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New Dexter trailer pushes iPhone's visual (and moral) boundaries
We use our iPhones for a wide variety of purposes: Keeping our enthralled Twitter audience informed, playing Home Run Derby MMOs, dueling with virtual lightsabers -- those sorts of things. We've never used it to play mobile murder simulators -- but by the look of the above trailer for Icarus Studios' Dexter, we'll be doing just that when the first episode of the game hits the App Store later this summer.Though it still seems to contain the scattershot gameplay that we saw earlier this year at GDC, it looks amazing for an iPhone game. If you're a fan of the show (and by all means, you should be), it might just be worth checking out.
Get a free episode of Dexter and Voltron for one week
Make sure you jump on the PlayStation Store this week. You'll be able to score a free episode of Dexter, the hit Showtime drama about "America's favorite serial killer." You can also search and find a free episode of Voltron on the PlayStation Store as well. (We're pretty certain the two shows are unrelated.) This special promotion will only last until June 8th, so you don't want to forget!Check out the rest of today's surprise E3 PlayStation Store update after the break.
New movie shows a grisly future for MMOs
Kotaku are reporting that the trailer for a new game related movie have been released. Simply called Gamer, which is a change from it's original name of Game. It stars Gerard Butler, whose film credits range from a high of starring in 300, through the cult favorite Reign of Fire, and down to the less impressive films such as the title role in Dracula 2000. It is set in a future where a millionaire Ken Castle (Michael C. Hall of Dexter fame) has created a massively popular multi-player online game called Slayers in which hundreds of people battle. The twist is that the players are actually controlling death row inmates, and not just characters in the game as they think. Butler stars as the hero who is caught between Castle and the resistance who are trying to take down the game all while being controlled by his wealthy player. This film looks like it could be considered a remake of Running Man for computer game generation.Gamer is currently scheduled for release on September 4th this year in the US and UK with a staged release across Europe throughout that month. According to some pre-release screenings the film may not be destined to become one of the stand out hits of the year.Check after the break for the English language trailer.
Blu-ray releases on May 5th 2009
What an easy week to decide which new releases is the most anticipated as The Curious Case of Benjamin Button finally goes Blu. Although that is the biggest title, Paramount didn't stop there as it released the second season of the hot TV show Dexter as well as some all time classics like Ferris Bueller's Day Off and Grease. Sony has a few catalogs this week as well, but nothing we're really excited about. There is plenty to get excited about next week though, between all the Star Trek movies and classics like Fargo and -- our personal favorite -- The Good, the Bad And the Ugly, there really is something for everyone. The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (Paramount) Dexter: The Second Season (Paramount) Ferris Bueller's Day Off (Paramount) Grease (Paramount) Saturday Night Fever (Paramount) It Could Happen to You (Sony) Roxanne (Sony) Last Chance Harvey (Anchor Bay) Bleak House (BBC) Dog Soldiers (First Look) Incendiary (ThinkFilm) The Magic of Flight (Image) Journey Into Amazing Caves (Image) Amazon (Image)
Ten crazy iPhone cases
I ended up going with an iSkin Revo for my iPhone as a thin little protective case, but now that I've seen some of these crazy cases, I'm reconsidering just a little bit. Who wouldn't want to encase your iPhone in what appears to be bacon, or try out the tactile iPhone case above (which transmits button presses to a customized home screen -- not something I'd want to use all the time, but it is wild and it has a purpose).That Dexter case is cool too, though there are probably plenty of promotional cases out there. It's almost too bad -- when I picked up my plain black case, I was thinking a lot more about function than appearance. There's all kinds of cool things out there to put your iPhone in.[via Urlesque]
GDC09: Dexter hands-on (iPhone)
A light drama about a heroic serial killer may not seem like the most natural fit for a game adaptation, but Marc Ecko VP Marc Fernandez couldn't ignore the opportunity as he watched Dexter.Fernandez told us at GDC that he felt like the show was almost set up like a game, with the titular murderer researching each kill, setting them up and finally executing on the mission. It's madness, sure. But, as in any good game, there are rules.%Gallery-46227%
Dexter: The Game: The Trailer for: The iPhone
Even though Dexter's iPhone -- and eventual PC release -- game debut has been put on hold until the summer his game trailer debut is happening right now. The trailer (found after the break) showcases ... well, nothing really. It's a few shots of Dex swinging a knife around wildly -- and quite out of character, might we add -- with a final shot of Showtime's lovable serial killer decked out in full Dark Passenger garb, requesting our silence and attention.Wait. Is he talking to us? Oh crap, he is. Listen, we didn't do that thing you think we did. Seriously, you can let us go now. Ow! That knife is sharp. Is that blood? We're not too good with the sight of ... uh oh ... passing out now.
