Bad-Company
Latest
Video: Bad Company's hopping med kits
As quirky as it sounds, we believe to have just discovered our new comedic weak spot ... hopping med kits. That's correct, bunny hopping med kits of jumping extravagance. The Project Mod Gaming crew captured med kit hopping enjoyment this week while playing the newly released Battlefield: Bad Company beta. And as much as we want to say it isn't a glitch, we have to believe it is. Though, just think of how cool it would be to play the retail build of Bad Company and be able to spring a med kit mid-game, having it bounce around as if a coked up bunny were inside. If that were the case, we'd have no problem being a medic every game.
Reminder: Bad Company beta begins
A reminder to those who were able to score a key code or put down a pre-order at Gamestop that the Battlefield: Bad Company multiplayer beta has officially begun. The semi-exclusive beta will run from now through April 25th and feature multiplayer mayhem spread across two maps featuring the Gold Rush gametype. And after firing up the beta for a few quick games this morning we must say, this game has potential. The graphics are gorgeous and the Frostbite engine's destructible environments seem to work as promised. We'll have to play a lot more Bad Company before we have a definitive opinion, but from what we've experienced thus far, it seems to be good times. Anyway, the Bad Company beta is live, so get in if you want and if you can. Oh, and know that weapons are not included. Mwahahaha!
EA confirms Bad Company weapon purchases
It's true. Today, EA confirmed that Battlefield: Bad Company will feature micro-transactions surrounding a few of the game's weapons. Crap.Discovered via the Bad Company beta menus, a few of the game's weapons mentioned the fact that they could only be unlocked via an XBLM purchase. In an effort to clarify the rumors, EA confirmed with IGN that Bad Company will feature five unlockable weapons which will be a part of a promotional period prior to the game's launch and will eventually end up being free downloads after the retail launch. But the game will also sport five other weapons which will be exclusively included in Bad Company's Gold Edition or as a purchase off the XBLM for a "small individualized price". EA wanted to make it clear that the purchasable weapons do not give players any significant edge, rather they'll give players more variety. And that's supposed to make us okay with it? Pssht, micro-transactions suck.
Hurry! More Bad Company beta keys available [update]
Update: Wow. Never underestimate how quickly gamers can consume free beta keys. Once again, all the public keys have been exhausted with only Insider and Founder members keys left.Big news for those of you who missed out on the free Battlefield: Bad Company beta key codes that were released to the general public last Thursday. EA and DICE just replenished their stock and put up a new batch of public keys that are available on a first come first serve basis. And you'll be happy to know that they are available right now! W00t!If you recall, when they first became available, all of the Bad Company public beta keys were claimed within' a few hours time leaving many wannabe participants empty handed. So quickly, most fanboys didn't even know how to obtain one before it was too late. So, this time we advise pointing your browser to IGN's FilePlanet, answering a few questions, signing up and grabbing your free beta key before they disappear. Remember, EA will be flipping the switch within' twenty-four hours time when the Bad Company beta officially kicks off tomorrow the 25th.
Bad Company to include a 'take screenshot' feature
After obtaining a Battlefield: Bad Company beta code through some questionable means, we proceeded to redeem our code and download the beta off the Marketplace. After firing it up and realizing the servers aren't yet live, we decided to troll through the game's menus to learn a little more about what we were in for all while listening to the calming piano music being played. Then, almost as if were were slapped in the face with a trout, we spotted the chart you see above. It's a default controller chart that confirms that Bad Company will include a Halo 3'esque "take screenshot" feature in multiplayer with the simple press of up on the d-pad. We're not sure how easy it'll be to take a screenshot while in the heat of battle or if there will be any other screenshot taking options, but at least we know there will be one. Gimped or not, adding the ability to take screenshots in any game is a big plus in our book. Now about paying for weapons ...
