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Tekken lead cannot withstand Street Fighter lead's furious flurry of shoryukens
Tekken project lead Katsuhiro Harada clearly hasn't been studying the finer points of the Street Fighter series he's currently collaborating on, as Street Fighter creative lead Yoshinori Ono surprises him with a flurry of shoryukens at multiple points in this bizarre SDCC short, promoting Street Fighter X Tekken (and vice versa, of course).
Payday: The Heist screens straight from our Panic Room
Hey Payday: The Heist? You seem like a pretty cool idea for an online FPS, and we're looking forward to downloading you from PSN. But if you're going to call one of your scenarios "Panic Room" and then release screens from it and have none of them feature Jodie Foster then what are you even doing? %Gallery-128864%
Spider-Man: Edge of Time dated at Comic-Con, Spidey is Mr. October
What better place to drop some info on the latest Spider-Man game than Comic-Con? While Spider-Man: Edge of Time doesn't have the Mirror's Edge-style gameplay we didn't know we wanted until seeing the Amazing Spider-Man trailer, it does have something far more concrete: a release date of October 4. The date was announced during an Activision event at San Diego Comic-Con today, along with the release date of Prototype 2, though Activision already dropped that info earlier today. There was a lot to like about Beenox's first swing at Spidey with last year's Shattered Dimensions, but our review criticized the game for feeling "rushed." Is just one year enough time to make sure Edge of Time doesn't feel similarly rushed? We'll get some hands-on time with the title at Comic-Con and let you know how what our Spidey-sense says.
PSA: BioShock: Rapture novel surfaces at retail
Just a quick reminder that the new novel, BioShock: Rapture, is now available from your bookseller of choice (well, maybe not all of them). Penned by sci-fi and fantasy author John Shirley, the book tells the story of Andrew Ryan and the beginnings of his underwater metropolis. If you would (kindly) like to add it to your collection, BioShock: Rapture is available in both paperback and hardcover. In addition, Shirley will host a panel at Comic-Con this Friday. Entitled "Writing in Videogames," the panel begins at 10am in room 32AB. Shirley will also be on hand to sign copies of BioShock: Rapture at the Tor Books booth (#2707) from 12pm to 1pm.
Hands-on with the Star Wars Blu-ray: Early Access iOS app
We know, we know. You're fit to be tied waiting for the complete Star Wars collection to be released on Blu-ray in September, but there's good news for impatient iPad owners here in the US. You see, some of the collection's bonus materials can be had for free a bit early -- as in tomorrow -- courtesy of the Star Wars Blu-ray: Early Access App. Even better, we've got video of the app in action plus a gallery of pics for you to drool over until you can download it yourself. And for folks abroad or those with an iPhone or iPod touch, the same sneak peek will be available in August. The app itself is a ported version of what you'll see on the Blu-ray discs, but there's some added touchscreen functionality -- pinch-to-zoom on the concept art and users can spin props and models with the flick of a finger in the "Collection" section. The app also lets you selectively download the content, so all that artwork and video won't eat up an undue portion of your iPad's memory. After getting handsy with it in person, we found the app easy to use and the content compelling (where else can you examine the Death Star up close?), but we were left wishing that there was a bit... more. Of course, the lion's share of extras are reserved for the paying customers come September 16th -- though we were disappointed to discover that, currently, there are no plans to make it all available on the app even if you buy the Blu-rays. Regardless, you get what you pay for, and that makes this gratis addition to the Star Wars universe a darn good deal. Update: Grab the app and try it out for yourself at the iTunes link below! %Gallery-128683%
Star Trek Online's Dine with the Devs event details
With San Diego Comic-Con right around the corner, attendees are making their final plans on what events and attractions they are going to visit in the historic city by the bay. While there is always a decent turn out of Star Trek fans, many Star Trek Online players have always hoped for a stronger presence from Cryptic. Whether it be a panel interview, a booth, or even just a casual meet-up, Captains want to connect with their developers. Well, dreams are about to come true! Priority One, the STO podcast for which I am Executive Producer, will be hosting the first ever Dine with the Devs event this Friday evening, July 22nd. While not affiliated with Massively, this casual meet-up will take place off-site at a local restaurant in the San Diego area. As we dine on the patio, the devs in attendance will be answering players' questions about the game and explaining their roles on the project. It is important to note that each attendees' expenses are their own responsibility. For more information, including location and time, visit the information page.
