Here lie my thoughts of me, regarding games, the community, the reviews and gamer sites and everything in between about the flashing lights and sounds we so love.
Source: A supposed Electronic Arts Store box art shot, captured by NeoGAF user Lakitu.
What we heard: The Mass Effect series is riddled with emotion and heavy decisions. And in the lauded original Mass Effect and its equally acclaimed sequel gamers made these choices by clicking buttons. However, in the franchises' newest entry--the recently delayed Mass Effect 3--those decisions might be made with the wave of a hand or facial gestures, if a purported retail box art image proves correct.
The supposed retail listing (pictured at right) for Mass Effect 3 clearly shows the "Better with Kinect" marketing slogan, indicating it will support, but not require, the peripheral. Additionally, the listing has been pulled from the EA Store.
The official story: As of press time, Microsoft has not responded to GameSpot's request for comment or clarification on the matter.
Bogus or not bogus?: Rumors are already swirling that Microsoft will unveil a Kinect-enabled Gears of War: Exile at next week's Electronic Entertainment Expo. Thus, it wouldn't be unrealistic for Microsoft or EA to use the show to also announce its intention to add motion control to the greatly hyped Mass Effect 3. If Microsoft or EA does indeed use the annual trade show as a forum to make the announcement, gamers will have their answers in under a week.
So, you thought all people did on the XBOX was play Halo, Modern Warfare and god knows what else. Well, YOU'RE WRONG!
For years, Microsoft has been expanding the Xbox 360's capacities beyond gaming. Since the platform launched in 2005, the company has added a video and music store, Netflix and Hulu Plus streaming, as well as support for social networks like Facebook and Twitter. Most recently, the company brought high-definition ESPN events to the service, as well as improved video chat via the Kinect motion-sensing system.
Now, Microsoft is touting how its efforts to make the Xbox 360 more than just another console have paid off. According to a blog post by corporate vice president of corporate communications Frank Shaw, some 40 percent of all Xbox activity is not related to gaming. The top non-game use for the console appears to be video, with an average of 30 hours of "video consumption" per month by each Xbox 360 user.
That number is more impressive when one considers the size of the entire Xbox 360 user base. Shaw also revealed that some 53 million units of the console have been sold to date, thanks to brisk sales over the past year. According to figures from the NPD group, the platform was once again the top-selling home console in the US during April, when it sold 297,000 units domestically. As of last month, the Xbox 360 topped the PlayStation 3 and Wii during 11 of the prior 12 months in US sales.
Following six weeks of downtime, the PlayStation Store has finally returned. Its director, Grace Chen, made the announcement Wednesday evening via the PlayStation Blog.
"The PlayStation Store is back online and thank you everyone for your patience," she said. "You will notice a huge lineup of new downloadable games, demos, add-on content, themes, avatars and videos. Also, PlayStation Plus has been updated with new full game trials, free games and DLC, free avatars and even more discounts."
The PlayStation Blog has a full list of backlogged content that is now available. It includes such PS3 downloadable titles as Wizardry: Labyrinth Of Lost Souls ($14.99) and the exclusive Under Siege ($19.99). The TurboGrafx-16 rereleases Alien Crush and Bonk’s Adventure ($5.99) are also now on sale.
One thing that isn't yet available are the games Sony is giving away free under its Welcome Back program. "You may have noticed that the content promised as part of the Welcome Back offer is not yet live," said Chen. "It is currently in the final stages of testing and will be available to download soon; we'll be sure to let you know when."
The next PlayStation Store update is slated for Friday, June 3, with at least two more to follow next week during the Electronic Entertainment Expo.
In the Deus Ex games, augmentations are body modifications that allow the user superhuman abilities. While augmentations in the first two games were nanotech, Human Revolution is set prior to both and instead features mechanical augmentations. These will be divided into four types: Combat, Stealth, Technology and Social.Using social skills, social augmentations and stealth a player is able to play through the whole game killing only the bosses.
