epler says the studio worked hard to ensure Veilguard is respectful and referential to previous games without feeling like you need to have played Inquisition, Dragon Age II, or Origins to fully understand what's going on. </p> <p>"So while there are references, there are moments that we have callbacks, it really is its own story, its own continuation with a different cast, with different characters," he says. "Historically, Dragon Age has always had a different cast per game, so that gives us a lot of freedom in terms of what we want to lean on in the past and what we want to really bring in that’s new and forward-facing." </p> <p>Darrah adds that Veilgaurd's events play out with a storytelling goal for the future of the series. "This is a game which takes the ball that Inquisition had, puts its own spin on it, has its own characters, takes its own direction, but continues the path forward into the future," he says. </p> <p>"Dragon Age has always been about change. Every game has had a new protagonist, and it's been exploring its own space all the time, and this game is no different. [Veilguard] does a good job of bridging that gap. The really super fans of Dragon Age have actually made a lot of really educated guesses, and some of them are pretty right about where the franchise is going. The thing we need to make sure is that people who may have only played Inquisition are understanding what the franchise is really about – it's about a new protagonist, it's about change, it's about evolution – and don't come in expecting a direct sequel to a game they played and then are disappointed. This game is something new, something that evolves, something that is greater than what came before, the same as each game [...] before it." </p> <section class='type:slideshow'><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/06/15/8de55f1d/minrathous.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/06/13/00484ca2/necropolis_halls_2.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/06/13/4493f5e5/necropolis_halls.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/06/13/c6e6f238/rivain_coast_2.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/06/13/26944a1b/rivain_coast_3.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/06/13/421d20ec/rivain_coast.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/06/13/b9460fd5/arlathan_crater.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/06/13/2382684e/docktown_2.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/06/13/472be336/arlathan_forest_2.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/06/13/19ff6fc2/docktown.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/06/13/2d886547/arlathan_forest_3.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/06/13/57d1faaa/arlathan_forest_4.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/06/13/3230181a/arlathan_forest.jpg'></figure></section>   <p>For Busche, balancing newcomers and fan expectations in Veilguard is about managing assumptions. She says Veilguard takes place in a part of Thedas BioWare has only hinted at. The team has hinted at the Grey Warden fortress of Weisshaupt, the depths of Arlathan Forest, the Rivain Coast, the Grand Necropolis of Nevarra, and Minrathous, but now players will finally go to these stories' locations. </p> <p>"We have a rich history of world-building within the IP, so existing players will be familiar with these places and very excited to go to them and explore their mysteries," Busche tells me. "But for our new players, we're not assuming you know anything about these locations. I would say that also extends to the characters; we've taken great care in how we introduce each and every single companion and major story figure within the game [with that in mind]."</p> <p>Epler tells me that Veilguard differs from Inquisition and other Dragon Age games in the way that Rook, the player character, can't save the world without the characters they meet on their journey. </p> <p>"Dragon Age has always been about characters but to some degree, it's almost felt like we've lucked into that," he says. "Inquisition is a story that ultimately, you, the main character [...] have the biggest part to play. We wanted to tell a story this time where you literally cannot save the world without these characters. Beyond that, though, we also wanted to give them their own arcs that can run parallel to the main story and really give them that kind of deep storytelling our fans really enjoy." </p> <p>Though he's biased for obvious reasons, Epler says Veilguard is his favorite Dragon Age game he's worked on (and he's worked on all of them, starting as a quality assurance tester on Origins). He says one reason for this is the storytelling in the characters, companions, and relationships. </p> <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/06/15/1c06c3ac/lighthouse_library.jpg" alt="Dragon Age: The Veilguard Dreadwolf Game Informer Cover Story" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /> <p>"They have their friendships, they have their rivalries, and lean into that concept," he tells me. "You're not just pulling together a bunch of people who will do whatever you say. You're assembling a family, and that becomes the core of what the Veilguard is all about. It's about taking this group, this found family, and saving the world, side by side with them." </p> <p><em>For more about the game, including exclusive details, interviews, video features, and more, click the Dragon Age: The Veilguard hub button below.</em></p> Wed, 17 Jul 2024 14:00:00 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 123100 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/07/17/fallout-show-nominated-for-16-emmy-awards-including-best-actor-for-walton-goggins <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/17/b1e32ca0/the-ghoul-fallout.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p><em>Fallout</em>, a TV adaptation of the popular post-apocalyptic video game series, was released on Amazon Prime this past April. Video game adaptations can be a bit of a mixed bag sometimes, but in this case, fans and critics alike (<a data-entity-substitution="canonical" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="77931a3c-3f80-4855-9ad5-3f76e5fbcb32" href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/2024/04/10/the-fallout-tv-show-is-good-season-1-review">us included</a>) loved its characters, world-building, and its overall take on the Fallout universe. It should come as no surprise, then, that the show has been nominated in numerous categories at the 2024 Emmy Awards.</p> <p><em>Fallout</em> was nominated in 16 categories, but two of them are particularly exciting. First, the show is one of eight nominees for Outstanding Drama Series, ranking it among other big shows of 2024, like <em>Shōgun, </em>which currently leads the pack with 25 nominations. Secondly, Walton Goggins was nominated for Outstanding Lead Actor In A Drama Series for his portrayal of The Ghoul. This is his second Emmy nomination – the first being for Supporting Actor on the show <em>Justified </em>back in 2011.</p> <p>Here's a full list of the show's nominations:</p> <ul><li> <p>Outstanding Fantasy/Sci-Fi Costumes</p> </li> <li> <p>Outstanding Stunt Coordination For Drama Programming</p> </li> <li> <p>Outstanding Production Design For A Narrative Period Or Fantasy Program (One Hour Or More)</p> </li> <li> <p>Outstanding Picture Editing For A Drama Series</p> </li> <li> <p>Outstanding Picture Editing For A Drama Series</p> </li> <li> <p>Outstanding Main Title Design</p> </li> <li> <p>Outstanding Period Or Fantasy/Sci-Fi Makeup (Non-Prosthetic)</p> </li> <li> <p>Outstanding Prosthetic Makeup</p> </li> <li> <p>Outstanding Lead Actor In A Drama Series</p> </li> <li> <p>Outstanding Drama Series</p> </li> <li> <p>Outstanding Sound Editing For A Comedy Or Drama Series (One Hour)</p> </li> <li> <p>Outstanding Sound Mixing For A Comedy Or Drama Series (One Hour)</p> </li> <li> <p>Outstanding Special Visual Effects In A Season Or A Movie</p> </li> <li> <p>Outstanding Stunt Performance</p> </li> <li> <p>Outstanding Writing For A Drama Series</p> </li> <li> <p>Outstanding Music Supervision</p> </li> </ul><p>Last year's Emmy Awards had video game representation as well, with HBO's <em>The Last of Us</em>, <a data-entity-substitution="canonical" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="a8843d83-ab7f-4ce8-8bd5-07e3fdb81b96" href="https://www.gameinformer.com/gamer-culture/2024/01/08/hbos-the-last-of-us-has-already-won-eight-emmy-awards">which earned a total of eight awards</a>. Whether or not <em>Fallout </em>manages to reach that level of prestige, <a data-entity-substitution="canonical" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="504dd362-5ff2-4596-8d30-8a44d44c1261" href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/04/19/amazons-fallout-tv-series-renewed-for-season-2">it's already been renewed for a season 2</a>, so fans of the series can look forward to a return to the wasteland sometime soon. To see all of this year's Emmy nominations, <a href="https://www.emmys.com/awards/nominees-winners">click here</a>.</p> Wed, 17 Jul 2024 13:21:00 CDT Charles Harte 123107 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/07/17/nintendo-is-raising-the-famicom-detective-club-series-from-the-dead-with-emio-the <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/17/068e340f/emiothesmilingman_famicomdetectiveclub_key_art.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Nintendo is, relatively speaking, a family-oriented company. Their games are aimed at kids, their parents, and everyone in between with bright colors, wholesome storytelling, and extremely approachable game design. That said, there are exceptions to this rule, like in <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VbhwwG-QvGQ">this creepy 15-second teaser uploaded to the company's YouTube channel last week</a>. A man in a trench coat wearing a paper bag with a smile drawn on it stares into the camera while a distorted music box plays in the background. The only additional context we got was the hashtag #WhoIsEmio, leaving fans scrambling to figure out what exactly this was hinting at.</p> <p>Today, that mystery has been cleared up. Emio, also known as "The Smiling Man," is the star of a new game in the Famicom Detective Club series, which hasn't had a new entry in 35 years. The game was revealed today alongside <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AHBtMQaj7w0">a video featuring series producer Yoshio Sakamoto</a>, who wrote the first two games and went on to direct titles like Super Metroid and Metroid: Zero Mission. According to him, they decided to make this new entry during their time developing the Famicom Detective Club remakes back in 2021.</p> <p>"In Emio – The Smiling Man: Famicom Detective Club, a student has been found dead in a chilling fashion, his head covered with a paper bag with an eerie smiling face drawn on it," a press release reads. "This unsettling visage bears a striking resemblance to a recurring clue in a string of unsolved murders from 18 years ago, as well as Emio (the Smiling Man), a killer of urban legend who is said to grant his victims 'a smile that will last forever.'" Players will assume the role of a private investigator and set out to solve the case and stop the killer for good.</p> <p>Emio – The Smiling Man: Famicom Detective Club will be released for the Nintendo Switch next month, on August 29. Hopefully, the titular killer won't murder too many people before then.</p> <p><em>Are you excited to see this series revived? Let us know in the comments!</em></p> Wed, 17 Jul 2024 10:48:00 CDT Charles Harte 123101 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/07/16/xbox-360-blades-interface-returns-as-dynamic-background-ahead-of-digital-store-closure <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/16/0471b23f/xbox360bladesbackground.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Xbox 360 blades dynamic background" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>The Xbox 360 digital store <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2023/08/17/the-xbox-360-store-is-shutting-down">shuts down later this month</a> on July 26. Amid a wave of price reductions and other end-of-life updates, nostalgic fans can relive the console's earliest days via a new dynamic background modeled after the old “Blades” interface.</p> <p>For those too young to remember or didn’t get an Xbox 360 until years later, the Blades interface was the console's first dashboard design. It was the first thing players saw from the console’s launch in 2005 until it was updated to an entirely different interface in 2008. Navigating it felt smooth as butter, and some diehards still believe it's the best UI of any Xbox console. </p> <p>Although it's less detailed, and you can’t flip through the Blades of this dynamic background and hear that <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AZYhri2tsM4">satisfying “whoosh” sound</a>, it’s nice to see Microsoft acknowledge the 360's like this. Here’s how you to make the Blades your Xbox background:</p> <ul> <li aria-level="1">Press the Xbox button on your controller to open the guide.