Videogame News Thread [Archive] - Page 56

Emperor Smeat

03-18-2020, 07:01 PM

* Microsoft's Major Nelson recently denied rumors of the Xbox Series X console launching this Thanksgiving and the current plans are still for a Holiday 2020 launch.
https://twitter.com/majornelson/status/1240360263791960064

* Gamestop is currently dealing with backlash both online and from their employees regarding the lack of health safety measures enacted for the coronavirus at their stores. The backlash got to the point that Gamestop announced they were cancelling all midnight launch events for the foreseeable future due to growing health concerns.
https://kotaku.com/gamestops-employees-fear-its-coronavirus-policies-are-d-1842367297
https://www.destructoid.com/gamestop-cancels-midnight-launch-events-but-faces-employee-criticism-over-coronavirus-measures-583741.phtml

* Sony revealed some new details regarding their upcoming PS5 in terms of specs and backwards compatibility.
Today, before the "Road to PS5" online stream, Sony revealed specs for the PS5 via a Eurogamer article. It'll sport a 8x Zen 2 Cores at 3.5GHz CPU, 10.28 TFLOPs, 36 CUs at 2.23GHz GPU, 16GB GDDR6 memory, and a remarkably low 825GB SSD with an NVMe SSD Slot and a 4K UHD Blu-ray Drive. Cerny confirms that PS5 users can buy "certain M2 SSDs on the open market, which you can install in the bay on the PS5" ...

The new Xbox will enter the arena with a faster CPU, roughly the same memory, and 175GB more SSD storage space out of the box. Comparing IO throughput, the PS5 rocks "5.5GB/s (Raw), Typical 8-9GB/s (Compressed)," and the Xbox Series X is rolling with "2.4 GB/s (Raw), 4.8 GB/s (Compressed, with custom hardware decompression block)." A clear win for PS5.

As Cerny explains, the PS5 "incorporates any differences in the previous console's logic into the new console's custom chips." That means that "the logic and features sets that PS4 games rely on is still available in backward compatibility modes." Cerny says this is the crux for backward compatibility on PS5, as opposed to adding the PS4 chipset into the PS5 chip which is "extremely expensive."

The result is that most PS4 titles will be playable on PS5 at launch. Cerny specifically mentions that Sony looked at the top 100 most-played PS4 games and "almost all of them" will be backward compatible. However, every title has to be individually tested because some "game code just can't handle it."
https://www.destructoid.com/sony-reveals-ps5-specs-before-their-road-to-ps5-livestream-583781.phtml
https://www.destructoid.com/almost-all-of-the-most-popular-ps4-games-will-be-playable-on-ps5-at-launch-583783.phtml

Emperor Smeat

03-19-2020, 07:19 PM

Apparently Gamestop is currently encouraging their stores to not comply with local and state orders regarding the coronavirus outbreak based on a recent internal memo sent by the company.

Gamestop's excuse is they considering themselves to be "essential retail" that should remain open to the public.

In a memo acquired by Vice, GameStop's corporate office has instructed stores to not comply with law enforcement who try to force closure because of the COVID-19 quarantines. Stores were given a flier for employees to hand over, directing officials to call GameStop's corporate phone number.

That's the part that's pathetic and tone-deaf: That GameStop asks its poor employees to defy law enforcement and ignore a worldwide crisis. Here's the part that's hilarious: GameStop's logic for doing so is because the video game store fancies itself as "essential retail." The memo reads "Due to the products we carry that enable and enhance our customers' experience in working from home, we believe GameStop is classified as essential retail and therefore is able to remain open during this time."

https://www.vice.com/en_us/article/pkew4g/gamestop-instructs-employees-ignore-law-enforcement-not-shut-down-coronavirus
https://www.destructoid.com/gamestop-refuses-to-comply-with-coronavirus-mandates-to-close-down-583939.phtml

ClockShot

03-19-2020, 07:45 PM

Bad as it sounds, they sort of are essential right now. People probably looking to get a console and some games to keep the backlog heavy to keep themselves occupied for however long this...……..thing lasts.

No use wandering into a big box store like a Wal-Mart, Target, Best Buy etc. with a shitload of people in there when you can walk into a GameStop and just be you and the clerk in the store. Yes, I know. Don't go out. But we all gotta go out for stuff sooner or later.

Online shopping obviously is the safe way to go right now. But even the e-retailers and the shipping companies can only do so much.

Emperor Smeat

03-20-2020, 04:11 PM

Gamestop's ongoing PR mess with the coronavirus took another turn for the worst.

They recently informed their California stores that shut down due to state government orders that manager-level employees only have two options for their jobs:
1) Use up their personal time in order to save their jobs
2) File for unemployment

The company isn't going to pay anyone there while the government order is active.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">GameStop employees in California, where all stores shut down today, tell Kotaku that they're being told to use personal time (limited to assistant managers and higher) or file for unemployment. They won't be paid while stores are closed <a href="https://t.co/NfUsZvCVp2">https://t.co/NfUsZvCVp2</a></p>— Jason Schreier (@jasonschreier) <a href="https://twitter.com/jasonschreier/status/1241091124581806087?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Kalyx triaD

03-20-2020, 06:37 PM

I'm going to tell my kids the Ballad of Gamestop.

Destor

03-21-2020, 04:49 AM

If that guys dumb enough to think any business should be paying workers when they have 0 profits ive got a time share opportunity for him.

To make it worse if gamestop loses much (see: nearly any) revenue theyll fold. Youll go from laid off to unemployed real quick.

Ruien

03-21-2020, 03:48 PM

It is amazing that everything Gamestop does everyone goes off on them.

Emperor Smeat

03-21-2020, 05:43 PM

Because it usually either involves them doing something that could have been completely avoidable PR wise or just a terrible idea from the start.

Like them shutting down Cali stores due to the coronavirus on its own wouldn't have been bad because at least there is a legit reason for it. Everything they did prior to that announcement just made things look worse for them.

ClockShot

03-21-2020, 08:19 PM

Well, GameStop is now closing stores across the country starting tomorrow. They'll only have someone in-store if you want to pick-up at your local store or just delivery. All business is being done online.

Good thing I got down there today to cancel my Final Fantasy 7 pre-order.

Tom Guycott

03-23-2020, 11:54 PM

If that guys dumb enough to think any business should be paying workers when they have 0 profits ive got a time share opportunity for him.

Funny you say so... apparently they changed their minds and are doing exactly that. Get those timeshare flyers ready!

Because it usually either involves them doing something that could have been completely avoidable PR wise or just a terrible idea from the start.

Like them shutting down Cali stores due to the coronavirus on its own wouldn't have been bad because at least there is a legit reason for it. Everything they did prior to that announcement just made things look worse for them.

Yeah, they make themselves look shitty, then act surprised that people think they're shitty. Trying to classify themselves as "essential" because a handful of stores carry a few webcams and keyboards was already a tenuous proposition before you add in anything that has to do with exactly how much contact with items and customers happens on the daily. Not even counting people who trade in grody discs and roach-infested systems, just contact in general with high-touch items like controllers, physical media, and cash is not the greatest idea during a nationwide quarintine.

It would have been easier to ride this out for a couple of weeks than shoot themselves in the foot with monumentally bad PR before turning around and shutting things down anyway.

Emperor Smeat

03-24-2020, 12:02 AM

* Based on early sales numbers, Animal Crossing's launch week sales broke two records in the UK. Highest launch week physical sales in series history (and more than all previous AC games launch weeks combined) and fastest selling Switch game if Pokemon Sword and Shield's sales are not combined.
https://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2020-03-22-animal-crossing-new-horizons-smashes-sales-records-in-the-uk

* Humble Bundle announced they will be launching a new episodic series called The Humble Brag starting on March 24th. This new series is similar in format to Nintendo Direct and the first episode will feature upcoming indie games arriving on their store during this Spring.
https://twitter.com/humble/status/1241031875268939778
https://www.destructoid.com/humble-bundle-is-the-latest-company-to-adopt-nintendo-direct-style-news-format-584177.phtml

* For those interested, Tomb Raider (2013) and Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris are currently available for free on Steam until 3AM EST on March 24th. Both games are part of Square Enix's efforts for the Stay Home and Play campaign against the coronavirus.
https://store.steampowered.com/app/203160/Tomb_Raider/
https://store.steampowered.com/app/289690/LARA_CROFT_AND_THE_TEMPLE_OF_OSIRIS/

DAMN iNATOR

03-26-2020, 08:09 PM

Borderlands Legendary Collection, containing all 3 (Borderlands, Borderlands 2 and Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel), and ALL of each game's DLC and other add-ons was just announced as coming to Nintendo Switch May 29th.

R08Bxbr9Tq0

Emperor Smeat

03-26-2020, 08:28 PM

* Next DLC fighter for Smash Bros Ultimate was announced to be a fighter from Nintendo's ARMS fighting game and arrives this June. The announcement was among the stuff Nintendo revealed in a surprise mini-Direct episode earlier today.
Nintendo Direct episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ubRf4zyEvG4
https://www.destructoid.com/the-next-smash-ultimate-character-is-from-arms-will-be-released-in-june-584785.phtml

* Epic Games announced they have signed a publishing deal with Remedy Entertainment for two unannounced next gen games. Also announced was new publishing deals with Playdead and genDESIGN studios.
https://www.epicgames.com/store/en-US/news/epic-games-publishing-announcement

* Platinum Games announced they will be making their final "Platinum 4" announcement on April 1st and teased it will be "very Platinum" in nature.
https://www.destructoid.com/platinum-games-final-platinum-4-announcement-coming-april-1-584761.phtml

Emperor Smeat

03-30-2020, 07:54 PM

* Based on a recent investors meeting, Gamestop will be closing around 320 stores during this year as part of another trimming down of their overall retail chain of stores.
https://kotaku.com/gamestop-will-close-over-300-stores-this-year-1842549613

* Also Gamestop once again is facing backlash over their poor handling of the coronavirus outbreak. This time it involves stores that were reopened during the outbreak and instead of sending them sanitation supplies, an internal memo informed store staff to just use a trash bag as a glove to handle money from customers.
https://www.windowscentral.com/gamestop-told-employees-wrap-hands-plastic-bags-amid-coronavirus-outbreak

* Nintendo is currently rumored to be working on a remastered Super Mario series collection set and a new game in the Paper Mario series for the Switch. In regards to the Mario collection set, the games are rumored to be Super Mario 64, Super Mario Sunshine, Super Mario Galaxy, and Super Mario Galaxy 2 or Super Mario 3D World Deluxe.
https://www.destructoid.com/nintendo-switch-is-reportedly-getting-3d-mario-remasters-and-a-new-paper-mario-585238.phtml

* Next game in the Resident Evil series is currently rumored to be "the biggest departure the series has ever taken, to the point that [he expects] a lot of people will be pissed off about it when it gets revealed" according to a notable Capcom insider source. The same source also stated that an official reveal is expected to be made very soon and the game is currently planned to arrive next year.
https://twitter.com/AestheticGamer1/status/1244691829095682048
https://twitter.com/AestheticGamer1/status/1244692258537889798
https://www.destructoid.com/capcom-insider-says-next-resident-evil-will-be-a-very-different-kind-of-game-585248.phtml

Emperor Smeat

03-31-2020, 08:23 PM

For those interested, Humble Store is currently offering a special bundle containing 45 games for $30 and all proceeds going towards coronavirus relief efforts.

The Humble Conquer COVID-19 Bundle has 45 games for $30, all of the money going straight to charity. There are also 26 ebooks included. Humble picked Direct Relief, the International Rescue Committee, Doctors Without Borders, and Partners in Health to donate the proceeds to ...

The Humble Conquer COVID-19 Bundle is available until April 7.
https://www.humblebundle.com/conquer-covid19-bundle
https://www.destructoid.com/humble-is-fighting-corona-with-a-bundle-of-45-games-for-30-and-a-lot-of-them-are-awesome--585419.phtml

drave

04-01-2020, 03:54 PM

New Skyrim Mod - Skyrim Together.

On PC - you can play with friends... whoever, etc.

Details

https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/videos/3970

or just google that shit

ClockShot

04-03-2020, 07:43 AM

The Last of Us: Part 2 postponed indefinitely.

ClockShot

04-05-2020, 07:39 AM

Troubles for GameStop continues as all the Massachusetts stores closed.

City of Boston inspectional services department dropped by the Dorchester store and issued a nuisance order and had it closed.

That decision forced GameStop to close the rest of their Mass. locations too.

https://www.ign.com/articles/gamestop-fully-closes-massachusetts-stores-after-boston-government-gets-involved

Kalyx triaD

04-05-2020, 01:25 PM

They're done. They weren't making money in the best of times.

Emperor Smeat

04-06-2020, 07:47 PM

* Next game in the Resident Evil series is currently rumored to be "the biggest departure the series has ever taken, to the point that [he expects] a lot of people will be pissed off about it when it gets revealed" according to a notable Capcom insider source. The same source also stated that an official reveal is expected to be made very soon and the game is currently planned to arrive next year.
https://twitter.com/AestheticGamer1/status/1244691829095682048
https://twitter.com/AestheticGamer1/status/1244692258537889798
https://www.destructoid.com/capcom-insider-says-next-resident-evil-will-be-a-very-different-kind-of-game-585248.phtml

Supposedly this source was recently revealed to be a fraud and/or someone who takes stuff from other leakers and claims it as his own.

Newest alleged rumor spreading online from this source is the next RE game being called Resident Evil 8, is entirely played in a first-person perspective, and was originally meant to be RE Revelations 3 before Capcom changed development due to game testers reception. Also claimed the game's development was recently finished.

ClockShot

04-07-2020, 04:45 PM

DualSense. The PS5 Controller.

https://www.playstationtrophies.org/images/news/PS5_DualSense_1.jpg

Emperor Smeat

04-07-2020, 07:16 PM

Seems Microsoft is backing away from doing traditional press conferences at E3.

This year's conference being digital is due to coronavirus issues but next year's E3 press conference is also currently scheduled to be a digital one. Also their Microsoft Theater location won't be reopened for next year's E3.

However, E3 2020 has been canceled outright, and publishers and platform-holders all seem keen to just host pre-recorded streams of what they would've shown at a press conference.

That's Microsoft's plan for this E3, but it's apparently already the plan for next E3 too. In an email to Microsoft's MVPs about the scheduling of next year's MVP Summit, Microsoft reveals that it "has made the decision to transition all external and internal events to a digital-first experience through July 2021." (The Microsoft MVP program is a group of "Most Valuable Professionals" -- people who aren't Microsoft employees, but are recognized as community ambassadors who share valuable technical expertise about specific Microsoft products.)