Star Wars Blu-ray extras revealed early by iOS app launching at Comic-Con
We're still a few months away from the Star Wars movies release on Blu-ray, but dedicated fans can get a preview of the set this week in the Early Access app for iOS. Set to debut in time for Comic-Con on July 20th, the free app promises some of the 40+ hours of bonus materials planned for the discs, including concept art, models and interviews with cast and crew. We've already seen iPad apps pulling in extras to go along with movies like Tron: Legacy, but this is the first one we've seen launch ahead of the Blu-ray release. Check out a couple more screenshots and detailed description after the break, then come back tomorrow for our hands-on look at the Star Wars app.
Rumor: Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3 to be announced at Comic-Con [update: it's official]
The artists and writers at Marvel Comics display little inhibition when conjuring up fantastic worlds and alternate dimensions, but even they have a tough time imagining a universe in which you only buy a Capcom fighting game once. According to an unconfirmed report on comics blog The Quarter Bin, next week's Comic-Con in San Diego (Earth-616) will host the announcement of "Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3." We know that Marvel vs. Capcom 3 producer Ryota Niitsuma will share some news at a Marvel vs. Capcom 3 panel on Saturday, and that Marvel Interactive will have its own panel to discuss several upcoming games, along with "some exciting new details about the future of Marvel vs. Capcom 3." Since Capcom's unlikely to comment before those panels take place, this rumor is hinged on the singling out of MvC3 over the franchise as a whole. (Another possibility: A PC or portable version of the same game.) Still, The Quarter Bin stakes its reputation on the assertion that Capcom will repeat its Super Street Fighter IV strategy and launch Ultimate MvC3 at a discounted price ($39.99), with 12 extra characters added to the original roster. We remain skeptical of this rumor -- not only have we been unable to turn up any domain registrations for the title, but the Earth-616 Capcom would surely go for "Penultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3" first. Update: As expected, Capcom gave us its standard response. "We do not comment on rumors or speculation." Update 2: It's real. [Thanks, Phil.]
SWTOR flashpoints playable at Comic-Con [Updated]
Several weeks ago we told you about BioWare's plans to stage a public demo of its Star Wars The Old Republic MMORPG across the street from this month's San Diego Comic Con. Today, MMORPG.com has picked up on the news from the official forums, pointing out that the demos will feature the game's first two flashpoints. Interested players will get to work their way through the Black Talon and Esseles instances beginning Thursday, July 21st at 7:00 p.m. Pacific and running through Saturday, July 23rd. The sessions will last approximately one hour and are open to the general public. You'll want to get there early, though, as spots are limited and interest in BioWare's sci-fi opus is ramping up in anticipation of a possible 2011 release. [Update: Apparently, this isn't open to the public. There's a lottery to get in. Good luck with that!]
Blizzard to talk licensing at San Diego Comic-Con
Blizzard tends to keep to its own convention for most of the year, rather than taking part in other major conventions like E3, but it's breaking form with product reveals and licensing discussion next week at San Diego Comic-Con. Blizzard's Chris Metzen, The Shattering author Christie Golden, Cryptozoic Entertainment President Cory Jones, and others will be present for a panel on Thursday, July 21 -- that is, if you're already lucky enough to be going to Comic-Con (say hi to Christie for me)! Here's the full panel description, which is also available on the Comic-Con website. 1:00-2:00 World of Warcraft, Diablo, and StarCraft Swag Show -- Blizzard Entertainment creative and licensed partners unveil and discuss World of Warcraft, Diablo, and StarCraft-inspired products. In attendance: Chris Metzen (Blizzard Entertainment SVP of creative development), Nick Carpenter (Blizzard Entertainment executive art director), Christie Golden (New York Times bestselling author), Hank Kanalz (SVP Digital, DC Comics and World of Warcraft comics editor), Sean Gailey(creative overlord, J!nx Clothing), and Cory Jones (Cryptozoic Entertainment president and chief creative officer). Moderated by Kat Hunter ( host of BlizzCon coverage on DIRECTV). Room 6BCF
Marvel vs. Capcom 3 producer hosting panel at Comic-Con
Capcom veteran and Marvel Vs. Capcom 3 Producer/Director Ryota Niitsuma will be hosting a pannel at this year's Comic-Con, where conventionistas will be the first to take a sneak peek at ... something. The schedule teases a new reveal of some kind, urging fighting fans to come to the pannel to hear "the fantastic news" about the series. What that news may be remains shrouded in mystery for the moment, but true believers can at least look forward to a Q&A session with Niitsuma. Attendees will also have the chance to fight on stage for "fantastic prizes" (in the game, probably). We expect at least one person will be kicked hundreds and hundreds of times.