</li> <li aria-level="1">Navigate to Profile & system > Settings > General > Personalization > My background > Dynamic backgrounds.</li> <li aria-level="1">Choose Xbox 360 Blades under Featured or Xbox dynamic backgrounds</li> <li aria-level="1">Select the background art you want using the A button.</li> </ul> <p>You can read more about the impending Xbox 360 store closure and final updates by visiting this <a href="https://news.xbox.com/en-us/2024/05/14/xbox-360-price-reductions-available-now/">Xbox Wire article</a>.</p> Tue, 16 Jul 2024 14:00:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 123096 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/07/16/dead-by-deadlight-gets-lara-croft-survivor-today-2v8-mode-and-cross-progression-on-the <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/16/02437ee0/dbd_tomb_raider.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Dead by Daylight Tomb Raider" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Dead by Daylight’s 8th-anniversary stream revealed a few big updates for the popular asymmetrical horror game. The most immediate is the addition of Lara Croft as the game’s latest crossover survivor along with the impending addition of the much-requested 2v8 mode. </p> <h2>Tomb Raider Chapter</h2> <p>Lara Croft (the 2013 reboot version, specifically) joins DBD today, and though she lacks her pistols and bow, she sports three new perks highlighting her adventuring prowess. Here's an explanation of each per DBD's website:</p> <ul><li><strong>Finesse:</strong> Your fast vaults are faster when healthy, with a cooldown after a successful use.</li> <li><strong>Hardened:</strong> When you open a Chest and cleanse or bless a Totem, Hardened activates for the duration of the Trial. From that point, every time you scream, you’ll instead reveal the Killer’s Aura.</li> <li><strong>Specialist:</strong> When you open or rummage through a Chest, gain 1 Token (up to 3). When you do a Great Skill Check, consume a Token to reduce the max required Generator progress.</li> </ul><iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/JVtkcHfHcNc" width="640"></iframe> <h2>2v8 Mode</h2> <p>On July 25, a new 2v8 multiplayer mode descends into the game. This pits two Killers against eight survivors in expanded versions of five classic maps. The number of generators has been doubled, and Survivors must now repair 8 out of 13 to escape. Captive Survivors are now sent directly into cages, and Survivor perks have been reworked into a new role system designed to encourage teamwork. </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/TCumCxtPTew" width="640"></iframe> <h2>Cross-Progression</h2> <p>Cross-progression is being implemented on July 22. This means players can now sync their progress across multiple owned versions of the game. Everything can be shared across any platform except for Switch, which has a few restrictions as you can see in the chart below. </p> <a class="linkoriginal" data-featherlight="image" href=""> <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/16/06412e9c/dbdcrossprogression169_final.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt="" class="image-style-body-default" /> </a> Click to enlarge <p>Today’s stream also revealed a new trailer and the release date for The Casting of Frank Stone, the single-player DBD game developed by Supermassive Games (Until Dawn, The Quarry). You can read all about that <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/07/16/the-casting-of-frank-stone-terrorizes-players-this-september">here</a>.</p> Tue, 16 Jul 2024 12:33:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 123095 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/07/16/the-casting-of-frank-stone-terrorizes-players-this-september <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/16/fc654c38/the-casting-of-frank-stone-_-murder-mill-trailer-2t.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="The Casting of Frank Stone release date" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p><a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/the-game-awards-2023/2023/12/07/the-casting-of-frank-stone-is-supermassives-single-player-horror">The Casting of Frank Stone</a>, Supermassive Games’ single-player narrative-driven horror game set in the Dead by Daylight universe, has a release date. This intriguing horror collaboration will arrive on September 3, and a new trailer provides a proper introduction of the main cast. </p> <p>Developed by Supermassive (Until Dawn, The Quarry) and published by Dead by Daylight developer Behaviour Interactive, The Casting of Frank Stone stars five teenagers – Christine Gordon, Jaime Rivera, Linda Castle, Robert Green, and Bonnie Rivera – who film their own horror movie in an abandoned steel mill. Unfortunately, this mill has ties to a notorious murderer named Frank Stone, and the youth’s innocent art project goes horribly wrong.</p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/N6FODK6lwtM" width="640"></iframe> <p>We still don’t know much about the narrative other than that it is set within the world of Dead by Daylight and takes place in the town of Cedar Mills during the summer of 1980. Gameplay-wise, The Casting of Frank Stone follows a similar blueprint to Supermassive’s previous horror titles in that it’s a choice-driven adventure where characters can be permanently killed off based on your decisions. You can check out a recent gameplay trailer <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/14/dead-by-daylight-spin-off-the-casting-of-frank-stone-gets-chilling-gameplay-trailer">here</a> to see it in action. </p> <p>The Casting of Frank Stone is coming to PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. </p> Tue, 16 Jul 2024 11:31:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 123094 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/07/16/call-of-duty-black-ops-6-multiplayer-weekend-betas-announced <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/06/08/7f247179/bo6_multiplayer_omnimovement.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 multiplayer beta dates" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 launches in October, but players can get in early via a pair of open betas. Activision is running two of these beta periods during consecutive weekends, and the dates and times for each have been revealed. </p> <p>Here is when you can jump into each beta: </p> <p><strong>Weekend 1: Early Access (for preorder customers/Xbox Game Pass subscribers)</strong> - August 30 at 10 a.m. PT to September 4 at 10 a.m. PT</p> <p><strong>Weekend 2: Open Beta (for everyone)</strong> - September 6 at 10 a.m. PT to September 9 at 10 a.m. PT</p> <p>Both betas are multiplayer only and will feature several online modes, weapons, equipment, and perks for players to tinker with. </p> <p>Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 launches on October 25 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC. Set in 1991 during the Gulf War, the espionage-themed campaign centers on a mysterious organization's infiltration of the U.S. government. The Black Ops agents must go rogue to stop this threat, which takes players across the globe with new faces and returning favorites like Woods and Adler. You can learn more about the game by checking out our Summer Game Fest preview <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/preview/2024/06/09/hoping-to-sprint-in-the-right-direction">here</a>.</p> Tue, 16 Jul 2024 09:28:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 123092 https://www.gameinformer.com/exclusive/2024/07/15/a-deep-dive-into-biowares-companion-design-philosophy-in-dragon-age-the <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/06/15/1c06c3ac/lighthouse_library.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Dragon Age: The Veilguard Dreadwolf Game Informer Cover Story" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>During my visit to BioWare in its Edmonton, Canada, office earlier this year for <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/cover-reveal/2024/06/09/cover-reveal-dragon-age-the-veilguard">the current <em>Game Informer</em> cover story on Dragon Age: The Veilguard</a>, I heard a sentiment repeated throughout the day from the game's leads: in past Dragon Age games, BioWare stumbled onto great companions, but with Veilguard, it's the first game where the studio feels it purposefully and intentionally created great companions. As such, those companions are key to everything happening in Veilguard. </p> <p>With such a significant emphasis on these characters, I spoke to some of the game's leads to learn precisely about BioWare's philosophy on companions in Veilguard. </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4F3N4Lxw4_Y" width="640"></iframe> <p>"No, that is the case," BioWare general manager Gary McKay tells me when I ask if he agrees with the stumbled-onto-greatness sentiment. "I would first start with Dragon Age – each installment in this franchise has been different, so we didn't set out to make a game that was a sequel or the same game as before. We really wanted to do something different and we did push the envelope in a couple of areas, companions being one of them. Once we got knee deep into it, we really realized we had something special with these companions, again, around the motivations, the story arc, and it really started to become the centerpiece for this game." </p> <h2>The Philosophy Behind Dragon Age: The Veilguard’s Companions</h2> <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/06/15/5a74060b/dragon.jpg" alt="Dragon Age: The Veilguard Dreadwolf Game Informer Cover Story" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /> <p>Game director Corinne Busche agrees, adding that Veilguard's companions are "the most fully realized complex companions we've ever crafted." She also believes they're the Dragon Age series' best. "They're complicated, they have complicated problems, and that's what's interesting," she continues. "As much as I adore the companions and the journeys I've been on with them in past Dragon Age titles – previously, it feels like companions are going on an adventure with me, the main character, whether it's the Hero of Ferelden or Hawke, you name it. But in [Veilguard], in many ways, the companions are so fleshed out that it feels as though I'm going on a journey with them. I'm exploring how they think and feel; I'm helping them through their problems. We're working through their unique character arcs. They feel like my dear friends, and I absolutely adore them."</p> <p>Busche says these companions participate in the game's darker and more optimistic parts. "We've really moved into a place where you can have the highest of highs, and it can be colorful, it can be optimistic, but also, you can have the lowest of lows where it gets gritty, it gets painful, it gets quite dark. But throughout it all, there is a sense of optimism. And it creates this delightful throughline throughout the game." </p> <p>When I ask creative director John Epler about BioWare's philosophy behind Veilguard's companions, he reveals a phrase the studio uses: Dragon Age is about characters, not causes. </p> <p>"What that means for us is [...] let's take the Grey Wardens, for example – the Grey Wardens are an interesting faction but by themselves, they don't tell a story, but there are characters within that faction that do," he tells me. "And the same thing with other characters in the story. They represent these factions, they show the face of the other parts of Thedas and of the storytelling we really want to do, which, again, shows Thedas as this large, diverse living world that has things going on when you're not there."</p> <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/06/13/a86ef72a/lace_harding.jpg" alt="Dragon Age: The Veilguard Game Informer Cover Story Exclusive Details" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /> <p>Epler says one of BioWare's principles when creating Veilguard was that the world exists even when you – Rook – are not around. There are things, ancient conflicts, grudges, and more, that happen even when Rook isn't participating in them, he says. </p> <p>"You kind of come in 'in media res' in some of these, so that's where we wanted to go with the companions," he says. "They have stories of their own. Where can Rook come into these stories, and what interesting ways can those stories develop not just based on themselves but also based on Rook's presence within them?"