Black Rock Shooter Dawn Fall Is Now Streaming On Disney+ Hotstar

After years of excitement and overwhelming demand from fans, the legendary Black Rock Shooter franchise has returned to screens with an all-new storyline on Disney+ Hotstar. Set in a dystopian future where the human race has been overthrown by a rogue artificial intelligence, and humanity’s last hope, Black Rock Shooter, disappeared long ago, only weeks remain until the last dregs of the resistance are wiped off the planet forever. Starring Yui Ishikawa, Saori Hayami and Megumi Han BLACK ROCK SHOOTER DAWN FALL is now streaming on Disney+ Hotstar.
In the not-so-distant future a rogue artificial intelligence (AI) designed to help mankind turns on its creators, declaring war and wiping out the majority of the human race. While the resistance to the machines was initially strong, helped by Empress a.k.a. Black Rock Shooter and her team, her sudden disappearance over 16 years ago resulted in the near extinction of the human race. With only a few weeks remaining until the AI can unleash its final blow against the humans, hope on earth is all but gone. Awakening from a prolonged slumber, Black Rock Shooter has no idea who she is, what she can do, or what remains of the planet she once worked so hard to protect. With time ticking away, will she be able to turn the tide and save the planet before its too late?

Starring Yui Ishikawa (Violet Evergarden, Attack on Titan) as the voice of Black Rock Shooter; Saori Hayami (Demon Slayer, My Teen Romantic Comedy SNAFU) as the voice of Dead Master, Megumi Han (HUNTER x HUNTER, Fruit Basket) as the voice of Strength; Takuya Kirimoto (JOJO’S BIZARRE ADVENTURE PART 3, Stardust Crusaders) as the voice of The Colonel; Ayaka Asai (Welcome to Demon School!) as the voice of Monica, and Misaki Kuno (March Comes in Like a Lion) as the voice of Blacktrike, BLACK ROCK SHOOTER DAWN FALL is written by Makoto Fukami (Biohazard: Vendetta, PSYCHO-PASS) and directed by Tensho (Kin-Iro Mosaic).
Based on the original illustrations by huke BLACK ROCK SHOOTER DAWN FALL is the latest local Japanese production to be announced as part of Disney’s 2022 APAC content slate. Fans of Japanese content can also look forward to the previously announced debut of My Family on May 25, as well as the upcoming winter release of Gannibal, a nail-biting live-action adaptation of the hit manga series about dark and mysterious disappearances in a remote Japanese village.
Stream the 12-part dystopic series BLACK ROCK SHOOTER DAWN FALL on Disney+ Hotstar today!


Godzilla Vs Kong’s Legendary Considers Legal Action Against Warner Bros.

Legendary Entertainment is the production company that has co-financed several past (The Dark Knight trilogy, etc.) and future Warner Bros. movies, including Dune and Godzilla Vs. Kong.
After Warner Bros.’ move towards launching all its movies on HBO Max in 2021 at the same time as their debut in cinemas, Legendary may soon take legal action against Warner Bros.
According to Variety, this is because Legendary was “kept out of the loop” regarding Warner Bros’ HBO Max decision until the last minute. While Legendary is hoping to negotiate a better deal, they might consider taking legal action if they fail to agree on a compromise.
Dune director Denis Villeneuve has voiced his disappointment with the HBO Max decision, stating that he would prefer a traditional theatrical release for his movie, according to insiders.
Godzilla Vs. Kong recently unveiled new footage and is currently scheduled to debut on 21 May 2021. Meanwhile, Dune is slated to premiere on 1 October 2020.


Blackpink Is Entering Your PUBG Area… Again

Blackpink in your area. In your PUBG area. Again.
That’s right. After collaborating with PUBG Mobile last year, the popular K-Pop group is once again partnering with PUBG but this time for PC and consoles (PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S). The PUBG Blackpink event will run between 8 August and 7 September 2021, and there will be special missions with Blackpink-themed cosmetic rewards.
Check out the details below (via the official website):
PUBG Blackpink Decals On Buildings

Available Modes

Normal Match
Esports Mode
Ranked

Available Maps

Erangel
Miramar
Vikendi

Available Between

PC: August 8 â€“ September 7
Console: August 12 â€“ September 15

PUBG Blackpink Airplane Tail

Available Modes

Normal Match
Esports Mode
Ranked

Available Maps

Erangel
Miramar
Sanhok
Vikendi
Karakin
Taego

Not available on Emergency Landing planes

Available Between

PC: August 8 â€“ September 7
Console: August 12 â€“ September 15

PUBG Blackpink Supply Crate And Smoke

During the event, the colour of the smoke will change to the BLACKPINK concept(except in colour-blind mode), and BLACKPINK Supply Crates will drop throughout the map. You can also find the BLACKPINK LV.3 helmet from the Supply Crates.

Available Mode

Normal Match

Available Maps

Erangel
Miramar
Sanhok
Vikendi
Karakin
Taego

Available Between

PC: August 8 â€“ September 7
Console: August 12 â€“ September 15

More about the BLACKPINK LV.3 Helmet

BLACKPINK LV.3 Helmet is an individual item.
If a player is wearing another helmet skin, the corresponding skin will be displayed. The Blackpink helmet will be displayed only when the other skin is unequipped.

PUBG Blackpink Items

A total of 38 items, including stage costumes that BLACKPINK wears, are coming to the Battlegrounds! BLACKPINK Face items not included.
Each memberâ€™s bundle includes Hair, Clothing, Weapons, Emotes, and Nameplate items. BLACKPINK Face items not included.

JISOOâ€™s BLACKPINK Bundle
JENNIEâ€™s BLACKPINK Bundle
ROSÃ‰â€™s BLACKPINK Bundle
LISAâ€™s BLACKPINK Bundle
BLACKPINK Mega Bundle

JISOOâ€™s BLACKPINK Bundle
JENNIEâ€™s BLACKPINK Bundle
ROSÃ‰â€™s BLACKPINK Bundle
LISAâ€™s BLACKPINK Bundle
BLACKPINK Spray
Parachute

All of these items will be available on the following dates:

PC: August 8 â€“ September 7
Console: August 12 â€“ September 15

PUBG Blackpink Special Drops Event
Finally, to celebrate the collaboration between PUBG and BLACKPINK, there will be a Special Drops event.
SCHEDULE

3pm GMT+8 on 18 August 2021 to 3pm GMT+8 on 8 September 2021

Missions

TITLE
MISSION DESCRIPTION
POINTS

Parachute
Parachute 600m in total.
20

Survive 15 minutes
Survive 15 minutes in a single match.Â Survival time includes time spent spectating your teammates.
25

Heal up
Heal 250 total health.
25

Top 10
Reach Top 10.
30

Rewards

POINTS
700
600
200
200

ITEM
BLACKPINK â€“ Helmet (Level 3)
BLACKPINK Backpack (Level 3)
Contraband Coupon x10
Contraband Coupon x10

In the meantime, check out the trailer below:


Genshin Impact Dragonspine Zone Guide: How To Break The Ice

For the latest Dragonspine Zone guide, head to our version 2.3 feature.
Genshin Impact just received a new major update dubbed “Version 1.2”, complete with a new area: Dragonspine zone. Just like any other online game with F2P elements, it comes with new gameplay mechanics and a chunky new region to explore.
After you’re done collecting an extra 600 Primogems thanks to the downtime, what’s next? What should you be doing? Well, we’re here to help you out with this one handy guide on Genshin Impact’s newest region. Before that, be sure to check out our updated guides.
Genshin Impact Starter Characters + Top Characters Guide
Genshin Impact Beginner Guide
Genshin Impact Endgame Guide: What’s Next?
Let’s break the Version 1.2 update down:
Unlocking & Leveling Up The Frostbearing Tree
Just like the Statues of the Seven, you can collect special treasures called the Crimson Agate to offer to the Frostbearing Tree for a multitude of rewards. Unlike the statues, these rewards include weapon blueprints, a bottle that will keep you warm and resistant from the Dragonspine Zone’s chill effect, and a new glider skin. In other words, more useful.
Here’s what you need to do to unlock the tree.
Investigate the strange ice
To unlock the tree, you will need to finish the main quests surrounding Dragonspine. Proceed with the quest Princeps Cretaceus Chapter. You’ll eventually get to the new Dragonspine region in search of alchemist/painter/new husbando material Albedo. Just up the road from Snow Covered Path, you’ll find the first teleport waypoint. Closeby there will be an object frozen in ice.

To unlock it, you need to harness the warm fiery powers of the Scarlet Quartz. It’s one of the only ways to survive the freezing cold of Dragonspine; find a deposit in the area, break it, then claim the Scarlet Quartz to gain quartz power.
Once you gain it, you also get the ability to attack and break specific objects encased in Dragonspine ice. This is how you thaw the Frostbearing Tree.

You will find a number of Scarlet Quartz deposits near the tree. Attack one of them, then run to the ice crystal next to the tree to deal damage to it.Â
Repeat until the ice is destroyed.

From here on, you can now acquire Crimson Agates to offer to the tree. There are hundreds of them around Dragonspine, so happy hunting! Here are the locations (via Genshin Impact Map).

Unlocking The Peak of Vindagnyr
Genshin Impact’s latest domain (where you can use your resin to farm the dungeon) is not that easy to unlock, but it’s worth it thanks to the big artifact rewards that boost Cryo damage.Â You need to not only travel around Dragonspine a lot, but also dispel magical wind, and climb a tall-as-heck and cold-laden mountain.
Start The “Into The Mountains” Quest
In the Adventurer’s Camp at the base of Dragonspine, you’ll find an NPC named Iris who tasks you with solving the riddle at Dragonspine’s summit. Accept the quest from her.
Find The Wind Passage
There will be a passage just beyond the Statue of the Seven (at the top of the summit) that you cannot enter because of the howling winds. You need to dispel these winds. To do that, you need to go to three locations in Dragonspine containing floating ice crystals.
Break the first ice crystal
It’s actually where the Frostbearing Tree is. We have the guide for that right above this one. Go check it out!
Break the second ice crystal
The second crystal is located at a diamond-shaped clearing in Wyrmrest Valley. You know you’re at the correct place when you see elemental pillars and a cube-shaped device all arranged in a ritualistic fashion.

