MMO News Roundup - 6-2-09
Posted by HCG Dreadsorrow | Filed under MMO News Roundup, News
I totally forgot E3 was going on, so wrapped up I have been in the news about that singer on ‘Britain’s Got Talent” or something like that. Yeah, totally forgot alllll about E3. Yeah, as if.
Other than the unfortunate likelihood that I will be forced to listen to Morgan Webb’s snotty voice and shitty ‘733t ‘tude, E3 is some of the rare stuff that can get my interest that does not involve spaceflight, supercoliders, a newly discovered archaeological site, or Japanese art with tentacles. This E3 is certainly not disappointing so far.
I am very interested in Microsoft’s “Natal” revealed yesterday, and similarly disappointed in the failure (so far) in the showing off of any MMOs on the 360 platform. But in any event, there is enough MMO news coming out to almost make Sony and Wii fanboys forget how marginalized their platforms are becoming. So here are some juicy MMO nuggets to sink your fangs into. Well there is the whole Final Fantasy thing being a PS3 exclusive. Well, they can have it. FF==YAWN
Tags: APB, E3 2009, Heroes of Telara, Jumpgate Evolution, Microsoft, MMO, MMO News Roundup, MMORPG, Natal, NetDevil, Realtime Worlds, Star Wars: The Old Republic, Trion World Network
Gamer News 3-23-09: Hey Did You Hear…
Posted by HCG Dreadsorrow | Filed under Hey Did You Hear..., News
Those RRODs that us 360 gamers have had to deal with because of Microsoft’s incredibly shitty heat dissipation half-assed into their console have been “solved” if you believe the bullshit. Even if you haven’t had another RROD in the past couple months, there is something new to worry about. Called the ‘E74′ error, it will kill your box, M$ says it’s not their problem, and they will charge you $100+ to fix it. Yeah, and you jackholes expect us to lay out a few hundred $$$ for Windows 7? Well, pucker up and kiss the fattest part of my ass. Click here for details. On the E74 error, not my ass.
New map packs are coming soon for both Gears of War 2 as well as Halo 3. Well, the update coming for GOW2 is a bit more than just a map pack. Perhaps just shy of a full blown expansion, there are lots of goodies to try to lure players away from games of lesser levels of pwnage. Click here for details of the GOW2 update, which will be available on March 24th, with the map pack to follow on the 31st. The Halo 3 map pack is coming on April 9th, though if you laid out the extra $$$ for the Halo Wars limited edition you can get it now. Click here to see details on the Halo 3 map pack.
So features that should have been included in Resident Evil 5 upon release, are not only coming as DLC (which you will have to pay for), but now they have been delayed. April 9th is the new day (for North American players) when you will have the honor of paying for the developer’s rush to market. Seriously, I don’t care how great the game is, this should have been available at launch, or made available for free by the developer. No amount of fanboism or justification can account for these shenanigans. Click here for details.
So, have you heard about the recently announced Blacklight? This is the wave of the future in a quickly coalescing entertainment industry. Zombie Studios is developing a futuristic-themed shooter called Blacklight. Well anyway, Fox Atomic has signed a deal with them to help in the development of said game, in addition to producing a comic series and feature film on the same game. Click here for details as well as the first screenshot. Well, there’s not too much info available yet, but if they keep Uwe Boll away from it, they may have a chance. Click here for the official site, or rather what there is of it at this early stage.
Tags: Blacklight, DLC, Fox Atomic, Gears of War 2, Halo 3, Hey Did You Hear..., Microsoft, News, red ring of death, Resident Evil 5, Xbox 360, Zombie Studios
Gamer News 02.02.09: Hey, Did You Hear…
Posted by HCG KP1gL37 | Filed under Hey Did You Hear..., News
…Microsoft is courting us girl gamers in a big way? A recent marketing program for Xbox 360 gave female gamers a $150 Xbox pack in exchange for hosting a gaming night with 10 of their girlfriends. Goodies included a copy of Scene It, microwave popcorn, an Xbox universal remote and more. See ladies, us girl gamers are a valuable commodity! Full story: News-Press
…Disney is rumored to be working on a Tron game to coincide with the 2011 launch of the Tron remake movie? If it’s anything like the 80’s original, we’re all going to need some more drugs. Full story: Tech radar
…playing video games can help you win friends and influence people? Ok, so maybe not, but it can at least give you something to talk to the guys about. Our friends over at Destructoid have a great story to share about one hardcore gamer who made the journey from gaming nerd to “cool” gaming nerd. Great read.
…Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II multiplayer beta is available to download now for FREE? Check it out and enjoy the ork-y goodness at: Steam This is just a guess, but I’m thinking our own Dreadsorrow will have a little something to say about this…
…Penny Arcade has released a series of Left 4 Dead inspired valentines? Each features a hilarious, cartoony, gory ode to one of my favorite games of 2008. They were created by forum user beavotron. Check out the downloadable PDFs and then share the love at: Penny Arcade
Tags: 000: Dawn of War II, Beta, Destructoid, Disney, Hey Did You Hear..., Left 4 Dead, Microsoft, News, News-Press, Penny Arcade, Scene It, Steam, Tech Radar, Tron, valentine, Warhammer 40, Xbox 360
Gamer News 01.26.09: Hey, Did You Hear…
Posted by HCG KP1gL37 | Filed under Hey Did You Hear..., News
…Microsoft has responded to Sony’s ballsy statements made last week speculating that the Playstation 3 would eventually lead the console wars by the end of this generation. Microsoft’s Aaron Greenberg stated in response, “…that complacent attitude is out of touch with where the industry and consumer are today….” He went on to say, “…I can’t imagine any scenario where the PS3 can catch up with us.” I have to agree with you on that one Aaron, but only time (and sales) will tell, so until then, you may want to keep your trap shut. Full story: The Bitbag
…the full tracklist for Guitar Hero Metallica has been released? The game, which hits streets on March 29th, will feature a slew of the band’s famous tunes, including Enter Sandman, Master of Puppets, Battery, One and The Unforgiven just to name a few. In addition, expect tracks from some of Metallica’s self proclaimed faborite bands including Alice in Chains, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Slayer and more. Full story: Metallica
…if you shop at Wal-Mart, sometimes you get nothing but redneck s**t? Apparently, the mass merchant recently sold a copy of Madden 09 to a young customer who come gone to find his brand new (sealed) game disk replaced with a blank disk with the handwritten label, “redneck s**t.” Now, as much as I agree with the sentiment that Wal-Mart is the home to rednecks…and their respective s**t, I’m thinking this was probably not something that happened on purpose. Likely some creative criminal snagged the real disc and swapped it with the fraud. Full story: Consumerist
…new concept art for Star Wars Battlefront III was leaked a few weeks back, and it will BLOW your mind? The latest includes character art for a “Dark Obiwan” that is described as, “…an old man, gnarled by the corruption of the dark side.” Dude! With his craggly beard and creepy yellow eyes, Kenobi looks freaking sweet! Full story: Kotaku
…PSP gamers in Japan can purchase a “carnival colored” version of the device for a limited time? Four bright color versions of the Playstation Portable including “Vibrant Blue,” “Radiant Red,” “Bright Yellow” and “Spirited Green” have been released in limited quantities in Japan. Full story: TechRadar
Tags: Aaron Greenberg, Consumerist, Dark Obiwan Kenobi, Guitar Hero Metallica, Hey Did You Hear..., Japan, Kotaku, Madden 09, Microsoft, News, Playstation 3, Playstation Portable, PS3, PSP, Sony, Star Wars Battlefront III, TachRadar, The Bitbag, Wal-Mart, Xbox 360
Gamer News 12.30.08: Hey, Did You Hear…
Posted by HCG KP1gL37 | Filed under Hey Did You Hear..., News
…a new party mode is coming to Burnout Paradise in Feb of 09 via the Playstation Store or Xbox Live? You will be able to play a group game with up to 8 players on one console (and with one controller!) Looks like our Rock Band parties are about to get a little mash up with Burnout Paradise. Full story: Criterion Games
…jocks love WoW just as much as us hardcore geeks? One jock in particular, Minnesota Vikings punter, Chris Kluwe, joked on his radio show on 93X that he wanted to change his name to honor his favorite MMO (and boost his jersey sales.) “I was going to change my name to Chris ‘World of Warcraft,’ ” Kluwe said. “They said that’s too long. So they started calling me Chris ‘Warcraft.’ I could make a lot of money if I changed my name to that.” Full story: Star Tribune
…you can get updates from Xbox 360 Live including news, video clips, friend’s status and more on your BlackBerry? The info comes to your phone courtesy of a mobile app from Zumobi. Full story: BlackBerry News
…on January 20th you too can feel what it’s like to be the President of the United States? A PC simulation game called “Commander In Chief” will be launched on inauguration day and will give you the ability to run the country the way you would as President from choosing members of your cabinet, to dealing with the economy and terrorism. Sounds like a good way to remind people how tough of a job Obama is facing. Full story: App Scout
…Microsoft released some fun new casual clothing for your XLE avatar just in time to rock out on New Years Eve? This new fashion update includes items such as hoodies and jeans for the guys, and fun accessories like rings and gloves for the ladies. Full story: Major Nelson
Tags: avatar, Barack Obama, Blackberry, Burnout Paradise, Burnout Party Mode, Chris Kluwe, Commander in Chief, Criterion Games, Hey Did You Hear..., Major Nelson, Microsoft, Minnesota Vikings, MMO, MMORPG, News, PC, Playstation 3, Playstation Store, PS3, World of Warcraft, WoW, XBL, Xbox 360, Xbox Live, Zumobi
Gamer News 12.20.08: Hey, Did You Hear…
Posted by HCG KP1gL37 | Filed under Hey Did You Hear..., News
…Nintendo is getting sued over a faulty DS AC adapter? Apparently, the adapter started a fire in a home in Kentucky, and the family’s insurance company is suing Nintendo for $236,304 to recoup the money they had to pay out to the family. Sounds a little shady to me, considering Nintendo already issued a recall because of overheating issues. Full story: Game Politics
…the trailer for Guitar Hero Metallica has been released? To check it out in its full head banging glory, visit Metallica.com. Looks pretty rockin’ so far, and the band members look pretty accurate compared to the real dudes, so that’s a bonus. Look for the game in early 2009.