Unless something changes, this means Xbox is preemptively no-showing E3 2021 (if E3 2021 even happens, that is). The big splashy press conference will presumably be replaced by a pre-recorded presentation, a la the monthly Inside Xbox show. Similarly, the annual Xbox Showcase in the Microsoft Theater adjacent to E3 won't take place. Microsoft is keeping its employees grounded for 15 months minimum, and that puts the kibosh on a physical presence at any convention.

https://www.destructoid.com/it-seems-like-xbox-has-already-committed-to-a-digital-only-press-conference-for-e3-2021-586214.phtml

Emperor Smeat

04-09-2020, 08:48 PM

Playtonic Games, developer of Yooka-Laylee, currently denying rumors they are working on a new Banjo-Kazooie game for Micorsoft for the Xbox One or Xbox One Series X.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">They're rumours.<br><br>We aren't working on a new Banjo game. <br><br>We're clarifying this because we don't like the idea of fans getting their hopes up. Sorry. <a href="https://t.co/p7GSpF07jG">https://t.co/p7GSpF07jG</a></p>— Playtonic (@PlaytonicGames) <a href="https://twitter.com/PlaytonicGames/status/1248191489441759232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Sepholio

04-10-2020, 01:35 AM

Should make a new Conker game instead.

drave

04-10-2020, 08:33 AM

It'd be perfect in 2020. They'd have so much shit to reference.

road doggy dogg

04-13-2020, 03:56 PM

Terraria 1.4 (Journey's End) release date of May 16th announced. Fuck yessssssssss finally

drave

04-13-2020, 04:28 PM

To: RdD
cc: berg

Subject: Sup dawg

regards,

Drave

road doggy dogg

04-13-2020, 05:27 PM

Good Afternoon Dr. Ave,

I am currently working on an estimate for a large project in North Carolina. This is probably the 8th project I've done a takeoff for in the past 72 hours and I am drowning in work (alas, not pussy) because the complete fucking retards that oversee our company decided to lay off the only other employee in my department and we were already 7 weeks behind schedule. So, going peachy. At least I have Terraria to look forward to.

Kind Regards,

rod the dog, PhD (pritty huge dick)

Emperor Smeat

04-13-2020, 08:09 PM

Capcom is currently rumored to be working on a remake of Resident Evil 4 with M-Two studio as the developer.

The remake is also rumored to be arriving in 2022.

According to a report from VGC, development is already underway on a remake of Capcom's horror classic Resident Evil 4, following on from the success of recent remakes Resident Evil 2 and Resident Evil 3. The new project is supposedly in development at studio M-Two, with a scheduled release year of 2022.

M-Two, founded just last year by PlatinumGames' former president Tatsuya Minami, provided support work on recent release Resident Evil 3, but are expected to be leading the charge on Resident Evil 4. Shinji Mikami, co-creator of the franchise, is reportedly not working on the project, but has given it his blessing, offering "informal advice" on the game's direction.
https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/resident-evil-4-remake/

Sepholio

04-13-2020, 08:39 PM

4 is the one that doesn't need a remake. It's still the peak of the series. Just remaster it with better graphics/sound and leave the guts of the game the same.

Splaya

04-14-2020, 06:47 PM

drave

04-14-2020, 07:24 PM

Sepholio

04-15-2020, 04:02 AM

Rumor has it WWE2k21 has been cancelled.

drave

04-15-2020, 08:00 AM

GOOD!

doubtful though. Players can control wrasslers via LIVESTREAM on a new platform, TBD.

This is the NEW wwe -post-corona.

Sepholio

04-15-2020, 07:46 PM

I dunno, seems like it's pretty legit. Part of it is stemming from the failure that was 2k20 and needing more time to make a good game again to rectify that shit show. Another reason being stated is that with the coronavirus stuff going on that they can't get the motion capture work done for this years potential installment. I can def see them taking off for a year.

However there apparently will still be a WWE game of some sort this year. Its said to not be a wrestling simulation though and a "new type of experience". Prob another mobile game.

Emperor Smeat

04-15-2020, 09:10 PM

According to Kotaku, a new game in the Grand Theft Auto series is currently in development.

Unlike Rockstar's recent games, development on this one is smaller in scope due to recent changes made by the company to improve the work environment and well-being of their staff.

Seems its going to be something more in the vein of GTA Online in the sense of having a sizeable base content at launch and then gets beefed up with content updates over time for post-launch support.

Today, Kotaku published an investigative study into the ways that the culture at Rockstar is changing. Kotaku interviewed 15 anonymous current or recently-departed Rockstar employees. The takeaway is that Rockstar seems to be slowly shifting its ways for the better. Through flexible work schedules, improved management leadership training, and better lines of communication, employees seem to genuinely believe that the developer is breaking away from the mandatory overtime/crunch habits and problematic culture that it had become known for within the professional video game community.

Nestled inside the report is the not-so-stunning revelation that Rockstar is in early development of the next Grand Theft Auto game. However, Rockstar management is said to be applying its reformed approach to the entire structure of GTA 6 (or whatever it may be called). Rather than creating a gigantic game for launch, the plan is to initially ship something that's "moderately-sized," and to add to it through regular updates over time. The idea is that this will alleviate crunch and overworking by spreading the development period over a longer span. Although, as Kotaku notes, "moderately-sized" for a developer as big as Rockstar and a project as important as GTA will still be quite large.

https://kotaku.com/18-months-after-red-dead-redemption-2-rockstar-has-mad-1842880524
https://www.destructoid.com/a-new-gta-is-in-the-works-and-it-ll-reportedly-be-smaller-in-scope-at-launch-587163.phtml

DAMN iNATOR

04-16-2020, 07:55 PM

They're done. They weren't making money in the best of times.

:roll::roll::roll::lol:

road doggy dogg

04-16-2020, 08:43 PM

what

Gamestop has been bleeding for years

Emperor Smeat

04-16-2020, 09:33 PM

This year's Gamescom joins the list of gaming events and conventions cancelled due to the coronavirus.

Yesterday the German government issued a new ban on large public gatherings that is active until August 31st. That ended up affecting Gamescom since this year's convention was planned to take place from August 25-29.

Even though a physical convention can't be held, Gamescom officials are currently working on plans to hold this year's event as a digital one if possible.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Official statement regarding <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gamescom2020?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#gamescom2020</a> ⬇️ <a href="https://t.co/fHaN4GOULM">pic.twitter.com/fHaN4GOULM</a></p>— gamescom (@gamescom) <a href="https://twitter.com/gamescom/status/1250815640400773120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

https://www.destructoid.com/-update-germany-probably-just-forced-the-cancellation-of-gamescom-587146.phtml

Emperor Smeat

04-20-2020, 05:45 PM

* Nintendo is currently rumored to have suffered a major security breach earlier this month with accounts tied to Fortnite being affected the most. It is currently being recommended to enable two-factor authentication for those who own a Nintendo Switch.
https://twitter.com/pixelpar/status/1251965308329435137
https://www.destructoid.com/enable-two-factor-authentication-for-your-switch-account-now-587573.phtml

* The original voice actor of Leon Kennedy in the Resident Evil series, Paul Haddad, reportedly passed away this past Friday according to indie developer Invader Studios.
https://twitter.com/InvaderDevs/status/1251135556995764231?s=20

* For those interested, a new Seinfeld game is currently in development by indie devs Jacob Janerka and Ivan Dixon. The game will be a point-and-click style adventure game and also episodic style in terms of content.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PAVoHFRytOQ" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
https://www.destructoid.com/developers-share-their-vision-for-a-seinfeld-game-that-creates-brand-new-half-hour-episodes-of-the-show-587564.phtml

Emperor Smeat

04-22-2020, 06:15 PM

* The next game in the Far Cry series is currently rumored to be featuring the return of villain Vaas based on a recent teaser by the character's voice actor.
https://www.destructoid.com/say-it-nacho-vaas-voice-actor-teases-a-role-reprisal-in-a-new-far-cry-587831.phtml

* Square Enix recently stated that Final Fantasy VII Remake shipped and sold around 3.5 million copies during its first three days on sale.
https://square-enix-games.com/en_GB/news/final-fantasy-vii-remake-sales-reviews

* Despite other conventions this year being cancelled due to the coronavirus, Penny Arcade announced that their PAX West convention is currently still planned to take place on September 4-7 in Seattle, Washington.
https://www.destructoid.com/pax-west-is-on-for-now-587708.phtml

* A potential official logo for Microsoft's upcoming Xbox Series X consoles was recently leaked based on a trademark filing made last week by the company.
https://www.destructoid.com/ul/587777-xbox-series-x-logo.jpg
https://www.destructoid.com/xbox-series-x-logo-trademarked-by-microsoft-587777.phtml

ClockShot

04-22-2020, 08:31 PM

Unless the new Far Cry is a prequel to 3 or some kind of odd spinoff...….

It'd be hard to pull off since your character killed Vaas in 3.

DAMN iNATOR

04-23-2020, 10:15 PM

what

Gamestop has been bleeding for years

People like to pretend they're "dying" just because they don't like their business practices. They are nowhere near dead.

Emperor Smeat

04-23-2020, 11:25 PM

Based on some estimated sales numbers, Animal Crossing New Horizons broke the all-time launch month record for digital sales at around 5 million copies sold.

Previous record was held by Call of Duty Black Ops III for a console game.

It should come as no surprise to anyone that Animal Crossing: New Horizons is doing gangbusters numbers. Just one look at social media is enough to showcase the amazing success of Nintendo's cutesy social sim. In fact, in terms of digital sales, New Horizons has had the most successful first month of any video game in history

According to the number-crunchers over at SuperData, Animal Crossing: New Horizons sold an estimated five million digital copies in its launch month of March. This would not only make it the best-selling console game of the month, but also takes the record for best first-month digital sales for a console game, beating out previous record-holder Call of Duty: Black Ops III.

Obviously, New Horizons released under particularly grim circumstances, as the ongoing COVID-19/coronavirus pandemic has seen stores shut their doors and a global community ordered to stay at home. This undoubtedly is part of the reason why the title has had such a huge sales spike in regards to its digital release. But regardless, it's clear that New Horizons would have seen the same phenomenal success under normal circumstances, even though the ratio of physical-to-digital sales might read differently.
https://www.superdataresearch.com/blog/worldwide-digital-games-market
https://www.destructoid.com/animal-crossing-new-horizons-sold-an-estimated-five-million-digital-copies-in-its-first-month-587901.phtml

drave

04-24-2020, 09:05 AM

People like to pretend they're "dying" just because they don't like their business practices. They are nowhere near dead.

They are definitely dying. Holiday sales were down nearly 20% YoY and they are treating 2020 as a "transitional year" with the plan to close another 350 stores in the US alone. They have went on record stating that without any type of new hardware sales, they will shutter even further.

Kalyx triaD

04-24-2020, 08:15 PM

People like to pretend they're "dying" just because they don't like their business practices. They are nowhere near dead.

Nigga they on a respirator.

drave

04-25-2020, 08:31 AM

Bought this bad boy. Fucking love the design

https://compass-ssl.xbox.com/assets/d2/e3/d2e3dc31-a9e5-456b-9432-9c6daf37d02e.jpg?n=X1-Controller-270571_gallery-2_1056x594.jpg

ClockShot

04-27-2020, 12:54 PM

Sony pushes Ghost of Tsushima back to July 17th.

BUT......

The Last of Us 2 is back on track. That gets released June 19th.

Nice 1-2 punch for Sony this Summer.

Emperor Smeat

04-27-2020, 07:55 PM

* Apparently gameplay footage and the entire story of Last of Us 2 got spoiled online which was why it was also trending high on Twitter. Supposedly some have been spoiling the game as revenge for what they claim is just a game with a SJW agenda and/or being too political aka exposes their own bigoted views on social issues.

* Despite E3 not taking place this year, PC Game announced that they will be still holding their E3 press conference event on June 6th.
https://www.pcgamer.com/the-pc-gaming-show-will-return-june-6/

* Update to Nintendo suffering a major hacking attack news as the company recently confirmed around 160k Nintendo Network accounts were compromised and recommend all account members to enable 2-factor authentication and reset their passwords. In terms of what was compromised, personal info was confirmed to have been affected but not financial-related info.
https://www.destructoid.com/nintendo-confirms-that-over-160-000-network-ids-have-been-hacked-urges-users-to-take-action-now-588021.phtml

Kalyx triaD

04-27-2020, 09:16 PM

I've been hearing that the leak was internal protest of work conditions which were widely reported about a year ago. If some anti-progressive troll wanted to deal a blow to production I'm not sure even they'd be able to get their hands on such sensitive footage straight from the source.

ClockShot

04-29-2020, 04:12 PM

New Assassin's Creed game is called Valhalla. Based around Viking lore this time around.

Full reveal tomorrow.

DAMN iNATOR

04-29-2020, 09:48 PM

Cities: Skylines and Farming Simulator are the PS+ free games for May.

I wish I was joking.

Fignuts

04-30-2020, 08:14 AM

https://i.imgur.com/Zxf6iBz.png

Fignuts

04-30-2020, 08:19 AM

https://i.imgur.com/BgHOy0x.png

drave

04-30-2020, 08:35 AM

https://i.imgur.com/Zxf6iBz.png

Reaaaaaaaaaaalllly hope that they shake it up a bit with this one. I have the exact same issue as you. The last game I played through was Origins, which was cool, especially when you got to the world bosses, or whatever they were called.

I have Odyssey, but I've put less than 4 hours into the game. It seems like it will be really good, but was like a copy and paste of Odyssey.

I love Viking lore and the setting has me interested. They need to tone it down and mix it up a bit. It'd be kinda cool if they introduced some co-op missions for "Viking Raids" or something similar.

Emperor Smeat

05-01-2020, 12:07 AM

* Microsoft announced their next Inside Xbox episode stream will be taking place on May 7th and will feature gameplay footage for Xbox Series X games currently in development. Also confirmed the new Assassin's Creed game, AC: Valhalla, will be among the stuff shown.
https://twitter.com/Xbox/status/1255889762864361472

* Game Developers Conference reportedly changed their plans again for this year's GDC expo. Instead of being a physical event from August 4-6, it will now be an all-digital event taking place on those days.
https://www.destructoid.com/gdc-summer-is-going-all-digital-in-august-after-all-588744.phtml

* Unlike others still planning to hold their E3 press conferences in digital form, Nintendo recently announced they will not be doing so for their Nintendo Direct E3 conference. Official reason due to coronavirus-related issues causing serious work problems for the company in Japan.
https://www.destructoid.com/nintendo-is-not-going-to-have-a-june-e3-direct-this-year-according-to-reports-588697.phtml

drave

05-01-2020, 10:58 AM

Assassins Creed Valhalla info below. Putting in tags in the event anyone is concerned about any "spoilers" though there really aren't any narrative spoilers in the list, just gameplay stuff.