You’ll need to solve a puzzle here; be sure to bring a Pyro and Cryo party member for this (via Reddit).Â

Activate the cube-shaped device. Doing so will cause the Seelie to go to each Cryo pillar in a specific order.
Once the Seelie returns to the cube-shaped device, head to each Cryo pillar and attack it with a Cryo abilityÂ in the same order that the Seelie showed you.
This will cause two Ruin Guards to spawn and attack. Defeating both will cause the large corpse of a Ruin Grader to activate. This is a relatively tough boss enemy that fires a powerful laser, so try to stay behind it. Once the Ruin Grader dies, the ice in the center of the arena will break, revealing a cavern below with the second floating magical crystal.
In this cavern, you’ll find another Seelie and three Scarlet Quartz. There’s a problem, though: You need one more to break the crystal. The fourth is hidden behind a gate that’s opened by returning two Seelies to their pedestals. The first is clearly visible, but the second is found under one of the many lumps of ice in the cave. To melt it, use Pyro abilities.
Once you open the gate, you’ll see the fourth Scarlet Quartz and two chests. Break the quartz and attack the ice wall immediately behind it to reveal a third Seelie. This one we’ll leave for now.
The fourth Scarlet Quartz will respawn after a few seconds, but take this time to find the other three and attack the magical crystal. When the fourth respawns, use it to break the crystal and, again, interact with the sphere hidden inside.
Now the exit is unsealed and you can leave. Return to the third Seelie you found behind the gate and follow it out of the cavern to its pedestal for some loot.

Break the third ice crystal
The third crystal is in Starglow Cavern. When you enter the cave, you’ll find a path that goes upward and downward. Take the downward path to the bottom of the cave. Your landmarks are a Challenge Pillar surrounded by three Seelie pedestals.

There’s a forcefield that is protecting the ice crystal. Here’s how to dispel it:

Return the Seelies to their pedestals. The first one is found nearby in the open and can’t be missed.
The remaining two are found behind the giant ice spikes erupting from where the magical crystal is. If you’re facing the crystal, you’ll see a path on your left that leads around back. You’ll also see a Scarlet Quartz.
The second Seelie is found behind a breakable wall near a Ruin Guard corpse.
Keep following that path around the back of the crystal and up a slope to find the third Seelie by some more Ruin Guard corpses. You’ll also see another Scarlet Quartz.
Once all the Seelies are returned to their pedestals, activate the Challenge pillar. It’ll spawn several hilichurls and frost mages that you’ll have two minutes to kill. Once they’re dead, the shield surrounding the crystal will break.
Now it’s time to find the Scarlet Quartz. The first two are out in the open in the opposite direction of the magical crystal. The other two are where you found each hidden Seelie.
Once the crystal is broken and you’ve interacted with the orb hidden inside, the way out will be unsealed and you can leave this area.

Go Through The Wind Passage To Break More Ice Crystals
Once you are done with the three crystals, teleport to the wind passage; it’s where the sole Statue of the Seven in Dragonspine is. You can now pass through. Unfortunately, you will need to break three other ice crystals, and that requires quite a bit of mountain-climbing across the peaks of Dragonspine.

Follow the slope that circles around the shattered pillar and you’ll find the first Scarlet Quartz next to a few floating mechanical enemies. Defeat them, then break the quartz. Use the floating bits of the pillar as a bridge to reach the lowest magical crystal and break it.
Continue up the sloping path until you reach a broken archway with a large boss monster just beyond it. Defeat the boss and you’ll find the second Scarlet Quartz. Break it and double-back to the pillar, jump onto the floating bits to reach the second magical crystal and break it.
Head back to where you fought the boss and you’ll find a Seelie. Follow it up some ruined towers until you reach an Anemo pillar.
Use an Anemo ability to activate it, triggering a big gust of upward wind. Ride it up and then use the wind tunnels that appear to quickly fly across the chasm where some hilichurls are waiting next to the third Scarlet Quartz.
Break the Scarlet Quartz and go to the edge of the chasm. Below you’ll see the third magical crystal. Either snipe it with an archer character or glide down to it and break it up close.
Activate the sphere hidden inside to unite the last broken bits of the pillar.
You’ll see a cutscene of the pillar melting the ice around it and floating high up into the air.
When the cutscene ends, you’ll be back near its base where you found the first Scarlet Quartz. Go to where the pillar used to be and you’ll find a few chests and the entrance to the Peak of Vindagnyr.

Once you’ve unlocked the Peak of Vindagnyr domain, you can teleport back and forth to the area; you might as well talk to Iris to complete the quest.

Score A Free 4-Star Claymore By Unlocking All 8 Ancient Carvings

Throughout your trekking in Dragonspine, you will come across ancient carvings (see above). Finding eight of these will net you a four-star claymore called Snow-Tombed Starsilver.
Here are the locations for all eight of them (via Reddit’s TriNity696):

One of these ancient carvings (the one on the southeast above the “Skyfrost Nail” map name) is locked behind a secret door that requires three Priest boxes to unlock. Here’s a video from ON Game that will teach you how to unlock it.

Help support Kakuchopurei by clicking on this CodaShop affiliate link if you need to top up your Genesis Crystals & Primogems.


This Monster Hunter: World Greatsword Pillow Can Be Yours; Here’s How

Capcom has another product for its ‘e-Capcom Limited Request Projects’ in which limited edition merchandise are revealed and becomes real purchasable products once there are enough pre-orders. The latest one from the project involves the Greatsword ‘dakimakura’ from Monster Hunter: World.

The Greatsword ‘dakimakura’, or body pillow if you will, are based on two in-game designs, chiefly the Rathalos Greatsword ‘Red Wing’ and the Bone Tree ‘Giant Jawblade’ Greatswords, measuring about 1.5 metres in length.

After you’ve done cuddling with your sword, you can charge your True Charged Slash and swing it like the real thing since the dakimakura has a core inside. Just note that you won’t take down any Wyverns with this as it’s only recommended for posing.

The Greatsword dakimakura pre-orders are now open at e-Capcom and would cost you 32,400 yen (RM1,186). Pre-orders will be open until 3 June and if it meets its pre-order goal, it’ll be shipped out on 26 August.


Square Enix Is Hiring Developers For “HD Development Of Kingdom Hearts”

After years and years of waiting, we finally got a new entry in the Kingdom Hearts series earlier this year. Despite its flaws, we still had a good time playing Kingdom Hearts III so we’re definitely looking forward to more adventures with Sora and the Disney gang.
Lucky for us, it seems that there’s definitely going to be more Kingdom Hearts in the future. Square Enix is currently hiring developers to work on “HD development of the Kingdom Hearts series” at their Osaka branch. The company has put up job listings for a UI designer, effect designer, and technical artist on their website.
We’re still probably very far away from Kingdom Hearts 4 but at least we know that Square Enix is focused on making more Kingdom Hearts. It could also be that they’re just finding more manpower to work on Kingdom Hearts III DLC. The game’s first DLC Re:Mind is scheduled to be released in winter 2019.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l4D_Cu9Ad0s&w=560&h=315]
Thanks for the heads up, Gematsu.


God Of War Creates (Another) PlayStation 4 History

According toÂ Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE), the global sales of God of War has exceeded 3.1 million copies in the first three days from its launch, making it the fastest-selling first party title on the PS4.
â€œI would like to personally thank the millions of fans around the world who decided to hop on Kratosâ€™ latest adventure with us. Your support is truly inspiring, and itâ€™s a reason why we push ourselves every day to go beyond the boundaries of play. Iâ€™d also like to thank our amazing team at Santa Monica Studio.” said Shannon Studstill, VP, Product Development, Head of Santa Monica Studio, SIE.
“The passion for storytelling across the team is undeniable, and I hope itâ€™s clear that we never settle for whatâ€™s conventional. We look forward to hearing more about how fans are enjoying the game and creating new memories of their favorite God of War gameplay moments that will be remembered for decades to come.â€ she added.Â
An excerpt from our review of the game, reviewer Jon Leo described the game as “God of War has manned up and developed both a heart and a soul.”
“…the team did due diligence and revamped everything while also preserving the core aspects of a God of War game: the intense action, violence, and satisfying combat and exploration bits coupled with a relatable and effective story.” he added.
No surprises, we gave the game a perfect score!
You can read the full review here.Â


Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Members Will Enjoy Project xCloud For Free

In a blog post update today, Xbox head Phil Spencer has announced that Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers will be able to enjoy Project xCloud service for free and at no additional cost in select supported countries starting from September 2020.
What this ultimately means is that Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members will be able to play over 100 Xbox Game Pass titles on their phone or tablet thanks to the Project xCloud video game cloud streaming service, alongside nearly 100 million Xbox Live players around the world.
For instance, when the highly-anticipated Halo Infinite eventually launches this sometime in Holiday 2020, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members can play in the Halo universe as Master Chief, anywhere they go and across multiple devices.
You can subscribe to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate here for a limited time offer of only US$1 per month. The normal price per month is US$14.99.
However, it is only available in the following countries (unfortunately, Malaysia is not included):

Argentina
Australia
Austria
Belgium
Brazil
Canada
Chile
Colombia
Czech Rep
Denmark
Finland
France
Germany
Greece
Hong Kong
Hungary
India
Ireland
Israel
Italy
Mexico
Netherlands
New Zealand
Norway
Poland
Portugal
Russia
Saudi Arabia
Singapore
Slovakia
South Africa
South Korea
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
Taiwan
Turkey
United Arab Emirates
UK
US

The upcoming Xbox Games Showcase is slated to take place next week at 12am GMT+8 on 24 July 2020, where we will receive our first look at the story campaign from Halo Infinite and more.