</p> <p>Dragon Age series art director Matt Rhodes adds that companions are the load-bearing pillars for everything in Veilguard, so "when you're designing them, it's not just designing a character; they're the face for their faction, the face for, in [some cases like Bellara Lutara], an entire area of the world." From his aesthetic-forward part of developing companions in Veilguard as the game's art director, he tells me Veilguard's characters are (hopefully) going to give cosplayers a challenge. </p> <p>"The previous art director had the mindset we should make things easier for [cosplayers], which I think is a misunderstanding of cosplayers," Rhodes says. "We've seen the kind of challenges they're willing to take on, and so we've gone for, in some cases, a level of complexity and detail that I hope a lot of them are excited to rise to the challenge for." </p> <h4>A Quick Detour: Neve Gallus</h4> <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/06/13/acc04a3c/neve_gallus.jpg" alt="Dragon Age: The Veilguard Dreadwolf Game Informer Cover Story" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /> As Neve Gallus is the companion I spent the most time with during my visit to BioWare, I asked Epler about this character and her role in the game. Here's what I learned: "So Neve is a private investigator in Minrathous. Minrathous is the capital city of the Tevinter Empire. It’s also a mage-ocracy; mages run the entirety of the Empire – they’re all-powerful. A lot of them still believe in slavery, they keep slaves, it’s a very oppressive, totalitarian regime. And Neve is a member of the Shadow Dragons, which is a rebel faction within Thedas that fights back against this mage-ocracy, fights back against this oppressive, very damaging regime that’s taken over the city, because she believes there’s good, and she is there for the common people. So if you’re not a mage in Tevinter, you are lower than dirt for a lot of people. She and the Shadow Dragons, in general, fight back, but Neve, in particular, is this character that represents this more, ‘voice of the streets, the voice of the common people.’ In previous Dragon Age games, you go to Orlais, you meet Emperor Celene, you meet Briala; we wanted to have a character that showed not just what is Tevinter at the top, but what is the average person who lives in Tevinter. And she is very much about, again, fighting oppression, fighting tyranny and, as a private investigator, finding clues and ways through problems that aren’t maybe as action-focused as some of the other companions."<h2>Companions, In And Out Of Combat </h2> <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/06/15/61ed6a07/combat_wheel.jpg" alt="Dragon Age: The Veilguard Dreadwolf Game Informer Cover Story" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /> <p>Rook's companions in Veilguard have roles both in and out of combat, but since I only saw a few hours of this game (which is sure to be multiple dozens of hours long), I wanted to ask Busche about these roles and how they play out. Here's what I learned: </p> <h4>In Combat</h4> <p><strong>Bushce</strong>: "So companions as realized characters, we have to take that premise when we talk about how they show up in combat. These are their own people. They have their own behaviors; they have their own autonomy on the battlefield; they'll pick their own targets. As their plots progress, they'll learn how to use their abilities more competently, and it really feels like you're fighting alongside these realized characters in battle. So I love that, I love the believability of it. It feels like we're all in it together. </p> <p>"But then when it comes time for the strategy, and the progression I might add, that's where a sense of teamwork comes into play as the leader of this party as Rook. When I open the ability wheel, I almost feel like we're huddling up. We're coming up with a game plan together. I see all the abilities that Harding has, and I see all that Bellara is capable of, and sometimes I'm using vulnerabilities synergistically. Maybe I'm slowing time with Bellara so that I can unleash devastating attacks with Harding, knocking down the enemy, and then me as Rook, rushing in and capitalizing on this setup they've created for me. It is a game about creating this organic sense of teamwork. </p> <p>"Now, there are more explicit synergies as well. We very much have intentional combos where your companions can play off each other, you can queue up abilities between them, and each of those abilities will go off and have their effect. But it results in this massive detonation where you get enhanced effects, debuff the entire battlefield, all because of planning and teamwork. What makes it really cool is you can introduce Rook into that equation as well. One of my favorite things to do is upgrade some of Harding's abilities so she will automatically use some of these abilities that normally I'd have to instruct her to do. And she'll actually set my character up to execute that combo that, again, has that detonation effect." </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CTNwHShylIg" width="640"></iframe> <h4>Outside Combat</h4> <p><strong>Busche</strong>: "It's one of my favorite topics. I talked about the idea that these are fully realized characters, that they're very authentic and relatable. So outside of combat, what that means is they're going to have their own concerns, fears, distractions, and indeed, even their own sanctuaries, their own personal spaces. In our base of operations this time, our player hub, the Lighthouse, each of the companions has their own room. And what I love about it is it becomes a reflection of who they are. The more time you spend with them, as the game develops as you work through their arc, their room and their personalities will evolve and flourish and become more complete as they trust you more and you understand them better. </p> <p>"What's interesting, you mentioned romance, the companions also develop romantically and I'm not just talking about with the main character Rook; I'm talking about each other. There are moments in the game where two of our companions fell in love with each other and I had to make some pretty challenging choices as it related to the quest we're on. And it broke my heart, it absolutely did [<strong>Editor's Note</strong>: I get the sense Busche is talking about a specific playthrough of Veilguard here – not a definitive sequence of events for every playthrough]. </p> <p>"So I would say, as you're adventuring with them, as you're returning to the Lighthouse and getting to know them – all these decisions and conversations and things you learn about them – it endears them to you in a way that I honestly haven't experienced before. And sometimes that fills me with joy and sometimes it breaks my heart." </p> <p>For more about the game, including exclusive details, interviews, video features, and more, click the Dragon Age: The Veilguard hub button below.</p> Mon, 15 Jul 2024 14:00:00 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 123088 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/07/15/tmnt-mutant-mayhem-gets-first-trailer-and-october-launch-date <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/15/e132adfa/teenage_mutant_ninja_turtles_mutants_unleashed_2.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="TMNT: Mutants Unleashed Trailer" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p><a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2023/09/06/teenage-mutant-ninja-turtles-mutant-mayhem-game-coming-next-year">Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutants Unleashed</a>, the video game follow-up to last year’s <em>TMNT: Mutant Mayhem</em> animated film, has its first trailer and a release date. The game was first announced last September. </p> <p>A Heartful of Games is developing the game, which retains the stylized Spider-Verse-inspired art direction from the hit film. The story unfolds after the movie's events and sees Leo, Raph, Donny, and Mikey battling a new wave of mutants invading New York City. </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wTQ-DC3dOpk" width="640"></iframe> <p>As previously covered in our <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/exclusive/2024/03/05/exclusive-first-details-and-screenshots-of-teenage-mutant-ninja-turtles">exclusive preview </a>earlier this year, Mutant Mayhem is a third-person action/platformer game, and each turtle features a unique playstyle. The game also supports up to two-player local co-op. </p> <p>TMNT: Mutants Unleashed launches on October 18 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Switch, and PC. The game is also getting a fancy Collector Edition, and you can see the contents of that <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/23/tmnt-mutants-unleashed-collectors-edition-announced">here</a>. Mutants Unleashed is one of several TMNT games to arrive in recent years (and the third in 2024 alone, following <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/teenage-mutant-ninja-turtles-arcade-wrath-of-the-mutants/better-left-in-the-sewers">Wrath of the Mutants</a> and the Switch port of Splintered Fate), and you can read all about the franchise’s history in video games in our <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/feature/2024/05/01/turtle-power">in-depth retrospective</a>.</p> Mon, 15 Jul 2024 11:19:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 123090 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/07/15/takeda-joins-the-mortal-kombat-1-roster-next-week-first-gameplay-revealed <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/15/a344dc1b/mortal-kombat-1-official-takeda-gameplay-trailer.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Mortal Kombat 1 Takeda gameplay" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Mortal Kombat 1’s final Year 1 DLC fighter arrives next week, and it’s Takeda Takahashi. The young Shirai Ryu warrior makes only his second appearance in a Mortal Kombat game and looks every bit as capable as his older clanmates, Scorpion and Smoke. </p> <p>Although Takeda was Kenshi’s son in his debut appearance, Mortal Kombat X, the remixed timeline of Mortal Kombt 1 has changed him to Kenshi’s cousin. Like Kenshi, Takeda grew up a Yakuza but was more faithful to the clan than his cousin. As such, the Yakuza tasked Takeda with killing Kenshi, and the two battled, with the latter coming emerging victorious. Takeda was mortally wounded in the battle and rushed to the aid of the Shirai Ryu, where Kenshi protected him from being killed by the Yakuza for failing his mission. This causes Takeda to have a change of heart and join the Shirai Ryu to wage war against Earthrrealm’s criminal underground and, eventually, the evil forces of Outworld. </p> <p>Takeda still utilizes the Shirai Ryu fighting style, including his signature pair of bladed whips. He also sports shurikens, a barrage of teleporting flame attacks, and an aerial grapple best described as mid-air corkscrew piledriver. Check Takeda out below.  </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dqZwGZBx-t8" width="640"></iframe> <p>Takeda will be available on July 23, both as a standalone purchase and as a free download for Kombat Pack owners. The same day also sees previously revealed Kameo fighter Ferra become available to buy. Both Takeda and Ferra will be playable for the first time during Evo 2025 this weekend. </p> <p>For more on Mortal Kombat 1, check out our <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/mortal-kombat-1/gory-glory">review</a> as well as the trailers for previous DLC fighters <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/29/homelander-delivers-gory-justice-in-his-mortal-kombat-1-gameplay-trailer">Homelander</a>, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2023/11/02/mortal-kombat-1-omni-man-gameplay-trailer-reveals-brutal-and-show-accurate-fatality">Omni-Man</a>, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/04/09/check-out-ermacs-mortal-kombat-1-debut-in-new-gory-gameplay-trailer">Ermac</a>, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/02/22/mortal-kombat-1-check-out-john-cenas-peacemaker-debut-in-new-gameplay-trailer">Peacemaker</a>, and <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2023/12/04/quan-chi-has-bones-to-pick-in-his-mortal-kombat-1-gameplay-trailer">Quan-Chi</a>.