Ubisoft on Twitter confirmed First Official Gameplay Reveal Trailer to be on 7th of May at Xbox Event. Source: https://twitter.com/assassinscreed/status/1255999463887257600?s=20
The Lead Writer for AC:Revelations, Blackflag and Consultant on Origins Darby McDevitt is in charge of narrative and writing on this game (If you don't know who he is, he's awesome).
Those that worry about narrative Darby McDevitt said the dialogue choices are all going to be much more streamlined so that each choice is more in line with the Eivors personality and context unlike Odyssey where option 1= Laugh 2=Angry 3=Cocky instead it would focus on making sure whatever choice your making would be something Eivor would actually say to make sure protagonist has a solid coherent personality. Source: https://www.gamespot.com/articles/assassins-creed-valhallas-narrative-director-on-cr/1100-6476661/
They said beginning of the game you will be in Norway which will show how bad and horrible it is to continue to live there due to war and lack of resources and then go off to England or more accurately the 4 Kingdoms of England at the time and be able to go back to Norway again whenever you want but majority of the game will be in England and is supposedly huge. Source: Trailer with commentary by Creative Director and Narrative Director: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L_nb_YECQoQ
Ashraf Ismail is Creative Director for Valhalla, he was also Director on Black Flag and Origins which instils confidence.
Use of Hidden Blade is Back! Although you get it a little bit later in game like AC2
Inclusion of Mini-Games is back Fishing, Drinking games and Rap Battles? lol
It seems you will be able to Skin your Raven? As shown by a foreign game shop on twitter that you get a Raven Skin with the "Drakkar" Edition. Source: https://twitter.com/bol_com_games/status/1255898971081506816?s=20
Cloak/Hood will be in the game and you can choose to bring it up or down.
JorRaptor has confirmed Social Stealth will be in the game but it will have a unique twist. Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0d0ViFUy9SI&feature=youtu.be
Eivor is pronounced “Ā-vōr.”
You can choose whether your Eivor is male or female.
Writer says they have come up with a way to explain the gender choice in a clever way.
The Writer also confirmed Both Male & Female are canon choices. How that actually works we'll have to wait and see. Source: https://twitter.com/KnightMadness/status/1255988947253067777?s=20
In terms of Mythology the writer said they wanted to take a grounded approach probably meaning similar to the base game of Origins whereby The Gods were a real religion this culture believed and was prevalent in their everyday life so to ignore it would be very inaccurate, with this one only time will tell how tame or crazy they decide to go with it. Source https://www.gamespot.com/articles/assassins-creed-valhallas-narrative-director-on-cr/1100-6476661/
When asked what writer thinks about God of War and how Valhalla will differentiate itself the writer said in a nutshell God of War's main selling point is the fantasy elements of being able to go and punch another god in the fate and travel to fantasy environments where is Valhalla aims to be a much more grounded approach as he says he doesn't believe there's ever been a viking game that's tried to be the ultimate grounded viking fantasy and instead all have focused on the mythology mainly.
Customization options let you change Eivor’s hair, beard, clothing, war paint, and more.
The game takes place in Norway and England.
At the time England was split into 4 Divided Kingdoms East-Anglia, Mercia, Northumbria and Wessex
England has three major cities to visit: London, Winchester, and Jórvík (York) while inc. other towns.
You can dual-wield almost any combination of weapons including Dual Shields.
Every piece of gear is unique.
Gear can be upgraded and customized, and you can use the same equipment from beginning to end if you want to.
You earn new abilities through a system mechanically similar to a skill tree.
Ability to throw axes just like Eivor does in the trailer is in the game as a skill confirmed.
What you can accomplish is more about gear and skills, not character levels.
Words the team have used to describe combat include “brutal,” “crunchy,” and “weighty.” They have said they put it alot of time in making sure there is a real sense of weight and impact during close combat which is awesome especially compared to Odyssey which was opposite.
Combat system seems to be somewhat revamped allowing to bash, dismember and decapitate enemies.
The team is putting extra effort toward drastically increasing enemy variety to keep encounters surprising over a very long game.
Ashraf Ismail Creative Director said Enemies will have weak points hinting at certain skills being required to beat them which could tie into how their going to avoid traditional level gating areas by having them tied to certain abilities. (Need more time to confirm details but if true sounds good).
When asked if features like Mercenary system from Odyssey is there or improved he just said a vague statement about that there are many systems they have improved.
You have a longship you use to go on raids.
Your longship has a crew, including warriors you can customize.
Assaults are big setpiece moments. They are different from raids, and involve attacks on large fortifications.
You build a settlement that serves as your base.
You upgrade buildings in your base which unlock mechanics e.g. Blacksmith, Tatooist etc
Your clan and others you recruit live in your settlement.
People you recruit in the world can be taken with you as your team/ raid party & customised.
Settlement Affects world & characters/ story "It's at the centre of our quests and the centre of the decisions you make. We want players to see the consequences of their actions." Big story arcs will begin and end here, the impact of your decisions rippling through your growing community. You'll see the effects of alliances - such as weddings to forge relationships between clans - and the consequences of "harsh choices you have to face". It's also where you'll see some of the game's romances play out (if you choose to indulge in those)".
Yes Romance Options are coming back.
Raven will be the new Eagle Equivalent Companion but will have new abilities and have confirmed this mechanic and exploration to be less UI Heavy and more rewarding e.g. if you notice a distraction somewhere it's probably because there's some content there.
Naval Battles scaled down compared to Origins/Odyssey no sitting in boat firing cannons etc as Vikings just didn't do that, instead it will be used as the fastest mode of travel via waterways etc
Co-Op is out of the question, it is confirmed Valhalla is Single Player Only however on the official Ubisoft AC:Valhalla Website it says the following; Share your custom Raider - Recruit mercenary Vikings designed by other players or create and customise your own to share online. Sit back and reap the rewards when they fight alongside your friends in their game worlds. Source: https://www.ubisoft.com/en-gb/game/assassins-creed/valhalla
Hidden Ones and Order of Ancients (a.k.a. Assassins and Templars) are in the game.
At some point, Eivor meets Assassins, works alongside them, and uses a hidden blade.
King Aelfred of Wessex (later known as Alfred the Great) is a villain figure in trailer but Writer says Both the Vikings and Certain Figures like King Alfred will be a lot more nuanced.
Layla’s story in the present day continues.
Ubisoft Montreal is leading development on Valhalla. The studio’s last two Assassin’s Creed games were Origins and Black Flag.
14 other Ubisoft Studios are supporting Valhalla’s development, along with external partner Sperasoft. Yes 14 STUDIOS! It's crazy.
Valhalla is a cross-gen game, coming to the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X alongside PS4 and Xbox One as well as on PC but only so far showing as Epic Game Store and UPlay.
Valhalla will also support ‘Smart Delivery’ on Xbox, meaning you can buy the game once and have access to both the Xbox One and Xbox Series X versions. Source: https://www.ign.com/articles/assassins-creed-valhalla-will-support-smart-delivery-on-xbox-series-x
The game will release during the 2020 holiday season.

Emperor Smeat

05-01-2020, 09:47 PM

Update to the recent Last of Us II story spoiling leaks news as Sony announced they have discovered who were the main sources of the leaks and none were people who worked for them or Naughty Dog.

Would confirm what former Kotaku reporter Jason Schreier heard from his sources within Naughty Dog that this unlikely was an act of revenge by a former disgruntled employee.

If you're lucky, you've managed to avoid spoiler-filled leaks for The Last of Us Part II and you'll be able to keep your blissful ignorance going until June 19 when the high-profile sequel launches on PlayStation following a logistics-driven delay from Sony. But some of us have not been so fortunate.

Honestly, I'd tread carefully – as much as you can – anywhere you see the game discussed, whether it's Twitter, YouTube, forums, or even comment sections here. Nitty-gritty plot details are running wild everywhere. On Monday, Naughty Dog expressed its disappointment in "a message from the studio."

The situation is still unfolding to this day, and I have to believe it'll only snowball from here on out, but Sony has shared a public-facing update. In a statement today, a company representative said that Sony Interactive Entertainment "has identified the primary individuals responsible for the unauthorized release of [The Last of Us Part II] assets. They are not affiliated with Naughty Dog or SIE."

That's all we've got to go on for now, as the "information is subject to an on-going investigation." The launch plan remains the same, though. The Last of Us Part II is still releasing on June 19.

https://www.destructoid.com/sony-figured-out-who-leaked-the-last-of-us-part-ii-spoilers-588863.phtml

Kalyx triaD

05-02-2020, 09:04 PM

Sony who's filing false DMCA's all over YouTube? Who thinks we don't know off-site dev work would have a wayer mark and other protections for everything other than jpeg design art?

There's no way in hell, based on how leaks happen like this for decades, that this wasn't internal. No way in hell. Or at least - we'd hear about a hacking/data breach days or weeks before, which we haven't. What we have heard is there work conditions, partly reported by Jason himself, prior to all this mess.

Kalyx triaD

05-02-2020, 09:05 PM

No matter the industry or subject; I'm getting really tired of 'official people' telling me a red circle is actually a blue square.

drave

05-03-2020, 09:44 AM

Maybe you should just open your mind to see the blue square. :lol::lol::lol:

https://media.giphy.com/media/5erTFOF4CNIMo/giphy.gif

Sepholio

05-03-2020, 11:24 AM

Considering all the working from home going on, this specific event could very easily be a hack and one they wouldn't want to publicize. If they are working on this project from their homes then they are probably transferring the current build of the game back and forth between multiple locations regularly and it could have rather easily been "leeched" by a third party during the transfer. Don't think they would want to publicize something like that though because then more people would probably try and steal the info as well. I'm just speculating though but I am 100% sure that remote working is going to lead to a lot more hacks and stolen data in the overall scheme of things at least until some more advanced security systems are fleshed out.

Danny Electric

05-03-2020, 11:33 AM

Red Dead Redemption 2 is coming to Xbox Game Pass on May 7th.

https://mobile.twitter.com/XboxGamePass/status/1253311425310646273

Sepholio

05-03-2020, 11:34 AM

drave

05-04-2020, 12:42 PM

Also wouldn't be surprised if it turned out that it was a devs family member, probably some teenager sitting at home bored out of their mind, who stole their parents work and released it online for shits and giggles.

This is 100% more likely than the other reason, which would require a VPN network to be compromised. Not that it isn't possible, just incredibly unlikely.

Sepholio

05-04-2020, 12:59 PM

Apparently it was a security exploit in one of their other games that allowed someone to access their servers. They then proceeded to download what seems to be video files of internal playtesting. The game in question was patched last week to remove said exploit.

drave

05-04-2020, 01:50 PM

They exploited Amazon Web Services - surprise.

The details of the apparent hack were first shared on Twitter late Saturday night (https://twitter.com/PixelButts/status/1256792950136172550) by a person going by the name Pixelbutts, who later elaborated over direct message about how the exploit was discovered. He declined to share his real name.
He described a sequence of events that started in January. That’s when, he says, a hacker group discovered a method for accessing the Amazon servers for Naughty Dog games using what was essentially password information included in the code for the studio’s games, including 2011’s Uncharted 3 and 2013’s The Last of Us. Those games access the servers for multiplayer functionality but apparently could also be used to fetch files stored there.
“The UC3 key got them UC3 development material, and UC2's key did the same, but there was some TLOU1 content mixed into UC3's server,” Pixelbutts said. “It wasn’t too much of a stretch to think TLOU1's server would have TLOU2 material.”
By March, he said, the group grabbed at least one terabyte of data from the part of the server associated with The Last Of Us.

Emperor Smeat

05-04-2020, 07:21 PM

* Similar to others, EA announced they will still be holding their E3 press conference albeit as a digital event on June 11th.
https://twitter.com/EA/status/1257324099807768583

* Update to recent Nintendo not holding an E3 Nintendo Direct news as Eurogamer reported Nintendo is still planning on holding it but much later than usual due to them needing a lot more time to finish up their 1st party stuff for the Direct. Nintendo also reportedly told other devs involved they don't have to wait for the Direct and can release their Switch-related E3 news whenever they want.
https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2020-04-30-nintendo-will-delay-its-typical-e3-direct-broadcast-in-june

* According to a report from VGC, Microsoft is currently facing a class-action lawsuit in regards to allegations that the company has been purposely negligent with their handling and fixing of the drifting issues present with their Xbox Elite Controller series.
https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/now-xbox-faces-lawsuit-over-drifting-controllers/
https://www.destructoid.com/xbox-facing-class-action-lawsuit-over-elite-controller-drift-issues-589758.phtml

Kalyx triaD

05-04-2020, 07:27 PM

“It wasn’t too much of a stretch to think TLOU1's server would have TLOU2 material.”

Actually that's a hell of a stretch.

drave

05-05-2020, 07:42 AM

It isn't really though. Why would you think it is?

Emperor Smeat

05-05-2020, 08:52 PM

CD Projekt RED announced that they will be holding a press conference event on June 11th to reveal more details about their upcoming Cyberpunk 2077 game.

The event itself is called Night City Wire.

https://www.destructoid.com/cyberpunk-2077-gets-its-own-event-in-june-589942.phtml

Kalyx triaD

05-05-2020, 11:31 PM

It isn't really though. Why would you think it is?

Because ND wouldn't suddenly be that sloppy in that fashion. I don't think they're even using the same engine it's absurd that mining a years old game would reveal anything about the next one, 3rd party server or no.

drave

05-06-2020, 08:01 AM

That's assuming they had an dedicated server for one game. Usually never the case, probably even more so now with shit going on and expenditures being cut.

This is a failure on AWS for having shitty security and not patching a known exploit on their specific server setups. Period.

Emperor Smeat

05-06-2020, 06:22 PM

* During yesterday's investor's meeting, EA revealed that they are currently working on plans to make more Star Wars Jedi games following the sales success of Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order.
https://www.destructoid.com/ea-says-there-are-more-star-wars-jedi-games-to-come-590132.phtml

* EA also revealed that they will be offering free next-gen upgrades for their current gen games that get ported over to the PS5 and Xbox Series X.
https://www.destructoid.com/ea-games-will-have-free-next-gen-upgrades-on-ps5-and-xbox-series-x-590112.phtml

* NetherRealm Studios announced a new DLC pack for Mortal Kombat 11 will be arriving on May 26th. This pack is called MK: Aftermath and features RoboCop joining the game's roster, a new story mode addition, new stages, and the return of Friendships.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/fFOG_IMK4kQ" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
https://www.destructoid.com/mortal-kombat-11-aftermath-launches-may-26-bringing-robocop-story-expansion-and-more-590058.phtml

Emperor Smeat

05-11-2020, 06:44 PM

* According to a couple of industry analysts, next gen console prices are currently speculated to be around $400 for Xbox Series X and around $500 for the PS5 under the assumption Microsoft will be undercutting Sony's price. If so, the same analysts also believe Microsoft will be eating that as a loss for at least the first 10 million Series X sales.
https://www.destructoid.com/a-pair-of-industry-experts-says-xbox-series-x-will-be-400-to-undercut-ps5-s-price-590645.phtml

* A bunch of indie developers announced that they will be hosting a digital E3-like event called Guerrilla Collective from June 6-8 and will be showcasing their new games currently in development.
https://www.guerrillacollective.com
https://www.destructoid.com/indies-are-banding-together-for-the-guerrilla-collective-showcase-in-june-590628.phtml

* For those interested, Blizzard is currently rumored to be working on a remaster of Diablo 2 with Vicarious Visions as the developer for this project.
https://www.pcgamer.com/rumor-diablo-2-remaster-coming-this-year/

* Ubisoft announced that they will be holding their E3-like digital event on July 12th called Ubisoft Forward.
https://twitter.com/Ubisoft/status/1259876577506136064

Sepholio

05-11-2020, 08:48 PM

That first story is funny if only because Sony has been playing the wait and see game so far in regards to the consoles. I don't see either console going down to 400 though. Xbox especially would have to eat a major loss and considering they are only really popular in the US and Sony kills them on a worldwide basis, they'd be eating shit for awhile. Sony can afford to take that kind of loss because their system is probably going to be slightly cheaper to produce as is and they will move more consoles worldwide.