Holocure 0.5 Update Collab List

Holocure’s WASD action roguelite gameplay also features weapon combinations called Collabs. Essentially, you power up two compatible weapons to the fullest and then fuse them via the Anvil powerup to get a Collab, a more powerful attack that’s a fusion of said weapons. It’s the only way to survive in the crazy fan-filled world of Holocure.
If you need more Holocure help, here’s our item unlock & patch update guides.
Here is the list of Holocure Collabs you should aim for.
Holocure 0.5 New Collabs

Absolute Wall: Cutting Board + Bounce Ball. Summon forth the Great Wall of Hololive.

Bone Bros.: Cutting Board + EN Curse. Don’t bite the hand that feeds you if it’s holding a knife.
Eldritch Horror: EN Curse + Spider Cooking. Summons unknown horrors. May Life-steal up to 5% HP from targets defeated in whirlpool.

I’m Die, Thank You Forever: X Potato + Holobomb. Throw a Bomb that attaches to a target. When target is defeated, the bomb explodes.

MiKorone: Elite Lava Bucket + X Potato. Burning hot potatos fall, and targets hit by it leave lava pools as they move.
Ring of Fitness: Bounce Ball + CEO’s Tears. Continuously throw a ring of fitness balls. Hope nobody walks in.

Snow Flower Sake: Wamy Water + Glowstick. Throw a bottle that shatters into a Snowflake. Has a 30% chance to cause Frozen.

All Holocure Collabs
Broken Dreams: Spider Cooking + CEO’s Tears
Stream of Tears: Fan Beam + CEO’s Tears
Frozen Sea: BL Book + Wamy Water
Rap Dog: X-Potato + Idol Song
BL Fujoshi: BL Book + Psycho Axe
MiComet: Elite Lava Bucket + Psycho Axe
Elite Cooking: Elite Lava Bucket + Spider Cooking
Light Beam: Glowstick + Fan Beam
Dragon Fire: Plug Type Asacoco + Fan Beam
Flattening Board: Holo Bomb + Cutting Board
Breathe-In Type Asacoco: Holo Bomb + Plug Type Asacoco
Idol Concert: Glowstick + Idol Song
Light Beam: Glowstick + Fan Beam


Overcooked! All You Can Eat Is Coming To PC; Features Cross-Platform Multiplayer

The most famous party game involving cooking and serving in a hectic kitchen is coming to PC in a twofer compilation.
Billed as Overcooked! All You Can Eat, the collection will be out on PC via Steam on 23rd March for US$40. It’s basically Overcooked and Overcooked 2 in one program, but with new levels and new features previously exclusive with Xbox Series and PS5. The collection not only remasters the first title and adds new music, but also all the DLC and free content for both titles. Oh, and the game will support 4K and 60fps. Also included are colourblind mode and scaling-difficulty assist mode.

Overcooked and Overcooked 2 are widely regarded as the best party games involving team-ups and possible friendship-ending moments. For more on party games, head here.


Star Wars Jedi Fallen Order Pays Heartwarming Tribute To Late LucasArts Veteran

Star Wars Jedi Fallen Order is a game that’s a love letter to more than 40 years of Star Wars, with easter eggs and references hidden in every explorable nook and cranny. One of the developers who worked on the game has revealed that he paid tribute to his late father in one of those aforementioned easter eggs.
Respawn Entertainment level designer Nicholas Cameron shared the heartwarming story of the tribute in the game to his father, who passed away last year, on his Twitter. Hi father, Martin â€œBuckyâ€ Cameron, was a veteran developer at LucasArts, who worked on many of the company’s legendary classics in the 90s, from Monkey IslandÂ toÂ X-WingÂ toÂ Tie FighterÂ toÂ Secret Weapons of the Luftwaffe.
In Star Wars Jedi Fallen Order, players can find the tribute on “an iconic snowy planet”, which I won’t reveal to avoid spoiling the game. The tribute is in the form of a Force Echo in the game, where Cameron’s father is referred to in-game as Jedi Master Mar Ti “Bucky” Kamâ€™Ron, which will now be immortalized in Star Wars canon forever.
While playing the game myself, I discovered the Force Echo tribute, though I didn’t know the meaning behind it at the time. However, I did wonder why the Jedi Master’s name was so weird (I mean, relatively weirder than Jedi names usually are). Now I know, and it adds even more value to a game that’s already brilliant.

My dad’s real name is Martin Cameron, Bucky to his friends, and he passed away early last year.
He lived an amazing life and losing him has been hard. But one neat thing I’d like to share, is that he’s why I got into games!
â€” Nicholas G Cameron (@RamblingCameron) November 19, 2019

Star Wars Jedi Fallen Order is available now for the PS4, Xbox One, and PC. As an avid Star Wars fan, I find the game to be not only one of the best games in 2019 but also one of the best Star Wars games ever made. Find out why in my in-depth review here.


Cyberpunk Exploration Game NeonLore Launches Next Week

Playstige Interactive has announced that free form exploration game NeonLore will be coming to Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, PS5 and Nintendo Switch on 20 April 2022.
NeonLore is a first-person free-form exploration game. You’ll meet interesting characters and discover what has happened to the human race in the near future.
In NeonLore, you will solve puzzles and encounter various characters and learn about their past life, dreams, and fears and get a chance to discover deeper about the social transformations that have impacted human life in the 21st century. You will also have access to 4 different audiobooks that contain 4 different cyber-punk-themed novels, written exclusively for this game by sci-fi authors. You will enjoy listening to them while continuing to explore the vistas.
You can discover the world at your own pace, as there is no failing or quests. The game features beautiful, cyber-punk themed environments, where you can meet 40 different characters and learn about their backgrounds.
Check out the trailer below:


Infinix HOT 30 Series Collabs With Free Fire For An Enhanced Gaming Experience

Infinix today globally launches the HOT 30 series, consisting of the HOT 30 and HOT 30i models. The series has undergone significant upgrades to its processor, screen, fast charging, and video features. In collaboration with Free Fire, one of the most downloaded mobile games worldwide, Infinix has customized its series for an immersive gaming experience, enhancing both software and hardware dimensions.
The partnership between Infinix and Free Fire further enhances gaming entertainment through joint tuning and delivers a thrilling as well as competitive gaming experience to a young and fashionable audience. To promote the spirit of “BOOYAH NOW”, both parties will hold several activities, including a TikTok challenge that will encourage users to share their in-game highlights and stimulate creativity.
Eric Zheng, HOT Series Product Director at Infinix, said:
“Infinix understands the needs of the younger generation and prioritizes the combination of product performance with in-depth game entertainment in its HOT series, which resonates with young consumers globally. This aligns well with Free Fire’s global pool of players.
The partnership between Infinix and Free Fire goes beyond product innovation to cultivate an entertainment lifestyle for young people. Together, they aim to establish deeper connections with young people worldwide through innovative products and creative co-branding activities, encouraging them to ‘play together’ and experience the joy of competition brought by the new HOT 30 series.”
The HOT 30 is designed to provide an immersive gaming experience, powered by the MediaTek Helio G88 eight-core processor. With two strong ARM Cortex A75 cores and a maximum frequency of 2.0GHz, it ensures smooth gameplay. In addition, Infinix’s self-developed memory expansion technology can double memory efficiency from 8GB to 16GB, enabling quick game startup and multitasking. The 6.78-inch screen boasts a 90Hz refresh rate, 270Hz touch sampling rate, and DRE dark area enhancement technology. It also has a maximum brightness of 600nit, allowing users to play in outdoor sunlight with a clear view of the screen.
Infinix’s collaboration with Free Fire showcases the enhanced technology of the HOT 30, which adds intelligent sensing load scenarios and phased matching cooling strategies to stabilize the game under high image quality and high frame rate conditions. The Co-branded HOT 30 has also undergone exclusive customization, including wallpapers, icon widgets and sound effects to enhance user experience. Additionally, the phone features a unique AR self-portrait playing method using the rear and front camera, allowing users to create interesting self-portraits with Free Fire game characters for more fun.

Infinix and Free Fire’s partnership goes beyond the phone’s system, extending to unique customized packages that offer additional benefits to gamers, such as customized phone cases, card pins, hats, and stickers. The HOT 30 features a thin and light design with a glass-like texture which is smooth to the touch. It also has 33W super-fast charging and a 5000mAh battery for long battery life, a 50-megapixel camera with enhanced night scene effect, and DTS dual speakers for surround dynamic sound.[Text Wrapping Break]
Free Fire is a highly popular tactical and competitive mobile battle royale game that has been in operation since 2017. The title continues to be one of the top-ranking games globally. The partnership between Infinix and Free Fire marks a new stage of development, with plans for joint marketing activities, including a TikTok Challenge where players can upload their game highlights and stand to win mobile phone prizes. Infinix and Free Fire will also hold a Co-Lab theme collection activity, inviting users to create wallpapers for the HOT 30. More details on activities will be shared on the official Infinix social media channels.
For more information about the Infinix HOT 30 series collaboration with Free Fire in Malaysia, stay tuned to Infinix Malaysia’s official website, Facebook page, Instagram page and  TikTok channel.


