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Gears of War goes Platinum Hits ... in Japan
If you have yet to purchase Gears of War the first question that comes to our mind is why the heck not? Seriously, why haven't you purchased the game? And if we're any good at reading minds then we're sure your response has something to due with the fact that the game released last year and still retails for $59. Good point, but if you live in Japan or are all about ordering region-free games online then you no longer have an excuse.Gears of War has officially gone Platinum Hits and received the discounted price tag for our friends in Japan. But you can still get a copy, because Play-Asia has the cheaper and region-free GoW Platinum Hits title for only $29 with $3 in shipping charges. Not too shabby. Also, if you are a proud owner of a Japanese Xbox 360, you can pick up a Platinum Hits double pack featuring both Gears of War and Dead Rising and for $49. Also, not too shabby. Our only question to Microsoft is; when the heck does Western civilization get Platinum Gears?[Via Xboxic]
Gears multiplayer almost didn't make the final cut
Talking at the Games Convention 2007, Epic president Mike Capps talked about some of their older projects mentioning that Gears of War's multiplayer almost didn't make it into the game. Leading into E3 2006, Capps said that he"was going to cut multiplayer from Gears because I thought it wasn't coming together fast enough". Things were so far behind in his mind that he even pondered the idea of scrapping the whole thing. But his less than enthusiastic attitude towards GoW's multiplayer chances drove the dev team into high gear (no pun intended), where they ultimately finished it and impressed the Capp'ster and amazed everyone at E3.Being huge Gears fans we couldn't imagine not experiencing the crazy fun multiplayer the game offers. Yeah, it was rushed. Yeh, it isn't perfect. But pick it up, play for a few hours and you'll soon realize that Gears' multiplayer is a unique blend of some of the most successful ingredients used in other shooters. Thank you committed multiplayer developers, thanks for making our Gears so special.
Ready, set, carve! GoW pumpkin carving contest
So, you've tried your hand at carving Xbox 360 pumpkins and now you need a new challenge. A challenge where, if your artistic talent shines, you'll be rewarded with gaming prizes. If that's the case, then the Gamerscore Blog has what you want with their Gears of War pumpkin carving contest.From now until (presumably) Halloween, the Gamerscore Blog is accepting entries into its GoW carving contests where they want fans to unleash their creativity and carve the most gruesomely awesome Gears themed pumpkin. Winners will be awarded with various prizes including Gears of War PC and posters, but in reality everyone is a winner when GoW carved pumpkins are involved. Make the jump for full details and submit your pumpkin entry. And, truth be told, we were going to make a bad joke about chainsaws and pumpkin carving, but Mr. Paladino already beat us to the punch. Darn you Paladino!
Rare: GoW took Viva Piata'a marketing cash
In an interview with Gamasutra, James Thomas and Justin Cook (two members of Rare's development team) talked about the history of Viva Piñata and how hard it has been targeting a new family-IP to the stereotypically hardcore Xbox 360 gamers. Specifically, Thomas mentioned that last Fall, publisher Microsoft Game Studios left little in the Viva Piñata marketing bank and instead sunk more focus and effort into their new Gears of War franchise. Thomas commented saying that,"So much of the [marketing] money went towards Gears of War, which is going to sell millions anyway. It was a bit of like, 'What about the other franchise?' I think we got left in the wake somewhat."Here at X3F we've always been enthusiastic about Viva Piñata and give it nothing but praise. But, even for us, trying to get other gamers to try the game is a bit of a task seeing that it is somewhat nontraditional. Maybe Microsoft didn't do a good job at marketing it and maybe Gears of War was more important last year, but we have confidence in their commitment to bringing the somewhat under-achieving Viva Piñata franchise into focus again ... heck, we've got BK toys to prove it.
Gears of War art director to helm Thundercats movie
Once you reach a certain age, it's time for Hollywood to start dredging up your childhood memories in hopes that you'll pay to regain two hours of your lost innocence. The latest franchise to be placed atop this dreadful altar is Thundercats. Cynicism aside, we should probably note that Warner Brothers has chosen Jerry O'Flaherty, art director for Gears of War and the upcoming Unreal Tournament III, to direct the upcoming film adaptation of Thundercats. O'Flaherty promises to stay true to the series, though the limited experience of screenwriter Paul Sopocy has us a bit worried. Thankfully, the movie will be done in CG, something O'Flaherty has significant experience with. And, as an added bonus, it saves us from the prospect of live action Thundercats. We're keeping our fingers crossed. At the very least, this brings our dreams of owning a replica Sword of Omens a little closer to reality.
Gears of War movie may go the green screen route
Speaking to GamePro, Gears of War screenwriter Stuart Beattie discussed the upcoming film adaptation of the blockbuster game. Apart from talking about the slowly changing Hollywood view of game-to-film adaptations -- as the writer of the first Pirates of the Caribbean film (a movie based on a ride), he knows something about adaptations -- Beattie elaborates on how Gears of War may be treated in production. Beattie says that Gears of War will likely utilize the same techniques used in 300, which was shot entirely using a green screen. Said Beattie, "There's no way to build that world any other way, really," noting that a green screen and soundstage is the only way the movie could be made on a reasonable budget. So, when you sit down to enjoy the upcoming film, remember that the Brumak about to eat Marcus isn't real.