</p> Mon, 15 Jul 2024 10:40:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 123089 https://www.gameinformer.com/gamer-culture/2024/07/15/crocs-and-pokemon-are-teaming-up-again-with-four-new-gen-1-shoes <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/15/84aaf1b7/pokemon-crocs-charizard-price-release-date.jpg" width="800" height="568" alt="Pokémon Crocs Charizard $70 Price 2024 Release Date" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Crocs and Pokémon are teaming up again for another collaboration, this time bringing four classic Generation 1 pocket monsters into the shoe line sometime this year. This news comes by way of <a href="https://www.soleretriever.com/news/articles/pokemon-crocs-classic-clog-pack-charizard-gengar-snorlax-jigglypuff-release-date-2024"><em>Sole Retriever</em></a>, which reports that Crocs is releasing four new pairs of shoes, each themed after a specific Kanto Pokémon: Charizard, Gengar, Snorlax, and Jigglypuff. </p> <p>Though there isn't a release date for these Crocs yet – <em>Sole Retriever</em> simply reports 2024 – we know each will cost $70. While each pair has unique theming based on the Pokémon it's representing, each pair of Crocs comes with Jibbitz, which are the detachable charms on the tops of the shoes, the classic Pokémon title on back of the shoe strap, and the classic Pokéball logo as the buttons holding each of the straps in place. </p> <h3>Charizard</h3> <section class='type:slideshow'><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/15/e9c6c412/charizard_1.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/15/cb995a1e/charizard_2.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/15/46dec2ae/charizard_3.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/15/854078d3/charizard_4.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/15/744c7806/charizard_5.jpg'></figure></section>   <h3>Gengar</h3> <section class='type:slideshow'><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/15/2ef24fed/gengar_1.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/15/2525f16d/gengar_2.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/15/59315052/gengar_3.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/15/7fc2cfa1/gengar_4.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/15/1dcb314c/gengar_5.jpg'></figure></section>   <h3>Snorlax</h3> <section class='type:slideshow'><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/15/76946287/snorlax_1.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/15/2ecb4fae/snorlax_2.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/15/31147fff/snorlax_3.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/15/08326d2e/snorlax_4.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/15/964bd3af/snorlax_5.jpg'></figure></section>   <h3>Jigglypuff</h3> <section class='type:slideshow'><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/15/f08a3ae4/jigglypuff_1.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/15/136b5547/jigglypuff_2.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/15/68108139/jigglypuff_3.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/15/57556235/jigglypuff_4.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/15/f66f277e/jigglypuff_5.jpg'></figure></section>   <p><em>Sole Retriever </em>says these Crocs will be available through Crocs and online and in-store retailers. </p> <p>While waiting to learn more, read about <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/gamer-culture/2024/07/09/nike-and-tekken-8-are-tag-teaming-up-for-foamposite-one-shoe-collaboration">an upcoming Nike x Tekken 8 shoe collaboration</a>.</p> <p><em>[Source: S<a href="https://www.soleretriever.com/news/articles/pokemon-crocs-classic-clog-pack-charizard-gengar-snorlax-jigglypuff-release-date-2024">ole Retriever</a>]</em></p> <p><em>Are you interested in picking up any of these Crocs? Let us know in the comments below!</em></p> Mon, 15 Jul 2024 08:04:17 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 123087 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/07/12/three-never-released-in-america-game-boy-advance-starfy-games-are-available-now-for <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/12/7c62c076/starfy.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Nintendo added three new games to its Game Boy Advance Nintendo Switch Online library, and though none of the them are Mother 3 (or a Pokémon game or Astro Boy or Drill Dozer or any other GBA game we've been clamoring for) they are none-the-less interesting and completely unexpected.</p> <p>Starfy isn't a particularly familiar franchise to America players. They have received four games – three for Game Boy Advance, one for DS – but only the 2009 DS game ever released in America. Today, the original three Game Boy Advance games are now available for Nintendo Switch Online subscribers. The games retain their original title, Densetsu no Stafy, and have not been localized. The gameplay has been describe as Kirby-esque, but I have never been able to confirm that myself until today.</p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FOmRE_dcCf8" width="640"></iframe> <p>Are you planning on booting up these classic-outside-of-America platformers?</p> Fri, 12 Jul 2024 10:30:03 CDT Kyle Hilliard 123082 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/07/11/theme-park-and-rollercoaster-simulator-planet-coaster-is-getting-a-sequel <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/11/4bee153f/announce_04_waterflume_wm_4k.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Planet Coaster 2 arrives later this year and its big update, alongside all the rollercoaster and theme park simulation gameplay of the first title, is the inclusion of water park mechanics. You will be able to create water slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, and more. You will also be able to visit your friend's parks and build together in a shared sandbox mode (though you will apparently have to build one at a time) across platforms. You can check out the announcement trailer below.</p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UChxrl60x8Y" width="640"></iframe> <p>Frontier is promising its first look at gameplay on July 31, and Planet Coaster 2 will arrive later this year for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. To read <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/games/planet_coaster_simulation_evolved/b/pc/archive/2016/11/22/planet-coaster-game-informer-review.aspx"><em>Game Informer</em>'s Planet Coaster review</a>, follow the link.</p> <section class='type:slideshow'><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/11/92eff2a9/announce_06_wideshot_park_wm_4k.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/11/279bfe58/announce_07_kc_qs_interaction_wm_4k.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/11/f552fc99/announce_01_coaster_wm_4k.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/11/afbb9f8c/announce_02_midshot_exploring_wm_4k.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/11/4bee153f/announce_04_waterflume_wm_4k.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/11/773aaf04/announce_05_entertainer_wm_4k.jpg'></figure></section>   Thu, 11 Jul 2024 11:19:23 CDT Kyle Hilliard 123077 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/07/11/double-dragon-revive-is-a-new-fully-3d-take-on-the-series <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/11/086c5f4a/doubled.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>The Double Dragon series has been around since the arcades in 1987 and has managed to maintain a surprisingly consistent release cadence in those more than 35 years. It was only last year that we played <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/double-dragon-gaiden-rise-of-the-dragons/tag-team-turmoil">Double Dragon Gaiden</a>, a pixelated throwback brawler (or belt-scroll action game, per its official YouTube description) take on the franchise.</p> <p>This next entry is decidedly more modern, with fully 3D visuals. It's not the first time the series has explored this dimension, but it is a rare occurrence. The game is being developed by Yuke's, the developer that worked on the WWE 2K franchise until 2K19 and most recently developed <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/aew-fight-forever/stuck-in-the-mid-card">AEW: Fight Forever</a>. It is being published, or presented by, as the trailer implies, Arc System Works, the developer behind Guilty Gear and Dragon Ball FighterZ.</p> <p>Double Dragon Revive is coming to PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S and One, and PC sometime in 2025.</p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iQiA3sCuqIs" width="640"></iframe> <p>For a whole lot more on Double Dragon, but maybe not the version of Double Dragon you're thinking, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2019/02/20/double-dragon-the-forgotten-bad-video-game-movie">head here</a> to read all about the 1994 movie. Back in 2019, I tracked down the film's director, James Yukich, to talk about the bizarre film's trajectory, what went wrong, and what he would have done differently had he been giving a chance to try making the film again.</p> Thu, 11 Jul 2024 09:04:49 CDT Kyle Hilliard 123075 https://www.gameinformer.com/exclusive/2024/07/10/yes-dragon-age-the-veilguard-has-nudity-and-ive-seen-it <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/06/13/c3764929/solas.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Dragon Age: The Veilguard Nudity Game Informer Exclusive" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Dragon Age: The Veilguard will feature nudity. That's something I learned firsthand while customizing my Rook within BioWare's Edmonton, Canada, office earlier this year during my cover story visit. We were customizing a feminine Rook, and while adjusting body options - read <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/exclusive/2024/06/13/a-deep-dive-into-dragon-age-the-veilguards-expansive-character-creator">Game Informer’s </a><a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/exclusive/2024/06/13/a-deep-dive-into-dragon-age-the-veilguards-expansive-character-creator">in-depth feature about Veilguard’s character creator here</a> for more details – our Rook's shirt disappeared to let us customize things like chest size. </p> <p>And that's when Veilguard game director Corrine Busche smiled, likely knowing full well that nudity in the character creator means nudity elsewhere in the game, like in Veilguard's romances, something I know BioWare fans will be delighted to hear. "This is a mature RPG," she tells me.</p> <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/06/13/bd546151/lace_and_varric.jpg" alt="Dragon Age: The Veilguard Game Informer Cover Story Exclusive Details" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /> <p>I only see topless nudity in the character creator, and when I later ask BioWare if there is bottom nudity as well, I'm told that's something it wants to let fans discover for themselves in the game. Interesting answer, considering we're talking about genitalia here, but I don't push further.  Though the game's leads wouldn't share too much about romance options in the game, I have a feeling nudity will play a part in some cutscenes and that's what BioWare is alluding to. </p> <p>Nudity has been present in previous BioWare games, but it's almost always been implied. Characters are sometimes naked in romance scenes and elsewhere, but arms, legs, shadows, and pieces of scenery obscure characters' more… oogly bits. With some of those bits on full display in the character creator, I have a feeling Veilguard's romantic scenes will be the spiciest in the series' history. And the game's pretty visual design, running in EA's Frostbite engine, only adds to that. </p> <p>Okay, I think I've hit the limit that I can write the word nudity on my work computer before it gets flagged by HR or something. You'll have to wait for the game's full release this fall to learn more about nudity, romance, and more. </p> <p>For more about the game, including exclusive details, interviews, video features, and more, click the Dragon Age: The Veilguard hub button below. </p> Wed, 10 Jul 2024 13:00:00 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 122926 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/07/10/price-increases-and-new-tiers-are-coming-to-xbox-game-pass <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/10/f0177764/xboxgamepass.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Starting today, Xbox Game Pass will be experiencing some changes which includes redefining of certain tiers. And later this year, there will be a handful of price increases for various tiers. Here's the exact text as it is presented on <a href="https://support.xbox.com/en-US/help/subscriptions-billing/manage-subscriptions/game-pass-updates-july-2024">Microsoft's website</a>.</p> <p>Starting July 10, 2024, the following updates to Xbox Game Pass will take effect:</p> <ul> <li>    Price changes will go into effect for new members for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, Xbox Game Pass Core, and PC Game Pass.</li> <li>    Game Pass for Console will no longer be available for new members.</li> <li>    Members who are already subscribed to Game Pass for Console and have automatic payment renewal enabled will be able to continue to enjoy their membership.