Venom Sequel Swings To Summer 2021

The Venom sequel everyone’s been waiting for (sort of) is delayed from 2nd October to 25th June, 2021. Also, it’s getting a new title: Venom – Let There Be Carnage.
The film will be directed by Andy Serkis and will star Tom Hardy, Michelle Williams, and Woody Harrelson. They will be playing Eddie Brock, Anne Weying, and Cletus Kasady respectively. Naomie Harris will play the villain Shriek.
One would think that with the first Venom’s low average that the film would bomb. On the contrary, it grossed over US$800 million worldwide, with most of it coming from China thanks to its “clever” marketing of the symbiote.
Venom: Let There Be Carnage is the latest film Sony Pictures will be postponing. The other films that got the pushback due to COVID-19 include Uncharted, Morbius, and Ghostbusters: Afterlife.


Kakuchopurei’s Best of 2019: What The Golf?

As time goes by, it becomes harder and harder to create something original. The act of surprising people in video games takes a lot of effort and creativity.
Now imagine a game that surprises consistently for at least an entire hour. What the Golf? does exactly that.

Describing the premise of What the Golf is easy. You win by hitting the ball and getting it to enter a hole. Play the game for at least a few more minutes and you start hitting golf clubs, houses, and even cars into holes. The longer you play the game, the more ridiculous the levels get.
To say that What the Golf is funny would be an understatement. The game is absolutely hilarious. There are many moments where you’ll think the game has just hit its limit on being insane and then it proceeds to let you play tennis using the golfing mechanics you’ve been using in the past few hours.

Being an indie game, What the Golf will not burn a hole in your pocket. It’s priced at US$9.99 (~RM42) on the Epic Games Store for PC players. Those of you who have an Apple device can play it by subscribing to Apple Arcade.
Believe me, this is the best ten dollars you’ll ever spend on a video game. The fact that the developers are also responsible for making the Game Awards 2019 a bit tolerable for everyone via a harmless prank also adds to their sincerity in making all of us truly hate golf even more.


Tekken 7 Celebrates Recent Sales Numbers With Kickass Artwork

It’s a beautiful day for this generation’s top 3D fighting game featuring oodles of guest characters.
Tekken producer Katsuhiro Harada mentioned on Twitter that Tekken 7 has achieved over 5 million sales worldwide since December of last year. This brings the total copies of Tekken games sold worldwide to 49 million. Congratulations!
To celebrate, he tweeted this piece of art for all to see, coupled with some tidbits…

…like Harada-san hiding in this corner…

…and Ganryu looking for his crush…

…and the Tekken bears looking confused, as all animals should be in a dinner party.

On a side note, the Tekken World Tour 2020 will be featuring more than 30 events and hold its finals in the US. One of the stops in the world tour include the Philippines’ own REV Major on 5th-6th September. Check out the hype trailer below.


Hawkeye Trailer Breakdown & Easter Eggs

Disney+ and Marvel Studios have finally unveiled the first trailer for the upcoming Hawkeye series. HawkeyeÂ will premiere onÂ 24 November 2021.
Itâ€™s a very interesting trailer and the ComicsLord is here to dissect whatâ€™s happening.
Letâ€™s check it out:
Hawkeye Takes Place After Avengers Endgame

This might just be me being Captain Obvious but the trailer confirms that Hawkeye takes place after Avengers Endgame.
In the trailer, Clint Barton AKA Hawkeye’s daughter says that “this is the first Christmas we’ve had together in years”.
Rogers The Musical Is A Musical About The Life Of Steve Rogers

In the trailer, we can see that the latest and hottest Broadway theatre show is… Rogers The Musical?
It looks like Steve Rogers might really be dead after all, or at least officially retired, especially since someone’s made a musical out of his life.
A Ronin Copycat Is Actively Hunting Criminals And It’s None Other Than Kate Bishop

Clint has to put his family in hiding again to find out who the new Ronin is and it turns out to be Kate Bishop.
In the comics, Kate Bishop never took the Ronin mantle, but it looks like that will change in the MCU.
It’s Lucky The Pizza Dog, Just Like In The Comics

We catch a glimpse of Lucky The Pizza Dog, who also appeared in the Hawkeye run by Matt Fraction and David Aja (see more on that below).
Meet Maya Lopez AKA Echo (Alaqua Cox), The Real Ronin

In the comics, the first person to ever take on the Ronin mantle was actually Maya Lopez, a Native American character who is also deaf. She later takes on the superhero moniker, Echo, with multiple other people adopting Ronin.
In the MCU, Clint Barton was the first Ronin, but it seems very likely that Maya Lopez AKA Echo (as played by deaf Native American actress Alaqua Cox) will be officially picking up the mantle next.
A Glimpse At Eleanor Bishop (Played By Vera Farmiga)

This character is Eleanor Bishop, who is Kate Bishop’s mother. She is played by Vera Farmiga, whom you might recognise from The Conjuring films.
The Font Used For The Series Title Is Just Like The Comics That Inspired It

Yup, I love that the Hawkeye series is paying tribute to the comics like this.
The Hawkeye Disney+ Series Is Inspired By Matt Fraction and David Aja’s Comics

Those who have read Matt Fraction and David Ajaâ€™s Hawkeye run will recognize the dog in the Hawkeye trailer as Lucky the Pizza Dog, their trusty companion.

To get ready for the upcoming series, you should probably read Matt Fraction and David Ajaâ€™s whole 2012 to 2015 run, whichÂ you can check out here.
Thatâ€™s all I have to say for now based on this one Hawkeye trailer that weâ€™ve received so far. You can watch the trailer below:
Jeremy Renner will reprise his role as Clint Barton and Hailee Steinfeld will portray his protege, Kate Bishop, who is set to become the next Hawkeye of the Young Avengers.
They will be joined by Florence Pugh who will be reprising her role as Yelena Belova from the upcomingÂ Black WidowÂ movie, as well as five others who will play brand new characters.
This includes the following:

Vera Farmiga â€“ Eleanor BishopÂ (the mother of Kate Bishop).
Fra Fee â€“ KaziÂ (also known as a supervillain named Clown).
Tony Dalton â€“ Jack DuquesneÂ (also known as The Swordsman, the anti-hero/villain/Avenger who trained Hawkeye in the comics).
Alaqua Cox â€“ Maya LopezÂ (also known as the hero named Echo).
Zahn McClarnon â€“ William Lopez.

Check out the official trailer and poster below:


Dead Island 2 Trailer Features New Gameplay & Zombie Mode

Deep Silver and Dambuster Studios just launched a new Dead Island 2 showcase.
In the new trailer, we get to see new gameplay full of parkour, exploring, vistas of “Hell-A” California, and a ton of zombies and melee kills, naturally. This is a zombie apocalypse, after all.
You’ll get access to a ton of weaponry like bear claws, hammers, and guns. Taking a page from Dead Rising, you can even craft your own DIY weapons of mayhem. You can even temporarily use “Z-Power” to become a powered-up zombie, where you’re faster and a tad more powerful. Yeah, this is all starting to look like Dying Light but with bit more dark humour.
Plus, you get to control the game using Alexa Game Control; this feature is only available on Xbox and PC in English for the US, Canada, and United Kingdom markets.
You can get a special Hell-A edition of the game which comes with the following:

Exclusive SteelBook with game disc
Expansion Pass
Venice Beach Travel Map
6 x Slayer Tarot Cards
2 x Pin Badges
1 x Patch
Golden Weapons Pack
Pulp Weapons Pack
Character Packs 1 & 2

If you pre-order the game, you’ll receive a Memories of Banoi Pack, which features two unique weapons that celebrate the original Dead Island game and a special skill card. Dead Island 2 will be out on 28 April for Xbox Series, Xbox One, PS5, PS4, and PC (Epic Games Store).


New Xbox Series X Boot-Up Sequence Revealed Ahead Of Live Stream Tomorrow

One of the biggest joys of anticipating each new console generation is seeing the boot-up or start-up screen for the first time, along with a sound that you will soon listen to every time you turn it on. For instance, the original PlayStation start-up sound remains one of the most iconic.
Ahead of the Inside Xbox live stream later tonight, Microsoft has revealed the start-up screen and sound for the Xbox Series X. It’s definitely more subtle and modern compared to that of the Xbox One’s flashier one.
Check out the Xbox Series X start-up sequence below.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RzkvucOWM2s&w=560&h=315]
You can compare that with the start-up sequences of the previous generations of Xbox consoles below, from the Xbox One to the original Xbox.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nPfl8SohBLc&w=560&h=315]
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9YdpClPmvfA&w=560&h=315]
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mmrpCA_-fKA&w=560&h=315]
Our first look at Assassin’s Creed Valhalla gameplay and more Xbox Series X content will be showcased during the Inside Xbox presentation later tonight at 8am PT on 7 May 2020,Â or 11pm GMT+8 on the same day for Southeast Asian countries like Malaysia.


We Unbox Samsung’s Latest Flagship Smartphone Of 2021

The Samsung Galaxy A52 is coming to Malaysia & Southeast Asia soon. Here’s a quick look at what to expect from inside the box.

Features? This Samsung phone’s got them!

Multi-lens camera system with 64MP main camera + OIS camera + ultrawide camera
IP67, dust and water-resistant
Four colours: black, white, violet, blue
FHD+ Super AMOLED display
Price tag starting from RM1,499
Surround sound
4,500mAh battery
Octa-core processor, 8GB RAM, 256GB storage (up to 1TB)

Stay tuned to Kakuchopurei for the full review of this beast.


[Rumour] WWE Has Been Purchased By Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund

A new report has claimed that the World Wrestling Entertainment AKA the WWE has been sold to Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund. According to Steven Muehlhausen of DAZN Wrestling, as a result of this alleged acquisition, the WWE “will go back to being private” for the first time since it originally became a publicly traded company back in October 1999.
There are also rumours of Vince McMahon returning as the head of creative at WWE after news of Stephani McMachon stepping down earlier today and following the news that Vince McMahon had been unanimously elected the Executive Chairman of the WWE Board of Directors.
We should take all of this with a grain of salt for now, considering that there haven’t been any official announcements. However, Saudi Arabia acquiring shares in big companies isn’t anything new. There have been many instances of that over the past few years, including investing in Nintendo, Capcom and Nexon, as well as Activision Blizzard, EA, Take-Two and even SNK.
If the reports of Saudi Arabia purchasing WWE are true, what this means is that future WWE content, including video games, will be backed by Saudi Arabian money. It’s unclear how else WWE will be affected for now.
[Update 12/1/2022] What we do know is that several current WWE talents could 100% exit the company if the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund deal goes through. These include Syrian-Canadian wrestler Sami Zayn and best friend Kevin Owens.