San Diego Comic-Con will sell you some friends from Marvel vs. Capcom 3
If your friend to pocket ratio is ridiculously pocket-heavy, San Diego Comic-Con will have an exclusive deal on Marvel vs. Capcom 3 Minimates to solve all your loneliness woes and fill those empty voids on your cargo pants. At Entertainment Earth Booth #2343, Toys"R"Us will be selling a limited number of Marvel vs. Capcom 3 Minimates, including Iron Man in stealth armor, Red Hulk, Morrigan and Zero. For those unable to snag a ticket to San Diego Comic-Con (everyone), Toys"R"Us will be selling the exclusive Minimates online at Toysrus.com/comiccon2011 beginning the final day of Comic-Con, Sunday, July 24.
NCsoft announces San Diego Comic-Con events and schedule
If you're planning to attend the San Diego Comic-Con next month, and if you happen to be a fan of Guild Wars or City of Heroes, then NCsoft wants you to swing by its booth while you're in the neighborhood. Attendees will be able "to meet artists and developers from City of Heroes Freedom and Guild Wars 2." NCsoft will be giving the latest news on City of Heroes' recently announced free-to-play transition as well as giving fans the opportunity to take Guild Wars 2's Engineer class for a spin. In addition to all of that, City of Heroes' Desdemona will be making appearances at the booth while City of Heroes comic artist David "Noble Savage" Nakayama whips up free illustrations of selected CoH players' characters. The artists of Guild Wars 2 will also be present to sign limited-edition postcard art books. But of course the party doesn't stop at the convention; NCsoft's Fan Meet & Greet takes place Friday the 22nd. Fans will have to check the NCsoft schedule for details on how to acquire tickets as it is a ticketed event, but those fortunate enough to attend will have the privilege of rubbing elbows with CoH and GW2 developers and artists. And of course, fans will be afforded the opportunity to go hands-on with City of Heroes Freedom and Guild Wars 2. For more information, check out the official announcement and NCsoft's Comic-Con schedule.
BioWare setting up public TOR demo outside San Diego Comic-Con
Star Wars: The Old Republic community coordinator David Bass unleashed a pleasant surprise on unsuspecting BioWare fans earlier today. In a post on the official TOR forums, Bass told of a playable demo at the upcoming San Diego Comic-Con. Big deal, I don't have a Comic-Con badge, we hear a few of you saying. Well, take heart. BioWare also recently announced that Mass Effect 3 (as well as downloadable content from Dragon Age II) would be playable at a hotel across the street from the con, and Bass says that The Old Republic will be there as well. "Anyone (yes even you!) can come to the Hilton and wait in line to play any of the BioWare games," Bass wrote. You'd better get there early, though, and plan on packing your patience as well as a slew of your favorite portable Star Wars games to pass the time.
Google TV demo shows off Dish Network integration, universal search (video)
For those still wavering over the possibility of dropping a few Ben Franklins on something rocking the Google TV logo this fall, maybe the best idea is to get to know this new flavor of Android a bit better. StuffWeLike grabbed video of a Comic-Con 2010 demo that showed off its universal search in a level of detail we hadn't previously seen. Our earlier hands-on with Google TV partner Logitech (also included after the break) focused mostly on its ability to control other devices, but this has a decided emphasis on the user interface and what Google brings to HDTVs, particularly when fully tied in to Dish Network's DVR, and its ability to shift seamlessly from internet to live or recorded TV and back. The second half of the video shifts the focus to the Google Queue, a single menu for DVR recordings and podcasts (video or audio.) The camera's a bit jerky, but there's plenty of info in those menus flashing by including icons for previously announced apps from Netflix and Pandora and an inadvertent cameo from vlogger RayWJ about two and a half minutes in.