EA charging for weapons in Bad Company Beta
Well with the rise of the microtransaction age we were bound to see some exploitation, and it seems that the horse armor syndrome is rising again, this time over at EA. We've heard about it via several sources already, including a reader, and it appears that the Battlefield: Bad Company Beta lists individual weapons for sale via the XBLM. A total of ten weapons are locked that have text reading "Available for purchase on Xbox Live Marketplace" next to them. The details of this are a bit shaky as of now however, as of those ten weapons, five weapons are listed as simply available for purchase, and five are listed as available in gold edition or for purchase. The gold edition likely refers to the game's collector's edition which sports a faux gold finish and which will apparently have extra content. Now, whether or not collector's editions having in-game items is a good idea isn't the issue, the issue is the microtransactions in regard to in game items. It isn't really an issue with single player games, as the content purchases of other players cannot effect your experience. But in the case of a multiplayer shooter having more weapons available to those with larger pocket-books just doesn't feel right. With EA experimenting with microtransactions in their new Battlefield Heroes PC game, it would seem only logical that they would continue the experiment in the console realm. But with the PC version's microtransactions based around things other than in-game items that effect balance (EXP, Skins, etc) we're hoping the console side of the experiment fails, and the PC one is widely adopted. [Thanks vince]
Bad Company beta preview, details and sign up [update]
Update: Hopefully you got in, because all of the public beta codes have been exhausted. Though, you can still grab one if you're a part of IGN's Insider or Founder's club. But a few hours ago, the Battlefield: Bad Company beta was officially revealed and specifics were a bit light. But now IGN just posted more information regarding the beta including multiplayer details and official links for you to grab your beta code today. First off, we're sure you want to know how you can confirm your beta seat right now, so let's talk about that. To grab a beta download key, head over to File Planet, answer a few screener questions and login / create an IGN account. Once that's complete, you'll be redirected to a confirmation page where, if they're still available, you'll be treated to an Xbox Live redemption code to gain access into the beta which kicks off on March 25th. Easy as pie! Next up, Bad Company beta multiplayer specifics. IGN posted a introductory video (embedded above) showing off the new Gold Rush gametype, how it's played and the strategies involved. If you're hungry for more deets, IGN also posted weapon, vehicle and gadget information so you'll be prepared for battle come Monday. Make the jump, get your read on and be sure to sign up for the beta key ASAP. We're not sure how long those keys will last. [Thanks, Chris]
Battlefield: Bad Company beta to start next week
We (much like yourself, we'd imagine) heard word of a Battlefield: Bad Company beta in the works. But we held off on passing it along until some of the details could be hammered out. Basically, you're either going to need to be a member of IGN's Founders Club or Insider service or pre-order the game at your local Gamestop. Oh, and you're going to need to be playing on the 360, as the offer isn't extended to PS3 players.If you're in the first group, your life is pretty easy. Just hit up this link and you're in, provided you meet the requirements. If you're going through Gamestop, you'll want to act fast: Only the first 5,000 to preorder are going to be in on the month of action, which will include one mode ("Gold Rush") and two maps. There's more info about the Gamestop keys here. No matter which way you get in, the beta starts March 25 and continues until April 25. So what's the word? Will you be taking advantage of the beta?
Battlefield: Bad Company beta announced (again)
Even though we already received information about its existence last week, this time it's official with both EA and DICE announcing that a Battlefield: Bad Company multiplayer beta will be kicking off next Tuesday, March 25th on Xbox Live. Beta access is open to North American and UK residents with access keys being handed out via IGN's Founder's Club, Club IGN, File Planet and other IGN owned websites including TeamXbox. Also, North Americans can obtain a Bad Company beta code by being one of the first 5,000 to head to GameStop and plop down a Bad Company pre-order. As far as multiplayer specifics go, the Bad Company beta will feature two multiplayer maps (Ascension and Oasis) and the multiplayer mode "Gold Rush". And just like betas before it, DICE will use all the data they mine from their Bad Company beta to further tweak and improve upon the game before its release. Remember, the multiplayer fun kicks off on March 25th and will run through April 25th with access being made available through various IGN websites as well as Gamestop pre-orders. Now go, run forth and obtain a beta code soldier!