</li> </ul> <p>Also, a new Game Pass option, Xbox Game Pass Standard, will become available in the coming months. These changes will enable us to bring members more value and more great games to Game Pass.</p> <p>The new Xbox Game Pass Standard tier for new members will be $15 a month and will not include access to Day One releases, EA Play, Game Pass for PC, and cloud gaming.</p> <p>Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, which includes access to all the bonuses now not included in the Standard tier is increasing its price from $17 a month to $20.</p> <p>Xbox Game Pass Core, which offers online access and a much smaller library of curated games, is changing its yearly from $60 to $75. The $10 monthly price for that tier, however, will remain unchanged.</p> <p>PC Game Pass is increasing from $10 per month to $12, but that tier will still include Day One releases.</p> <p>All of these price changes will be reflected starting on September 12.</p> <p>Price changes for services you already pay for are always frustrating. What do you think of the change? Do you plan on maintaining your subscription? Or is it time to cancel?</p> Wed, 10 Jul 2024 09:24:27 CDT Kyle Hilliard 123073 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/07/10/first-nba-2k25-details-include-cover-stars-mode-updates-september-release-date <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/09/2766ba54/nba_2k25_cover_reveal_key_art.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="NBA 2K25" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>2K has announced the first details for the newest edition of its <a data-entity-substitution="canonical" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="ae853691-e97c-4b39-bc62-7c0031402e3c" href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/nba-2k24/a-flagrant-stepback">annualized NBA 2K series</a>. NBA 2K25 will feature three separate cover athletes across four distinct covers, depending on which edition you choose. In addition to revealing the cover art, 2K also provided the first screenshots and high-level details on the upgrades players can expect.</p> <p>Headlining the cover star lineup is Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum. The 26-year-old Tatum is a five-time All-Star, a Gold Medalist at the 2020 Olympic Games, a member of the U.S. Men's National Team for the 2024 Olympic Games, and is coming off his first NBA Championship. Tatum lands on the NBA 2K25 Standard Edition.</p> <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/09/9258b139/nba_2k25_jayson_tatum_first_look.jpg" alt="NBA 2K25" title="NBA 2K25" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /> <p>Meanwhile, those who purchase the NBA 2K25 WNBA Edition will see Las Vegas Aces forward A'ja Wilson on their cover. Wilson is coming off back-to-back championships with the Aces. She won the Finals MVP honors for the 2023 Championship and is a two-time WNBA MVP and a six-time All-Star. Wilson also took home a Gold Medal at the 2020 Olympic Games and will again represent the United States at the 2024 Olympic Games. Together, Tatum and Wilson co-headline the NBA 2K25 All-Star Edition.</p> <p>The final NBA 2K25 cover athlete is a recent Hall of Fame inductee, eight-time NBA All-Star, and the winner of the legendary 2000 NBA Dunk Contest, Vince Carter. Carter graces the cover of the NBA 2K25 Hall of Fame Edition. You can see all four covers below.</p> <section class='type:slideshow'><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/09/15a8680f/nba_2k25_standard_edition_cover.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/09/6a631935/nba_2k25_wnba_edition_cover.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/09/42d9bc1c/nba_2k25_hall_of_fame_edition.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/09/7102d08b/nba_2k25_all-star_edition.jpg'></figure></section>   <p>This year's entry signals the return of the MyCareer mode with fresh updates and new MyTeam modes. For the new-gen versions on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC (for those with compatible specs), players can expect an added sixth era in MyNBA, a more compact and interactive City, and the return of the women's-focused mode The W. Crossplay will also be offered on newer-gen versions.</p> <p>For those debating which version to get, you can see what is included in each below. It's worth noting that that Hall of Fame Edition will only be available through September 8.</p> <h3>Standard Edition</h3> <p><em>$70 on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, Xbox One, and PC<br /> $60 on Switch<br /> Available Digital and Physical</em></p> <ul><li>Includes the base game</li> <li>Features Jayson Tatum on the cover</li> </ul><h3>WNBA Edition</h3> <p><em>$70 on PS5 and Xbox Series X/S<br /> Physical Only<br /> Exclusive to GameStop [disclosure: GameStop is Game Informer's parent company], only available in North America</em></p> <ul><li>Includes the base game</li> <li>Features A'ja Wilson on the cover</li> </ul> <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/09/39391a08/nba_2k25_aja_wilson_first_look.jpg" alt="NBA 2K25" title="NBA 2K25" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /> <h3>All-Star Edition</h3> <p><em>$100 on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, Xbox One, Switch, and PC</em></p> <ul><li>Includes the base game</li> <li>Features Jayson Tatum and A'ja Wilson on the cover</li> <li>100,000 VC</li> <li>MyTeam Content, including 10 MyTeam Player Cards (3 guaranteed 89 OVR), 3 Diamond Shoe Cards, 3 Takeover Boosts, and 1 Amythyst Coach Card</li> <li>MyCareer Content, including 150 Skill Boosts (25 games), 75 Gatorade Boosts (25 games), Jayson Tatum Cover Jersey, Jayson Tatum Electric Skateboard Skin, and a 2K25 Cover Stars Design T-Shirt</li> </ul><h3>Hall of Fame Edition</h3> <p><em>$150 on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, Xbox One, and PC<br /> Only on sale through September 8</em></p> <ul><li>Includes everything in the All-Star Edition</li> <li>Features Vince Carter on the Cover</li> <li>MyCareer Vince Carter Cover Jersey</li> <li>Season 1 Pro Pass with 4 upfront Pro Pass rewards</li> <li>12-Month NBA League Pass Subscription</li> </ul> <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/09/5cd7fbbc/nba_2k25_vince_carter_first_look.jpg" alt="NBA 2K25" title="NBA 2K25" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /> <p>NBA 2K25 arrives on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC, and Switch on September 6. For what last year's entry did and didn't do well, check out our review <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/nba-2k24/a-flagrant-stepback">here</a>.</p> Wed, 10 Jul 2024 06:15:00 CDT Brian Shea 123071 https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/07/09/playstations-pc-strategy-is-going-well-as-ghost-of-tsushima-was-the-best-selling <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2021/08/18/1401b56b/ghost_of_tsushima_20210816184632.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Ghost of Tsushima Director's Cut May PC Release Best Selling Game 2024" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>PlayStation's PC efforts are paying off, if the latest U.S. Video Game Market Highlights <a href="https://x.com/MatPiscatella/status/1810377988434964526">report</a> from analyst group Circana is any indication. That's because developer Sucker Punch Production's Ghost of Tsushima, which originally launched on PlayStation 4 back in 2020, was the best-selling game of May 2024 in the U.S. And that's almost assuredly due to <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/03/06/ghost-of-tsushima-directors-cut-rides-to-pc-in-may">the recent PC release of Ghost of Tsushima Director's Cut on May 16</a>. </p> <p><a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/product/ghost-of-tsushima-directors-cut">Ghost of Tsushima Director's Cut</a> hit PC almost four years after the game's initial launch on PS4, which speaks to PlayStation's PC release strategy it detailed last month. It said its live-service games, like this year's <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/helldivers-2/bullet-heaven">Helldivers 2</a> or the upcoming 5v5 hero shooter <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/product/concord">Concord</a>, will launch day-and-date on PC, but its tentpole single-player games, like <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/product/ghost-of-tsushima-directors-cut">Ghost of Tsushima Director's Cut</a> and God of War Ragnarök (<a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/state-of-play/2024/05/30/god-of-war-ragnarok-hits-pc-this-september">hitting PC this September</a>), will <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/30/playstation-says-live-service-games-will-launch-day-and-date-on-pc-but-single">launch at later dates</a>. </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nof3MBycrog" width="640"></iframe> <p><strong>The rest of the top 10 for May 2024 looks like this</strong>: </p> <ol> <li>Ghost of Tsushima</li> <li>Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door</li> <li>Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III</li> <li>Helldivers II</li> <li>MLB: The Show 24</li> <li>Sea of Thieves</li> <li>Minecraft</li> <li>Elden Ring</li> <li>Hogwarts Legacy</li> <li>Stellar Blade</li> </ol> <p><strong>And here's what the top 20 best-selling games of the entire year look like: </strong></p> <blockquote class="tw-align-center twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">Year-to-Date Ending May 2024 Top 20 Best-Selling Premium Games - U.S. (Dollar Sales, Physical and Digital from digital data sharing publishers, excludes add-on content) <a href="https://t.co/Wnacwg4ixw">pic.twitter.com/Wnacwg4ixw</a></p> — Mat Piscatella (@MatPiscatella) <a href="https://twitter.com/MatPiscatella/status/1810378238876938258?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2024</a></blockquote> <p>For May 2024, content spending fell 3% compared to May 2023, down to $3.6 billion, even despite a 13% growth in mobile content spending. However, that 13% increase in mobile spending was offset heavily by a 40% drop in console content spending, according to Circana executive director <a href="https://x.com/MatPiscatella/status/1810378018302603741">Mat Piscatella</a>. He attributes the May 2024 console spending decline (compared to May 2023) to the strength of <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/the-legend-of-zelda-tears-of-the-kingdom/such-great-heights">The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom's</a> launch last year. </p> <p>Elsehwere in the report, Piscatella says video game hardware spending declined 40% as well when compared to May 2023, down to $202 million. "Through May, all current generation hardware platforms are showing double-digit percentage declines year-on-year in 2024, with Switch showing the most significant drop," <a href="https://x.com/MatPiscatella/status/1810379249922331004">Piscatella writes on X</a> (formerly Twitter). </p> <p>The PlayStation 5 led May 2024's hardware market in unit and dollar sales, with the Switch in second for unit sales and the Xbox Series X/S in second for dollar sales. Throughout each console's 43 months on the market, the PS5 is up by 8% compared to the PS4 and the Xbox Series X/S is down 13% compared to the Xbox One. </p> <p>May spending on video game accessories dropped 8% when comparing May 2024 to May of last year, and the PlayStation Portal was the best-selling accessory in dollar sales for the month – it's also the best-selling accessory for the entire year. </p> <p>For more, be sure to check out the entire Circana report <a href="https://x.com/MatPiscatella/status/1810377988434964526">here</a>. After that, read <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/ghost-of-tsushima/ghost-of-tsushima-review-a-most-honorable-epic"><em>Game Informer's </em>Ghost of Tsushima review</a>, and then check out this video for a look at <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/ngt/2024/05/16/how-is-ghost-of-tsushima-on-steam-deck-new-gameplay-today">how Ghost of Tsushima Director's Cut runs on Steam Deck</a>. </p> <p><em>Have you been playing Ghost of Tsushima Director's Cut on PC? Let us know in the comments below!</em></p> Tue, 09 Jul 2024 07:50:39 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 123067 https://www.gameinformer.com/gamer-culture/2024/07/09/nike-and-tekken-8-are-tag-teaming-up-for-foamposite-one-shoe-collaboration <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/09/b4fcb0ca/nike_x_tekken_header.