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Reminder: Fable II Pub Games is Xbox Live 'deal' of the week
Fable 2's Pub Games was a brilliant way to prep players for adventures in Albion before the game's release last year, but its post-launch price of $10 seemed like a bit of a gamble. It's this week's Xbox Marketplace "deal" at 400 ($5). Considering that Pub Games was designed as a glorified piece of marketing, wouldn't it make sense to release it for free to generate renewed interest in the Fable 2: Game of the Year Edition (in which it is also included) or the episodic download? Surely that's the better bet. Add Fable II Pub Games to your queue %Gallery-27142%
Microsoft details October's Xbox Live Deal of the Week specials [update]
Update: Houston, we have prices! As you already know, this week's Xbox Live Deal of the Week is none other than Prince of Persia's 'Epilogue' DLC. We're not here to talk about that, though -- instead, we're here to give you the heads up on what the rest of this month has in store for penny-pinching purchasers looking for goodies on Xbox Live. So let's get to it: October 12 Hasbro Family Game Night (Battleship, Connect 4, Scrabble, Yahtzee, Boggle and Sorry! Sliders discounted to 400) October 19 Resident Evil 5's Versus mode (discounted to 240) October 26 Fable II Pub Games (discounted to 400) Pub Games is the only title with its planned discount listed, so you'll have to wait until the appropriate time to know how much the others are discounted for. We're sorry we boggled your mind with savings, only to battle your ship -- ah, forget it, that joke could never work.
How to transfer gold and items into Fable 2
If you've spent a few hours building up a mass of gold in Fable 2 Pub Games for Xbox Live Arcade or earned in-game swag through the game's website, our compadres at X3F have created a video tutorial guiding you through the steps of getting the gold and items into the game. Although unconfirmed, we've heard various sources say that those who cheated at Pub Games start the game with full corruption, rendering you quite hideous in appearance. Stay tuned all week to X3F for more Fable 2 coverage, including a guided tour of Albion.
Fable 2 Pub Games patched, exploit fixed
Taking a bit longer than expected, Lionhead Studios recently released a patch for the Fable 2 Pub Games that not only reset the Fortunes Tower leaderboards but also FIXED the gold exploit. Yes sir, a new patch to fix what Peter Molyneux told us was an "intentional" bug that allowed players to rack up millions in gold. Eh? So, this patch release leads us to one of two conclusions. Either Molyneux told the truth, the glitch was intentional and players will somehow be affected when playing Fable 2 OR we've been lied to, the exploit was completely unintentional and Molynuex was covering up the fact. No matter what conclusion you end up on, we won't know the truth until October. [Thanks, Elite wing Zer0]
Molyneux: Fable 2 Pub Game exploit was intentional
Fable 2 Pub Games cheaters, exploiters and evil doers, we have a special announcement for you. You've been tricked! Yup, tricked and by Lionhead themselves. How so? Well, according to IGN and their discussion with Peter Molyneux during a recent Fable 2 hands on event, Molyneux made it clear that the Pub Games exploit was intentionally added. GASP! Molyneux goes on to warn those who cheated that they'll be in for a surprise when launching Fable 2. What sort of surprise? We dunno, but we're thinking it may have to do with that whole "good vs. evil" thing. Maybe cheaters will be jailed, lashed with a leather whip and forced to eat cabbage for seven days and seven nights. Oh we can't WAIT to see what's in store for cheaters! [Via Joystiq, Thanks Jonah F.]
Molyneux: Pub Games 'glitch' intentional, with consequences
While we're sure you've already constructed your Scrooge McDuck-esque pool of golden, nefariously-obtained Fable II Pub Games earnings, Peter Molyneux might be preparing to pull off the biggest gamer prank since the anti-Spore Rick Roll. According to a quick blurb in IGN's Fable II preview, "Just be warned. Molyneux has said that the cheat was no accident and that those who used it to earn their money will be in for a surprise." Something tells us that "surprise" isn't being filthy rich in-game. Is he bluffing? We'll find out soon enough when our sea of coins is quickly drained from under us. Fable 2 is due out October 21. Need more Fable 2? We can't blame you. Check out our hands-on with the first three hours of the game, as well as our interview with Peter Molyneux, in which he talks about his game, Too Human and Lionhead's "shocking" secret project.
Law of the Game on Joystiq: The evolution of Pub Games
Each week Mark Methenitis contributes Law of the Game on Joystiq, a column on legal issues as they relate to video games: Despite the relatively small amount of time I've had to play them, I've so far enjoyed Fable II's Pub Games, especially Fortune's Tower (pictured above). The idea of minigames has been around for ages, but Pub Games adds deeper elements than the norm, as well as pre-release hype for Fable II. Of course, this begs the question: Is this a sign of things to come? I could certainly see other RPGs following suit, pre-releasing a related Xbox Live Arcade, PlayStation Network, or WiiWare game that interacts with the core game, like a Final Fantasy XIII card game stand-alone. If this becomes a trend, then developers will be looking to the next evolution of this idea. I would imagine the next step would be external games that affect MMO environments; and beyond that, perhaps gambling with real currency. Think of the evolution this way: You start with a game like Texas Hold 'Em, where your play only affects that game, then the next logical step is something like Pub Games, which affects you alone in a virtual environment. From there, the evolution would logically move to impacting a multiplayer virtual environment and, ultimately, to affecting a real world environment, specifically your bank account. It's these last two steps that present some legal issues.