DICE announces Battlefield: Bad Company beta to prepare for June release [update]
Update: We've been informed that details surrounding the Battlefield: Bad Company beta have yet to be hammered out, but that the beta is still on track. As soon as we hear specifics regarding the beta we'll be sure to pass along the news. In other words ... stay tuned. In a move that comes from far, far left field, EA and DICE just announced that they'll be holding an open (yet limited) Battlefield: Bad Company multiplayer beta starting next Monday, March 17th. Access into the beta is open to North American and UK residents and keys can be obtained through IGN and its sister sites including TeamXbox. What we are sure of is that U.S. residents will have a second way to gain beta access by heading to GameStop and plopping down a Bad Company pre-order to obtain one of the 5,000 beta keys being offered. As far as multiplayer specifics go, the Bad Company beta will feature two multiplayer maps and the multiplayer mode "Gold Rush". And just like betas previous, DICE will use all the data they mine from their Bad Company beta to further tweak and improve upon the game before its release. Speaking of a release date, DICE confirmed that Battlefield: Bad Company will in fact make a June 2008 release ... pending any more setbacks.
Bad Company screens show off campaign and multiplayer mayhem
We didn't think we'd ever utter the words again, since the perfection that was Battlefield 2 PC, but we're giddy for the newest Battlefield title hitting shelves later this year. Sure, Battlefield: Bad Company might be using a known franchise title to gain notoriety, considering the direction the game is going in, but jaw-dropping videos of the game's destructible environments keep us hopeful. What we hope is that Battlefield: Bad Company plays as well as it looks and doesn't turn into a one-trick pony. Looking for more to whet your appetite? EA DICE released these eight new screens from the single-player campaign and multiplayer mode over the weekend for your viewing pleasure. Enjoy! %Gallery-17355%
Video: Buildings go BOOM! in Bad Company
Yesterday, we made mention of new Battlefield: Bad Company multiplayer details and embedded some (super knife!) gameplay footage. We were also quite open about how promising Bad Company is with its solid visuals and destructible environments. So, when we came across the new'ish video above, we figured we'd share. The video shows off the game's destructible everything, including trees, walls, buildings and fences. You'll also see bunch of "love 'em or hate 'em" duffel bags popping out of dead bodies. That'll take a bit of getting used to. Also, we recommend watching the video through the end, because there's some explosive goodness in the final thirty seconds. Boomer go boom!
Battlefield: Bad Company multiplayer preview
Since being bit by the delay bug, Battlefield: Bad Company has been flying under the radar, but recently developer DICE felt confident enough to show off the game's multiplayer and it actually impresses. IGN posted a nice writeup of their first Bad Company multiplayer experience and are pleased to report that the framerate, textures and overall look of the game has drastically improved since their single player play session last year. The extra polish looks to have paid off. Their hands on time consisted of a 16 player versus multiplayer match in a map called "Ascension" (no, not that Ascension) where the goal was to lay waste to the other team all while destroying their heavily secured gold stash. The graphics are sharp, the gameplay was solid enough, the destructible environments lived up to their name and IGN walked away satisfied and hopeful. And from their positive praise (and videos like the one above) we're, oddly enough, impressed as well. Make the jump to read their complete multiplayer writeup as well as their preview of a yet to be played campaign mission. B-company out.