New Star Wars Black Series Showcases The Clone Wars

To celebrate the 50th anniversary of Lucasfilm (not the Star Wars franchise, but the company that was founded by George Lucas), Hasbro has announced a special 50th anniversary 6â€³ Star WarsÂ Black Series action figures based on the Star Wars The Clone Wars animated series (via Nerdist).
These include Jedi Knights Anakin Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi, as well as Republic Clone Troopers Echo and Hawk. Each figure stands at 6 inches tall and feature premium deco, as well as multiple points of articulation and come in unique Star Wars The Clone Wars-themed packaging. Each figure is priced at US$24.99.
Check out Anakin Skywalker in his Star Wars The Clone Wars design below:

Check out General Obi-Wan Kenobi below:

Check out Clone Trooper pilot Hawk below, who can be seen in Star Wars The Clone WarsÂ episodes like â€œThe Hidden Enemyâ€ and â€œDarkness on Umbara.â€

Check out Clone Trooper Echo below, who will next be seen in the upcoming Star Wars The Bad Batch animated series.

All of the above Star Wars Black Series figures are slated to ship sometime in summer 2021.


Winter Is Here In New Game Of Thrones Season 8 Trailer

The first full-length trailer for Game of Thrones season 8 has arrived, one month ahead of its upcoming premiere on 14 April 2019. The new trailer for the final season of HBO’s fantasy series sets the stage for an epic finale, the likes of which has never been seen in the history of television. It arrives hot on the heels of a short teaser which released earlier in January 2019.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rlR4PJn8b8I&w=560&h=315]
The trailer begins with Arya Stark frantically running from something or someone in what looks like the crypts beneath Winterfell. Her voiceover sets the tone for the entire trailer: “I know death. He’s got many faces. I look forward to seeing this one.” she says while holding a dragonglass dagger in hand.
Arya Stark.
The next scene sees the Greyjoy fleet transporting the mercenary legions of the Golden Company from across the Narrow Sea to Westeros. Back in season 7, Cersei Lannister commanded Euron Greyjoy to recruit them for an as-of-yet uncertain purpose.
Greyjoy fleet.
The Golden Company.
Tormund Giantsbane, Lord Commander of the Night’s Watch Dolorous Edd, and Lightning Lord Beric Dondarrion somehow survived the onslaught of the white walkers and the Night King’s ice dragon in season 7.

Bran is with Samwell Tarly, as he says, “Everything you did brought you to where you are now.”
Bran Stark / Three-Eyed Raven.
Samwell Tarly.
Meanwhile, Cersei is seen with the Mountain and Qyburn by her side at King’s Landing.
From left to right: Ser Gregor Clegane (The Mountain), Cersei Lannister, Maester Qyburn.
Daenerys, Jon Snow, and the Unsullied march to the north.
Daenerys Targaryen, Jon Snow, and the Unsullied.
Sansa Stark stands bewildered by the remaining two dragons; Drogon and Rhaegal.

About the Night King and the white walkers, Jon says:

They’re coming. Our enemy doesn’t tire. Doesn’t stop. Doesn’t feel.

Gendry prepares the weapons and armor needed for the fateful battle.
Gendry.
Ser Jorah Mormont looks forlorn in the face of the oncoming battle.
Ser Jorah Mormont.
Grey Worm and Missandei kiss, perhaps for the very last time.
Missandei and Grey Worm.
Jaimie Lannister screams amidst what will probably be almost insurmountable odds.
Jaimie Lannister.
It’s The Hound. Cleganebowl, anyone?
Sandor Clegane (The Hound)
Tyrion appears at the end of the trailer.
Tyrion Lannister.
There’s still much that we don’t know about the final season of Game of Thrones. What we do know is that it will contain only six episodes, one of which will feature the longest cinematic battle in history.
Miguel Sapochnik, who directed GoT episodes ‘Hardhome’ and ‘Battle of the Bastards’, claimed in an interview withÂ Entertainment Weekly that the Battle of Winterfell featured in Game of Thrones season 8 will be even bigger than The Lord of The Rings: The Two Towers’ iconic Battle of Helms Deep sequence.
Game of Thrones will certainly change the very definition of the epicness when it premieres next month.
According to HBO Asia, the first episode of Game of Thrones Season 8 will debut at the same time as the U.S. on Monday, 15 April at 9am, with a same-day encore at 10pm, exclusively on HBO (Astro Ch 411 / 431 HD).
For those who miss it on TV, it will also be available on HBO On Demand (via Astro Go). Every subsequent episode will premiere on Monday at the same time stated above.


Riders Republic To Offer Limited-Time Trial Starting Later This Week

Ubisoft has announced that Riders Republic, the upcoming massive multiplayer outdoor sports playground, will offer a worldwide time-limited Trial Week from 21 October to 27 October 2021Â on Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, PS5, as well as PC through Ubisoft Connect PC and the Epic Games Store.
During the Riders Republic time-limited Trial Week, players can shred through four hours of the game before its official launch on 28 October 2021. Progression during time-limited Trial Week will carry over to any edition of the game, so players can pick up right where they left off at launch.
Additionally, players will be invited to participate in the Mad Challenge: a multiplayer contest that offers players a chance to win rewards. To participate, players will first need to finish the onboarding and reach 20 stars to unlock the ShackDaddyâ€™s â€œExclusive Multiplayer Contestâ€ to access the mass race.

Players who place in the top 10 in a mass race will be entered in a random draw, where one player will win a custom Canyon x Riders Republic bike and a Gold Edition of Riders Republic. Additional winners will also receive a Gold Edition of Riders Republic. To sign up for the Mad Challenge, please visit:Â https://ridersrepublic.com/madchallenge
The time-limited Trial Week will feature all five career progressions and multiplayer modes:

Mass Race:Â The crazier the better in these epic, multisport races. During the time-limited Trial Week only, to guarantee that all participants of the Riders Republic – Mad Challenge have the same experience, Mass Racers will be capped up to 32 players for a better equity between new and current generations of consoles / PCs as crossplay will be enabled. New races appear randomly on the map every 30 minutes, so players will need to get ready to watch their blind spots, protect their position and remain agile with their skills as they fight their way to the finish line. The time-limited Trial Week will feature up to three different Mass Races.
Tricks Battle:Â Players willÂ compete in 6v6 matchups in arenas and try to land as many tricks as possible on the various modules to capture them and earn points. The team with the highest score wins.
Free For All:Â In this mode, players can challenge up to 11 opponents and show them how itâ€™s done through a select playlist of exciting events.
Versus Mode:Â Players can join up with five friends in career events and see whoâ€™s the very best.

Players looking for even more Riders Republic content can pre-order the Gold and Ultimate Editions**now:

Gold EditionÂ includes the base game and the Year One Pass including eight exotic kits that allow players to modify gameplay in the form of gear upgrades throughout the year; the BMX Sport add-on and exclusive content added after launch. The Rocket Bike and Rocket Ski exotic kits will be available at launch.
Ultimate EditionÂ includes the base game and the Year One Pass as well as four exclusive cosmetic packs: Cosmic, Rainbow, Neon and Skullâ€™n Style. Players will also enjoy 20 helicopter tickets to reach their favorite in-game summits faster than ever.

Players who pre-order Riders Republic will receive the Bunny Pack** including a cute custom bunny outfit, an additional blue bunny head and rainbow snowboard paint.


Spider-Man: No Way Home Hits Digital This March

Spider-Man’s latest adventure last year will be out in digital and on home releases form next month.
Spider-Man: No Way Home will hit digital on 22 March and 4K UHD and Blu-Ray on 4 April. This reveal was done with a pretty tongue-in-check reference to the Spider-Man clone meme.

Of course, we got THE meme. #SpiderManNoWayHome swings home on Digital 22 March and on 4K UHD & Blu-ray on 4 April! pic.twitter.com/7OAd1Zwibh
— Sony Pictures UK ? (@SonyPicturesUK) February 23, 2022

The aforementioned releases will feature bloopers and a gag reel, alternate reality EasterÂ  Eggs, seven behind-the-scenes featurettes, two panel chats featuring Willem Dafoe, Alfred Molina, and Jamie Foxx, and many more.
This Spider-Man movie might be Tom Holland’s last Spider-Man role according to an Entertainment Weekly interview.Â
“We’ve had conversations about the potential future of Spider-Man, but at the moment they are conversations. We don’t know what the future looks like.”


These Genshin Impact Capsule Figures Are Goshdarn Cute!

Need a pocket-sized husbando, waifu, or Paimon who isn’t a constant chatty Cathy? Then you’ll want to get these Genshin Impact Capsule Figures from anime product conglomerate Bushiroad.
These tiny 35mm figures will look good on any shelf space or anywhere you deem fit. You’ll get a choice of either the Male Traveler, Female Traveler, Paimon, Amber, Venti, Diluc, and Klee (based on the obvious silhouette).

Each of them cost 400 yen (RM15), while a box set will cost you 2,640 yen (RM100+). Yes, it’s totally worth it for these bundles of adorableness, though you’ll have to wait a while. These figurines will only be shipped out on August 2021. In the meantime, pre-order them here.
By the way, help support us by getting your Genshin Impact Primogems & Genesis Crystals here.