Dexter's game debut gets delayed, new images spill out
Showtime's lovable serial killer will have to wait for his video game debut. According to a press release, Dexter for the iPhone has been delayed until the summer -- it was originally expected in February. Unfortunately, no release date details for the PC version, first revealed by Mark Fernandez -- VP of publisher Marc Ecko Entertainment -- at this year's Comic Con, were mentioned. In the game players will take on the role of Dexter (surprise!), Miami Metro Police Department blood splatter analyst by day and serial killer by night -- don't worry, Dex only kills bad guys the system puts back on the streets. The game features puzzle solving, mini-games and the ability to wield your iPhone like a knife -- allowing you to swing it wildly. Dexter features a story from show writer Timothy Schlattmann and recorded dialogue from Michael C. Hall. We'd recommend staying close to home while playing this one, getting your Dexter on during a bus ride may result in punching people in the head -- in the effort of high score stabbing. %Gallery-46227%
First Impressions: Cartoon Network's Fusion Fall
In First Impressions, Krystalle takes on a MMOG and reports back at what you can expect from the game. Is it painful? Awesome? Find out as she takes an unscientific (and highly opinionated) view of a game you may not have seen. Also remember, this is not a review; simply a First Impression - as such, we always recommend you give games that seem interesting a shot and decide for yourself. Cartoon Network's MMO, FusionFall, is definitely a strong first entry into the market. With the Cartoon Network stars as the basis for their IP, and many industry names involved in the project, the hopes have been high. The story is set in a future version of Cartoon Network's own variant of Earth, where the characters are now teenagers - and a bit more anime-styled than their counterparts we know from TV. The premise is that Planet Fusion, a big nasty greenish planet-devouring ball of space-muck run by a terribad guy named Fuse, has come to snack on our beloved home. The only thing standing between Fuse, his sludge minions and the total annihilation of Future Earth is you - and the people playing in the world with you. Along the way Fuse is also spawning evil green versions of all the Cartoon Network characters to aid him in his sinister plan.Now that you've got the general back-story, I've included the FusionFall opening cinematic behind the cut to set the mood before we move on. So far as opening cinematics for web-based games go, this one is definitely worth watching. From there, be sure to jump into the gallery for the full First Impressions on FusionFall. Welcome to the future >> %Gallery-39282%
FusionFall presses the big shiny red button -- launches
(Open in new tab for dramatic effect) What's that sound? Do you hear it? It's the sound of something being unleashed onto an innocent world -- the sound of a big red button being pressed!Thankfully, it's not DeeDee -- it's FusionFall. It's officially launched as of today, and if you've in any way got a thing for Cartoon Network shows of today or the past -- such as Ben 10 Alien Force, Dexter's Laboratory, Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends, Ed, Edd' n Eddy, The Powerpuff Girls, Kids Next Door and Samurai Jack -- we highly recommend heading over to the website right now and giving this browser-based MMO a go.Actually, even if you're just looking for just a fun browser-based MMO to enjoy you should give it a look. FusionFall is primarily subscription-based, however it does offer a free play area called Future Zone. A subscription is $5.95 per month, but there's a family plan with four connected accounts at $9.95 per month as well. So while you can check it out for free, it's also possible to put a little money into the game and experience more.
FusionFall announces subscription model with free-to-play areas
Cartoon Network's eagerly anticipated first entry into the MMO genre, FusionFall, is set to launch next Wednesday. For those who have checked out the Preview currently going on, and may have been wondering just what kind of pricing Cartoon Network would be implementing, you need wonder no longer. Today we got word that the powers that be at Cartoon Network have decided to run it as a subscription based model, but with a very solid free-to-play portion. Free-to-play members will have access to all areas in the Future Zone, which includes quite a few of the Cartoon Network favorites, such as The Kids Next Door, The Powerpuff Girls, and Samurai Jack to name a few. The paid membership offers not only the Future Zone, but the rest of the game's many areas. In addition, traveling to these areas will unlock additional cool things for your character, such as different gear, new nanos (pets), and more. Paid subscription accounts will cost a very reasonable $5.95 per month, offering full access for one account. For those who have lots of kids who don't want to share an account - or want to check out this game for themselves - Cartoon Network also offers a family plan: at $9.95 per month, you can have four paid accounts to enjoy all the content that FusionFall has to offer.
FusionFall sneak preview starting this weekend
Yes, that's right, it's Blossom and Bubbles from the Powerpuff Girls. Very few MMOs could support something as extreme as grown-up Powerpuffs or Dexter as a invasion resistance leader, but Cartoon Network's FusionFall seems to be bringing them and more to the table. But if you're still unsure about the whole prospect of having all of Cartoon Network's heroes in one interconnected universe, then why not take the chance to try the game yourself?This weekend will mark a special "preview" of FusionFall for everyone out there who takes the time to sign up on the main FusionFall website. So for those of you who have been drooling at the idea of taking missions from Ben Tennyson or Numbah Five, wait no longer.And if you're still on the fence about the game -- Samurai Jack. We think that should be enough to push you violently off that fence.