Rock Band DLC for March revealed in OXM ad
According to X3F, who heard it from Megatonik, who saw it on ScoreHero, who cribbed it from scans on GameFaqs, OXM like totally printed all the Rock Band DLC for March in its new issue. We've confirmed the tracks are revealed in an advertisement for Xbox Live that was placed by Microsoft. There's no mention of prices, but if March releases follow the general trend, it should be 440 MS points ($5.50) for a pack and 160 MS point ($2) for a single song.Week of March 4: Thrash Pack Blinded By Fear - At The Gates Thrasher - Evile Shadow World - Haunted Week of March 11: Shooting Star - Bad Company *Cover* Simple Man - Lynyrd Skynyrd Message In A Bottle - Police Week of March 18: Nine Inch Nails Pack March Of The Pigs The Collector The Perfect Drug Week of Mar. 25: Metal Pack Wrathchild - Ironmaiden *Cover* Supernaut - Black Sabbath *Cover* Fuel - Metallica That's great ... now about February?Update: An MTV/Harmonix spokesperson tells Shacknews this is a tentative schedule, saying, "Please stay tuned for confirmation of Rock Band DLC closer to their release."[Via X3F]
Bad news for Bad Company, it's delayed
EA and DICE sent out an email and have made it official. Their extremely explosive and over the top Battlefield: Bad Company has been bitten by the delay bug. Awww ...The delay will push Bad Company back from its original release of "early 2008" to a a more general 2008 release. That means there will be no Bad Company next month or the month after, but there's a possibility it could hit retailers later this Spring, sometime in the Summer or even this Fall. We'll keep an eye out for an official release date when EA confirms one, but while we wait for that, we advise twiddling your thumbs. It'll not only make the time go by much quicker, but it will also prepare you for the thumb twiddling Olympics. Seriously.
Video: Bad Company is fully destructible
Okay, this video may come from the December video archives, but we just came across it and it's worth mentioning. IGN posted an exclusive alpha build tech demo with Battlefield: Bad Company devs and we all agree that it's explosively destructive good times. Seriously guys, watch the video as it just may increase Bad Company's appeal ten fold. The video schows off the game's interactive environments which include everything from walls being destroyed, buildings falling apart, trees falling into buildings which in turn fall apart, doors being shot off of vehicles and an explosion so big ... it'll make your eyes water. Go, watch, enjoy and tell us what you think. [Via Sarcastic Gamer, Thanks Daren]
WoW Moviewatch: Xmas with Bad Company
This Moviewatch is technically guild-related, but highlights plenty of holiday loot in-game. To the tune of a cheesy Mariah Carey song, each Bad Company guild member hops through a portal that transforms them into a gnome. Then, in true Christmas spirit, they go raiding.This video isn't going to blow you away with special effects or sweeping camera angles, but it does make me feel warm and fuzzy. Has there been a Winter Veil machinima that made you feel that way?[Via Warcraftmovies.com]Previously on Moviewatch...
Video: Bad Company brings Haggard and jerky
There's a new Battlefield: Bad Company "Haggard Trailer" available on the internets today and in Bad Company tradition it's rather odd and funny. Simply put, we love it. We'll let the trailer do the explaining, but just be prepared for beef jerky, talk about blowing things up and Sweet Water. Oh, and if you didn't already know ... Europe is a country, because Haggard says so.[Thanks, enfo]
Battlefield: Bad Company trailer takes stab at humanity
Wait a minute, we're confused. We watched this entire trailer for Battlefield: Bad Company and saw not a single instance of shooting, radical explosions or particle effects. There was also no disembodied voice growling about how tough/what a rebel our character will be, nor were there any searing metal guitar solos. How are we supposed to know if we like the game or not? All that's here is a clearly defined, well-written, well-acted character named Haggard who seems enamored with explosions. As we watched, we began to get the oddest sensation. We weren't sure, but we think that's what it's like when other emotions are engaged besides the emotion that likes to see things blown up. ... Yuck. We need a shower.
New Bad Company screens are looking good
Today, DICE released four new Battlefield: Bad Company screenshots and from what we can tell, they're pretty. All the screenshots are in game and showcase the Battlefield destruction in all its glory. Previously, we've been on the fence with the direction those trailers were going, but we can safely say we'll be watching for this game. Maybe the blend of comedy and war will be a welcome change to the genre or it could just get annoying. But, whatever happens, these screenshots show the visual potential Bad Company has. All four screenshots are viewable after the jump.