…you can build your own custom arcade stick on the cheap (and with no soldering required?) For everyone who fears they need a lot of cash or experience to have their dream arcade stick, this one is for you. Check out the detailed and helpful how-to posted by user controlcommerce on Cheap Ass Gamer
…you can now purchase your Xbox Live points in smaller doses at retail? Microsoft has recently launched the sale of 800 point Xbox Live cards, which retail for $9.99. Now gamers have a choice besides the $19.99 1600 point card that has always been available. Full story: Xbox 360 Fanboy
…certain EA titles are now available to PC gamers on Steam? Titles include Spore, Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning, Mass Effect, Need for Speed Undercover and EA Sports FIFA Manager 2009, with more to come soon. The biggest breakthrough coming out of this announcement? No more SecuROM DRM for Spore. Commence dancing. Full story: Steam
Tags: Arcade Stick, Cheap Ass Gamer, EA, EA Sports FIFA Manager 2009, Electronic Arts, Game Politics, Guitar Hero Metallica, Hey Did You Hear..., Mass Effect, Microsoft, Need for Speed Undercover, News, Nintendo, Nintendo DS, SecuROM DRM, Spore, Steam, trailer, Warhammer: Age of Reckoning, Xbox 360, Xbox 360 fanboy, Xbox Live Points
Gamer News 12.13.08: Hey, Did You Hear…
Posted by HCG KP1gL37 | Filed under Hey Did You Hear..., News
…new, downloadable content for Fable II will be available on Dec 26th and it includes an additional 100 possible achievement points? The expansion, called “Knothole Island” will include new areas, items and quests and will cost 800 MS points (about $10.) Full story: Xbox 360 Fanboy
…issues are already popping up in the open beta of Sony’s virtual environment, Home? Sony posted on their official Playstation blog yesterday, acknowledging that some users were experiencing problems accessing Home, and asking for patience while they resolve issues. Full story: Venture Beat
…according to John Geleynse, Dir of Technolohu Evangalism at Apple, the iPhone is for all intents and purposes a “gaming console?” He went on to say that when it’s not being used as a phone, the iPhone provides a, “console experience.” We expect to see more and more titles available for the iPhone soon, based on the company’s clear indications that they see the iPhone as a threat to the DS and PSP. Full story: engadget mobile
…there is a quick and easy way to convert Microsoft Xbox Live points to currency? Check out the handy conversion tool on Gangster Panda that takes MS points, and converts them to currency, including US dollar, Euro, Canadian dollars and more. Nifty!
…you can pick up Team Fortress 2 this weekend for a song and a dance? For this weekend only, Steam is offering the classic FPS for only $10. If you don’t own this one already, it’s a great deal on a hell of a great game. Full story: Joystiq
Tags: Apple, Engadget, Fable II, Gangster Panda, Hey Did You Hear..., iPhone, Joystiq, Knothole Island, Microsoft, News, Nintendo DS, Playstation Home, Playstation Portable, PSP, Sony, Steam, Team Fortress Two, Venture Beat, Xbox 360, Xbox 360 fanboy, Xbox Live Points converter
Gamer News 12.04.08: Hey, Did You Hear…
Posted by HCG KP1gL37 | Filed under Hey Did You Hear..., News
…Someone managed to craft a real chainsaw lancer, like in Gears of War? It was made with a AR-15 machine gun and a modified chainsaw. Check out the video on You Tube.