Every enemy squad will have an identifiable squad leader who will direct the team's actions. If the leader is killed, the squad falls into disarray. Enemies will also react to subtle player decisions, such as a change in behaviour or weapons, etc.
Unlike in Invisible War, weapons will fire distinct ammunition types instead of depleting a unified pool. They can also be upgraded to better suit the player.
Deviating from previous titles in the series, Human Revolution will use a regenerating health model. This change was made because the developers didn't want players to get into a situation where they were unable to progress due to low health, and would be forced to "scrounge for med packs."They see this scrounging behavior as breaking the flow of the game when one retreats to search the entire level for medical supplies. They believe their regenerating health model will still encourage tactical and strategy forming retreats, but not to the extent where the tension and flow of the game is disrupted. Despite using a regenerating health model, the game will still include health restoring consumables, such as food.
Rage is the highly-anticipated, postapocalyptic action game that's being developed by id Software, creator of Doom and Quake. This unusual game combines first-person shooter gameplay, racing, and exploration on a planet that was absolutely devastated by a falling meteor, but it wasn't always clear exactly how the game would work. Until now. We recently had an opportunity to visit id Software's new headquarters in Richardson, Texas to see for ourselves not only how the game is coming along, but also how you'll progress over the course of the game. Please note: This story containsminor plot spoilers.
If you guys want to read more about this awesome game, click this link.
It's been a little more than a month since developer Naughty Dog broke the news about an Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception beta, but even then, all the team gave us was a set of dates. Today, Naughty Dog is giving us the whole, wonderful enchilada.
Below, you find every critical, nerdy detail and video flythrough you need to get ready for the Uncharted 3 multiplayer beta that's going live next month. I suggest you read it, study it, and go refresh yourself with the multiplayer of Uncharted 2: Among Thieves so that you don't look like a fool out there.
It's been a little more than a month since developer Naughty Dog broke the news about an Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception beta, but even then, all the team gave us was a set of dates. Today, Naughty Dog is giving us the whole, wonderful enchilada.
Below, you find every critical, nerdy detail and video flythrough you need to get ready for the Uncharted 3 multiplayer beta that's going live next month. I suggest you read it, study it, and go refresh yourself with the multiplayer of Uncharted 2: Among Thieves so that you don't look like a fool out there.
Uncharted 3's Airfield Map
When does the Uncharted 3 multiplayer beta start?
If you have the voucher from Infamous 2 or a PlayStation Plus subscription, June 28th. If you're what I like to call a "normie," July 4th.
When does the Uncharted 3 multiplayer beta end?
July 13th.
What's the Uncharted 3 multiplayer beta level cap?
Level 25, bro.
What modes are included in the Uncharted 3 multiplayer beta?
There are nine modes. Team Deathmatch (duh), 3-Team Deathmatch (three teams of two face off), Team Objective (complete the assigned goals), Free For All (kill everyone), Plunder (capture the treasure), High Stakes (gamble with your XP and cash), and three co-op modes I can't tell you about yet but swear I will blow them out this week.
Those modes sound cool. How many people can play in them?
Team Deathmatch, Team Objective and Plunder are 5v5. Three-Team Deathmatch is 2v2v2. Free for All and High Stakes are 8 players. Co-op ranges, but we'll get to that.
Which maps are in the Uncharted 3 multiplayer beta?
There's an airfield one and a French chateau. Both are multi-level with plenty to climb. They each pack dynamic events to keep the matches lively like attacking planes and collapsing structures. Check out our Uncharted 3 multiplayer beta map flythroughs to see the arenas.
What Uncharted 3 power plays are in the beta?
As touched on in the multiplayer reveal, Uncharted 3 packs power plays. These are one-minute events that'll occur in blowouts to give the losing team a fighting chance (although the winning team can benefit, too). The Uncharted 3 multiplayer packs four Power Plays.
