Paris
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How I WoW ends its run, Patrick Beja to work for Blizzard
Our good friends Patrick Beja and Shawn Coons (who you've likely heard on our podcast before a few times) have posted the very last episode of the popular and excellent How I WoW podcast. Both Turpster and I have appeared on and enjoyed the show, as we've said before, and they're calling it quits -- the final episode features Scott Johnson of The Instance podcast (who was also on the very first episode, so that's fitting), and besides saying goodbye to their audience, the three guys talk very insightfully about the WoW community and its podcasters, and the kinds of ties we create as players in places as varied as the game, the online community, and real-life events like BlizzCon.The show is ending (temporarily, perhaps -- Shawn hints that he may revive it, or help someone else to do so) mostly because Patrick Beja, as we heard at the very end of BlizzCon, is off to work for Blizzard in their Paris office. Unfortunately, he says he won't have a very public face at the company, but he's excited to have the position, and we're obviously very happy for him. He won't be able to podcast about World of Warcraft or Blizzard at all, so as Shawn says in the final show, there will definitely be a Patrick-shaped hole in the community. He won't be gone completely, though: he says will be able to continue his other podcasting work, including on The Movielicious podcast with our very own Turpster.We wish Patrick and Shawn the best, and if you haven't yet tuned in to How I WoW, definitely go give it a listen while the archives are still up -- it's a very interesting take on some of the more familiar faces in the community at large. We'll miss the show for sure.
Android-based Archos 5-inch Internet Tablet coming September 15 with (you guessed it) an AppsLib store
See that? It's an Android-green invitation to the unveil of the 5-inch Archos Internet Media Tablet. The September 15th date isn't new (it was announced back in June) but it's still good to see things moving ahead as planned. To whet the appetites of would-be developers, Archos has also announced its AppsLib application store for "advanced Android devices." The development guidelines, however, describe just a single, 5-inch 800x480 pixel device with accelerometer, OpenGL 3D graphics support, and HDMI output pushing an oddball 1160x652 pixel resolution to your TV. Right, specs already rumored for the Archos tablet. While not mentioned, we still expect all the other details -- 500GB storage, 10-mm thickness, 7-hours of battery when playing video, voice and HSUPA data radio, and OMAP3440 processor -- unexpectedly announced (by TI!) for the tablet way back in February to be in place when this thing gets live in Paris next month.[Via Pocketables]
The Saboteur visits brothels, explodes Nazis, has an accent
Nothing says, "I'm Irish ... really!" like Flogging Molly. And that's exactly the music that EA's Pandemic Studios chose for the new gameplay trailer of The Saboteur you see above. Sure, we enjoyed the game when we checked it out at E3 2009, even though it still looked a bit undercooked at the time. And yes, sneaking around WWII-era Paris as a rogue Irishman with a penchant for chaos does sound good to us. But if this music is any indication of the game's attitude, we're feeling a bit wary about it. There's only so much cliché one can take, folks.Update: EA would like us to point out that the trailer above is "made for Germany" and thus" had to be softened for their guidelines." We're pretty sure that means more blood and actual Nazis when the game ships Stateside. Er, um, not in Germany at least. %Gallery-49266%
Apple Stores finally arrving in Paris
It's been a long wait, but Apple has finally announced their intent to open the first Apple Store in France, which will be located in Paris. In their conference call yesterday, they discussed the opening of new Apple Stores, including the opening of a store in Paris by the end of the year. Meanwhile, HardMac has posted photos of not one, but two Apple Stores under construction in Paris. The first one, in Le Louvre, is expected to open up later this year. Meanwhile, the second location, in Rue Halévy, is expected to open up sometime after the location in the Louvre. This should be a much-welcomed addition to Apple customers in France, as they have gone a long time without an Apple Store.
Adamo redux: Dell teases new thin-and-light laptops in Paris with no specs
See that? That's Dell's Phil Bryant and Michael Tatelman briefly displaying what they described as an "entirely new model line" of thin-and-light laptops without any further comment at an event in Paris this morning. If that sounds like a replay of the poorly-received Adamo teaser at CES with old dudes instead of models, well, you're right -- Tatelman even referenced the negative Adamo reaction but said "we're going to try this again." Good plan. At least this time we don't have to wildly guess at what we're seeing: we're almost positive that's a pair of those Intel CULV-based ultraportables rumored to be released in August, and unless Dell's foolishly keeping with the Adamo theme, we'd assume specs and prices will match up with Acer's Timeline series. Keep a sharp eye, we'll let you know.