…Windows 7 will be able to run Crysis without a video card? A feature of the new OS will allow games and other DirectX 10 and 10.1-based apps to run using the system’s CPU as the graphics engine. Full story: Tom’s Hardware
…You can unlock colored hair for your avatar on the New Xbox Experience? All it takes is a few simple steps, and you can rock hair colors like red, blue, green and more. Full story: Just Ask the I.T. Guy
…Nintendo makes $6 profit on every Wii sold? It may not seem like a lot, but when you consider that Sony is still taking a LOSS for each unit sold, and Microsoft is breaking even, $6 seems like a windfall. Full story: Techradar
…There is a wiki created that gives a really detailed outline all of the weapons in Fallout 3? The wiki includes important stats like damage, ammo, value, and where to find the weapon in the game. The handy guide can be found at fallout.wikia.com
Tags: avatar, Crysis, Fallout 3, Gears of War, Gears of War 2, Hey Did You Hear..., Just Ask the I.T. Guy, Lancer, Microsoft, New Xbox Experience, News, Nintendo, Nintendo Wii, Sony, Techradar, Tom's Hardware, Wiki, Windows 7, Youtube
Rock the Vote…On Xbox Live
Posted by HCG KP1gL37 | Filed under News
A new partnership between Microsoft and Rock the Vote has given gamers a new way to make their voices heard. Now you can register to vote quickly and easily on Xbox Live. Not only that, but Xbox Live is also conducting a poll of gamers to determine who has the lead among gaming voters. You can voice your opinion by downloading one of four gamer pics: Barack Obama, John McCain, Undecided or Other. Results will be announced this upcoming week. I think this is a pretty cool way to allow younger voters to voice their opinions and most importantly, register to vote!
“The Xbox LIVE community is active, vocal, and passionate. We’re thrilled to partner with Rock the Vote.”
—Marc Whitten, Microsoft
Tags: Microsoft, News, Rock the Vote, Xbox Live
Inside the Red Ring of Death: The Truth Behind the Plague of Hardcore Gamers
Posted by HCG KP1gL37 | Filed under News
If you are a Hardcore Gamer and an Xbox owner, chances are, you’ve either experienced the dreaded red ring of death, or you know someone who has. But what really causes the RROD?, did Microsoft know this was a potential issue? What caused the millions of Xbox360 consoles to crap out? Well, one technology journalist, Dean Takahaski, decided to dig deeper into this story on behalf of gamers everywhere and find out. What he found will both piss you off, and make you disappointed in Microsoft as a brand for having their heads so far up their bums. Takahaski’s full report is available online at Venturebeat, but our friends over at Gizmodo also provide a great recap.
Some of the key highlights of the report after the jump.
Tags: Dean Takahaski, Gizmodo, Microsoft, News, red ring of death, Venturebeat, Xbox 360
Don’t Own an Xbox360? At $200 bucks…what the Frack Are You Waiting For?!
Posted by HCG KP1gL37 | Filed under Crazy Deals, News
Great news for those gamers who have been living under a rock, or who have just been too ghetto poor to buy an Xbox360. Starting this Friday, Sept 5th, this slice of 360 goodness will only set you back 200 bucks.
Xbox made the official announcement yesterday, and are the first of the current-gen consoles to hit the $200 sweet spot in price. Sorry PS3….kiss your sales goodbye. Now you have absolutely no excuse not to grab a 360 immediately. I can think of a lot of ways to raise $200 and not all of them involve selling plasma (although that would be worth it for a 360).
Here’s the full scoop:
Microsoft will be dropping the price of the Xbox 360 Arcade on Friday to $199. This version does not come with a built-in hard drive, but does come with a memory card. They are also dropping the 60GB hard drive version to $299 and the Elite (with its 120GB hard drive) to $399.
KP’s advice: run to the stores first thing on Friday and pick up a 360. Seeing you play on an last-gen Xbox is just embarrassing….
Tags: Crazy Deals, Microsoft, News, price drop, Xbox
It’s Official! The Xbox 360 Elite 120G, HDMI, Black, $479 on 4/29
Posted by HCG Paco | Filed under News
The Xbox 360 just got a new, bigger and better brother; the Xbox 360 Elite or the 360E as everyone is calling it now. We are extremely excited for this announcement, not just as hardcore gamers but as audio/video-philes.
Here are the details, straight from Microsoft:
Microsoft Unveils Xbox 360 Elite
Xbox 360TM Elite is the premier Xbox 360 console package that includes a massive 120GB hard drive, a high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI) port, a high-definition cable, and a premium black finish. The Xbox 360 Elite also includes a black wireless controller and black Xbox Live® headset.
Tags: 360E, HDMI, Microsoft, News, Xbox 360 Elite