Lionhead working on patch for Pub Games exploit
Along with a few gold earning tips and tricks, Lionhead Studios has informed us (via their lovely Fable 2 development blog) that they plan on releasing a Fable 2 Pub Games patch in the near future to fix the recently discovered gold exploit. Bummer! No word on a specific release date for the game patch, so continue to exploit until your greedy heart is content. Hurry though, time is tick-tock ticking ...
Major Nelson warns: Be careful with Fable II Pub Games
By now, everyone knows that the Xbox Live Arcade title Fable II Pub Games can earn you gold in Fable II. Major Nelson has posted a warning that not only can gamers earn or lose gold with Pub Games, but that privilege is also extended to anyone within grabbing distance of your Xbox. It seems Major came home yesterday to find his wife playing some Keystone ... and over 3000 gold in debt. Currently 3650 gold in the hole, Major reminds us all to sign out of our Gamertags after Fable II gambling sessions. We will Major, we will.
Fable 2 Pub Games exploit will make you very, very rich
Let this be a lesson to developers: If you're planning to make a tie-in XBLA game that lets you earn gold in your main title, make sure to vet the game as much as possible for potential exploits. A trick has been found in Fable 2 Pub Games that lets you bet 60 on Tower of Fortune and potentially earn 600 each time. We've embedded the video after the break, should you wish to start Fable 2 with a gazillion trillion gold. %Gallery-29493%
Fable 2 Pub Games pre-order codes busted [update]
When you make a promise to something, you expect its end of the bargain to be equally fulfilled. Such is not the case, apparently, for numerous pre-orderers of Fable II, whose early commitments came bundled with download codes for Pub Games released on Xbox Live Arcade today. According to a thread on the Xbox Forums and comments dropped on Major Nelson's site, many pre-order codes are returning an "Invalid Code" error when entered on Xbox Live. Microsoft seems to be aware of the problem, and at least one report suggests that a new batch of codes will be issued within 24-48 hours. What gives, Microsoft? Lionhead's tab no good any more? Update: The codes should be working "later today," says Major Nelson. All codes should be working now. [Via X3F]
Doh! Fable 2 Pub Games promo codes not working [update 2]
Update 2: All codes should be now working. Pub Games here, we come! Update: Major Nelson just informed us that the "codes should be working later today" and sends "apologies for the delays." Apology accepted ... this time. Numerous reports from across the internets - including forums posts on Xbox.com, comments on Major Nelson's website and comments here on X3F - are telling us that the Fable 2 Pub Games free download promo codes aren't working like they should. We're hearing that the Pub Games redemption codes, which are obtained with a Fable 2 pre-order at participating retailers, are returning an "Invalid Code" error response when entered on Xbox Live. Sit tight, don't trash your promo codes just yet and be patient. We'll give you a Pub Games update when we learn more.
Bionic Commando and Pub Games release to XBLA
Continuing the sizzling HOT Summer of Arcade lineup, today sees the release of the fan favorite Bionic Commando: Rearmed and gambling addicts favorite Fable 2 Pub Games. We're sure you heard all about each game, so we'll spare you the fluffy details. But you should know each XBLA purchase will set you back 800 Microsoft points, unless you already pre-ordered Fable 2 at participating retailers, then you received the Pub Games for free. What are these participating retailers? Good question, and thanks to the NeoGAF forums, we've posted a list of Pub Games promotion retailers after the break. Now go and enjoy your Rearmed ... you crazy, crazy XBLA kids.
Lionhead explains how to get Pub Games gold into Fable 2
If you've been curious precisely how you were going to import all that virtual gold you win in the Fable 2 Pub Games over the next ten weeks into Fable 2 proper, Lionhead is here to sate your curiosity and even assuage your skepticism. Eurogamer has the breakdown, but it goes something like this: Buy Fable 2 Pub Games (either outright, or through a pre-order) Play the three games contained therein to earn gold Merge your Pub Games gambler with your Fable 2 hero in a permanent, one-way process Then "gain access to all the Live Arcade gambling funds you previously accrued" The process works the other way around also: you can take your Fable 2 money back into Pub Games There are some additional details for those of you really interested in the nitty-gritty (ie: merging several gamblers together) but if you're like us, you'll be content knowing that your predilection for virtual gambling has a safe spot somewhere between "no money" and "real money." %Gallery-29493%
Lionhead explains gold transfer process from Pub Games to Fable 2
Curious to know exactly how all your gold gambling that begins this Wednesday, with the release of the Fable 2 Pub Games will reward your hero when Fable 2 releases? Good! Because Lionhead explained the entire process to Eurogamer and your inquisitive nature also shows us your commitment to both knowledge and the gambling craft. Okay, here's the Pub Games gold explanation: When playing the Pub Games, you first choose a gambler. Proceed to gamble your heart out. Then, when you buy Fable 2 come October, create a hero and wander about until you find a "Gamemaster" at a local tavern or out and about. Accept the Gamemaster's invite to play a game where you'll then be given the chance to merge your Fable 2 hero with your Pub Games gambler. POOF! Your hero will now have access to the gold your Pub Games' gambler accrued. You can even merge many gamblers (and their bank accounts) together into one gambler which can be merged with your Fable 2 hero. But be warned. Once a hero and a gambler have merged, there is no undo option or any going back. Commitment, nice!