Sepholio

05-12-2020, 01:23 PM

Tony Hawk Pro Skater 1+2 remake!!!! EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE

drave

05-12-2020, 01:34 PM

Hopefully it won't be like the last one.....

Was it 8? Gross.

drave

05-12-2020, 01:42 PM

Nevermind, just watched the trailer. Nice.

<iframe width="800" height="448" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/e03zsP3l2UY" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

ClockShot

05-12-2020, 01:47 PM

Sony got a State of Play coming up this Thursday.

Good news: It's strictly to showcase Ghost of Tsushima.

Bad news: Don't expect any PS5 news.

Emperor Smeat

05-12-2020, 08:19 PM

* Sony announced that starting with the launch of the PS5, all of their first party games will be published under their new PlayStation Studios label. Sony also announced that this label will also be used for third party developed games funded by the company as well.
https://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2020-05-12-sony-unveils-playstation-studios-brand-to-launch-alongside-ps5

* According to Capcom's recent fiscal report, Resident Evil 3 Remake has sold around 2.5 million copies since its launch last month.
https://www.destructoid.com/resident-evil-3-has-sold-over-2-5-million-copies-to-date-590694.phtml

* Valve is currently rumored to be working on a new loyalty program for Steam based on recent data mining of Steam's servers. The program is rumored to be offering discounts on games and other goodies exclusive to members.
https://twitter.com/thexpaw/status/1259239566613020675
https://www.destructoid.com/leaked-steam-loyalty-program-might-offer-discounts-on-games-590654.phtml

Sepholio

05-13-2020, 01:15 PM

Unreal Engine 5 announced with a real time tech demo running on PS5

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/d8B1LNrBpqc" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

I know it's a tech demo but this kills anything MS has shown from the Series X so far. This is next gen.

ClockShot

05-13-2020, 02:48 PM

I like this strategy of Sony just dropping some bits and pieces of PS5 every so often.

The Ghost of Tsushima state of play should be good tomorrow.

drave

05-13-2020, 03:01 PM

UE 5 sure looks good. It'll be interesting to see how well it can be optimized in final products.

drave

05-14-2020, 04:16 PM

Konami released a web version of Dance Dance revolution. Pretty fun. Website is in Japanese. If you use Chrome, you can just translate the page. Only catch - make a Konami account which involves an e-mail address and confirming it.

https://p.eagate.573.jp/game/eacddr/vic/index.html

Emperor Smeat

05-14-2020, 07:29 PM

Nintendo confirmed rumors of a new game in the Paper Mario series is currently in development. This new game is titled Paper Mario: The Origami King and arrives on July 17th.

This morning Nintendo has announced Paper Mario: The Origami King for Switch, which is due out on July 17 for $59.99. The narrative will be extremely familiar: Mario is invited to something (the kingdom's origami festival) and things go horribly wrong.

A foe named King Olly will attempt a power grab as he "unleashes his plan to fold the entire world," enlisting Bowser's own minions to his cause. To fight back Mario will use a new "1000-Fold Arms" mechanic, which "allows you to interact with the landscape by stretching out and pulling, peeling and revealing new locations, helping you to solve puzzles and uncover unexpected surprises." Nintendo also teases a new turn-based battle system that is "far from stationary," as well as plenty of minigames. You can check out the lovely box art here and the official site here.

Trailer link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FX6DTLcWUdY

Emperor Smeat

05-15-2020, 08:23 PM

Similar to others, indie publisher Devolver Digital announced that they will be holding their E3-like press conference at some point later this year.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Devolver Direct 2020 is happening but we’re not sure when due to THESE UNCERTAIN TIMES.<br><br>Should be a good one though.</p>— Devolver Digital (@devolverdigital) <a href="https://twitter.com/devolverdigital/status/1260028571742957573?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 12, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

DAMN iNATOR

05-18-2020, 11:54 AM

They really are the gift that keeps on giving, and this time it doesn't even have to do with Fallout 76, but DOOM Eternal. Oh, yay.

https://primagames.com/news/doom-eternal-update-denuvo-anti-cheat-backlash

At this rate, the likes of Starfield and The Elder Scrolls VI will never see the light of day. Bethesda is dying.

Emperor Smeat

05-18-2020, 09:16 PM

* During a recent interview with GamesIndustry.biz, Respawn Entertainment's COO Dusty Welch revealed that the company will be opening a new studio in Vancouver, Canada that will be entirely dedicated to their Apex Legends game.
https://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2020-05-18-respawn-marks-its-ten-year-anniversary-with-a-new-vancouver-studio

* Ubisoft reportedly is currently suing Apple and Google over issues regarding their online stores selling a Rainbow Six Siege ripoff mobile game called Area F2. Ubisoft is claiming that the ripoff game infringes on their own game and neither Apple nor Google have responded to their requests to pull the game from their stores.
https://www.destructoid.com/ubisoft-sues-google-apple-over-rainbow-six-siege-clone-area-f2-591269.phtml

* For those interested, Activision recently stated that Tony Hawk Pro Skater 1 & 2 Remasters will not contain any microtransactions but only being promised for the launch period.
https://www.destructoid.com/the-tony-hawk-1-2-remasters-will-be-untainted-by-microtransactions-at-launch--591272.phtml

DAMN iNATOR

05-19-2020, 12:08 AM

drave

05-20-2020, 03:34 PM

Fake news.

Emperor Smeat

05-21-2020, 07:27 PM

* Apparently Valve once had plans for 4 episodes to be made for Half-Life 2. The fourth episode would have been titled "Return to Ravenholm" with Arkane Studios as its developer. Some footage clip of this cancelled episode in its prototype stage was recently released by NoClip as part of their upcoming documentary on Arkane.
https://twitter.com/noclipvideo/status/1263516477249875968
https://www.destructoid.com/here-s-a-gif-of-arkane-s-canceled-half-life-2-episode-4-and-ravenholm-s-door-ripping-zombies-591643.phtml

* This year's Call of Duty game is currently rumored to be called Black Ops: Cold War with Treyarch as the developer and in terms of series storyline, will act as a soft reboot for the Black Ops sub-series.
https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2020-05-20-this-years-call-of-duty-is-called-call-of-duty-black-ops-cold-war#comments

* Based on a recent report from VentureBeat, Sony is currently rumored to be holding another PS5 reveal event in early June but might not involve a physical console reveal. Sony is also currently planning on holding a new State of Play episode in August to showcase upcoming PS4 and PS5 games.
https://venturebeat.com/2020/05/18/quartermann-e3-2020/
https://www.destructoid.com/the-ps5-might-be-revealed-as-early-as-june-and-there-are-still-no-plans-for-a-nintendo-direct-at-the-moment-591382.phtml

* In regards to Nintendo, the same report from VentureBeat stated that the company is rumored to have dropped their plans for an E3-like Direct episode and instead will make all their summer game announcements and reveals similar to what was done for the new Paper Mario game.
https://www.destructoid.com/the-ps5-might-be-revealed-as-early-as-june-and-there-are-still-no-plans-for-a-nintendo-direct-at-the-moment-591382.phtml

ClockShot

05-26-2020, 06:44 AM

New Sony State of Play tomorrow will focus on The Last of Us 2.

Sorry. Still no PS5 news. :(

Still worth a look regardless since the showcase they did for Ghost of Tsushima was fantastic.

Emperor Smeat

05-27-2020, 06:10 PM

* According to a report from VentureBeat, Sony is currently rumored to be holding a PS5 event on June 3rd focusing on PS5 games currently in development. It is also currently rumored this event won't feature an official price nor release date announced but will focus more on actual gameplay for footage in response to the backlash Microsoft got from their recent Xbox Series X event.
https://venturebeat.com/2020/05/27/ps5-e3-reveal-event/
https://www.destructoid.com/playstation-5-event-focused-on-games-rumored-for-june-3-592268.phtml

* According to NoClip's recent documentary on Arkane Studios, Gordon Freeman was not planned to be the lead character for Half-Life 2 Episode 4 and instead it would have been Adrian Shephard from Half-Life: Opposing Force. The project was also cancelled due to Valve getting cold feet over funding issues.
https://www.destructoid.com/arkane-s-canceled-half-life-game-didn-t-star-gordon-freeman-592158.phtml

* Take Two is currently rumored to be planning a 2023 release date for Grand Theft Auto VI based on a recent SEC filing that revealed a major spike expected for the company's marketing budget for that year.
https://www.destructoid.com/rockstar-s-marketing-budget-is-strong-evidence-that-gta-vi-is-due-in-2023-592173.phtml

OssMan

05-28-2020, 07:26 PM

Lol I will totally buy a THPS remake

El Vaquero de Infierno

05-29-2020, 12:29 PM

drave

05-29-2020, 01:40 PM

Def getting it for my birthday. Wanted to get the collectors edition, but couldn't justify the price tag.

Emperor Smeat

05-29-2020, 07:40 PM

* For those interested, The Last of Us Part II will require around 100GB of free space on the PS4 harddrive as a minimum with 78.3 GB needed just to install the game itself.
https://www.reddit.com/r/thelastofus/comments/grjkgu/the_last_of_us_part_ii_takes_78gb_of_hdd_space/
https://www.destructoid.com/the-last-of-us-part-ii-is-gonna-murder-your-ps4-s-free-hard-drive-space-592573.phtml

* Sony recently confirmed rumors of them holding a PS5 event in early June to showcase PS5 launch games. This event will take place on June 4th and is called "The Future of Gaming" and will be around 1 hour in length.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=15-7tBKVPBA
https://www.destructoid.com/ps5-the-future-of-gaming-presentation-will-take-place-june-4-592543.phtml

* According to a report from Variety, Paramount Pictures is currently in the pre-production stage for a sequel to this year's Sonic the Hedgehog film. The same director and writers from the first film will be working on this new film.
https://variety.com/2020/film/news/sonic-the-hedgehog-sequel-1234619356/

ClockShot

06-01-2020, 04:09 PM

Sony postpones their PS5 Games State of Play scheduled for Thursday due to Coronovirus, riots, and other stuff. Take your pick.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="und" dir="ltr"><a href="https://t.co/ZAY8StN0EU">pic.twitter.com/ZAY8StN0EU</a></p>— PlayStation (@PlayStation) <a href="https://twitter.com/PlayStation/status/1267525525825900549?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Emperor Smeat

06-01-2020, 07:26 PM

Seems Kojima's recent habit of bloating the budget for his games ended up backfiring on him since a new game his Kojima Productions studio was working on recently got cancelled.

Also seems Death Stranding sales on PS4 were not that great compared to expectations based on his praise focusing around the game being profitable in terms of breaking even.

"We surpassed the amount we needed to make a profit, so I think it sold well enough to be called a 'success,' recoupment of development costs included," said Kojima in an interview with LiveDoor News, translated by Gematsu. "We'll release the PC version soon and have already secured enough profit to prepare for what’s next, so there’s no need to worry."

Later in the interview, Kojima noted that Kojima Productions was already beginning work on its next release, but also lamented a "big project," that had recently fallen through. "I'm a bit upset about that," laughed Kojima. "Well, that sort of thing happens often in this industry."

Given years of anticipation, expensive production, Hollywood casting, and all-round buzz of Death Stranding being an "industry-changer," I can't help but feel that the title being referred to as merely "profitable" suggests that it didn't see the groundbreaking sales predicted. But this is a risk all creators take when releasing esoteric or left-field projects.

https://www.destructoid.com/hideo-kojima-says-death-stranding-was-profitable-laments-recent-big-project-that-fell-through-592797.phtml

DAMN iNATOR

06-01-2020, 09:55 PM

Sepholio

06-02-2020, 05:19 AM

Def getting it for my birthday. Wanted to get the collectors edition, but couldn't justify the price tag.

Big same. Collectors editions have gotten so ridiculously expensive that it's sad. Used to buy them all the time but not anymore. I usually get the slightly nicer edition that comes with a steelbook case and maybe a soundtrack/artbook for games I'm really hyped for now.

Best Collectors edition I ever got was the CoD: Modern Warfare 2 one. Was like 150 bucks maybe but it came with working night vision goggles. Worth it.

Sepholio

06-02-2020, 05:22 AM

And I still don't know whether I love or hate Death Stranding to this day but I damn sure could not stop playing it once I started.

drave

06-02-2020, 07:46 AM

DAMN iNATOR

06-02-2020, 01:31 PM

And I still don't know whether I love or hate Death Stranding to this day but I damn sure could not stop playing it once I started.

Sounds like you want to make out with it in front of your ex biggest gaming love to make the latter jealous. Not that there's anything wrong with that, of course.

Sepholio

06-02-2020, 03:07 PM

I don't see the appeal at all. Played it for about 30 minutes, which is NOTHING in a Kojima game and wasn't impressed.

It's definitely unique, and I was told the game "opens up" in the 3rd or 4th act, but I don't think I could stick with it very long. Boring AF.

Once it opened up I literally spent hours just building a massive region wide highway system for everyone to use. Then I connected all the hard to reach places with the powered ziplines. There was no point. But I couldn't stop. Knew it would make others lives easier. Ended up with a zipline system in the end that connected the entire game from start to finish, making what would be hours of trekking by foot take a few minutes at most. It was tedious. I hated it. But I couldn't stop. I just couldn't stop.

Emperor Smeat

06-02-2020, 10:47 PM

For those interested in Cyberpunk 2077, CD Project RED announced they have delayed their upcoming media event for the game from its original June 11th date to now a June 25th date.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">We decided to move Night City Wire to Jun 25th. We still look forward to sharing new information about CP’77, but more important discussions are happening right now and we want them to be heard. We wholeheartedly stand against racism, intolerance and violence. Black Lives Matter.</p>— Cyberpunk 2077 (@CyberpunkGame) <a href="https://twitter.com/CyberpunkGame/status/1267883702241157127?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Emperor Smeat

06-04-2020, 09:05 PM

According to reports, 2K Games recently hired Patrick Gilmore, producer of Killer Instinct remake, to be the executive producer of their next WWE game. Gilmore revealed in a recent AMA that his plan is for this new game to be inspired by classic WWE games for its "foundation" and other major changes being planned.

Patrick Gilmore, who is behind the masterful 2013 Killer Instinct reboot and has been brought in to oversee the new WWE game, took to Reddit over the weekend for an AMA. The session allowed the gaming community to ask Gilmore about some of the thoughts and ideas that he would be bringing to the next entry. Overall, the response was very positive indeed.

According to Gilmore, the intention is for the WWE series to have "an all-new philosophical foundation," with the producer invoking the names of deities such as WWF: No Mercy and WWF SmackDown! Here Comes the Pain as sources of inspiration. Gilmore was quick to note that the team would not simply be re-creating these beloved titles, but would instead be looking at the key elements that made them such all-time classics of the genre.