Gears makes its PC debut November 6th
Announced this past July during the craziness that was E3 2007, Shacknews is reporting that Gears of War on the PC will be hitting retail shelves this November 6th with exclusive content not seen in the Xbox 360 version. Gears PC will come jam packed with brand new content including five additional chapters, three new multiplayer maps, a new King of the Hill gametype, a game editor and the infamous Brumak boss fight. As you can see, there's lots of fun and interesting goodies in the new PC version, all of which won't see the light of day on the 360. It's sad really and we refuse to quit complaining about it. Where's the Gears 360 love Epic, where's our love?[Via Joystiq]
CliffyB wants charismatic Marcus for Gears movie
Speaking with GameDaily, Gears of War maestro Clff Bleszinski recently discussed the upcoming film adaptation of the mammoth new franchise. While he gives the typical spiel about how much care is going into creating the film and how the screenwriter knows everything about the game (that's what they said about Silent Hill, remember), his comments on the casting prove to be the most interesting. Specifically, CliffyB notes that the man who plays Marcus Fenix should not be someone who is "buff or six foot five," but rather someone who is "charismatic." According to Cliffy, the important part of casting Marcus is that whoever plays him can act. A shocking and innovative idea, we know, but it just might work. Hit the "read" link for the full interview and details on the upcoming movie.[Via Joystiq. Image credit: ICHB]
Joystiq plays Gears of War PC
Joystiq recently got a chance to try out Gears of War for the PC at DigitalLife. The verdict: it's Gears of War alright. Beyond some necessary changes made to the control scheme for mouse users, the game is essentially the same one we all fell in love with last November. Joystiq does note that the visuals are markedly improved and pulling off headshots is (expectedly) much easier with a mouse. The build at Digital Life has its share of problems and bugs, but such problems should be ironed out in time for the game's release later this year. Hit the "read" link for Joystiq's full hands-on impressions.
Gears (and every other game) gets dethroned by Halo 3
In gaming news that really isn't all that newsworthy and should be filed under the "well, duh!" category is word that Halo 3 tops Major Nelson's most played Xbox Live games list this past week knocking off Gears of War from its long held number one spot. Shocker! But don't feel bad for Gears fellow fanboys, because it's still holding strong nearly a year after its release at its newly acceptable number two position. You had a wicked good ride Gears, but now our new friend Halo 3 is taking the wheel and driving Xbox Live into 2008. And don't worry, we'll still visit you every once and a while.
Marcus Fenix looks good in LEGOs
Those overly creative LEGO building fellas over Brickshelf did it again, this time using their finely honed talents to create a Gears Marcus Fenix figure. Just look at the detail on the armor, the accurate representation of the Lancer and how perfectly crafted the model is. This little masterpiece is awe inspiring, simply fanboy'alicious and makes us jealous of the talent those guys over at Brickshelf possess. Note to whoever owns this LEGO Marcus, we'd so pay to have one of these to place on our desk high atop Fanboy Towers. So ... eBay anyone?[Via Joystiq]
Gears Hidden Fronts is now a free download
We just wanted to remind everyone that the Hidden Fronts map pack for Gears of War is now a free download off the Xbox Live Marketplace. The Hidden Fronts pack includes four maps (Garden, Process, Bullet Marsh and Subway) and was previously available for 800 Microsoft points when it released back in May. But now it's free, so you have absolutely no reason not to get back into the game and earn the game's final 250 Gamerscore. We'll see you online playing some new Hidden Fronts map pack goodness, have fun and stay away from those Kryll.
Gears Of War Hidden Fronts free this Labor Day
Microsoft has announced that the Gears of War "Hidden Fronts" map pack will become a free download starting this Labor Day (which is Monday for our international friends). The map pack will officially become free starting at 2:00AM PT September 2nd. It should be noted that this isn't a timed promotion akin to the XBLA price drops this weekend, but rather a permanent change. So, if for some reason you still don't want the map pack on Monday, you can always pick it up some other time, free of charge. The "Hidden Fronts" map pack includes 4 maps: Subway, Process, Garden, and Bullet Marsh. If you'd like a refresher on what these maps contain, you can view our rundown after the break.