Dexter game not exclusive to iPhone, Feb. 2009 release planned
Shouldn't a game about a serial killer ... killer be on gaming platforms other than the iPhone? That's what we were thinking when Marc Ecko made that surprise announcement at this year's Comic Con. Well, looks like the upcoming Dexter game is expanding to at least one other platform besides Apple's touch device: the PC.A Dexter-themed party held by Marc Ecko Entertainment gave us an opportunity to talk with Ecko's creative VP, Marc Fernandez, and Phil Hall, production VP at developer Icarus Studios. The two confirmed their plans to bring Showtime's lovable serial killer to other platforms, provided they find success (and money) with their upcoming PC/iPhone release. We're sure fans of the show won't mind playing a Dexter game on their Xbox 360s.While no gameplay footage was available at the event, we did get to see some renders taken from the iPhone version of the game (pictured above). The environments look very impressive, and remind us how powerful the iPhone truly is. However, without a real gameplay demonstration, we remain skeptical that the iPhone can do justice to the Dexter franchise.
Marc and Dexter: Ecko making iPhone-only slasher
We don't remember Naughty Dog's wise-cracking ottsel brandishing a knife, but hey, we're always open to crazy new ideas. Oh, this is Dexter, the hit Showtime series about a forensics expert who also happens to be a serial killer (of other killers). Whoops.Anyway, IGN has a story out of San Diego Comic-Con 08 that is sure to put a sour puss on anyone who was waiting for a console game based on the show. Ecko, who acquired the rights to Dexter for game-making purposes back in March, revealed during a panel that the game is only coming to iPhone and iPod Touch. It was also revealed that the game will be episodic in nature – hey, like the show! Coincidence, surely. Mr. Ecko is certainly no stranger to spray paint, but blood spray? Start practicing those stabbing motions with your fancy phones, folks ... but just do it in the privacy of your own home for the sake of not looking like a total loon, 'kay?
Serial killer killing killer Dexter getting game
IGN reports that a game based on Dexter will be announced tomorrow by Showtime Networks and Marc Ecko Entertainment. Showtime's Dexter, currently airing (and not-so-badly edited) Sundays on CBS, follows the life of Dexter Morgan, a serial killer who keeps his desires in check by killing other serial killers. There is currently no information on the game's plot, developer, genre, platforms, etc.Just like our favorite serial killing protagonist, we can't help but feel conflicted about this announcement. With any luck, Dexter's video game hunt will find inspiration from games like Hitman or Assassin's Creed without losing the show's sinister personality. Yes, completely unlikely, but we can dream darkly.[Via X3F]
Showtime's Dexter slices his way into gaming
It's expected that tomorrow, Showtime Networks will be announcing that its hit television series Dexter will be headed into the gaming world with the announcement of Dexter the video game. Showtime and Marc Ecko Entertainment are said to be developing Dexter very closely to keep the game's feeling, content and writing as close to the television series as possible. A release date, how fare in development or which platforms have yet to be announced, but it's safe to say that we could be seeing our complicated friend Dexter on the 360 within the next year. Chop chop!
GDC08: Cartoon Network's FusionFall
We were invited to check out Cartoon Network's upcoming kid-focused MMO FusionFall, and while clearly still in development, it shows a lot of potential. Developed in part by Korea's Grigon Entertainment, makers of Seal Online, QRing, and Gambledon, this is a title with a great deal of pedigree under the hood. Among the notable names on this project are Sam Lewis, former systems and content designer for Star Wars Galaxies; Robert Knopf, recently of Ultima Online; and Richard Weil, the community relations manager for many MMOs, including City of Heroes/Villains, Lineage I and II, Tabula Rasa, and Auto Assault.With so many experienced and creative people behind it, FusionFall definitely stands to make a splash in the 8 - 14 year old demographic that Cartoon Network is shooting for. This isn't to say they don't have a few challenges ahead of them, however. We'll explore this, and show you the trailer, after the break.%Gallery-16922%
Jazzmutant's multitouch tablet works with a stylus as well
The Jazzmutant folks have been doing multitouch since way before it was in vogue, with patents reaching back to 2004 and some nifty tech to back it up. They spend most of their time on the Lemur and Dexter media control surfaces, but they've been playing around with Tablet PCs, and their first prototype is a beauty. The main advantage of the tech is that it not only can handle unlimited points of contact, so you interact with your apps using as many fingers as you'd like, but it can also accept simultaneous Tablet PC pen input, with precision and pressure sensitivity to boot. They've got the tech retrofitted on a 12-inch Fujitsu tablet at the moment, which they showed off last week at the Siggraph Emerging Tech conference in San Diego. Things are a bit bulky at the moment, but hopefully the tech -- which can be scaled from portable devices to 60-inch LCDs without breaking a sweat -- will be finding its way into real tablets before long. The video is after the break.
Robot walks independently with dynamic balancing
We're still chuckling about Asimo's sad little tumble last year, but Anybots' breakthrough dynamically balancing biped robot, Dexter, is no laughing matter. While he's sans arms for now, the 135-pound, 5'10" robot is being celebrated for the sole fact that he isn't pre-programmed and can support his own strut -- and supposedly, he'll soon be able to run. Dexter's partner in crime is Monty, a two-wheeled, two-armed bot with one fully articulated, 18-motor gripper hand. Driven by compressed air and controlled remotely by a human operator, both of these humanoid robots were developed with the intent to be of assistance in various household and industrial tasks. [Via Slashdot]Read - Anybots' Dexter and Monty humanoid robotsRead - Video of Dexter taking shoves from Monty