Ghost of Tsushima Is Coming To Defeat The Mongols This June

Updated 6/3/2020:
The Ghost Of Tsushima Digital Standard Edition will be priced at RM249, while the Digital Deluxe Edition will be RM299.
Pricing for the Special and Collector’s Edition will be announced at a later date.
Ghost Of Tsushima will feature the option of both English and Japanese audio dubs.
Pre-orders are now open on the PlayStation Asia PSN store.

Sucker Punch Productions has finally announced the release date for the highly-anticipated Ghost Of Tsushima, and it is slated to launch exclusively for the PS4 on 26 June 2020. Alongside the release date, the developer has also unveiled a brand new story trailer for the upcoming game.
The new Ghost Of Tsushima trailer showcases protagonist Jin Sakai, as well as the allies and enemies that players will be encountering in the game. The first is Jinâ€™s uncle, Shimura, the Jito (lord) of Tsushima and a father figure to Jin.

He has trained Jin since childhood in the traditional ways of the samurai but grows increasingly concerned by the tactics Jin resorts to in the process of becoming The Ghost in order to fight the Mongols.
The second important character featured in the trailer is antagonist Khotun Khan, the leader of the invading Mongol army and a ruthless, cunning enemy who uses everything he knows about the samurai to try to destroy them.

Ghost Of Tsushima Editions & Pre-Order Bonuses

Sucker Punch Productions has also revealed the multiple editions and pre-order bonuses for Ghost Of Tsushima.
Firstly, those who pre-order any edition will receive bonuses including:

A Jin avatar
A digital mini soundtrack featuring select songs from the game
A Jin PS4 dynamic theme based on the game’s box art.

Meanwhile, the Ghost Of Tsushima Digital Deluxe Edition will come with a digital copy of the game along with the Hero of Tsushima skin set, which provides the following additional items:

An extra in-game horse, saddle, mask, sword, and armour set for Jin.
The Charm of Hachimanâ€™s Favor in-game item.
One technique point.
Samurai PS4 dynamic theme.
A digital mini art book by Dark Horse
Directorâ€™s Commentary.

The Ghost Of Tsushima Special Edition will include:

A SteelBook case.
A voucher for an in-game Hero of Tsushima mask and sword skin.
The Charm of Hachimanâ€™s Favor in-game item.
One technique point.
A digital mini art book by Dark Horse.
Directorâ€™s Commentary.

Last but not least, there’s the Ghost Of Tsushima Collector’s Edition, which includes:

A replica mask re-creation of the one that Jin wears in the game (made from polyresin). Itâ€™s heavy and not meant to be worn, but it comes with an individually-numbered display stand so players can keep it on a shelf.
A Sashimono (war banner) just like players will see in the game, which is nearly 4.5 feet long.
A traditional-style furoshiki (wrapping cloth).
A SteelBook case.
A physical 48-page mini art book by Dark Horse.
An artistic rendition of our full world map printed on cloth.
A voucher for all of the digital content from the Digital Deluxe Edition listed above.

Ghost Of Tsushima will release only about two weeks after E3 2020, which is still planned to take place from 9 to 11 June 2020. This game looks like it’ll be a game-changer for Sony ahead of the PS5 launch later this year.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rTNfgIAi3pY&w=560&h=315]


The New Xbox Series X Controller Looks Familiar…

While gamers have arguably been more hyped for the PS5 compared to the Xbox Series X, you can’t deny that Microsoft has been gradually revealing more official information about their upcoming next-gen console than Sony has.
Earlier today, Microsoft has finally unveiled the first next-gen controller design, beating the PS5’s to the punch. On its official website, Xbox Senior Designer Ryan Whitaker unveiled more details about the new Xbox Series X controller.

According to Whitaker, the new Xbox Series X controller will fit a wider range of hand sizes, especially smaller hands. This is an improvement over the older Xbox controllers, which have all been generally suited for larger hands.

However, the biggest and most exciting major difference is the new Xbox Series X controller’s new D-pad, which will apparently “boost performance and accessibility” and was inspired by the last-gen Xbox One Elite controller’s D-pad.

In addition, the new Xbox Series X controller will support cross-compatibility between consoles and platforms, as well as something called Dynamic Latency Input (DLI), which improves reaction times with what’s happening on-screen.
USB-C on the bottom of the controller.
Emulating the PS4’s Dualshock 4, the new Xbox Series X controller will feature a Share button (for screenshots or recording video footage) and a tactile dot pattern on the triggers and bumpers (to provide more grip). Last but not least, the D-pad, bumpers, and triggers now have a matte finish.
Xbox Series X Controller’s Share Button.
Tactile dot pattern on the grips.
I personally think that these changes are good enough for a next-gen controller. Microsoft may have added a new button and a new D-pad, but you know what they say; if it ain’t broken, don’t fix it. They essentially took the Xbox One Elite controller design elements and incorporated them into a new one.
The old Xbox One Elite controller.
For more information and the latest news on the Xbox Series X, head on over here.


FIFA Online 4’s EA Champions Cup Summer 2022 – Teams & Dates

The inter-Asian esports tournament for EA Sports FIFA Online 4, EA Champions Cup Summer 2022 (EACC) is only two weeks away and will be hosted online by both Electonic Arts (EA) and ONE Esports.
The tournament will run from 15 August to 21 August and will be broadcast across China, Korea, Thailand and Vietnam, featuring 12 teams competing over a week of intense competition for a total US$100,000 prize pool.
Inaugurating in 2014 as the FIFA Online 3 Spearhead Invitational, the tournament was the first-ever international FIFA Online esports competition. It later evolved into the Asian Cup in 2015, finally becoming the EA Champions Cup in 2016. Since then, it has brought together the best professional FIFA Online 4 teams twice a year, in a battle to become the champions of Asia.
EVENT FORMAT

Three teams from each participating country – China, Korea, Thailand and Vietnam – each consisting of three to four players, will battle it out in a two-sided double-elimination style bracket.
During this double-elimination bracket, each matchup will be played in a Best-of-5 format, meaning that teams must win at least three games out of the maximum five games played to advance. Both teams in the matchup will nominate a different individual athlete for each of the first three games.
For the optionally required games four and five, the athletes from games one, two, and three can be re-nominated. As a result, a single athlete can only compete in a maximum of two games during a single matchup between two FIFA Online 4 teams, putting a greater focus on the performance and tactics of the entire team
SCHEDULE
PLAYOFFS – LEFT HALF
Dates: 15–17 August
Start Time: 4:00 PM (GMT+8)
PLAYOFFS – RIGHT HALF
Dates: 19–20 August
Start Time: 5:00 PM (GMT+8)
SEMIFINAL & GRAND FINAL
Dates: 21 August
Start Time: 4:00 PM (GMT+8)
TEAMS
CHINA

Wolves
Nova Esports
Manchester City

SOUTH KOREA

Freecs
Daejeon Hana Citizen
Crazy Win

THAILAND

GRATZ
MiTR Coffee
NRsports Team

VIETNAM

ProGamer
DIH Esport
Tony Tonyy

WHERE TO WATCH?
English: YouTube / Facebook
Mandarin: Bilibili / Douyu / Huya / Weibo
Korean: AfreecaTV / Nexon / YouTube
Thai: AfreecaTV / Facebook
Vietnamese: AfreecaTV / Facebook


Here’s Your First Gameplay Look At Street Fighter 6 Rashid

Street Fighter 5’s Turbulent Wind is back in Street Fighter 6, and we have new gameplay to prove it.
Rashid, the rushdown fighter with the power of wind, is going to be the first post-launch Street Fighter 6 character. Just like in part 5, he fights with a mix of parkour and lightning-quick moves. He’s also one of the few characters in the game with a run.
Here’s what he has for part 6:

Arabian Cyclone: A new special move that performs a spinning kick and conjures up a whirlwind; can be used as a standalone blow, or transitioned into Rolling Assault or Wing Stroke.
Arabian Skyhigh: A new double jump move that keeps opponents guessing where Rashid will land from the air.
Super Rashid Kick: Level 1 Super Art that unloads a devastating kick while soaring forward and up through the air.
Ysaar: Previously Rashid’s V-Trigger move in Street Fighter 5, this Level 2 Super Art summons a slow-moving whirlwind projectile that can be used to pressure opponents.
Altair: Rashid’s Level 3 Super Art calls forth a tempest that lifts opponents before he rains down on them with a monsoon of powerful blows.

Rashid will be available in the game on 24 July. Street Fighter 6 is available right now for PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series, and Xbox One.


Former TI Champion Permabanned By Valve

Last year, several Newbee players were accused of match-fixing, and the team was banned by ImbaTV and the ChineseÂ Dota 2Â Professional Association (CDA). As a result, they would be unable to compete in any domestic tournaments, but theyâ€™d still be able to compete in tournaments organized by Valve.
However, that has changed.
The Dota 2Â official Weibo account released a statement earlier today (via PCGamer) saying the squadâ€™s former members, Xu â€œMoogyâ€ Han, Yin â€œAqâ€ Rui, Wen â€œWizardâ€ Lipeng, Yan â€œWaixiâ€ Chao, and TI2 champion Zeng â€œFaithâ€ Hongda, have been permanently banned from participating in Valve and Perfect World events, effective immediately.
The statement reads:
“Perfect World and Valve have decided to permanently ban the Newbee Club and five players. The suspended clubs and players will not be allowed to participate in the official DOTA2 events hosted by Valve and Perfect World E-sports.”
It’s worth pointing out that Hongda Zeng was a member of the Invictus Gaming team that won The International in 2012.
Meanwhile, Team Newbee won The International in 2014 and was runner-up in 2017.
Those will never happen again, ever.
Perfect World isÂ Dota 2â€™sÂ official distributor in the Chinese region.
The first allegations of match-fixing came in February 2020, when the formerÂ Newbee squad played against AvengerlsÂ during the StarLadder ImbaTV Minor.
Former captain of the team and TI winner Zhang â€œxiao8â€ Ning even commented:
“If Avengerls didnâ€™t fix this match, I’ll eat shit.”