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Nike X Tekken 8 Shoe Collaboration Sneakers Bandai Namco Price Release Date" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Nike and Bandai Namco are teaming up to release a <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/product/tekken-8">Tekken 8</a>-inspired shoe that will be available for purchase this September. Dubbed "Tekken 8 x Nike Air Foamposite One Fist," these shoes will be available through Nike, SNKRS, and select retailers in-store and online for $250, as reported by <a href="https://www.soleretriever.com/news/articles/tekken-8-nike-air-foamposite-one-premium-fist-release-date-2024"><em>Sole Retriever</em></a>. </p> <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/09/be07149a/nike_x_tekken.jpg" alt="Nike X Tekken 8 Shoe Collaboration Sneakers Bandai Namco Price Release Date" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /> <p>The shoes themselves are inspired specifically by Tekken 8's primary antagonist, Kazuya Mishima, as the colorway of the shoe is basically a spin on his outfit in-game. <em>Sole Retriever </em>describes the shoes as featuring an iridescent Foamposite material across the design's upper region in armory navy, with a faux crocodile skin texture across the Foamposite material, and black hues over the leather eyestays, shoe collar, and tongue. </p> <p><strong>Check out the Tekken 8 x Nike Air Foamposite One Fist </strong><strong>shoes for yourself below: </strong></p> <section class='type:slideshow'><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/09/e7915b26/nike_10.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/09/9443e3f1/nike_11.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/09/6f68dda4/nike_1.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/09/8222e2fe/nike_12.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/09/315cf3a7/nike_2.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/09/4526eb51/nike_13.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/09/92ee66fb/nike_3.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/09/5c749475/nike_4.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/09/eb509a86/nike_5.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/09/a3a90e17/nike_7.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/09/2fe8f9c3/nike_8.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/07/09/1f4f194d/nike_9.jpg'></figure></section>   <p>As you can see, the shoes also feature the Tekken logos, a Fist logo with Tekken's signature lighting, and a nice box to hold the shoes. </p> <p><em>Sole Retriever </em>reports that a second colorway in this lineup is on the way and it will reference Jin Kazama, although there's no images of what it will look like yet. </p> <p>These Tekken 8 x Nike Air Foamposite One Fist shoes will cost you $250 when they release this September. For more, read <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/tekken-8/aggressively-absurd"><em>Game Informer's </em>Tekken 8 review</a>. </p> <p><em>[Source: <a href="https://www.soleretriever.com/news/articles/tekken-8-nike-air-foamposite-one-premium-fist-release-date-2024">Sole Retriever</a>]</em></p> <p><em>Are you going to pick these shoes up this September? Let us know in the comments below!</em></p> Tue, 09 Jul 2024 07:14:40 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 123066 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/07/08/gothic-elex-developer-pirahna-bytes-has-reportedly-shut-down <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/08/a174aed3/elex-2-screen.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Piranha Bytes Shut Down" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Piranha Bytes, the developer of series such as Elex, Gothic, and Risen, has been shut down. The studio was owned by Embracer, which had been seeking a buyer for the German developer as part of its ongoing cost-cutting restructuring following failed $2 billion deal with Saudi Arabia-backed Savvy Games Group last year. </p> <p>It was reported that Pirahna Bytes was looking for a new publisher following job cuts last year. In January, following a period of radio silence and inactivity from the studio, CEO Micahel Rüve <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/22/gothic-elex-ii-dev-piranha-bytes-addresses-studio-closure-rumors-dont-write-us-off">addressed reports</a> of an impending closure by stating the company was in a “difficult situation” while expressing optimism about finding a partner by saying, “Don’t write us off yet!” </p> <p>However, German website <em><a href="https://www.gamestar.de/artikel/piranha-bytes-zukunft-bjoern-pankratz-pithead-studio,3416007.html">GameStar</a></em> (as surfaced by <a href="https://www.eurogamer.net/embracer-owned-gothic-risen-and-elex-developer-piranha-bytes-closes"><em>Eurogamer</em></a>) published a story reporting the studio was officially shut down in late June. Despite this report, there still has not been an official  announcement of closure from Embracer or Pirahna (the studio's <a href="https://www.piranha-bytes.com/">website</a> remains inactive, however), and details about what exactly happened are scarce. <em>Game Informer</em> has contacted Pirahna's publisher THQ Nordic for comment and will update this story with a response should we receive one. </p> <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/08/8ea0f442/risen1.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt="" class="image-style-body-default" /> <p>However, earlier today, Pirahna leaders Björn Pankratz and Jenny Pankratz <a href="https://x.com/PitheadStudio/status/1810222288484389201">announced</a> the formation of Pithead Studio, a new indie studio. In an <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lCOIsrbctNM&t=7s">announcement video</a>, the pair acknowledges Pirahna's silence over the past few months and says they plan to answer questions about Pithead's founding on their YouTube channel starting each Monday. </p> <p>Piranha Bytes was founded in 1997 and is perhaps best known for creating the Gothic series. The studio also developed the three Risen titles and the Elex series; its final release was Elex II in 2022. A remake of Gothic 1 is currently in development by a different studio, Alkimia Interactive. Piranha Bytes was acquired by THQ Nordic in 2019, itself a publishing subsidiary of Embracer Group.</p> <p>If true, this news would represent the latest Embracer casualty following the <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/06/17/embracer-shuts-down-developer-of-the-new-alone-in-the-dark">closure of Alone in the Dark developer Pieces Interactive</a> last month. After months of layoffs, studio closures (including Saints Row developer <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2023/08/31/saints-row-developer-volition-games-has-been-shut-down">Volition Games</a> and Timesplitters developer <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2023/12/12/embracer-reportedly-might-close-free-radical-design-its-reformed-timesplitters-team">Free Radical</a>), and selling off its properties, Embracer <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/04/22/embracer-group-to-split-into-three-companies-including-one-called-middle-earth">split itself into three companies</a> in April: Middle-earth & Friends, Coffee Stain & Friends, and Asmodee. </p> Mon, 08 Jul 2024 16:16:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 123065 https://www.gameinformer.com/exclusive/2024/07/08/how-romance-and-relationships-work-in-dragon-age-the-veilguard <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/06/13/d265e3b9/emmrich.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Dragon Age: The Veilguard Game Informer Cover Story Exclusive Details" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Dragon Age: The Veilguard is a BioWare RPG, which means a lot of things, including the fact that the game will feature romance. Based on what I learned during a recent trip to BioWare's Edmonton office for the current <em>Game Informer</em> cover story, Veilguard will be the team's most romantic game yet. </p> <h2>Relationship Level</h2> <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/06/13/db54040d/warrior_rook.jpg" alt="Dragon Age: The Veilguard Dreadwolf Game Informer Cover Story" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /> <p>Every companion in the game has a Relationship Level related to Rook, and the choices you make (and not even specifically about the companion, but in the world in general), what you say to companions, how you help or don't help them, and more all play into it. Every time you rank up a companion's Relationship Level, you unlock a skill point to spend specifically on that companion. Though companion skill trees pale in comparison to Rook's expansive tree, which features passive abilities, combat abilities, and more, as well as paths to three unique class specializations, there's still some customization here. </p> <p>Each companion has access to five abilities, but you can only take three into combat. Thus, it's important to strategize which abilities to spend a skill point on and how those abilities can synergize with your current build on the battlefield. Though I couldn't confirm, Dragon Age series art director Matt Rhodes hints that companion issues, problems, and personal quests will play into this Relationship Level and how a companion interacts with Rook. </p> <p>"[Bellara Lutara, for example] has her own story arc that runs parallel to and informs the story path you're on," Rhodes tells me while I watch game director Corinne Busche play through a linear, story-driven mission in Arlathan Forest where Rook is searching for Bellara. Busche adds that "relationships are key, not only romance but friendships. We wanted to lean into not just the relationships the characters have with you but the relationships they have with each other. It's a found family, and at the end of the day, they need to trust they all have each other's back." </p> <h2>Romance</h2> <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/06/13/bd546151/lace_and_varric.jpg" alt="Dragon Age: The Veilguard Game Informer Cover Story Exclusive Details" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /> <p>However, fret not, BioWare fans – romance is a key part of relationships in the game, Busche says, noting some of the romances will get quite spicy. However, not all of them will, as "each romance has a very different flavor," according to Busche. Some characters are straight to the point, while others are more awkward, having never been in a relationship before. "You learn who these characters are in how their romances unfold," she says. She likens romantic and platonic relationships to another way to "level up" your companions. It's not just experience and skill points that determine Rook's standing with companions, but diegetic conversations, too. </p> <p>BioWare has already revealed that every companion in Veilguard is pansexual, notably different from the community-dubbed "playersexual" approach in some games, which sees NPCs adjust romantic and sexual interests based on the player rather than their own sense of sexuality. As pansexual companions, they are attracted to people of any gender (or regardless of gender). That's a critical distinction because, in Veilguard, your companions aren't just going to vie for your affection – they might take attraction to other companions in the titular Veilguard. </p> <p>Giving one companion the cold shoulder might nudge them into the warm shoulder of someone else on the team. Busche says companions can form romances with each other, although I'm unable to confirm if that means locking Rook out of forming a romance with them. </p> <p>I saw nothing resembling romance in my very early hours with the game. However, I did see the romantically inclined "emotional" response in Rook's dialogue choices at times, which led to my Rook flirting with ice mage and private detective companion Neve Gallus. Busche says this is the option to flirt and push platonic relationships into romantic territory, though Rook's flirtatious efforts aren't always reciprocated. But that's not to say you should ignore the other options – I saw dialogue choices resembling friendly, snarky, and direct, too, and I can see how these different flavors of dialogue likely mix and mingle into Rook's relationships with companions. It's still a mostly mysterious system to me, but as Veilguard is due out this fall, I don't have to wait too long to learn more and neither do you.</p> <p>For more about the game, including exclusive details, interviews, video features, and more, click the Dragon Age: The Veilguard hub button below. </p> Mon, 08 Jul 2024 14:00:00 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 122928 https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/07/08/disney-pixel-rpg-is-an-8-bit-adventure-starring-mickey-mouse-coming-to-mobile <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/08/dc7f8262/disney_pixel_rpg_header.