James Phinney discusses Guild Wars 2 classes, events, and combat at Comic-Con
Comic-Con may be over, but the news keeps rolling in. The newest video over at GameTrailers is of a chat with ArenaNet's Design Director James Phinney. James gave a brief rundown of what we know about Guild Wars 2 so far, explaining the combat roles of the classes we know: elementalist, warrior, and ranger. He also covered the dynamic event system that we've heard so much about, as well as the reasoning behind it. Finally, he addressed the burning question of "When?" Unfortunately, it looks like we'll have to wait for that coveted date a bit longer: "When it's ready." For now, you can look after the jump to see the video for yourself.
Nexon grows as MapleStory hits 7 million registered users
It must be said that Nexon is having a good year. A very, very good year indeed. As free-to-play titles are on the rise in the MMORPG genre, Nexon is reaping the benefits of this trend as more people flock to its titles like Mabinogi. As a result, the company has seen a 26% jump in revenue for the second quarter this year, and its profits are trending up compared to the same time last year. Even for F2P MMOs, Nexon's games boast impressive numbers: MapleStory has crossed the seven million registered user line, Combat Arms four million and Mabinogi one million. "Our player base and revenues continue to expand, which tells us that gamers find that our free-to-play business model fits their play needs," said Nexon America CEO Daniel Kim. Nexon is also looking forward to releasing Vindictus, a promising title that we most recently previewed at San Diego Comic-Con last month.
Hyperspace Beacon: SWTOR's hidden messages
"Difficult to see. Always in motion is the future," were Yoda's words from The Empire Strikes Back, but contrary to the Jedi Master's belief, most of the time there are clues to what our future holds. Like the smell right before a rain storm, or little ticks of involuntary action that give away when someone is bluffing in poker, or that face your mother used to give you which said you were in trouble, clues to what the future holds are everywhere. Star Wars: The Old Republic is no exception. Clues to what the game holds are hidden all over its website. Alyssa Gobelle is the web designer for SWTOR. She has done a beautiful job of constructing a site that is entertaining as well as interesting to look at. Although the busy lettering, Aurebesh, entices the eyes, it also gives away secrets to the game. In April, Gobelle was interviewed by the Holonet Project fan site, where she revealed that the messages are totally intentional: "When they first brought me on, our first major task was to design the HoloNet. We wanted the HoloNet's voice to be as much 'within the lore of the game' as possible so we planned to add some generic Aurebesh to start. But we also wanted to add some hidden teases and notes for you guys to devour and ponder upon and play with. Give some more fuel to the speculation festivities." Continue after the break to find out what some of these "hidden teases" are. Perhaps you can help me figure out what the rest of them mean.
SDCC 2010: Part two of our DCUO panel report
Today we have more from the question-and-answer portion of the DC Universe Online panel at the San Diego Comic-Con last week. (Part one of the panel was posted earlier this week.) Panelists included Creative Director Jens Andersen, Game Director Chris Cao, legendary comic book writer Marv Wolfman, Jim Lee, and the voice of the Joker, Mark Hamill. Will there be a mechanic for switching from hero to villain or vice versa? No. You make the choice of hero or villain at character creation, and it can't be changed after that. This is so it is clear to other players in PvP who is on what team. Will current storylines in the DC comic universe affect the MMO? The game will launch "pristine"; that is, the DC Universe in the game will be the popular, well-known one. Wonder Woman will be in her classic costume; Bruce Wayne will be Batman; etc. From there, storylines from the comics may start altering the MMO universe, but at least from the get-go, the game will start with a clean slate. DCUO will be getting its own bi-weekly comic as well.
SDCC 2010: A new Super Hero Squad Online trailer in the Mighty Marvel tradition
If you're looking for a superhero MMO, you have a lot of options these days, which is part of the reason that Gazillion Entertainment has gone in a very different direction with Super Hero Squad Online. Rather than being a more adult-oriented game, it features colorful characters in a cartoonish setting, with an emphasis on family playability. Some players are going to immediately turn up their noses and sneer at the idea, of course, but after viewing the latest trailer, it sure does look like fun. The trailer, straight from SDCC 2010, features a variety of standbys within the Marvel universe that most viewers will have no problem recognizing. It's evident from the footage that the game is placing a high emphasis on retaining the feel of each signature hero's skills and powers, even if the stylized graphics might throw some players for a bit of a loop. Take a look at the trailer just past the cut, and keep your eyes peeled for more information on Super Hero Squad Online as we approach the release date in 2011.