Later in the conversation, Gilmore noted that Visual Concepts is focusing on a six-point improvement plan: Core Gameplay, Online, Character Creation, Character Appearance, Emergence (essentially taut physics and control) and WWEX - a philosophy to accurately capture the WWE brand in every element of the new game's presentation.

Also referenced in the AMA were suggestions that the next release would likely be a "Live Service" title, aiming to remain constant and up-to-date with whatever is happening in the WWE at any given moment in time, be it gimmick changes, new themes, face/heel alliances, or brand switches. Most interestingly, Gilmore touched upon mod support for the PC edition, noting that the team was discussing the possibilities.

https://www.destructoid.com/next-wwe-title-to-have-new-philosophical-foundation-devs-looking-at-classic-games-for-inspiration-593045.phtml

drave

06-05-2020, 08:39 AM

Kinda interested to see where they go with it, to be honest.

The "live service" could be interesting with "roster updates" if they were to allow for that kinda thing. Clearly, making a new character isn't just "BOOM! there he is!" but it would still be awesome. Last time I bought a WWE game was because of the Ric Flair collectors edition.

Got that replica ring and a sweet piece of memorabilia. Piece of Flair's robe that was actually worn, and I got lucky and it matches the plaque it is mounted on. I didn't even finish playing that game, because it was shit.

ClockShot

06-08-2020, 01:20 PM

PS5 games State of Play reveal event now scheduled for this Thursday, June 11th.

Emperor Smeat

06-09-2020, 07:31 PM

Next game in the Far Cry series is currently rumored to be getting revealed during Ubisoft's upcoming Ubisoft Forward stream event on June 12th.

Only other details from the rumor were the game being called Far Cry 6, will not take place in North America for its setting, and planned to arrive before March 2021.

https://www.destructoid.com/a-far-cry-6-reveal-seems-to-be-just-around-the-corner-593664.phtml

ClockShot

06-09-2020, 08:46 PM

Cults, pirates, dictators, cavemen, mercs, post-apocalypse thugs (twice).

As much as I like Far Cry (well, some of them), they're running of settings and bad guys.

Kalyx triaD

06-10-2020, 10:16 AM

Funny, that sounds like a wildly diverse series of ideas.

Destor

06-10-2020, 12:39 PM

Funny, that sounds like a wildly diverse series of ideas.
Its not though. Its a coat of paint and nothing more. Everything is recycled with a new setting.

Sepholio

06-10-2020, 06:56 PM

Every first person shooter is just a reskin of Doom or Unreal Tournament.

Tom Guycott

06-11-2020, 02:58 AM

Cults, pirates, dictators, cavemen, mercs, post-apocalypse thugs (twice).

As much as I like Far Cry (well, some of them), they're running of settings and bad guys.

"What if we made Far Cry... but IIIIIINNNNN SPAAAAAAACCCCCE!?!?!"

Destor

06-11-2020, 03:08 AM

Space far cry has my interest

Fignuts

06-11-2020, 06:09 AM

A bundle of 5 weapon skins in Valorant costs around $75.

One weapon skin by itself costs $8.

Out of their fucking minds.

Kalyx triaD

06-11-2020, 10:04 AM

Its not though. Its a coat of paint and nothing more. Everything is recycled with a new setting.

I would argue every shooter series revolves around aesthetic and narrative themes that are common. Far Cry found its niche since rebooting from the 'wild man' thing and experimented with the open world thing. The 'you vs psycho cult with charismatic leader' thing seems to work for them and all they need is various settings.

Sepholio

06-11-2020, 12:43 PM

Far Cry is honestly my favorite shooter series at this point by a wide margin. They simplified 5 a bit too much though. Need to go back to the more intricate hunting/upgrade system from the earlier games again. Regardless they have the core gameplay loop that tickles my fancy and they can keep doing it with different settings as long as they want and I'll continue to buy in.

Sepholio

06-11-2020, 12:46 PM

It's the same with Assassins Creed tbh. They can keep those coming and I'll keep playing. Love every one of the mainline entries, even the ones most people consider shit like Unity. Love me some Ubisoft games.

Destor

06-12-2020, 11:03 AM

Prrimal was great. If they stuck with the weird id be more down. Farcry, like AC before it, nreds some innovation. Its been stagnant for too long.

Sepholio

06-12-2020, 12:55 PM

They should do a whole game where your high as a kite like the Yogi and Reggie missions from Far Cry 4.

Or maybe they should do a role reversal and have you be the cult leader trying to convince people to join your flock while others are trying to shut it down.

ClockShot

06-12-2020, 05:09 PM

Hmmm. Someone's got a chance to grab some good studios.

AT&T looking sell off the Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment division they own. NetherRealm, Avalanche, and Rocksteady just a few under that umbrella valued at $4 billion.

Take-Two, EA, and ActivisionBlizzard reportedly are sniffing about.

https://www.ign.com/articles/rocksteady-netherrealm-wb-sale-att-batman-mortal-kombat

Emperor Smeat

06-12-2020, 07:45 PM

* Capcom announced more details regarding their new Resident Evil game, Resident Evil Village, will be arriving during this year's Summer Game Fest event and possibly on June 22nd.
https://twitter.com/RE_Games/status/1271194044484345856

* EA confirmed rumors of their next Star Wars game being called Star Wars: Squadrons and will be officially revealed on June 15th.
https://twitter.com/EAStarWars/status/1271502677667528704
https://gamerant.com/star-wars-squadrons-confirmed-revealed/

* Insomniac Games is currently denying rumors and also claims from Sony that their upcoming Spider-Man: Miles Morales games for the PS5 is a remaster of their Spider-Man game from the PS4 with added new content. Jason Schreier confirmed from his sources that this game is not a remaster but nor is it a sequel either and instead is more similar to Uncharted: The Lost Legacy in terms of status.
https://twitter.com/insomniacgames/status/1271468232881422336
https://twitter.com/jasonschreier/status/1271468048017432577
https://www.destructoid.com/stories/-update-miles-morales-is-a-ps5-spider-man-remaster-with-a-new-expansion-594098.phtml

Kalyx triaD

06-13-2020, 02:48 AM

Spider-Man is an expansion/remaster. Words mean things.

Destor

06-13-2020, 03:09 AM

Words do mean things. Since its going to be on ps4 its 100% not a remaster

Fignuts

06-13-2020, 04:30 AM

I think we could really use a rad new jet ski game. I think it's time.

Kalyx triaD

06-13-2020, 08:54 AM

Words do mean things. Since its going to be on ps4 its 100% not a remaster

Improved visuals and sound on PS5. When masters of songs or movies are touched on for improvement there's a simple and common sense term for that what's that word again

Fignuts

06-15-2020, 02:01 PM

drave

06-15-2020, 02:03 PM

ELITE Dangerous with Star Wars skins mebbe?

I've read nothing about it. But since everything has already been done, why not.

Fignuts

06-15-2020, 02:13 PM

I guess gameplay trailer in a few days at EA's big event.

Doubt it's anything like Elite. It's multiplayer focused, and made by the same people who made the flight combat in Battlefront 2. So it will be similar to that, with more bells and whistles I'm assuming.

ClockShot

06-15-2020, 02:49 PM

ELITE Dangerous with Star Wars skins mebbe?

I've read nothing about it. But since everything has already been done, why not.

Hell no. Nowhere close to Elite: Dangerous. Although the upcoming expansion is going to blow things open. I should get back into that.

Back on topic. It's probably a throwback to Rogue Squadron. Ace Combat meets Star Wars is probably a better comparison.

Fignuts

06-15-2020, 03:39 PM

It would be awesome to get a full rogue squadron style campaign, but given EA's track record, it will probably be some short 3 hour thing and everything will be put into multiplayer. Which I have very little interest in, when it comes to this genre.

Ruien

06-15-2020, 05:13 PM

Lame.... Was hoping for it to be a solo campaign game like Fallen Order was.

Fignuts

06-15-2020, 06:06 PM

There was literally no chance this was going to be single player focused. With Battlefront 2's shutdown announced, and a single player game having recently come out.

Hell even the name screams multiplayer.

Emperor Smeat

06-15-2020, 06:35 PM

* For those interested, Hazelight studios (developer of A Way Out) announced they will be unveiling a new game during EA Play's digital event later this week.
https://twitter.com/josef_fares/status/1272452108428677120

* Devolver Digital announced their planned E3 press conference for this year is currently scheduled to be taking place in mid-July. The company did state that its possible it could get delayed to a later date depending on potential late production issues.
https://twitter.com/devolverdigital/status/1272279693836857344

* For those interested in a new console but not a fan of either the upcoming Xbox Series X nor PS5, KFC recently revealed a new console from them that also doubles as a broiler oven for those who feel hungry during gaming sessions.
https://www.destructoid.com/stories/move-over-playstation-5-and-get-lost-xbox-series-x-kfconsole-is-the-future-of-gaming-594297.phtml
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The future of gaming is here.<br><br>Introducing the KFConsole. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PowerYourHunger?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PowerYourHunger</a> <a href="https://t.co/ssUrX41Ab1">pic.twitter.com/ssUrX41Ab1</a></p>— KFC Gaming (@kfcgaming) <a href="https://twitter.com/kfcgaming/status/1271487675929890816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 12, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Kalyx triaD

06-15-2020, 06:50 PM

I'm too much of a mark for the Rogue Squadron games so I'll be following this one. Then again my love for Battlefront just led to being salty about Dice's reboot so I won't have high expectations.

Curtis

06-16-2020, 11:01 PM

Baldur’s Gate 3 could enter early access as soon as August, if everything goes to plan

Baldur’s Gate 3 could arrive in early access as soon as this August. The announcement was made Saturday during the Guerilla Collective online game festival.

Developed by Larian Studios (Divinity: Original Sin) and inspired by the 5th edition of Dungeons & Dragons, Baldur’s Gate 3 was first announced at E3 in 2018. A prequel of sorts launched last year, a tabletop module called Baldur’s Gate: Descent into Avernus.

“COVID-19 has impacted the Larian team as it has many people around the world,” the studio said Saturday in a news release, “but the shift to work-from-home has gratefully been a successful one, allowing Larian to continue building toward an early access period of (maybe!) August. Larian will have more information about the specific content of early access in the future, but the team is committed to working directly with community feedback to evolve the game during its early access campaign.”

Based. Can't wait for this game. Larian has shown with Divinity that they understand good classic PC rpgs. Still bummed that it's turn based and not real time with pause, but haven't been this excited about a new game in ages.

Emperor Smeat

06-17-2020, 06:03 PM

* Guerrilla Games announced that their upcoming Horizon Forbidden West game will not be among the launch lineup for the PS5 and instead is currently planned for a potential 2021 release. In terms of comparisons, the game world's size stated to be "a bit bigger" than Horizon Zero Dawn's game world.
https://www.destructoid.com/stories/horizon-forbidden-west-isn-t-a-ps5-launch-title-594638.phtml

* Game Freaks held a Nintendo Direct-like Pokemon episode earlier today revealing a new mobile app called Pokemon Smile, a puzzle style game called Pokemon Cafe Mix for mobile and Switch, and a new Pokemon Snap game for the Switch. Bandai Namco was revealed to be the developer for the new Pokemon Snap game.
https://www.destructoid.com/stories/game-freak-announces-mobile-app-pokemon-smile-594591.phtml
https://www.destructoid.com/stories/pokemon-cafe-mix-is-another-pokemon-themed-puzzle-game-for-mobile-and-switch-594593.phtml
https://www.destructoid.com/stories/we-re-finally-getting-the-pokemon-snap-follow-up-we-always-wanted-on-switch-594595.phtml

ClockShot

06-17-2020, 08:37 PM

ClockShot

06-18-2020, 12:25 PM

Cyberpunk 2077 now pushed back to November 17.

Nice timing for a new console or 2 to get released around then.

Sepholio

06-18-2020, 04:46 PM

Yeah. Guerrilla can take all the time in the world with Horizon 2. With that trailer, probably hitting the West Coast, Mojave desert, maybe a major city or two.

I just want to ride a Thunderjaw into battle Primal style and destroy people.

San Francisco was written on something in the trailer if I recall so there is at least one major city.

Cyberpunk 2077 now pushed back to November 17.

Nice timing for a new console or 2 to get released around then.

Launch game. They realized the new consoles are far better suited to what they want to deliver with this game.

Sepholio

06-19-2020, 06:40 AM

nvm, CDPR says that the true next gen upgrade for 2077 will not be released until sometime next year. At least it will be a free upgrade for those that already purchased though.

drave

06-19-2020, 08:45 AM

Never really mind delays, if it makes things better at release. Just really wanna play it :(

Sepholio

06-19-2020, 09:49 AM

Same. At least they don't wait until the last minute to delay it.

ClockShot

06-19-2020, 01:08 PM

Was contemplating cancelling my preorder and grab the PS5 version if I was able to secure a console. But with this news, I'll stick with it.

Emperor Smeat

06-19-2020, 10:33 PM

* Nintendo announced a new Smash Bros themed Direct episode will be arriving this Monday and will feature the official debut of the next DLC fighter from the ARMS series for Super Smash Bros Ultimate.
https://twitter.com/NintendoEurope/status/1273979261595066368

* Activision is currently rumored to be working on a new game in the Crash Bandicoot series based on a recent ratings board leak from Taiwan. The leak revealed that the game's title is Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time and is being developed by Toys For Bob studio.
https://www.destructoid.com/stories/crash-bandicoot-4-confirmed-by-a-ratings-board-leak-594806.phtml

* EA recently announced that a new game in the Skate series, Skate 4, is currently in development.
https://twitter.com/EA/status/1273764835080024064

El Vaquero de Infierno

06-21-2020, 04:29 AM

Cyberpunk 2077 now pushed back to November 17.

Nice timing for a new console or 2 to get released around then.

BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

I'm wondering when Dying Light 2 is going to be released; its been indefinitely delayed for ages.

ClockShot

06-22-2020, 06:02 PM

The gaming bug bit Zuckerberg again.

Facebook acquires Ready at Dawn. Makers of The Order: 1886. They're most likely be making games for the Oculus Rift now.

drave

06-22-2020, 06:58 PM

The gaming bug bit Zuckerberg again.

Facebook acquires Ready at Dawn. Makers of The Order: 1886. They're most likely be making games for the Oculus Rift now.

Ugh, and Microsoft is dropping Mixer in favor of Facebook Gaming.

G'bye.