This Wednesday: Bionic Commando Rearmed, Fable 2's casino sidearm
Part 3 of the exciting five-part XBLAugust series, in which our heroes now throw aside their time warping abilities and receive an implanted bionic arm for swinging around and shooting non-Hitlers into oblivion. If you wish to enlist into Bionic Commando Rearmed on Xbox Live this Wednesday, you're going to have to shell out 800 MS points (US $10). PC and non-Euro PlayStation 3 owners will also get their BCR fix this week, although those who favor the keyboard and mouse will pay a $5 premium. Also coming out this week is Fable 2's XBLA gambling counterpart Pub Games, which will let you earn money now before the game's October 21 release. Entry fee to ye olde casino is 800 MS points (US $10), or free if you pre-order Fable 2 at a participating retailer. %Gallery-14181%
XBLA Reminder: Bionic Commando and Pub Games
Just in case you forgot, this Xbox Live Arcade Wednesday we'll be seeing the release of both Capcom's Bionic Commando: Rearmed and the three gambling Fable 2 Pub Games. Available for 800 Microsoft points, Bionic Commando: Rearmed is a remake of the 80's classic 2D side-scroller Bionic Commando, but now with updated graphics, Live multiplayer support, co-op play and fifty different swinging levels. Rearmed will also sports cross-game unlocks, where achievements earned in Rearmed will unlock goodies in the retail version of Bionic Commando. The other XBLA treat we're receiving this week are the three Fable 2 Pub Games that can be obtained for free as part of the Fable 2 pre-order promotion or can be purchased separately for 800 MS points. Comprised of Keystone, Fortune's Tower and Spinner Box, these gambling games will let you earn gold that can be used in Fable 2. Happy gaming! %Gallery-14199% %Gallery-27142%
Fable 2 lands Oct 21 in US, Oct 24 in Europe
click for more Fable 2 imagery Although we already knew Fable 2 was arriving in October, Lionhead Studios has revealed the awaited title will hit US store shelves, then proceed to raise a family while it waits to be purchased, on October 21. European gamers can expect the game days later on October 24. For those who want to start padding their virtual wallets early, the Xbox Live Arcade Pub Games will land August 13. Lionhead also unveiled an image of all that you can expect to get if you pick up the Limited Edition copy of the game. Details of the LE after the break. %Gallery-4807% [Via X3F]
Fable 2 hits US Oct 21, Europe Oct 24; Pub Games Aug 13
Lionhead dropped a veritable bomb today, announcing the release date for Fable 2 along with its XBLA Pub Games. On top of that, we now know the entire contents of the Limited Collectors Edition. Fable 2 will hit US shelves on October 21 and will land in Europe on Oct 24. The Fable 2 Pub Games will arrive on Xbox Live Arcade on Aug 13. Pub Games will be available for free to those who pre-order Fable 2 "at participating retailers", while those who haven't can snag them for 800 Microsoft Points. We're not sure which retailers are participating, but we imagine we'll find out soon enough. The Limited Collector's Edition of Fable 2 will retail for $79.99 and will include: Bonus DVD Bonus in-game content 5 printed "Fate Cards" 48-hour Xbox LIVE trial card Collectible Hobbe Qee figurine (you remember Qees, don't you?). The bonus DVD includes a "Making-of Feature" and a concept art viewer. The in-game content includes "'The Hall of the Dead' Dungeon, 'The Wreckager' Legendary Cutlass Weapon and Otherworldly Bonus." We're not exactly sure what Fate Cards are (like Tarot cards maybe?) but all in all the Collector's Edition sounds very hefty indeed. Now everyone has just over two months to start saving for it. Gallery: E308: Fable 2 (Screenshots) Gallery: E308: Fable 2 (Art)
Gambling screens of Fable 2's Pub Games
Doing some early morning detective work, we came across a set of three new'ish Fable 2 screenshots. Well, not from Fable 2 itself, rather from the recently announced Pub Games that, come August, will allow you to earn gold prior to entering the world of Fable 2. Go ahead, take a looksy at the Keystone, SpinnerBox and Fortune's Tower screenshots below. Hopefully Rewster won't be around to take all our chips. That lucky Rewster. %Gallery-27142%