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Disney Pixel RPG Classic Mickey Mouse Donald Duck Goofy Action Role-Playing iOS Android" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Developer-publisher GungHo Online Entertainment has revealed Disney Pixel RPG, an upcoming 8-bit adventure starring Mickey Mouse, Winnie the Pooh, Genie from <em>Aladdin</em>, Baymax from <em>Big Hero 6</em>, and many more beloved characters. It launches in Japan on iOS and Android devices this September, and is expected to be released in other regions of the world at a later date. </p> <p>According to the game's <a href="https://d-rpg.com/en/">website</a>, Disney Pixel RPG will feature a story about merging worlds, fast-paced strategic battles (with simple controls for mobile and even an auto-play function), customization for your own avatar character, and expeditions that allow you to send pixelated Disney characters out on missions to gather materials and more. Players in Japan can pre-register for Disney Pixel RPG right now ahead of the game's September 9 launch – there's no word on if other regions will be able to pre-register anytime soon, however. </p> <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/08/071099c9/disney_pixel_rpg.jpg" alt="Disney Pixel RPG Classic Mickey Mouse Donald Duck Goofy Action Role-Playing iOS Android" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /> <p>"The game world that these Disney characters call home have suddenly been invaded by strange programs, and are starting to break down," the story description reads on the game's website. "These previously isolated game worlds have merged, throwing all the characters into confusion. Take on the role of a player of these games and join Disney characters as you embark on an epic quest across multiple game worlds to restore order." </p> <p>The game's listing on Apple's App Store notes it will be free-to-play but will feature microtransactions. </p> <p><strong>Here's a look at the game's combat</strong>: </p> <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/08/1d4659cb/disney_pixel_rpg_2.jpg" alt="Disney Pixel RPG Classic Mickey Mouse Donald Duck Goofy Action Role-Playing iOS Android" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /> <p><strong>And here's a look at the game's avatar customization</strong>: </p> <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/08/a51e65af/disney_pixel_rpg_3.jpg" alt="Disney Pixel RPG Classic Mickey Mouse Donald Duck Goofy Action Role-Playing iOS Android" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /> <p>Disney Pixel RPG launches in Japan on iOS and Android on September 9, 2024. There's no word on when to expect it in other regions of the world. </p> <p>For more Disney, read about how <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/06/25/disney-epic-mickey-rebrushed-paints-a-september-launch-date-collectors-edition-revealed">Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed launches this September</a> as well. After that, check out <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/06/24/the-big-list-of-upcoming-video-game-remakes"><em>Game Informer's </em>list of upcoming video game remakes</a>. </p> <p><em>Are you excited about Disney Pixel RPG? Let us know in the comments below!</em></p> Mon, 08 Jul 2024 07:38:38 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 123063 https://www.gameinformer.com/exclusive/2024/07/04/bespoke-armor-transmog-and-other-aspects-of-gear-in-dragon-age-the-veilguard <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/06/15/03f6cfed/rogue_combat.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Dragon Age: The Veilguard Dreadwolf Game Informer Cover Story" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Dragon Age features a ton of different customization options. Just within the <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/exclusive/2024/06/13/a-deep-dive-into-dragon-age-the-veilguards-expansive-character-creator">character creator</a>, there are hundreds of options to customize things like hair, body type, what your playable character Rook's face looks like, and so much more. There are also a ton of armor options, too. </p> <p>Companions have an armor slot, a ring slot, an accessory slot, and a weapon slot, while Rook has access to even more – a helmet, two weapon slots, a belt, an amulet slot, and two ring slots. A belt having its own slot might sound odd as it's not an armor piece people typically think of when kitting out an RPG warrior. However, the belt is an important facet of Rook's kit. The better Rook's belt, the better the potency of their healing potions, which are replenished by destroying green pots scattered about the world. That's not all, though, as higher-quality belts can proc [<em>editor's note</em>: proc is a term used as a shorter way of saying "programmed random occurrence"] additional effects like momentary invulnerability. </p> <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/06/13/0141d8e0/lucanis.jpg" alt="Dragon Age: The Veilguard Dreadwolf Game Informer Cover Story" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /> <p>When creating your character, you can immediately view aspirational armors, which won't play into Rook's class until the "mid-to-late game," according to game director Corinne Busche. You can also toggle Rook's starting gear and casual wear in the creator, giving you a pretty good look at how Rook will look in more laidback cutscenes, in combat, and how they might appear later in your Veilguard journey. Busche tells me a lot of the gear in Veilguard is bespoke to your Rook or their followers, which is to say, an armor piece for a Warrior-class Rook probably won't be in a chest for a Mage-class Rook. On a similar note, armor designed for companion Bellara Lutara can't be used for another companion like Lace Harding.</p> <p>In just my few hours viewing Busche play the game as part of my visit to BioWare's Edmonton office for our current <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/cover-reveal/2024/06/09/cover-reveal-dragon-age-the-veilguard"><em>Game Informer </em>cover story</a>, I see a lot of armor to collect from things like chests scattered about Arlathan Forest, for example, and elsewhere. Some of it looks awesome, and some of it doesn't quite line up with my personal taste. That's how it goes in the genre of RPGs.</p> <p>However, Busche tells me there is transmogrification, or transmog for short, in the game, and calls it "robust." This means you can take an armor's stats and apply it to a different piece of armor. In other words, if you have a really cool piece of armor you like and find a new piece with better stats but don't want to give up the look of your current armor, you don't have to. Transmog allows you to take that new armor's stats and apply them to your current armor, giving you all the benefits while keeping the visual style you prefer. </p> <p>Transmog isnt just for Rook, though; you can transmog armor and other things for your companions as well. I don't get to see how Veilguard's transmog system works in-game, but just knowing it exists allows me to rest easy knowing my Rook will look as fashionable as possible while saving Thedas. </p> <p>For more about the game, including exclusive details, interviews, video features, and more, click the Dragon Age: The Veilguard hub button below. </p> Thu, 04 Jul 2024 16:00:00 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 122929 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/07/03/battlefield-3-4-and-hardline-are-being-delisted-from-playstation-3-and-xbox-360 <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/03/c80c965b/battlefield-3-art.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Battlefield 3, 4, And Hardline Being Delisted From PlayStation 3 And Xbox 360" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>EA has announced that it will delist three Battlefield titles from the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 digital storefronts at the end of the month. </p> <p>On July 31, the PS3/Xbox 360 versions of <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/games/battlefield_3/b/xbox360/archive/2011/10/26/review.aspx">Battlefield 3</a>, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/games/battlefield_4/b/pc/archive/2013/10/28/holding-the-line.aspx">Battlefield 4</a>, and <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/games/battlefield_hardline/b/playstation4/archive/2015/03/20/battlefield-hardline-review-game-informer.aspx">Battlefield: Hardline</a>, along with their associated DLCs, will be removed from sale. Owners of these games will still be able to play their single-player content, but online support for these titles will end on November 7. The embedded announcement post on X also includes a link to an FAQ to answer additional questions about the sunsetting process. </p> <blockquote class="tw-align-center twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="zxx"><a href="https://t.co/2W8dLlGjBM">https://t.co/2W8dLlGjBM</a></p> — Battlefield Comms (@BattlefieldComm) <a href="https://twitter.com/BattlefieldComm/status/1806689437352341764?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2024</a></blockquote> <p>While the digital PS3/Xbox 360 versions of these games are going away, Battlefield 3 will still be available to purchase on PC. The same is true for Battlefield 4 and Hardline, and these two titles will also remain on sale for PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. The PC/PS4/Xbox One versions will remain unaffected by today’s updates.</p> <p>It never feels good to see games get removed from sale like this. The reason likely has to do with EA sunsetting online support; it wouldn't be right to continue selling games with popular online modes if that component doesn't work anymore. For those still logging into Battlefield matches on PS3 and 360, you've got a few more months to enjoy the ride.</p> <p>For more on Battlefield, you can learn about how the next entry is shaping up (which is being made with help by Dead Space remake developer Motive Studios) <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/04/09/motive-studio-to-work-on-battlefield-as-iron-man-game-hits-major-internal-milestone">here.</a> </p> Wed, 03 Jul 2024 13:28:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 123058 https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/07/03/tales-of-kenzera-zau-developer-surgent-studios-announces-layoffs <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/04/02/c1c75129/tales-of-kenzera-zau.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="tales of kenzera zau surgent studios ea originals metroidvania surgent studios layoffs" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Surgent Studios, the developer behind <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/product/tales-of-kenzera-zau">Tales of Kenzera: Zau</a>, has announced it is laying off just over a dozen employees. This follows the release of its first game, Tales of Kenzera: Zau, back in April, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/tales-of-kenzera-zau/spirit-over-substance">which launched to good reviews</a>. </p> <p>Surgent doesn't explain why; it says it's focusing on supporting those affected, continuing work on Tales of Kenzera: Zau, and looking ahead to future projects. </p> <p><strong>Here's the studio's <a href="https://x.com/surgentstudios/status/1808216664145576284">statement</a>, in full</strong>: </p> "Unfortunately, Surgent has joined the growing number of games studios impacted by layoffs this year with just over a dozen people affected. It's a difficult time in the games industry, but we remain incredibly proud of our entire team's work on Zau, and of the praise it has received from critics and players alike. Our focus now is on supporting those affected, continuing our work on Zau, and looking to the future with our next creative projects."  <p>Studio head and founder Abubakar Salim, who also voiced the titular Zau in the team's first game, released his own <a href="https://x.com/Abzybabzy/status/1808221598983544959">statement</a> addressing the layoffs: </p> "Thank you so much to those who have checked in. This hurts deeply. This isn't the news I wanted to share today. I am so proud of what that team have achieved over the course of these 4 years. When things got tough, every one of them stood so strong, it was inspiring. So to be delivering this news today really sucks. I know we're not alone here, but that doesn't make it easier.  "The focus now is to continue supporting those affected in anyway we can. I will be replying to this with links to posts from our affected team members. If you have any opportunities available or know of any going, please consider these incredible talented people."  <p>Surgent Studios grows an unfortunately ever-growing list of studios affected by layoffs in 2024. </p> <p>Last month, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/06/20/paradox-interactive-closes-tectonic-studio-the-same-week-it-canceled-its-first-game">Paradox Interactive closed its Paradox Tectonic Studio</a> the same week it canceled its first game, Life by You. Earlier that month, Dead by Daylight developer <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/06/05/dead-by-daylight-developer-behaviour-interactive-is-laying-off-up-to-95-employees">Behaviour Interactive laid off 95 employees</a>. Fae Farm and Dauntless developer <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/16/fae-farm-dauntless-studio-phoenix-labs-lays-off-staff-cancels-in-development-games">Phoenix Labs laid off the majority of its staff and canceled its in-development games</a> back in May, and that same week, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/13/square-enix-will-begin-layoffs-as-part-of-structural-reforms-this-week">Square Enix announced it will begin layoffs as part of "structural reforms."</a> </p> <p>In May, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/07/xbox-is-shutting-down-arkane-austin-tango-gameworks-and-more">Xbox closed four Bethesda studios</a>, including Hi-Fi Rush developer Tango Gameworks and Redfall studio Arkane Austin. <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/02/take-two-closes-rollerdrome-and-kerbal-space-program-2-studios-while-majority-of">Take-Two Interactive closed Rollerdrome studio Roll7 and Kerbal Space Program 2 studio Intercept Games</a> alongside major layoffs to its indie-publisher Private Division label. That same week, we learned <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/02/deliver-us-mars-developer-keoken-interactive-lays-off-nearly-entire-staff">Deliver Us Mars developer Keoken Interactive had laid off nearly its entire staff</a>. </p> <p>Elsewhere in the year, EA laid off <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/02/28/ea-lays-off-670-employees-cancels-respawns-star-wars-fps">roughly 670 employees across all departments</a>, resulting in the cancellation of Respawn's Star Wars FPS game. <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/02/27/playstation-laying-off-900-across-insomniac-naughty-dog-guerrilla-and-more-closing">PlayStation laid off 900 employees</a> across Insomniac, Naughty Dog, Guerrilla, and more, closing down London Studio in the process, too. The day before, Until Dawn developer <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/02/26/until-dawn-little-nightmares-iii-developer-supermassive-games-is-laying-off-90">Supermassive Games announced it laid off 90 employees</a>. </p> <p>At the end of January, we learned <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/29/embracer-group-cancels-new-deus-ex-game-in-development-at-eidos-montreal-lays-off">Embracer Group had canceled a new Deus Ex game in development at Eidos-Montréal</a> and laid off 97 employees in the process. Also in January, Destroy All Humans remake developer <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/25/destroy-all-humans-remake-developer-black-forest-games-reportedly-lays-off-50">Black Forest Games reportedly laid off 50 employees</a> and <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/25/microsoft-is-laying-off-1900-employees-across-xbox-activision-blizzard-and-zenimax">Microsoft announced it was laying off 1,900 employees across its Xbox, Activision Blizzard, and ZeniMax teams</a>, as well. Outriders studio <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/25/outriders-studio-people-can-fly-lays-off-more-than-30-employees">People Can Fly laid off more than 30 employees</a> in January, and League of Legends company <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/23/league-of-legends-company-riot-games-lays-off-530-employees">Riot Games laid off 530 employees</a>. </p> <p><a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/18/lords-of-the-fallen-publisher-ci-games-lays-off-10-of-its-staff">Lords of the Fallen Publisher CI Games laid off 10 percent of its staff</a>, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/10/unity-to-lay-off-1800-employees">Unity will lay off 1,800 people by the end of March</a>, and <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/10/twitch-to-lay-off-500-employees">Twitch laid off 500 employees</a>. </p> <p>We also learned that <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/gamer-culture/2024/01/12/discord-lays-off-170-employees-due-to-overhiring#:~:text=Discord%20Lays%20Off%20170%20Employees%20Due%20To%20Overhiring%20%2D%20Game%20Informer">Discord had laid off 170 employees</a>, that <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/17/ptw-a-support-studio-thats-worked-with-capcom-and-blizzard-lays-off-45-people">layoffs happened at PTW</a>, a support studio that's worked with companies like Blizzard and Capcom, and that <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/17/thunderful-group-the-company-behind-2023s-steamworld-build-to-lay-off-roughly-100">SteamWorld Build company, Thunderful Group, let go of roughly 100 people</a>. Dead by Daylight developer <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/18/dead-by-daylight-studio-behaviour-interactive-has-reportedly-laid-off-45-people">Behaviour Interactive also reportedly laid off 45 people, too</a>. </p> <p>The hearts of the <em>Game Informer </em>staff are with everyone who's been affected by layoffs or closures. </p> Wed, 03 Jul 2024 07:36:30 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 123053 https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/07/02/a-quiet-place-the-road-ahead-story-trailer-showcases-the-silent-end-of-the-world <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/02/73bcb625/a_quiet_place_the_road_ahead.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="A Quiet Place The Road Ahead First Person Horror Story Trailer" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Developer Stormind Games and publisher Saber Interactive have released a new story trailer for <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/product/a-quiet-place-the-road-ahead">A Quiet Place: The Road Ahead</a> showcasing more of this upcoming first-person horror game's silent alien-infested world. And it continues to look like a scary new addition to the <em>A Quiet Place </em>movie universe. </p> <p>Though there's still no release date – it's launching sometime this year on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC – this story trailer reveals more about the state of the world in The Road Ahead. It seemingly begins on Day One, when the aliens, which possess incredible hearing that requires people to remain silent to survive, attack Earth. It then jumps ahead to Day 105, with Alex, an asthmatic college student trying to survive the end of the world with her boyfriend Martin, on the hunt for supplies and more. </p> <p><strong>Check it out for yourself in the story trailer for A Quiet Place: The Road Ahead below</strong>: </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DC2rNzzmhXw" width="640"></iframe> <p>As you can see, it seems Alex might be pregnant, which, if you've seen the first <em>A Quiet Place </em>movie, can make trying to remain silent in this world quite difficult. We'll have to wait a little longer to find out how the story of A Quiet Place: The Road Ahead plays out because it launches later this year on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. </p> <p>For more about the game, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/06/17/the-a-quiet-place-game-breaks-its-silence-with-first-reveal-trailer">watch the reveal trailer for A Quiet Place: The Road Ahead</a>. </p> <p><em>Are you excited for A Quiet Place: The Road Ahead? Let us know in the comments below!</em></p> Tue, 02 Jul 2024 09:35:57 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 123050 https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/07/02/transformers-galactic-trials-mixes-racing-with-roguelite-combat-this-october <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/02/318021d8/transformers_galactic_trials.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Transformers Galactic Trials Racing Robots Roguelite Combat October Release Date" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Hasbro and developer Outright Games have revealed Transformers: Galactic Trials, an arcade robot racing game with roguelite combat. It launches on October 11 on PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, and PC. </p> <p>The reveal trailer features a look at the hybrid racing game, which allows players to select Autobots and Decepticons, use them in combat encounters in Bot Mode, and race as them in each Transformer's Alt Mode. You can play solo or against a friend.</p> <p><strong>Check it out for yourself in the Transformers: Galactic Trials </strong><strong>trailer below</strong>: </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2zhMYxpxJWw" width="640"></iframe> <p>"Evil Nemesis Prime has stolen the Prime Relics, which bestow incredible powers on whoever possesses them," the game's description reads. "Now, the Autobots and Decepticons are in an explosive race to recover the relics – the future of Cybertron is in your hands. </p> <p>"Choose your character from icons like Bumblebee, Megatron, and Optimus Prime. Speed into action on battle-race circuits, drift and boost to charge up Energon, then unleash devastating special moves in battle. And use your experience to unlock new skills, characters, and skins. It's the ultimate test of your favorite Transformers' abilities, which will decide the future of Cybertron." </p> <p>Transformers: Galactic Trials hits PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Switch, and PC on October 11, 2024. </p> <p><em>Are you going to check out Transformers: Galactic Trials this October? Let us know in the comments below!</em></p> Tue, 02 Jul 2024 09:10:54 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 123049 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/07/01/capcom-next-recap-dead-rising-remaster-gameplay-and-release-date-kunitsu-gami-demo-and <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/07/01/3676318e/drdrtrailer1.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Capcom Next Summer 2024 recap" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Capcom Next was a more succint affair this summer. It focused on providing updates for only three titles: Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess, Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster, and the iOS/Mac port of Resident Evil 7: Biohazard. Here's a brief summary of each announcement, which includes the smallest of teases for the next Resident Evil title. </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/TBbz12bhyE8" width="640"></iframe> <h2>Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess</h2> <p>Ahead of its launch on July 19, the fantastical action-strategy hybrid is getting a demo later today on all platforms the game is available on. The demo will also feature crossover content with Okami in the form of themed weapons and costumes for the main character and the maiden. Interestingly, the Okami stuff will only appear in the demo, but Capcom states that if enough people play it, these items will become available in the full game at launch via an update.</p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FIAiUWhxmrs" width="640"></iframe> <h2>Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster</h2> <p>The remaster of the 2006 zombie romp is coming on September 19 (a physical version arrives in November). We got our first look at gameplay and several graphical “before/after” comparison shots showcasing how dramatic the presentational improvements really are. The game will run at 4K 60FPS and features real-time lighting that changes with the time of day. Gameplay improvements include the ability to move while aiming, an autosave feature, a better UI, and improved NPC behavior. Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster will be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. </p> <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/06/10/3661fb2e/re7iphone.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt="" class="image-style-body-default" /> <h2>Resident Evil 7: Biohazard on iOS and Mac</h2> <p>The latest RE mobile port features improved touched controls and a new auto-aim/auto-fire feature for those who desire extra assistance. Menu and inventory is now touch compatible. Capcom reveals the first section of the game is free-to-play, allowing players to give it a try before committing to a purchase. </p> <p>Additionally, Capcom confirms what was likely already obvious: a new Resident Evil is in development. RE7 director Koshi Nakanishi is apparently back at the helm and stated, "It was really difficult to figure out what to do after 7. But I found it, and to be honest, it feels substantial. I can't share any details just yet, but I hope you're excited for the day I can."</p> Mon, 01 Jul 2024 17:33:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 123045