Marked Man - A person on the winning team is marked, and the losing team gets 3 points if they kill him. Meanwhile, the winning team gets double cash for each kill and a special medal if the Marked Man doesn't die.
Cursed - The winning team sees all characters as skeletons and friendly fire is turned on. Each time the losing team gets a kill or the winning team kills one of its own, the losing team gets two points. Meanwhile, the winning team gets double cash for each member of the losing team killed.
Exposed - The winning team's location is revealed to the losing team. The winning team gets double cash for each losing team member killed.
Double Damage - Losing team inflicts double damage. Winning team earns double cash for each kill.
What boosters are available in the Uncharted 3 multiplayer beta?
Boosters -- equipable abilities that affect gameplay -- are back in Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception, but they've been revamped. When you choose one of these abilities and use it, you earn experience points for it. So, you're leveling up your profile and your abilities individually when you play the game. The Uncharted 3 multiplayer beta is going to feature eight boosters spread over two slots.
Booster Slot 1 Options
Come Here - See the opponent that killed you on your radar until he or she dies.
Retaliation - Spawn with the Power Weapon you were killed by.
Cloaked - Opponents won't see you on the radar and you can't be heard.
Weapon Expert - Gives you the ability to add additional mods to you weapons.
Booster Slot 2 Options
Back in the Saddle - Reduces your respawn time.
Bargain - Decreases the cost of Medal Kickbacks. (Special powers you set before the game and have to earn in a match.)
Power Hunter - See the location of Power Weapons.
Daredevil - When you taunt over a defeated opponent, you get extra ammo.
What Medal Kickbacks are in the Uncharted 3 multiplayer beta?
Before you start a match, you decide which Medal Kickback you want to use. When you're out there on the battlefield and start earning medals, you start building toward your kickback. Get the amount of medals needed to use the kickback, and you can pull off the uber-maneuver.
Smoke Bomb - You vanish in a puff of smoke.
Speedy G - You get a speed boost.
RPG!!! - You instantly spawn an RPG.
Cluster Bomb - One grenade explodes into multiple grenades.
What guns are in the Uncharted 3 multiplayer beta?
AK-47, G-Mal and the Dragon Sniper round out the long guns. Pistols are also included, and the above Medal Kickback confirms RPGs.
You edit that pirate!
What Mods are in the Uncharted 3 multiplayer beta?
For your long guns, there are two -- clip size and Call Out (which shows the location of enemies). For the pistols, you can increase the total amount of ammo and the rate of fire for the Arm Micro.
What characters are in the Uncharted 3 multiplayer beta?
If you choose to be a hero, you can be Nathan Drake, Sully or a treasure hunter. If you're going to be a villain, you're a pirate. However, remember that you can customize the hell out of these characters. Shirts, hats, sunglasses, and more will help you make your avatar your own.
When does the Uncharted 3 multiplayer beta start?
If you have the voucher from Infamous 2 or a PlayStation Plus subscription, June 28th. If you're what I like to call a "normie," July 4th.
When does the Uncharted 3 multiplayer beta end?
July 13th.
What's the Uncharted 3 multiplayer beta level cap?
Level 25, bro.
What modes are included in the Uncharted 3 multiplayer beta?
There are nine modes. Team Deathmatch (duh), 3-Team Deathmatch (three teams of two face off), Team Objective (complete the assigned goals), Free For All (kill everyone), Plunder (capture the treasure), High Stakes (gamble with your XP and cash), and three co-op modes I can't tell you about yet but swearI will blow them out this week.
Those modes sound cool. How many people can play in them?
Team Deathmatch, Team Objective and Plunder are 5v5. Three-Team Deathmatch is 2v2v2. Free for All and High Stakes are 8 players. Co-op ranges, but we'll get to that.
Which maps are in the Uncharted 3 multiplayer beta?