Emperor Smeat

06-22-2020, 07:30 PM

* Rocksteady Studios and WB Games Montreal studio are currently rumored to be developing two new DC comics games according to recent domain filings. Rocksteady is rumored to be currently working on a new Suicide Squad game and WB Games Montreal is currently rumored to be working on a new Batman game codenamed Gotham Knights.
https://www.destructoid.com/stories/new-domains-point-to-a-suicide-squad-game-from-rocksteady-and-wb-montreal-s-gotham-knights-595155.phtml
https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2020-06-22-yes-batman-arkham-developer-rocksteady-is-making-a-suicide-squad-game

* According to Bloomberg, Nintendo is currently rumored to be scaling back their mobile gaming plans due to recent weaker than expected earnings from their mobile division and Animal Crossing New Horizon's huge sales success during the coronavirus pandemic.
https://www.destructoid.com/stories/nintendo-might-be-cooling-off-on-its-mobile-gaming-ambitions-595106.phtml

* Based on early sales data, The Last of US II physical launch sales in the UK managed to topple Animal Crossing for highest physical launch sales of this year and in terms of series comparisons, it was also 76% higher than Last of Us' launch sales. Also managed to topple Uncharted 4 as fastest selling launch game for the PS4.
https://www.destructoid.com/stories/the-last-of-us-part-ii-is-2020-s-biggest-uk-physical-launch-and-sony-s-fastest-selling-ps4-game-595101.phtml

Splaya

06-23-2020, 05:46 PM

Did you guys hear about the facebook streamer Thinnd and about how he's basically being shut out of the industry due to allegations of harassment?

Sepholio

06-23-2020, 06:36 PM

Cant wait for Facebook Series X

Kalyx triaD

06-23-2020, 07:13 PM

Did you guys hear about the facebook streamer Thinnd and about how he's basically being shut out of the industry due to allegations of harassment?

No.

Emperor Smeat

06-23-2020, 07:46 PM

For those that enjoyed the Bloodstained retro spin-off game called Curse of the Moon, developer Inti Crates announced that they are currently working on a sequel called Curse of the Moon 2.

Announced today during the New Game+ stream, Bloodstained: Curse of the Moon 2 has been confirmed and will once again be handled by Inti Creates.

It's coming to PC (Steam), PS4, Switch and Xbox One "soon," and will contain a multi-episode storyline "supervised" by Koji 'IGA' Igarashi. Zangetsu will return as the lead alongside of "three brand new characters," a roster that includes Dominique (the spear-wielding exorcist from the main game), Robert (a marksman) and Hachi (a corgi who uses steampunk armor).

Ally swapping is in (with their own life bars) as is the return of ally-specific shortcuts. A casual mode is baked-in (on top of the default "veteran"), which provides unlimited lives and eliminates the enemy knockback effect (so you don't fall to your doom).

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ynesdjzxix0" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

https://www.destructoid.com/stories/inti-creates-is-making-another-retro-bloodstained-spinoff-game-595238.phtml

Fignuts

06-23-2020, 09:14 PM

Oh god inject that shit into my veins

drave

06-24-2020, 07:50 AM

I just want a really good Metroid game man :(

I'd go buy a switch for that. Probably going to end up getting one anyway, but that'd seal the deal.

drave

06-24-2020, 07:53 AM

Dude, could you imagine a metroid game done Nier Automata style?

The first time I played Nier, I was blown away bigtime at how many "game play styles" (Can't think of a better word) are in there!

One moment its top-down view, next side-scroll, and then BAM fully 3D world. That game (and especially music) is fucking beautiful. That shit would 100% work with a Metroid title.

Sepholio

06-24-2020, 08:26 AM

Im down for Curse of the Moon 2 but damnit I would have for sure preferred Ritual of the Night 2

ClockShot

06-24-2020, 04:59 PM

Assassin's Creed: Valhalla director Ashraf Ismail steps down.

Got caught having an affair.

I'd post the link, but I'm on the phone. I'm sure you guys can track down the article.

Sepholio

06-24-2020, 08:10 PM

I love how people are taking the new rumors of the Xbox Series S (the weaker, all digital version of the Series X rumored to be in development) costing 200 dollars seriously. It's still more powerful than the One X and they think it's going to cost less than the One S lmao. I call shenanigans of the highest order. If that's the case then they have a whole lot of Xbox One stock that will have to be discounted to like 100 bucks or it will never sell.

Destor

06-25-2020, 01:21 AM

Im down for Curse of the Moon 2 but damnit I would have for sure preferred Ritual of the Night 2
Curse of the moon >>>>>> ritual of the night

curse hooked me hard. I ran it for a few weeks before the run became all OoB skips and what not. Movement was sooooo clean in that game

Fignuts

06-25-2020, 01:30 AM

I mean I wouldn't even compare them. It's pretty much the same as comparing classic castlevania with metroidvania. People will have a preference, but they're both fantastic.

In other retro style news, The Messenger is coming to gamepass on June 25. If you have an iota of love for the NES Ninja Gaidens, you need to play that shit.

Emperor Smeat

06-26-2020, 12:09 AM

CD Projekt RED recently released a new trailer for Cyberpunk 2077 and some new details regarding the game's detective vision system called Braindance.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ixl31324UxE" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Not every decision in Cyberpunk 2077 will depend on your gut instinct. There are plenty of situations where you'll be afforded the opportunity to review the footage, analyze it from all angles, and figure out what truly happened.

It's called a Braindance and it's more or less a reliving of someone else's experience. Once you have access to the Braindance, you can see it through that person's eyes or use a free-floating camera in analysis mode. The Braindance sensor picks up things that even the subject didn't, like audio cues happening nearby. The future is very impressive!

Essentially, Braindancing (it's a noun but I will use it as a verb too) is Cyberpunk 2077's evolution of detective vision that games like Arkham Origins popularized. It's a way to scour a crime scene with the benefit of forensics, making it easy to gather additional intel. In the example shown during this morning's Night Wire City stream, it's simply a means of finding who murdered the junkies who held up a convenience store. (They're not robbing it for money, they're doing it to sell the Braindance experience of committing armed robbery) ...

If you're wondering where this all came from, CD Projekt Red didn't make it up. Braindances were an established part of Cyberpunk lore before 2077 came along. Although they're quite complicated and neat, I will use the term to reference anytime I fast-forward and rewind through a video. (e.g. I Braindanced through that YouTube video.)

Even though Braindances seem like they're going to be an integral part of protagonist V's experience, that's not their most common use in Night City. As this segment ends, Braindance guru Judy laments that most people just use them to jerk off.
https://www.destructoid.com/stories/cyberpunk-2077-s-braindance-brings-detective-vision-into-next-gen-and-beyond-595460.phtml

Also recently announced was a new Cyberpunk 2077 anime series called Edgerunners and is arriving on Netflix in 2022.

During this morning's Night City Wire presentation, CD Projekt RED revealed that its super-hyped RPG Cyberpunk 2077 will be receiving a standalone anime series in 2022, streaming exclusively on Netflix.

Cyberpunk: Edgerunners will realise all of the intense action, explosive combat, and neon-soaked opulence of the Cyberpunk 2077 universe in animated form. The 10-episode series is being produced by industry veterans Studio Trigger, who are previously responsible for such hits as Kill la Kill and Little Witch Academia.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/E7dKVCw7bkE" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Emperor Smeat

06-26-2020, 11:46 PM

Apparently some specs for Microsoft's second model in their upcoming next gen Xbox Series lineup was leaked recently.

Besides the Xbox Series X, this other one is rumored to be called the Xbox Series S and features downgraded specs to the point it can't do some of the high end stuff the Series X can but still retains some of the Series X's next gen features.

Thanks to a new leak from someone with a next-gen developer kit, we have further proof that Lockhart is still on the way. As detailed by The Verge, these kits have distinct profiling modes so that developers can test how their games will perform on the consumer versions of both next-gen devices. The Verge reports that Lockhart will have 7.5GB of available RAM, "a slightly underclocked CPU speed," and approximately 4 teraflops of GPU power; the Xbox Series X will have 13.5GB of available RAM and 12 teraflops of GPU performance ...

The expectation is that Lockhart will target 1080p and 1440p gaming rather than the 4K resolutions Xbox Series X aims for. It's also (obviously) cheaper while still keeping some of the next-gen features that will distinguish it from the current-gen. An SSD for fast loading times is presumed to be an example of one of these features. No price has been suggested because we don't yet even know the Xbox Series X price despite it having been revealed for well over half a year.

However, when Lockhart is revealed, it seems like it'll be formally dubbed Xbox Series S. That mirrors the current console setup of Xbox One S and the more powerful Xbox One X. Microsoft bringing that parallel forward will be intuitive for anyone who understands the current Xbox ecosystem of consoles.

https://www.theverge.com/2020/6/26/21304112/microsoft-xbox-series-x-lockhart-leaked-document-specs-rumors
https://www.destructoid.com/stories/xbox-almost-certainly-has-a-second-lesser-powered-next-gen-console-too-595601.phtml

Emperor Smeat

06-29-2020, 06:33 PM

* Ubisofy is currently dealing with allegations of widespread sexual harassment and inappropriate conduct being committed by high level employees at the company. At least two executives have been suspended since the allegations were made public and the company is currently rehauling their HR system to be made more aware of issues within the company going forward.
https://www.gamespot.com/articles/ubisoft-is-reworking-how-it-deals-with-employee-co/1100-6479113/
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-06-26/metoo-in-gaming-two-ubisoft-executives-placed-on-leave

* On a lighter note, Ubisoft is currently working on a new game called Hyper Space which is a free-to-play Battle Royale game for PC and consoles. The game will be a first-person shooter and is currently planned to have two betas taking place in early July.
https://www.destructoid.com/stories/this-is-a-very-confusing-half-assed-reveal-for-ubisoft-s-free-to-play-battle-royale-595834.phtml

* Square Enix announced they will be revealing several new games over the course of July and August. These games were originally meant to be officially revealed at this year's E3 event prior to its cancellation due to the coronavirus.
https://www.destructoid.com/stories/square-enix-to-reveal-several-new-titles-over-july-august-595785.phtml

Emperor Smeat

06-30-2020, 07:17 PM

Based on a recent investors meeting, Nintendo hinted they are currently working on ideas for a potential new replacement for their Nintendo Direct series.

Speaking to investors (as translated by VGC), president Shintaro Furukawa explained that although Nintendo still feels like Directs are "an incredibly effective way to present information," it might be time for something new. Furukawa is a bit vague here, but states: "Inversely, times change and so does the most effective way to promote products, so there is a chance that a new, better way to present this information comes about. So we always like to examine all of the possible ways to communicate this information to customers."

Reading between the lines a bit here, having watched every single Direct to date (and witnessed several live at E3), I can see what Furukawa is talking about here. The "Direct" format felt like a living breathing entity when the "whole crew" (Satoru Iwata, Reggie Fils-Aimé, Shigeru Miyamoto) was together. They were a huge part of what made the Directs special, and with Iwata gone and Reggie's departure from Nintendo, they effectively have no presenter.

Still, as Furukawa noted, Nintendo is in a great spot to shift into some new format. Nearly everyone, from gaming conferences to individual publishers, is copying details of the Direct format (even down to the vocal delivery and the font). It's a great place to be.
https://www.destructoid.com/stories/nintendo-speaks-candidly-about-directs-hints-they-might-shift-to-a-new-format-595916.phtml

Emperor Smeat

07-02-2020, 06:46 PM

Next gen console games are currently rumored to be getting hit with a $10 price hike.

Basis for the rumor is the price of NBA 2k21 was recently revealed showing a price tag of $69.99.

2K Games is claiming added costs in the game's development was the reason since it was "built from the ground up."

As reported by GamesIndustry.biz, NBA 2K21 will sport an MSRP of $69.99 on the PS5 and Xbox Series X: a $10 price increase over the respective PS4 and Xbox One editions. While the current-gen console versions of 2K21 will launch this September, the future generation will get their versions "this holiday season" at that new price.

2K Sports, owned by Take-Two Interactive (who in turn owns Rockstar, and many other pricey properties), notes that the $10 premium is due to the fact that the new editions are "built from the ground up" for next-generation machines. Although Take-Two is seemingly alone in this venture right now, the writing has been on the wall for some time. Multiple industry veterans have called for a price increase for a long while, with the $60 standard holding for far longer than a lot of people expected it to.

https://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2020-07-02-nba-2k21-price-is-usd10-more-expensive-on-xbox-series-x-and-ps5
https://www.destructoid.com/stories/nba-2k21-priced-at-70-on-next-gen-consoles-could-be-the-harbinger-for-an-industry-wide-price-hike-596158.phtml

Emperor Smeat

07-02-2020, 10:07 PM

This year's EVO tournament has been officially cancelled due to recent accusations against now former EVO CEO Joey Cuellar.

EVO initially suspended and later fired Cuellar over these accusations and the growing backlash towards the company.

Once the accusations became public, it lead to a wave of sponsors, competitors, game companies, and commentators bailing out on EVO leaving the company no choice but to drop this year's event.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="und" dir="ltr"><a href="https://t.co/eUl8rF9TkC">pic.twitter.com/eUl8rF9TkC</a></p>— EVO (@EVO) <a href="https://twitter.com/EVO/status/1278859734099963904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

EVO organisers have moved to suspend one of their own following paedophilia and sexual harassment allegations.

Earlier today, Mikey, a fighting game competitor, shared his account of repeated incidents with EVO organiser Joey “Mr. Wizard” Cuellar. In a Twitlonger story, Mikey recalled some of his time at the Southern Hills Golfland arcade in the late 90s.

A teenager at the time, Mikey would hang out with a group of older players, Cuellar amongst them, who frequented the arcade. This “old boys club” as he called it, would dare them to do “stupid shit just for a laugh” and reward them with free food or arcade game tokens.

“Wizard was especially into this. He would pay people hundreds of tokens to do things like take off their clothes and jump in the water hazard pools for certain amounts of times,” said Mikey.

“99% of the time, it was young boys. There is only a singular instance I know of where it wasn’t a young boy, and that singular instance, she was allowed to do it in the future, in whatever clothes she liked and only for a few seconds. But for all the boys (out of recollection 12-16) it was like 10-15 minutes, we HAD to be in our underwear (under the reasoning that it would be colder) and they were always challenges at the time so we couldn’t prepare change of clothes, towel, or anything like that.”

Mikey has other claims in his story, many of which are of Cuellar’s behaviour. Since his story came to light, EVO issued a statement saying that Cuellar has been placed on administrative leave while a third-party investigates these allegations.

“We are aware of the accusations that have been made against Joey Cuellar. The behaviour in these accusations runs directly counter to EVO’s mission of building a safe, welcoming environment for all of our players and attendees. We Take this responsibility seriously. Accordingly, Joey has been placed on administrative leave pending a third-party investigation,” it reads.

Other members of the fighting game community came out in support of Mikey, and a number of them said they had heard similar stories from other people in Cuellar’s circle.

It also appears this has been an open secret amongst the fighting game community. The two-year-old video below from Super Arcade’s Mike Watson recounts a different incident.
Link: https://www.vg247.com/2020/07/02/evo-mr-wizard-paedophilia-accusations/

Kalyx triaD

07-03-2020, 06:59 AM

Hysterical.

ClockShot

07-03-2020, 07:36 PM

Sony circling Leyou Technologies Holdings Ltd. for a possible acquisition. Two other Chinese video game developers are also in the mix.