Move over BlizzCon, here comes AnkamaCon
If you thought Blizzard had the only MMO convention in town, think again. Ankama Games, the creators of Dofus and Wakfu, have announced their 4th annual convention -- AnkamaCon!This year AnkamaCon will be in Paris and the theme is Gobbowl, a crazy sport introduced in Wakfu the animated series. Convention goers can expect to enjoy rooms that will be screening the Wakfu series, playable demonstrations of Ankama's games, a first look at Dofus-pocket for mobile phones, a chance to play the Wakfu trading card game before it releases, and much much more.AnkamaCon will be June 27th and 28th, with weekend passes going for 29 euros in advance or 35 euros at the door. Families also have the option of family passes, which are 37 euros in advance or 45 at the door.
Sony joins Paris training event with PS3 programming classes
Count on SCEE to be among the many professionals heading over to France next month for the Paris Master Classes event. On June 25 and 26, Sony Europe together with other veteran developers from all around the industry (including developers for Alan Wake, World of Warcraft, Resistance 2 and Assassin's Creed 2) will be hosting day-long training sessions for aspiring talent. Sony's Master Class will be free, unlike the other training workshops and ... the event itself, which will cost quite a bit. Still, if you're serious about honing your craft and just starting out in the industry, this looks like a good place to get some experience. Check out the official website for more.
Sony Ericsson's P10 (Paris) gets another hands-on, full-blown review
We know it's the season for giving and all, but you're probably ready to stop being handed all these postmortem looks at Sony Ericsson's P10 (Paris). The UIQ-based handset, which was inexplicably canned earlier this year, was recently acquired and handled by the SE lovers over at SEMC Blog. As with most everyone else that has been fortunate enough to play with this here slider, these critics also couldn't figure out why the firm didn't forge ahead with production. Of course, it could just be the sentimental factor making the phone feel a bit more awesome than it actually is, but even with a bit of bias taken into account, it still seems like a winner. Too bad the powers that be deemed it a loser. Check the read link if you're okay with one last shower of tears.
Sony Ericsson's Paris gets another postmortem tease
Love UIQ? Well, bless your heart; we're sorry for your recent loss. We're also sorry that you have to see this, the best picture gallery we've seen yet of Sony Ericsson's doomed Paris -- a phone that would've undoubtedly been the ultimate execution of UIQ and the very top model in the company's line (X1 possibly excepted, depending on your point of view) had it not been unceremoniously cut down before its prime. We take some comfort in knowing that enough prototypes made it out into the wild for high-quality pictures to show up, but for most of us, this is as close as we're ever going to get.[Via Slashphone]
Sony Ericsson's axed Paris gets video review: here's to what could've been
Sony Ericsson sure knows how to toy with the heartstrings -- 'course, one could argue that it's our own fault for delving beneath the surface and learning far too much about a handset that was never assured of a public release, but whatever. The Paris, or P5, or the one that got away has been reviewed in a two-part video series over at UIQ Blog, and while the handset used was indeed a prototype, it's pretty much the most finalized version anyone ever saw. We wouldn't dare spoil anything in case you just can't take anymore positive press about a phone you'll never be able to own, but those with hardened hearts can hit the read link and mash play (twice).[Via Boy Genius Report]
New photos emerge of Sony Ericsson Paris, Twilight Zone theme heard in the distance
Last we heard, Sony Ericsson was planning to hold a memorial service for the untimely death of the so-called Paris smartphone. Now, however, we're being treated to a new smorgasbord of photos and a woefully small amount of details, leaving us to wonder if these are shots of an exhumed handset or images foreshadowing a revival. Comically enough, we've seen both scenarios from SE before; the former with the still-dead W707 Alicia and the latter with the now-kicking W595s. We'll remain cautiously pessimistic for the time being, but we won't completely discount the power of good fortune.[Thanks, Daniel]
WoW TCG Champion announced in Paris
The WoW TCG World Championships wrapped up this weekend, and an American player named Jim Fleckenstein emerged the winner. The World Champs took place in Paris, and there was a fun twist -- apparently last year, a French player won on American soil, and next year, the tournament is going to take place in Austin, Texas, so there's a rivalry building.The WoW TCG site has lots more, including play-by-plays of all the matches if you're interested in how the top players play the game (Jim won with a Shaman -- SHAMAN POWER!), and they've even got video of all the folks throwing down to win the crazy prizes. Looks like lots of fun in Paris for players of the TCG.The 2009 season kicks off with the end of these world champs -- the next event will be a Darkmoon Faire event in Anaheim, CA on November 9th (right before the Wrath release), and of course the Drums of War expansion is due out soon, with those loot cards we've been drooling over.