Bandai Namco Opens Their First Official Gashapon Shop In Malaysia; Find Out Why

If you grew up loving Gashapon machines and the capsule toys they churn out, then good news! Because Bandai Namco, has opened its first-ever gashapon shop in Southeast Asia at IOI City Mall Putrajaya, Selangor, Malaysia.
You’ll get to enjoy high-quality gashapon that are a cut above the usual cheap and low-quality toys you’d find in the machines that we grew up with. In fact, some gashapon are so rare that they’re considered collector’s items and fetch extremely high prices in secondhand markets.

The new store is located at L3-2-1, IOI City Mall Putrajaya 2, Gashapon Bandai Official Shop and features over 300 capsule machines, giving you plenty of options to choose from to start your own Japanese figurine collection. You’ll find gashapon from popular anime, manga, and tokusatsu franchises like Spy x Family, Pokémon, Doraemon, Jujutsu Kaisen, One Piece, and Ultraman.
Bandai gives tremendous props to their local partners KC Distribution and Pocket Ventures for making this happen so quick and is looking forward to the journey ahead.
The tokens cost RM5 each with prices for normal gashapon ranging from RM15-RM35, while premium gashapon will cost between RM35-RM125.
We were also fortunate enough to have a quick chat with Bandai Namco’s very own Futoshi Tagawa (General Manager) and Tetsuo Tomizawa (Manager in BCL Capsule & Small Toy Business Department) and asked them some questions regarding their plans for the future.
Tetsuo Tomizawa (Left); Futoshi Tagawa (Right)
Why did Bandai choose Malaysia as its first official store in Southeast Asia & what roles do the partners play?
Tetsuo Tomizawa: Actually we don’t only plan to Gashapon shops in Asia but all over the world. When we developed the plan, we needed a partner in each region. So we contacted KC Distribution and Pocket Ventures. Because they were so responsive and passionate about opening this shop, we were able to proceed smoothly and open this shop first.
Futoshi Tagawa: When developing, we had a lot of partners, but Pocket Ventures solely focuses on Gashapon businesses and we never worked with a partner like that.
Gashapon has been around since the 1960s, so why would Bandai launch its official store in 2023?
Tetsuo Tomizawa: Last year in 2022, it was our [Bandai Namco] 45th anniversary and to celebrate that we developed a Gashapon shop similar to this in Japan and it was a big success, and that’s why we are expanding this franchise.
In the upcoming future, does Bandai Gashapon planning to add additional stores across Malaysia?
Tetsuo Tomizawa: We already have some plans to expand in Malaysia. So in the near future, you can expect to see more shops in-and-around Kuala Lumpur.
What’s Bandai’s goal with these types of shops?
Futoshi Tagawa: Our end goal is to not only have these types of shops in Asia but all over the world. So that everyone everywhere can get to experience Gashapon.


Asian Kung-Fu Generation Is Coming To Jakarta This August

Japanese band Asian Kung-Fu Generation is performing at the Tennis Indoor Senayan, Jakarta, Indonesia, on 18 August 2023.
It will be their only Southeast Asian stop, so they won’t be coming to Malaysia, Singapore or other SEA countries.
It was announced on Twitter.

Asian Kung-Fu Generation is a Japanese alt-rock band best known for many songs being featured in iconic anime.
These include…
Naruto.

Bleach.

Fullmetal Alchemist.

My Hero Academia.

Bocchi The Rock.


Assassin’s Creed Valhalla Update Adds New Mastery Challenge & Skills

In the latest update for Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, the game adds Mastery Challenge, which introduces replayable trials to test your expertise against Melee, Range, and Stealth objectives.
PATCH SIZES AND DEPLOYMENT TIMING:
Xbox Series X/S: 18.7 GB
Xbox One: 13.5 GB
PS5: 5.32 GB
PS4: 5-13 GB (depending on region)
PC: 14.14 GB
Check out below for the most notable Title Update 1.2.2 changes.
NEW CONTENT
OSTARA SEASON: MASTERY CHALLENGE GAME MODE
We added in-game support for Mastery Challenge.

A Master of an ancient art sends you on a Quest to prove your might through trials that will transcend the rules of reality.
Trial of the BearÂ = Test your strength (combat)
Trial of the WolfÂ = Test your marksmanship (range)
Trial of the RavenÂ = Test your guile (stealth)
Unlock unique rewards, that will both show your Mastery and give you more options in combat.
Numerous shrines are hidden in the world, each home to 3 trials.
To access Mastery Challenge you must be at least Power Level 221 and have completed the Uninvited Guests main quest after reporting on Grantebridgescire and Ledecestrescire.

RIVER RAIDS REFRESH

Upped the stakes: rivers at higher alert levels will have increased rewards.
Balanced Jomsvikingsâ€™ attack power to better match their rank.
Waylandâ€™s armor will be available to buy in Vagnâ€™s Store using Foreign cargo.

NEW SKILLS

Mounted Archer = Eivor can use their bow ability while mounted.
Shield Master = Eivor automatically rotates to block incoming attacks by holding up their shield.
Unstoppable = While in combat, Eivorâ€™s sprint becomes unblockable and knocks enemies back at the cost of stamina.

NARRATIVE QUEST

Amidst a meteorite crashing to earth, a mysterious new settler has appeared in Ravensthorpe.Â HildiranÂ is skilled in the art of battle meditation, a secret form of training, and is willing to initiate Eivor. To begin training, meet with Hildiran in your settlement, then set out to find newly erectedÂ shrinesÂ scattered across England.
Important Note:Â To access Mastery Challenge you must be at least Power Level 221 and have completed the Uninvited Guests main quest after reporting on Grantebridgescire and Ledecestrescire.
TRIALS

Take a deep breath, relax, and lose yourself in the Challenge. Eivor will meditate at unfamiliar shrines to enter the realm ofÂ Hugrheim. Three types of trials are presented:Â Trial of the BearÂ tests your combat,Â Trial of the WolfÂ your aim, andÂ Trial of the RavenÂ your stealth. The Hugrheim realm provides pre-set gear and abilities, fit for each playstyle and situation. This leaves more time to exercise your skills and earn rewards, but worry not! Your original loadout will revert upon exiting Mastery Challenge.
SCORING

It wouldn’t be a challenge if you didn’t break a sweat! Each Trial comes with its ownÂ objectiveÂ for Eivor to complete. Accomplish the objective to gain points and receive aÂ medalÂ based on your score. As you progress, these medals will unlock new shrines across the map. Though the medals will physically remain in Hugrheim, they will always be at home in your heart. Keep watch on the different actions that will affect your total points. Not quite happy with your score? All trials are replayable at any given time, so practice as much as you want to fully ace the challenge.
REWARDS

Sometimes completing the task at hand is rewarding enough, but there’s more to win with Mastery Challenge! In addition to Eivor’s hard-earned medals you’ll also receiveÂ Energies. Journey back to Ravensthorpe, where Energies can be exchanged for rewards atÂ Hildiran’s Wares. New and unique weapons, tattoos, and decorations have been stocked to add to your growing collection.
UBISOFT CONNECT

To celebrate the release of Mastery Challenge, aÂ Special Event ChallengeÂ will be available throughÂ Ubisoft ConnectÂ fromÂ June 15Â toÂ June 22. Â Complete godly tests to unveil the truth…and finally get the most mysterious weapon in game:Â Skadi’s Blade! May Odin be with you!


Steam China Will Be A Separate Entity From The International Version Of Steam

It had to eventually come to this, given Chinese distributor Perfect World’s long-standing relationship with Valve via Chinese Dota 2.
The company recently announced more details about the Chinese version of Valve’s digital distribution platform.

Steam China will be called “Zhengqi Pingtai”, which is translated to “Steam Platform”.
The platform will be entirely independent of Steam and will be Shanghai-based.
It will be “tailored for Chinese users” and have “high-speed servers and high-quality operations teams”.
The platform will have close to 40 games released in its first batch of titles. Titles include Dota 2 and Dota Underlords. The 40 games are available on regular Steam.

No prize for guessing why Steam China exists; the Chinese government and regulators need a platform specifically for a country that they can keep tabs on. Whether it’s close scrutiny from them or more rules and censorship for particular titles, or for Chinese game publishers to use to conform to regulators, Steam China could be a godsend for both parties.


Diablo IV Introduces New Rogue Class, Diablo II Remaster Slated For 2021

Update: Seems like the leaks are true. The story is bumped forward & updated as such to reflect this.
It’s rare to see leaks popping out from BlizzCon, a game expo from a company that used to keep big secrets like these tight-lipped. Still, take these bits of news with grains of salt.
First up: long-awaited action RPG sequel Diablo IV will introduce a new class this BlizzCon: the Rogue. Here’s the breakdown (via ResetEra).

The Rogue uses bows, crossbows, swords, and daggers.
He/she is the most mobile class among the group (Barbarian, Sorceress, and Druid for folks keeping score).
The Rogue will be missing an ear, look-wise. Otherwise, the male/female Rogue looks like a revved-up version of the Diablo 1 version. You can also customize her look so that she has a traditional cloak over her head to conceal her identity.

Diablo IV will also feature more character customization: skin, tattoos, makeup, and hair colour. And class specialization will be a thing: this is dependent on the faction you will support and the class quests that you complete in the open world of Sanctuary. The Rogue has three different specializations skills: Shadow Realm, Combo Points, and Exploit Weakness.

Shadow Realm pulls target enemies into the Shadow Realm with you for 5 seconds. For those seconds, you are stealthed, unstoppable, and deal 50% more damage to afflicted enemies.
Combo Points gives your basic attacks the ability to gather points. Certain skills consume combo points for additional effects.
Exploit Weakness lets you crit enemies during certain enemy attacks, when an icon flashes above their heads. All hits against them deal 60% increased damage.