Noted developers under Leyou are Digital Extremes (Warframe), and Splash Damage. Splash Damage is the big prize since they've been cozy with Microsoft for a while now.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Sony has been added to the list of possible buyers for Leyou.<br><br>iDreamsky and Century Huatong being the other two. <br><br>Leyou is the holding company for Digital Extremes (Warframe), Splash Damage and has a 20% stake in Certain Affinity. <a href="https://t.co/xCnwM5FDw2">https://t.co/xCnwM5FDw2</a></p>— Daniel Ahmad (@ZhugeEX) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZhugeEX/status/1278630267146719233?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 2, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Emperor Smeat

07-04-2020, 03:32 PM

Research firm IDG Consulting recently added more fuel to the fire of next gen console games getting a $10 price hike from $60 to $70.

In a recent interview with GamesIndustry.biz, the firm revealed more publishers are currently looking at a $70 price point for their next gen games based on recent talks they had with their sources.

This might be the start of something bigger. Speaking to GamesIndustry.biz, research firm IDG Consulting notes that given the last time a price hike occurred was roughly 2005 ($60), we're past due for one. IDG notes that a potential $10 increase will "only" be a 17% hike, compared to a 39% increase for film ticket prices or a 100% increase for Netflix subscriptions. Of course, that figure doesn't take into account all of the extra monetization prospects of games.

IDG says that according to "their channel checks" more publishers are looking at a $70 price point, with the concession that "not every game should garner" that new MSRP. That said, once the floodgates open and the usual suspects (WB, EA, Take-Two) make their move, there's probably no going back.]
Link: https://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2020-07-02-idg-other-publishers-are-considering-raising-game-prices-for-ps5-and-xbox-series-x

Fignuts

07-04-2020, 05:13 PM

Publishers have said in the past that they have to pursue a micro transaction heavy economy to avoid a price hike for the overall cost of games at retail. This must mean we’re seeing end of the aggressive micro transaction economy, right?

Right?

Kalyx triaD

07-04-2020, 08:32 PM

Well they also said cease of instruction booklets and going digital would also help keep costs down.

On the way off chance they were telling the truth (and I mean way off chance), the constant push for higher visual fedility and sound output pretty much cancels out any costs 'saved' from past cost cutting excuses.

Starting to look like that decade or so of $50 games was itself the fluke during a fierce point of the early console wars. $70 dollars was inevitable and what they really want is the $100 price point.

Tom Guycott

07-04-2020, 10:06 PM

... you mean the $100 price point that already is a thing, since the $60 price usually has content cut, but it's presented as paying extra for "extra" content?

We're not cheating you if we don't call it cheating.

Kalyx triaD

07-04-2020, 11:47 PM

Content is not 'cut' in most cases but I see what you're saying.

Curtis

07-05-2020, 12:33 AM

Sony circling Leyou Technologies Holdings Ltd. for a possible acquisition. Two other Chinese video game developers are also in the mix.

Noted developers under Leyou are Digital Extremes (Warframe), and Splash Damage. Splash Damage is the big prize since they've been cozy with Microsoft for a while now.

Sony has been added to the list of possible buyers for Leyou.

iDreamsky and Century Huatong being the other two.

Leyou is the holding company for Digital Extremes (Warframe), Splash Damage and has a 20% stake in Certain Affinity. https://t.co/xCnwM5FDw2
— Daniel Ahmad (@ZhugeEX) July 2, 2020 (https://twitter.com/ZhugeEX/status/1278630267146719233?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw)<SCRIPT charset=utf-8 src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" async></SCRIPT>

Not good I think. I wish Splash Damage was free to make whatever games they wanted instead of Gears and other junk. I have almost 2000 hours on their last game, Dirty Bomb. Best FPS made in the past 10 years...

Tom Guycott

07-05-2020, 11:55 PM

Content is not 'cut' in most cases but I see what you're saying.

Kinda is.

The original idea behind DLC was being extra shit added to a fully fleshed out and feature complete game later to expand the life cycle. Of course, over time and with the advent of patch culture, it has come to be a way to piecemeal shit that was once expected to be part of a game into a lot of shit that isn't even finished to begin with.

You shouldn't have to pay extra money for a campaign, or menu options, or things that were available in previous iterations of x title, but now are mysteriously missing unless you plunk down extra money. No matter how you try to dress it up semantically, it is fucking cut content.

ClockShot

07-06-2020, 07:29 PM

Add Microsoft in the mix of those looking to purchase Warner Bros. Interactive.

Emperor Smeat

07-06-2020, 09:07 PM

Rockstar is currently rumored to be working on a new AAA status open world game for VR devices based on a recent Linkedin listing.

The same dev team that worked on L.A. Noire's "The VR Case Files" is suppossedly working on this new game based on the same listing.

It was a pretty incredible sight to see L.A. Noire, one of my flawed-yet-favorite games of the past few generations, get another lease on life in 2017.

Billed as "The VR Case Files," the game was handled by former Team Bondi developers who worked on the original L.A. Noire, and it seems like Rockstar is happy enough with the project to greenlight another game. According to a Linkedin listing on Video Game Deluxe's page, the studio is allegedly working on a new "open world AAA title in VR" for Rockstar.

They have "a number of job openings" for the project, including Senior Programmers, an Engine Programmer, a Designer and an Animator. The scope of VR has changed so much these past few years, necessitating all of these positions. Although VR originally debuted with a number of tech demo-like experiences, there have been many strides in terms of "AAA" projects or even open world games recently.

https://www.destructoid.com/ul/596534-rockstar-might-be-working-on-a-aaa-open-world-vr-game/VGD.jpg

https://www.destructoid.com/stories/rockstar-might-be-working-on-a-aaa-open-world-vr-game-596534.phtml

Emperor Smeat

07-09-2020, 07:36 PM

* Bases on a recently released documentary about Valve's past 10 years, the main reason why development for Half-Life 3 and Left 4 Dead 3 were cancelled were due to issues with the Source 2 Engine at the time. The documentary also revealed that Valve had worked on and scrapped five Half-Life series projects in between the time of HL 2: Episode 2 and Half-Life: Alyx's releases. It was also revealed that Valve has been working on a "top secret project" since 2018.
Link to the documentary (paid): https://store.steampowered.com/app/1361700/HalfLife_Alyx__Final_Hours/
https://www.destructoid.com/stories/half-life-3-and-left-4-dead-3-were-both-scrapped-because-source-2-was-unfinished-596899.phtml

* According to a report from GameBeat, Sony recently purchased a minority ownership share in Epic Games for around $250 million. In terms of the actual ownership share, Sony now owns around 1.4% of the company.
https://venturebeat.com/2020/07/09/sony-invests-250-million-in-fortnite-maker-epic-games/

* EA is currently dealing with backlash from some of their investors in regards to a new proposal for their bonus pay system for their executives that would see them earn even more money than before. The main issue revolves around claims of the company has already become very addicted to spending lavish sums of money on executive bonuses and at a frequent and overlapping pace.
https://www.destructoid.com/stories/investment-group-calls-out-ea-for-being-addicted-to-giving-its-executive-bonuses-596771.phtml

ClockShot

07-10-2020, 12:16 PM

Read that Sony news and thought "Smart investment."

Then I read it only got them like 1% of the company and that's like a really soft voice in a loud room when Sweeney and Tencent got a good chunk of the shares still.

Emperor Smeat

07-10-2020, 07:33 PM

Apparently several details regarding the new Far Cry game, Far Cry 6, were accidentally leaked on Sony's Hong Kong Playstation Store ahead of Ubisoft's E3-like Ubisoft Forward digital event this Sunday.

Players will take up the role of Dani Rojas, a local guerilla fighter battling to free a small nation under ruthless dictatorship. A gameplay description boasts the largest map to date and promises "makeshift weapons, vehicles, and Amigos, the new Fangs for Hire to burn the tyrannical regime to the ground." A single splash-art image features main villain Anton Castillo who, as recently rumoured, will be portrayed by Breaking Bad's Giancarlo Esposito.

"Welcome to Yara, a tropical paradise frozen in time," reads a roughly-translated blurb. "As the dictator of Yara, Anton Castillo is intent on restoring his nation back to its former glory by any means, with his son, Diego, following in his bloody footsteps. Their ruthless oppression has ignited a revolution."

Besides plot details, the release date for the game was also leaked alongside the game's PS5 upgrade offer.

The listing also suggests a release date of February 18, 2021, and notes that Far Cry 6 will offer a free PlayStation 5 upgrade for players picking up the next-gen platform. Of course, all of this information is subject to change, seeing as how Ubisoft is yet to officially reveal the sequel at all

https://www.destructoid.com/ul/596957-far-cry-6-leaked-on-playstation-store-reveals-plot-details-cuban-setting-and-ps5-upgrade/far-cry-6-leak.jpg

Following the leak, Ubisoft released an official teaser trailer for the game.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Anton would not be pleased. See you on Sunday at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UbiForward?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UbiForward</a>. <a href="https://t.co/SCNvo0qB1R">pic.twitter.com/SCNvo0qB1R</a></p>— Ubisoft_UK (@Ubisoft_UK) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ubisoft_UK/status/1281611737884774402?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

https://www.destructoid.com/stories/-update-far-cry-6-leaked-on-playstation-network-reveals-plot-details-and-ps5-upgrade-596957.phtml

ClockShot

07-12-2020, 12:43 PM

Anybody going to check out the Ubisoft Forward show?

I'll check it out probably after work. See if there's anything new to show for Valhalla and how this new Far Cry 6 looks.

ClockShot

07-13-2020, 01:32 PM

Sat down yesterday after work and watched the Ubisoft Forward.

Skipped over Watch Dogs. Don't really care.

Creed Valhalla is slowly growing on me. But I gotta dig deeper on the finer things/RPG aspects of it before I'm totally sold on it.

Definitely interested in Far Cry 6. But, I think they need to be care they don't have another Far Cry 4 on their hands. Bad plot with a really likeable villian.

Fignuts

07-13-2020, 02:38 PM

All of them seem like the same game with slight innovaions.

In other words, Ubisoft.

drave

07-13-2020, 03:52 PM

Watch Dogs was honestly the coolest part. Their "play as anyone" gimmick was on display, and has the ability to make this an amazing sandbox game.

Emperor Smeat

07-15-2020, 05:55 PM

According to a report from Bloomberg, Sony is currently working to boost production of PS5 consoles for its launch window from their original plan of 5 million consoles by March 2021 to 9-10 million consoles within the same time period.

Supposedly the huge surge in gaming sales and demand during the midst of the coronavius pandemic led to Sony reconsidering their launch plans and sales expectations for the PS5.

Sony is making a concerted effort to boost production of its upcoming PlayStation 5 hardware, reportedly aiming to double the number of units produced by the end of 2020.

As reported by business news outlet Bloomberg, Sony initially planned to create five million PS5 consoles by March 2021, but is now aiming for an optimistic 9-10 million units by the same date. It is believed that the industry giant raised the bar for itself after the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic caused home gaming to surge throughout the spring and summer of 2020.

Of course, logistical problems caused by the global health crisis mean that even if Sony achieves its mammoth production goals, the company will still face a huge challenge in delivering stock to high street stores worldwide. This is especially true during the typically-hectic holiday period, which already strains global distribution lines at the best of times.

While the plan to double hardware production is yet to be confirmed by Sony itself, several Asian news outlets - such as the Nikkei Asian Review - have received similar reports from their own inside sources.
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-07-15/sony-boosting-playstation-5-output-to-meet-virus-demand-surge
https://www.destructoid.com/stories/sony-reportedly-doubling-ps5-production-ahead-of-launch-season-597561.phtml

ClockShot

07-15-2020, 07:29 PM

Good to hear on Sony's part.

This upcoming console generation is going to be kill or be killed for a PS5 or Xbox with we're looking at being indoors this winter with the virus having it's way.

Emperor Smeat

07-20-2020, 06:10 PM

* For those with Xbox Gold subscriptions, Microsoft recently pulled the ability to purchase a 12 month subscription from their online Xbox stores. No official reason was given for the decision.
https://www.destructoid.com/stories/12-month-xbox-live-gold-subscription-no-longer-available-598001.phtml

* For those interested, Atlus announced that they are currently working on two Shin Megami Tensai games for the Switch. The first being a HD remaster of Shin Megami Tensei III: Noctturne and planned for a Spring 2021 release and the other being Shin Megami Tensei V and planned for a potential 2021 release.
https://www.destructoid.com/stories/both-a-shin-megami-tensei-iii-remaster-and-shin-megami-tensei-v-are-coming-to-switch-in-2021-598018.phtml

Tom Guycott

07-21-2020, 04:06 AM

Well, that's not good. I specifically do one annual purchase so I don't have some monthly pull or an actual working CC on my account. I've been compromised before, but nothing could be done to me since there wasn't anything to steal except maybe play a couple of games for free up until I changed my password.

Unless there's an overhaul coming that includes gamepass or somesuch, looks like I'm just going to have to buy 12 month cards retail.

drave

07-21-2020, 07:41 AM

Hopefully there's a good reason for it, for the same reasons Tom posted.....

Bet they end up relisting it at a higher price :|

Sepholio

07-21-2020, 11:02 AM

I do the Gamespass Ultimate thing now so it doesn't really effect me. Sucks for most people though.

drave

07-21-2020, 12:14 PM

I do as well, but I still bought "gold" at a 12 month interval. Saved money, didn't have to fuck with some monthly crap.

If it is gone forever, that's shitty. That'd be removing a cost savings for their customers.

Sepholio

07-21-2020, 04:45 PM

Honestly its probably part of their scheme to undercut Sony on pricing for the new consoles. They undercut them by 50 or 100 bucks, taking a significant loss in the process just to jack up online pricing to make up the difference.

Emperor Smeat

07-21-2020, 04:52 PM

Current speculation going around the net is Microsoft likely is going to combine Game Pass and Xbox Live Gold into a single subscription service instead of being separate services.

Fignuts

07-21-2020, 05:14 PM

That’s smart. Game Pass is the best thing going for Xbox one.

Sepholio

07-21-2020, 07:45 PM

Sepholio

07-21-2020, 07:46 PM

Basically forcing you to buy all the services instead of choosing which one(s) you want.

Kalyx triaD

07-22-2020, 01:50 AM

I've been with Ultimate Gamepass for a while now. I'm cool with it.

Tom Guycott

07-22-2020, 02:53 AM

Current speculation going around the net is Microsoft likely is going to combine Game Pass and Xbox Live Gold into a single subscription service instead of being separate services.

They've already done that and did it awhile ago. Games Pass Ultimate includes Xbox Live Gold. All they are doing is removing the cheaper option.

Essentially, this. The option was there, but for me there were still a couple of extra steps considering I didn't want to go monthly. GamePass didn't have an annual option. They want you to opt in for a dollar, then slide into a monthly sub and attach a payment. [Addendum: unless they've changed it since, but I doubt it.] As stated before; no thanks.

Combine the two, give the year option without payment method attachment, then leave me the fuck alone.

drave

07-22-2020, 08:34 AM

Tom is on point with it. It just seems "odd" for it to be done without much announcement and reeks of something slimy in the works.

I hope not. I've not had a bad experience with Xbox since the first system. Their customer service has always been amazing and their network is solid.