WoW TCG hosts World Champs in Paris this weekend
The World of Warcraft Trading Card Game World Championships have started up this weekend in Paris, France -- there's some excellent coverage on the official site about all of the CCG gaming going on over there. They've got everything from a roundup of the swag bag to play-by-play on the featured matches and some good commentary on what kinds of decks players are bringing to the tables. All told, the players are fighting for a prize pool of $250,000 -- some serious cash for playing cards.They're in the middle of Day 2 right now, so there's lots more tournament coverage to come from Paris. If you're a fan of the TCG, this weekend's your chance to check out what some of the top players are up to as they battle for the big prize.
"Waow" comic published, apparently without Blizzard's permission
Blogger DeSlisser was in Paris recently when he came upon a strange sight in a store: A comic book called "WaoW" that covered the journey of a newb in the world of "Razemoth" as he looks for a dungeon to level in. It's very definitely suppose to be Azeroth, and even the dungeon he eventually finds is clearly the Deadmines. The comic book, however, does not seem to be an official Blizzard product. Of course, we've seen pirated Warcraft items before, but this would be the first foray I've heard into the world of pirate comics. The phenomenon is widespread enough in Japan that it has its own convention simply for the selling of these books that, according to many, violate Intellectual Property rights. So perhaps Blizzard is getting to that point too. Will they crack down on comic books like "WaoW?" Should they? After all, they don't crack down on WoW fanart. But then again, most WoW fanartists don't try to sell their work in bulk either. [via Tobold]
Worldwide Invitational 3v3 Arena Tournament replays available
If you missed the WoW PvP action at the Worldwide Invitational, now's your chance to catch up. Selections from the 3v3 Arena Tournament action in Paris, including the final match between Council of Mages and Improved Clicks, are now available for download at the WWI tournament page. If you're interested in improving your PvP game, it's amazing how much watching videos of good players in action can help. You learn a lot about how to use your class, and how other classes operate when you look at them from a 3rd person point of view and watch for patterns. Of course, if you need a bit more help getting a handle on the action, you can also check our coverage of the tournament, as well as Amanda Dean's wrap-up thoughts.
The best of WoW Insider: June 24-July 1, 2008
Where can the world's biggest World of Warcraft fans go to talk with Blizzard devs, hear news about upcoming games, and dress up like Murlocs? Paris' Worldwide Invitational 2008, of course -- that's where WoW Insider was last weekend, and we've got a ton of news about everything WoW from the event, including Death Knight exclusives, new talents for Wrath of the Lich King, and coverage of all the panels and ceremonies. If you've ever played World of Warcraft, now's the time to go check WoW Insider -- odds are there's something new that'll remind you why you liked the game in the first place. News Worldwide Invitational Paris: The roundupEverything we posted from and about Blizzard's Worldwide Invitational event in Paris this last weekend. If you weren't there, read this, and you'll feel like you were (and it's a lot cheaper than a plane ticket). Hands on with WWI '08 Death Knight demoWe actually play, for the first time, the first new class implemented in the game since launch. WWI '08 Costume Contest galleryLet's face it, the real reason you go to these nerdy events is to see the wacky cosplayers. Here they are. Blizzard unveils Diablo 3What were you doing last Saturday morning at 4:30am? Sleeping? We were compiling information on Blizzard's newest game. Blizzard's splash screen changes for June 27thOf course now, we know it was all for Diablo 3, but last week, we were still guessing our hearts out as to what the splash screen ice meant. Features Arena Season 4: Brutal GladiatorSeason 4 started last week, and we've got the most definitive guide on the Internet for what to spend your Honor on. Midsummer Fire Festival quest guidesAll the news coming out of Paris might have distracted you, but we didn't forget: the Midsummer Fire Festival is live on the realms. The Care and Feeding of Warriors: Titan's Grip!Yes, Warriors can do in Wrath what we never though possible: wield a two-hander in one hand. Blizzard Authenticator introduced at the Worldwide InvitationalBlizzard is selling a physical key, to make sure the only person who signs into your account is you. Two talent trees for the price of one?We dip into one of the most underrated pieces of news coming out of WWI: could Blizzard be making it easier for players to respec?