There's an airfield one and a French chateau. Both are multi-level with plenty to climb. They each pack dynamic events to keep the matches lively like attacking planes and collapsing structures. Check out ourUncharted 3 multiplayer beta map flythroughsto see the arenas.
What Uncharted 3 power plays are in the beta?
As touched on inthe multiplayer reveal, Uncharted 3 packs power plays. These are one-minute events that'll occur in blowouts to give the losing team a fighting chance (although the winning team can benefit, too). The Uncharted 3 multiplayer packs four Power Plays.
Marked Man - A person on the winning team is marked, and the losing team gets 3 points if they kill him. Meanwhile, the winning team gets double cash for each kill and a special medal if the Marked Man doesn't die.
Cursed - The winning team sees all characters as skeletons and friendly fire is turned on. Each time the losing team gets a kill or the winning team kills one of its own, the losing team gets two points. Meanwhile, the winning team gets double cash for each member of the losing team killed.
Exposed - The winning team's location is revealed to the losing team. The winning team gets double cash for each losing team member killed.
Double Damage - Losing team inflicts double damage. Winning team earns double cash for each kill.
What boosters are available in the Uncharted 3 multiplayer beta?
Boosters -- equipable abilities that affect gameplay -- are back in Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception, but they've been revamped. When you choose one of these abilities and use it, you earn experience points for it. So, you're leveling up your profile and your abilities individually when you play the game. The Uncharted 3 multiplayer beta is going to feature eight boosters spread over two slots.
Booster Slot 1 Options
Come Here - See the opponent that killed you on your radar until he or she dies.
Retaliation - Spawn with the Power Weapon you were killed by.
Cloaked - Opponents won't see you on the radar and you can't be heard.
Weapon Expert - Gives you the ability to add additional mods to you weapons.
Booster Slot 2 Options
Back in the Saddle - Reduces your respawn time.
Bargain - Decreases the cost of Medal Kickbacks. (Special powers you set before the game and have to earn in a match.)
Power Hunter - See the location of Power Weapons.
Daredevil - When you taunt over a defeated opponent, you get extra ammo.
What Medal Kickbacks are in the Uncharted 3 multiplayer beta?
Before you start a match, you decide which Medal Kickback you want to use. When you're out there on the battlefield and start earning medals, you start building toward your kickback. Get the amount of medals needed to use the kickback, and you can pull off the uber-maneuver.
Smoke Bomb - You vanish in a puff of smoke.
Speedy G - You get a speed boost.
RPG!!! - You instantly spawn an RPG.
Cluster Bomb - One grenade explodes into multiple grenades.
What guns are in the Uncharted 3 multiplayer beta?
AK-47, G-Mal and the Dragon Sniper round out the long guns. Pistols are also included, and the above Medal Kickback confirms RPGs.
You edit that pirate!
What Mods are in the Uncharted 3 multiplayer beta?
For your long guns, there are two -- clip size and Call Out (which shows the location of enemies). For the pistols, you can increase the total amount of ammo and the rate of fire for the Arm Micro.
What characters are in the Uncharted 3 multiplayer beta?
If you choose to be a hero, you can be Nathan Drake, Sully or a treasure hunter. If you're going to be a villain, you're a pirate. However, remember that you can customize the hell out of these characters. Shirts, hats, sunglasses, and more will help you make your avatar your own.
Following its annual earnings report this morning, Sony has confirmed it is working on a successor to the PlayStation 3. In a post-report conference call, Sony executive vice president and chief financial officer Masaru Kato was queried about an increase in research and development costs for the company.
When asked what the "major driver" of R&D costs was, Kato said--via a translator--that one was "prototype research work, development work during the current fiscal year in [the] game segment."
He continued, "We have a portable NGP to be launched later this year, so we have development expenses to be incurred for this product and for the home equipment. The PS3 still has a product life, but this is a platform business, so for the future platform--when we'll be introducing what product I cannot discuss that--but our development work is already under way, so the costs are incurred there." (Emphasis added.)