At this point, there's nothing keeping me from getting a PS5..... not yet. Neither console is a "must buy" for me, but I'll have one of them this time next year.

ClockShot

07-22-2020, 12:23 PM

If anything, tomorrow in Microsoft's big shindig for Xbox, all will be revealed.

I honestly think Microsoft will give a price and launch date for the Series X during this as well.

Emperor Smeat

07-22-2020, 06:24 PM

For those interested in the upcoming new Yakuza game, Sega announced that Yakuza: Like a Dragon will also feature an upgrade system for PS5 and Xbox Series X console owners who purchase the current gen version of the game.

The Xbox One to Xbox Series X upgrade will follow Microsoft's "Smart Delivery" system format while the PS4 to PS5 upgrade will likely not be as simple due to details that will be revealed at a later time.

https://www.destructoid.com/stories/yakuza-like-a-dragon-is-coming-to-ps5-with-a-ps4-to-ps5-upgrade-path--598254.phtml

Sepholio

07-22-2020, 07:16 PM

Amazon France briefly listed the price for both versions of the PS5. The prices included the 20% sales tax in France and came to 560USD for disc based and 450USD for the digital version. Without the tax that brings the systems to 450/360USD respectively.

If true that's a good price.

Fignuts

07-22-2020, 07:20 PM

Phil Spencer taking shots at Sony for having first party exclusives. As opposed to what? Asking customers to pay hundreds of dollars to play prettier versions of games I can get on the console I already own? Fuck off Phil.

Fignuts

07-22-2020, 07:26 PM

Like they’re spinning it as this consumer friendly feature. Friendly for who? Who has ever had a problem with games coming out for a new console that are exclusive to that platform? That’s the whole fucking point of a new console. To play games that take full advantage of the hardware and can’t be made effectively on the previous gen console.

The only people I can see this benefitting are the dipshits who walk into a store in 2020 looking for a Wii remote and get pissy with the staff when told they’re not carried anymore.

Fuck those people. We don’t need to cater to them.

Sepholio

07-22-2020, 07:29 PM

He's butthurt by all the constant reminders that Xbox has fewer exclusives and that most of them are either shit or just iterative sequels and that they can all be played on PC at vastly better quality than the console.

Fignuts

07-22-2020, 07:37 PM

I wouldn’t of even gotten riled up over it if not for his comments. It’s obvious that their launch exclusives have been in development for a while and were probably always intended to be on Xbox one. And that’s fine. I’m sure they’ll be very good games. But don’t come out and pat yourself on the back, acting like a hero over something that was never a problem in the first place.

ClockShot

07-22-2020, 07:52 PM

drave

07-23-2020, 07:42 AM

Honestly entertaining the idea of getting a PS5....... just not sure yet.

Emperor Smeat

07-24-2020, 06:38 PM

* Sony announces that Ghost of Tsushima managed to sell around 2.4 million copies during its first three days on sale. Sony also announced that Ghost of Tsuhima's sales managed to break the record for fastest selling first-party and original IP game in PS4 history.
https://www.destructoid.com/stories/ghost-of-tsushima-achieved-2-4-million-global-sales-in-first-three-days-598562.phtml

* Paramount Pictures announced that their next Sonic film is currently scheduled to be released in theaters on April 2022. Only details currently known are that the film is currently is the pre-production stage of development, the same director and writers of the first film are currently working on this new film, and several actors will be returning to reprise their roles in this new film.
https://www.destructoid.com/stories/sonic-the-hedgehog-movie-sequel-scheduled-for-april-2022-598541.phtml

* During today's Comic-Con@Home event, IGN revealed that former gaming television network G4 will be returning in some capacity later this year.
https://twitter.com/IGN/status/1286704753188261891

ClockShot

07-24-2020, 07:22 PM

Daaaaaaaaaaaamn. G4 making a comeback.

Interesting. When's the last you heard a network coming back from the dead?

Kalyx triaD

07-24-2020, 07:41 PM

Never. Because it's stupid and risky.

Droford

07-26-2020, 06:25 PM

I remember when ZDTV turned into Tech TV which turned into G4.

20 years ago basically
<iframe width="932" height="699" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/a7csPRKMq1s" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

GameSpot tv became Extended Play/X Play which stayed on over the nsme change to G4

Droford

07-26-2020, 07:01 PM

Emperor Smeat

07-26-2020, 08:51 PM

Seems G4's revival might be focused around esports based on a recent article from Variety.

According to a Variety article, the new G4 will be run by Comcast Spectator, which focuses on sports and eSports programming. The division just hired former WWE Senior Vice President Of Digital Development Brian Terwilliger as the VP of Programming and Creative Strategy back in May. Terwilliger himself is an alumnus of the original incarnation of G4 acting as one of the producers on "Attack of the Show", one of the flagship shows in the former cable channel's later years.

https://variety.com/2020/digital/news/g4-tv-teases-2021-relaunch-1234716006/

Kalyx triaD

07-26-2020, 08:55 PM

Nobody watched techtv for any reason.

Savio

07-27-2020, 03:06 PM

Emperor Smeat

07-27-2020, 05:53 PM

For those interested, several notable Japanese companies are joining together for a live stream this Saturday to discuss a bunch of fighting games related stuff.

The stream will be called "Japan Fighting Game Publishers Roundtable" and includes appearances from Capcom, SNK, Namco, and several others.

Some of Japan's most successful and influential fighting game developers/publishers will gather together for a "roundtable discussion" this coming weekend.

This meeting of the minds will see notable companies such as Capcom (Street Fighter), Bandai Namco (Tekken and DBFZ), Arc System Works (Guilty Gear, BlazBlue), SNK (King of Fighters), Arika (Fighting Layer EX), and Koei Tecmo (Dead or Alive) meet up, (presumably digitally), for a good ol' chinwag about upcoming titles, esports, and the future of the genre.

The August 1 event will be streamed on each publisher's respective YouTube channel but, as a live discussion, is unlikely to feature English subtitles.

https://www.destructoid.com/stories/japanese-fighting-game-giants-to-hold-roundtable-live-stream-598790.phtml

ClockShot

07-27-2020, 06:28 PM

Pffft. Sega being left out of the party.

They got the ball rolling in 3D fighting with Virtua Fighter.

Fignuts

07-28-2020, 02:12 AM

Thet're not relevant at the moment.

Fignuts

07-28-2020, 04:44 AM

Droford

07-28-2020, 06:16 AM

Nobody watched techtv for any reason.

I dont believe that

Kalyx triaD

07-28-2020, 10:58 AM

https://pisces.bbystatic.com/image2/BestBuy_US/images/products/6422/6422723cv11d.jpg;maxHeight=640;maxWidth=550

The developer's resume does not inspire confidence.

Which is a shame. Because the history and entire concept of G.I.Joe should make it easy to create a good game in the right hands.

I've had a bangin idea for a GI Joe game for a while, but I don't think Hasbro wants a real 'game' and hasn't tried since Fall of Cybertron.

I dont believe that

Oh they went ghost because everybody went on extended vacay, eh?

Emperor Smeat

07-28-2020, 07:41 PM

* Based on a recent leak, Sony's PS5 will include system-level feature called "Activities" which will allow players to jump right in to a specific part of a game from the PS5's dashboard. Instead of needing to boot up a game first and access content via the game's menu, players willl be able to search for parts of a game to play from the game's tab on the PS5 dashboard.
https://www.destructoid.com/stories/details-leak-about-a-playstation-5-system-level-feature-called-activities--598930.phtml

* For those interested, the upcoming Spider-Man: Miles Morales game for the PS5 will include a remastered version of PS4 game Spider-Man.
https://www.destructoid.com/stories/it-looks-like-sony-undersold-spider-man-miles-morales-as-it-might-come-with-a-full-remaster-of-the-original-598898.phtml

* Also for those interested, Capcom announced that they will be holding a new live stream event for Street Fighter V and will include the official reveal of upcoming new DLC fighters for the game.
https://twitter.com/StreetFighter/status/1288127729666203651

drave

07-29-2020, 07:52 AM

Emperor Smeat

07-29-2020, 06:10 PM

Bandai Namco and Arc System Works announced that new details regarding Tekken 7, Soulcalibur VI, and Guilty Gear Strive will be among the stuff discussed and revealed during this weekend's Fighting Game Roundtable live stream event.

Some of the Japanese fighting game publishers attending this weekend's "Roundtable discussion live stream" have teased that they will be bringing new announcements regarding their respective fighters.

Bandai Namco has announced that it will have new news regarding both Tekken 7 and Soulcalibur VI, while Arc System Works has stated its intention to premier a new character trailer for Guilty Gear Strive. Given the cancellation of EVO earlier this year, it would figure that these publishers had reveals scheduled for the annual fighting game tournament. Capcom will also be holding its own live stream on August 5 to discuss the future of its premier scrapper, Street Fighter V.

https://www.destructoid.com/stories/tekken-7-soulcalibur-vi-and-guilty-gear-strive-reveals-confirmed-for-fighting-game-roundtable-598891.phtml

Emperor Smeat

07-31-2020, 07:20 PM

* Microsoft and 343 Industries recently confirmed rumors of Halo Infinite's multiplayer mode will be free-to-play.
https://twitter.com/Halo/status/1289298976550731776

* According to a report from Variety, Netflix recently ordered a Splinter Cell anime series to be made with the writer of John Wick, Derek Kolstad, as its lead writer and executive producer. It was also reported that Netflix's order was for 16 episodes for 2 seasons.
https://variety.com/2020/tv/news/splinter-cell-animated-series-netflix-1234612535/
https://www.destructoid.com/stories/splinter-cell-is-back-as-a-netflix-anime-599117.phtml

* CD Projekt RED is currently warning people to not open or click on links in any email that claims to be sent by them in regards to beta access for Cyberpunk 2077. The company stated that those emails are fake and are just a phishing scam by hackers.
https://twitter.com/CyberpunkGame/status/1288830512396677120

drave

08-01-2020, 07:55 PM

Hmmm.... I've read nothing on Halo, so scuse me if this is already sorted.....

F2P online multiplayer reeks of CoD Warzone type shit. Battle Royale no doubt, with TONS of microtransctions.

Kalyx triaD

08-01-2020, 10:09 PM

There's no loot boxes so there's that. A BR would be interesting.

Warzone is pretty good.

Emperor Smeat

08-03-2020, 07:55 PM

* Take Two recently revealed that the rumored $70 price tag for next gen games will go in effect for their games from Rockstar and 2K Games.
https://www.destructoid.com/stories/take-two-ceo-says-rockstar-and-2k-s-games-are-good-enough-to-justify-a-70-price-599518.phtml

* For those interested in Square Enix's upcoming Marvel's Avengers game, Sony announced that the free Spider-Man DLC pack for the game will be Playstation exclusive.
https://twitter.com/PlayStation/status/1290331801601400832

* Sony also announced that their next State of Play stream will be taking place on August 6th although it will only be covering upcoming PS4 and PSVR games and updates regarding some of the PS5 games shown at last month's digital event.
https://twitter.com/PlayStation/status/1290271360862662656

* The first game in the No More Heroes series, No More Heroes, is currently rumored to be getting ported to the Switch based on recent ratings board report from Taiwan.
https://www.destructoid.com/stories/no-more-heroes-for-switch-pops-up-on-taiwanese-ratings-board-599436.phtml

drave

08-04-2020, 09:58 AM

maaaaaan, going to be hard to justify the $70.

ClockShot

08-04-2020, 10:29 AM

Dumb as it sounds, those Gamestop points I've been banking over the years are going to come in handy to knock the price down on some games I can purchase.

The $70 games will no doubt be some of the best ones.

El Vaquero de Infierno

08-04-2020, 11:44 AM

This is why you wait until the Steam sales to buy games.

drave

08-04-2020, 12:40 PM

I'll still be playing Cyberpunk 2077 anyway :D

Ruien

08-04-2020, 03:16 PM

For most games if you wait a month they go on a 40% sale.

Sepholio

08-04-2020, 05:12 PM

I don't like game prices going up but it also doesn't bug me. I remember a lot of SNES games going over 80 and some Genesis games went over 100 and that was when the dollar was worth a lot more and game development costs were WAY lower. Honestly shocked the prices haven't already gone up by now.

Sepholio

08-04-2020, 05:15 PM

Was it Neo Geo or Turbografx 16 that had games that cost 300 each back in the day? It was one of those, pretty sure. Either way, FUCK THAT.

Emperor Smeat

08-04-2020, 06:37 PM

Neo Geo but that was due to the size of the carts and the games being exact replicas of SNK arcade games.

Back then cart memory was a lot more expensive to add than it is now so putting arcade perfect games on a cart cost a ton more than just doing a regular console style port.

Fignuts

08-04-2020, 07:52 PM

I never even saw a Neo Geo or Turbo Graphix 16.

Fignuts

08-04-2020, 07:53 PM

Hmmm.... I've read nothing on Halo, so scuse me if this is already sorted.....

F2P online multiplayer reeks of CoD Warzone type shit. Battle Royale no doubt, with TONS of microtransctions.

They also said they have a “10 year plan” for Halo Infinite, and that there won’t be a halo infinite 2. So it’s likely to be taking on a live service model.

Emperor Smeat

08-04-2020, 11:46 PM

* Microsoft announced that starting on September 15th, their Xbox Games Pass and Project xCloud services will be merged into a single service. The only catch is only the Ultimate tier of Game Pass will have xCloud support.
https://www.destructoid.com/stories/xbox-game-pass-and-project-xcloud-merge-on-september-15-599503.phtml

* Based on Sony's recent fiscal report, the PS4 has sold around 112 million consoles since its launch in late 2013.
https://www.destructoid.com/stories/ps4-console-sales-continue-to-slow-in-anticipation-of-ps5-launch-599557.phtml

* According to a report from Bloomberg, Sony currently has plans to hold another PS5 focused digital event this month although nothing has been set in stone.
https://www.destructoid.com/stories/bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-08-04/sony-beats-profit-estimates-plans-100-billion-yen-buyback
https://www.destructoid.com/stories/sony-might-have-more-ps5-news-up-its-sleeve-this-month-599607.phtml

* Besides Spider-Man, Sony recently announced that the Playstation versions of the upcoming Marvel's Avengers game will also have a mix of other timed and platform exclusive content.
The PlayStation versions of Marvel's Avengers (it's also coming to PS5) will get "30-day exclusive access to a Legendary Outfit, Legendary Emote, Epic Takedown, and nameplate for each Super Hero as they are released," including characters like Hawkeye, the first post-launch arrival, and the day-one cast.

That's far from it. "Certain" Community Challenges – shared goals with shared rewards – will be exclusive to PlayStation. As for PlayStation Plus rewards (you knew that was next), there's a few.

"For each Super Hero added to the game post-launch, Hawkeye included, all PS Plus members will receive a free bundle that contains a Rare Outfit, nameplate, and 100 Credits to celebrate the addition of another Avenger to the roster," said Crystal Dynamics. A Ms. Marvel bundle is up first at launch.
https://www.destructoid.com/stories/marvel-s-avengers-has-more-playstation-exclusives-beyond-spider-man-599597.phtml