WoW Insider Show, Episode 44: Live from Paris (kind of)
Excellent podcast this week, if I do say so myself. Last Saturday, right smack dab in the middle of the Worldwide Invitational, I took to the virtual airwaves with Duncor of WoW Radio, and Matthew Rossi and John "BigBearButt" Patricelli of WoW Insider, and we chatted about all of the news coming out of the Worldwide Invitational. On this show, which is now live on WoW Radio, you can hear us talk about: What Turpster is up to -- we talked live with him directly from Paris about what he thought of the convention and what he'd seen out there. The announcement of Diablo 3, and what is isn't (an MMO or a console game) All the class changes that we saw on Saturday, including Warriors' Titan's Grip, Shamans' Hex, and Warlocks' Demonform, and what they meant for each class. And finally, what Blizzard meant exactly by that little talent trees comment they threw in on one of the panels. It's a rip-roaring show, and no matter what you love to do in the World of Warcraft, Matthew, John and Duncor definitely hit on a topic that will interest you. Definitely give it a listen, and don't forget to subscribe in iTunes if you want to get the podcast sent to you automatically every week.Unfortunately, we didn't get a chance to hit on any email because of all the amazing WWI news, but that's OK, because we'll just talk about twice as much of it next week. If you want to ask a question or have a comment for us, drop us a note at theshow@wow.com, and you might even hear it on next week's show. We do this every Saturday at 3:30pm over on WoW Radio, so tune in next week to hear more commentary and insight about all the news from the last week of WoW.
Worldwide Invitational Paris: The roundup
var digg_url = 'http://digg.com/pc_games/The_best_of_WoW_dev_panels_at_the_Paris_Invitational'; Happy Monday morning everyone! If you're a fan of World of Warcraft, chances are you heard about the big old shindig Blizzard threw in Paris this week. If you didn't a chance to get to Paris this year or catch any of the news over the weekend, you'll want to keep reading. We had a crack team on the convention floor, and more of us watching the live feeds all weekend, all working hard to deliver up to date reports and analysis. What that means for you is that this is the perfect place to catch up on all the WoW news from Paris. This handy list will direct you to exactly where you want to go to get the information you need. Liveblogs and other event reporting: Opening Ceremony liveblog: If you haven't heard yet, there was a pretty big announcement at this one. Developer's Class Panel: There's a little something for every class in here. Find out what's coming for your favorite character! Q&A Grab Bag Panel: See what WWI attendees had on their minds, and how the developers answered. Dungeons and raids panel: See what's next in the Caverns of Time, Ulduar, and more. Don't forget to check out parts two, three, and four for the whole scoop. PvP panel: Find out about Lake Winterspring, siege engines, Arenas, Battlegrounds, and pretty much everything except class balance. Includes pictures! Be sure to check parts two, three, and four as well. Arena Tournament, day 1: Amanda Dean breaks down the results. Notes from the costume contest: See how creative your fellow fans are -- includes pictures! The goodie bag: Even in real life, we like our epic loot. Let us show you the swag. Of course, if the flood of liveblog information makes your head spin, no worries, we have analysis on every angle and every little tidbit discussed during the Invitational. Check them out after the break.
WWI08: Lore and art in Diablo 3
At Blizzard's recent Worldwide Invitational, Diablo 3's World Designer Leonard Boyarsky and Art Director Brian Morrisroe got on stage in front of a crowd hungry for details on Blizzard's latest project to talk about combining art and lore to expand the world give the player a deeper and more engaging experience. Diablo is a unique fantasy universe in that instead of having Dwarves and Elves, it has Angels and Demons. The game's setting makes it a dark fantasy environment that the previous games had only scratched the surface of.%Gallery-26348%
World of Warcraft's J. Allen Brack interviewed
Ah, Paris – the romance, the exquisite food, all the latest World of Warcraft information from the 2008 Blizzard Entertainment World Wide Invitational. WoW Insider is there, and are reporting back every snippet about class change and renovations, world-PvP, developer panels, and everything there is to know about Wrath of the Lich King. Tobold, an astute MMOG blogger with some Blizzard PR clout, was also in attendance, and with press badge in hand grabbed a short interview with World of Warcraft's Lead Producer, J. Allen Brack. In the interview they discuss hero classes, WoW's expansion schedule, the shortage of tankers and healers players encounter when putting a pug together, and more. No earth-shattering revelation is exposed but it is a worthy effort at picking one of the top brains working on World of Warcraft.