GoW: Chains of Olympus developer buys God of War PSP for $1725
Late last month we posted a story on a PSP designed to be the ultimate piece of God of War modded art. Turns out the eventual winner of that auction, with a bid of $1725 (with 15% going to Child's Play charity), was Ready at Dawn Studio, the company behind God of War: Chains of Olympus. But the story doesn't stop there.Turns out that Ready at Dawn decided to fly the guy who created the GoW PSP out to Southern California to hand-deliver it himself. Ramon Stokes, who created the PSP, then got to play the Chains of Olympus demo and hang out for a bit. Sure, this is one of those over-the-top PR sorts of things that y'all can be bitter and jaded about, but it's still cool to see someone make a piece of art and have it be recognized.%Gallery-5171%
Gears of War action figures announced
NECA has announced a new partnership with Epic Games, in which it will produce a new line of Gears of War collectibles. Said collectibles are set to include action figures, busts, dioramas, and even "prop" replicas (full size Lancer anyone?). The toys collectibles are expected to be available in 2008, just in time for a possible sequel to the 360's breakout hit. An interesting tidbit in the press release is that NECA has acquired the license for Gears of War and "any potential sequels" to the game, adding fuel to such speculations. For those who are interested, NECA has produced many video game related collectibles, including toys based on Resident Evil, Hitman, Tomb Raider, and an upcoming line of Castlevania toys. No further information, such as which specific Gears of War toys will be made or how much they will cost, has been revealed.
Chainsaw or curb stomp Velvet Revolver this Friday
July's Artist of the Month Velvet Revolver will be partaking in the Game with Fame festivities this Friday by playing some Gears of War. This Friday, July 27th from 10:00PM - Midnight eastern the Velvet Revolver rockers will be online playing Gears, so we advise sending a friend request to "GWFVelvet" for your chance to play with the band. Once your friend request is sent, sit back, wait for a chance to play and ponder how you'll be finishing off the band. We already know how we're taking out Slash as our chainsaw is already greased and ready to rip.
By golly it's a Gears of War soundboard
For those of us who are involved in the art of prank phone calls or simply enjoy hearing video game character quotes we've unearthed a Gears of War soundboard for you to enjoy. The Gears soundboard features multiplayer and campaign quotes from the Locusts and the COG killing crew including Marcus, Dom, Baird, Cole and Carmine. Experience a locust growl, hear the ear pleasing sounds of Baird exclaim "shit yeah!" and the multiple variations of Marcus' "nice". Give the soundboard a listen and be sure to show your friends, because this little online doodad will give you instant Gears cred. Honest.[Via Gearheads of War]
Gears of War will be roadie running onto Macs
We thought we heard the extent of how far Gears of War was willing to stray from its Xbox 360 roots, but now we're hearing about an even further departure. In an interview with Game Head's Geoff Keighley, Mark Rein talked up Unreal Tournament 3 and Gears of War and accidentally let the news slip that both games were headed to the Mac platform. Rein confirmed Gears' Mac-bound status when answering Keighley stating that "yes, Gears is going to come to the Mac and so is UT". The news was not followed by a release date or how far in development the Mac versions are.Anyone willing to bet that Gears Mac will have even more content than Gears PC all of which won't be available to 360 owners? Anyone? Nobody? Shucks ...
New GoW PC content not coming to the 360
The Advanced Media Network sat down with Epic's Mark Rein and Cliffy B to chat about their big E3 announcements and learned some sad news about the new Gears of War PC content. When questioned about whether or not the new campaign missions or multiplayer maps announced for the PC version would be headed to the Xbox 360, Rein said it was "unlikely [that] we will bring that content to 360". Cliffy B further emphasized their doubt by stating that "if we didn't have any sort of exclusive on the PC, why would people buy the PC version?". The Epic crew explained that bringing the PC content over to the 360 would be an extremely time consuming task and that they're currently focused on other projects like Unreal Tournament 3.Being the Gears fan that I am it's hard to hear that new, exciting multiplayer AND campaign content will be available, but not for 360 owners. And no, there's no way I'm personally buying a beefy computer to run Gears of War PC just to experience the new content. No matter how you slice the news it sucks for 360 owners and Gears enthusiasts ... it's simple as that. Now, I'm going to go cry myself to sleep.[Thanks, Jason S]
Gears of War PC official, not Vista exclusive
It just not a gaming event without a little CliffyB. Lo and behold, he made an appearance at Microsoft's E3 press conference to announce (you guessed it) Gears of War PC. In an announcement that surprised precisely zero people, the game was made official. While the announcement itself wasn't earth-shattering, there were definitely a few choice nuggets of new info worth noting. Cliffy did honor the conference crowd with a quick demo of the game, showing off some of the PC exclusive features. Naturally, the game makes use of Games for Windows Live, which Cliffy demonstrated by playing with a buddy. He also revealed that GOW PC will feature new single player chapters, new multiplayer modes, new multiplayer maps, and an entirely new set of achievements totalling 1000 points. In another surprising revelation, Cliffy announced that the game would be shipping for both Windows Vista and XP. Given the hoopla surrounding the Vista-only releases of both Halo 2 and Shadowrun, it looks like Microsoft may be trying to make things write with PC gamers.Of course, Gears of War PC does raise a few questions. Will the new content be offered to 360 Gears of War fans? Will cross-platform play be available? We tried to get answers from Microsoft, but for now it remains a mystery.