For those who want to kill other players, there’s PvP where you can collect Shards of Hatred to buy cosmetics with. The PvP areas are called Fields of Hatred, where you get these shards from killing monsters, completing events, killing other players, opening chests, and so forth. You have to purify them before they can be used; during that time, you will be a prime target for other players. If you die, you lose all your Shards of Hatred.

There’s also a king-of-the-hill type system called Vessel of Hatred, where the most infamous player killer in a PvP area gets a target painted on them. Any player who takes that target out gets a bonus. Oh, and if you’re playing Hardcore mode, if you die in a PvP area, your character is lost forever.
Unfortunately, there’s no news on Diablo IV’s beta test periods and release dates. Enjoy the following screenshots and concept art instead! Let’s hope BlizzCon 2021 at least drops some hints for that.

But Wait, There’s More!

There’s also news on the Diablo II Remaster: it’s slated for this year, with a technical alpha early registrants can sign up for in the middle of 2021. The remaster will feature the following:

New 3D engine with 60fps, with the option to switch to the older graphics on the fly. Dynamic lighting options also included.
Remastered audio and cinematics.
Shared stash, so you can farm items for your other selectable classes.
Toggleable auto gold pickup. Honestly, just leave it on.
Controller support, meaning the Diablo II Remaster will be out for all major consoles including Nintendo Switch. Also, cross-progression so you can continue progress from your PC to your Xbox Series, or PS5, or whichever major console(s) you own.
4K support and high refresh rates like 144Hz.
A US$39.99 price tag for the PC version.

Here are some key quotes from Diablo producer Rod “I did Gears of War” Fergusson.

“It helped define the ARPG genre. It was the 20th anniversary of the game last year, Blizzard’s 30th anniversary now, and as we’re getting ready for Diablo Immortal and Diablo 4. It feels like a great moment to bring this game back.”

Again, take all of this with a grain of salt. Besides, it’ll be only a few more hours until BlizzCon happens; precisely at 6am later on 20th February. We’ll be sure to update this page with concrete BlizzCon news, or just make new ones after 6am later. It’s the weekend; cut us some slack.


Ruined King A League Of Legends Story Is Coming In 2021

Riot Forge has announced that Ruined King: A League of Legends Story will launch on consoles and PC sometime in early 2021.
The single-player turn-based game will bring the League of Legends IP toconsoles for the first time; on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, Steam, and the Epic Games Store.
Existing PS4 and Xbox One owners will have the ability to upgrade theirversion for free.
Riot Forge head Leanne Loombe said:
“Ruined King is a great way to expand the world of Runeterra for brand new players as well as our dedicated League of Legends (LoL) fans.Ruined King will be the first single-player game to bring the LoL universe to both consoles and PC. We are excited to take this plunge into exploring stories and champions that players have enjoyed over the years, and canâ€™t wait for our players to embark on this new adventure with us.”
Ruined King: A League of Legends Story is developed by Airship Syndicate (the creators of Battle Chasers: Nightwar and Darksiders Genesis, led by the legendary comic book artist Joe Madureira) and is the first game published by Riot Forge.
This single-player and immersive turn-based RPG invites new players to the League Of Legends universe as well as players entrenched in the lore to enjoy exploring its mysteries.
The story is set in two regions of Runeterra, Bilgewater, a port town that is home to sea monster hunters, dock gangs, and smugglers from across the known world; and the Shadow Isles, a land cursed with the deadly Black Mist which shrouds the island and corrupts those it comes in contact with.
In order to defeat a common and mysterious enemy, players will form an unlikely party of beloved League of Legends champions â€“ Miss Fortune, Illaoi, Braum, Yasuo, Ahri, and Pyke.
In the meantime, check out the trailer below:


The Best Old Games Worth Playing In 2022

Some games age like fine wine. Others may not be the hot title when it first came out, but end up becoming better in retrospect, arguably being a title ahead of its time.
At Kakuchopurei, we may cover a lot of new games, but we always fall back to the classics, be it the incredibly old ones or recent titles from a few years past. There are a bunch of titles from yesteryear regardless of console that you will always go back to playing because they stood the test of time.
Here are our current top picks; the ones you can revisit year after year and still find a boatload of fun in them.
Sonic The Hedgehog 2

When Did It Come Out? 1992.
What Is It? Sonic The Hedgehog 2 is the much-improved sequel to the first Sonic The Hedgehog game in 1991. It’s a 2D platformer with an emphasis on speed, featuring a blue Japanese-designed hedgehog with attitude who careens all over the stage from left to right while also taking into account the stage’s verticality.
Sonic 2 also features a new character Tails, but he’s more of a sidekick as the focus is still on the blue blur and his awesome themed levels, ranging from a hilltop area, to aquatic ruins, to even a glitzy casino stage.
Why It’s Still Great? With catchy music and simple-yet-challenging gameplay, this retro title is one of the best 2D Sega-labelled platforming experiences ever made. Sure, we can recommend Sonic 3 /Sonic & Knuckles and Sonic Mania, but Sonic 2 is best for entry-level gamers before they get to the very good stuff.
How Do I Play It Now? The Sonic Origins collection is out now for PC, Xbox, Nintendo, and PlayStation consoles. Sonic The Hedgehog 2 is one of the games in that collection, so do pick that up to experience a time when the Sega mascot was at his prime.
Super Street Fighter 2 Turbo

When Did It Come Out? 1994.
What Is It? Street Fighter 2 is the most influential 2D fighting game ever made by Capcom, and its DNA is in every single new fighting game you’ve played. Super Street Fighter 2 Turbo is the definitive edition of the original Street Fighter 2, with new additions and balance changes to make it viable for competitive play and fun for all.
Why It’s Still Great? Super Street Fighter 2 Turbo is the reason why people like the Cannon brothers eventually made a giant esports tournament solely on just fighting games. The game has a huge cast of characters with variable play styles, it looks and plays timelessly with its great aesthetics and spot-on controls, and people are still playing it just to how solidly designed it is. No one in the roster is completely broken, with fairly-distributed matchups for everyone for all skill levels.
How Do I Play It Now? You can play it via the recently-released Capcom Fighting Collection, which has Hyper Street Fighter 2: The Anniversary Edition. You can play all versions of Street Fighter 2 from that entry, so you can just keep it strictly to Super Turbo if you want to experience Street Fighter 2 at its peak.
You can also play the game via FightCade; there are still a lot of people who are playing it online these days.
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

When Did It Come Out? 2011
What Is It? A giant open-world role-playing game where you play a Dovahkiin, a lost race of warriors who can use dragon shouts to defeat opponents in battle. This being a fantasy RPG, you can expect to deal with scheming magicians, assassins and thieves of long-hidden orders, a motley of dragons and giants, and scary-as-heck spiders. Don’t worry: you have a ton of skills at your disposal, be it spellcasting, dragon-shouting, sword-fighting, and running/jumping pretty high.
Why It’s Still Great? The game’s open-endedness and lush icy landscape, coupled with some fascinating lore, is what placed its developer/publisher Bethesda on the map. The fact that the game has a very active modding scene (where you alter the game’s look and coding and share it with the world) means that the game’s replayability is limitless.
How Do I Play It Now? On PC or on consoles. Skyrim is readily available on any platform, we’re surprised your Samsung fridge doesn’t have a running copy of it on its display.
Fallout: New Vegas

When Did It Come Out? 2010.
What Is It? A giant open-world RPG where you play an ex-courier looking for answers in the Mojave desert. The kicker? You’re in a future dystopia where the world has survived the atom bomb explosion, with tech and sci-fi trappings that are reminiscent of the 40s-style art deco setting you see in kitschy old Star Trek TV shows. Except dirtier.
Why It’s Still Great? Because its narrative and story branching paths are awesome to explore. You are given choices to align with many different factions, not all of them black and white morality-wise. You also are thrust into a world where giant cockroaches and killer lizards exist; you’re given the tools to deal with them as well as warring human factions ranging from laser tech-hoarding companies to an isolationist tribe who occupies a functional air base with mortars and big bombs.
And that’s not including the multitude of expansions that flesh out the game’s lore further and the huge modding community who are still making extra content for the game (with a couple of full-fledged ones) up to this day.
How Do I Play It Now? You can play the game on PC right now via Steam.
The Witcher 3

When Did It Come Out? Mid-2015
What Is It? A giant open-world RPG where you play a monster hunter who somehow lands himself in a magic-related plot. We’re sensing a theme here…
In any case, you have mutant powers and extraordinaire fighting and magic skills to fend for yourself. You also have a keen sense of playing detective since you have great tracking and deduction skills. And a trusty steed named Roach to get you to places quick.
Why It’s Still Great? Because the game’s environments and landscapes are huge and vast, with tons of secrets and quests to explore and discover. The game’s rich mature plot and mystery also mean a lot of characters you will love and hate, thus making the experience all the more splendorous. Coupled with incredible graphics and artstyle, a lovely soundtrack, and tight controls, you have a game that’s still popular 8 years after its release.
How Do I Play It Now? It’s out now for PC and consoles, readily available for you to play.
Diablo 3

When Did It Come Out? The original game came out in 2012, while its expansion Reaper of Souls came out in 2014.
What Is It? Diablo 3 is an action RPG where you pick a class, kill things, and get the best loot possible to build the uber-killing machine of your choosing. There’s a plot in there somewhere but it amounts to “kill Diablo and his demon friends” multiple times until you get the loot you need.
Why It’s Still Great? The game has lasted 10 years and still stands the test of time as being an incredibly fast-paced action RPG that’s easy to get into and still playable to this day. The classes on tap offer a lot of versatility and accommodate to many playstyles -we suspect you’ll love the Monk and Demon Hunter more though- and the multiple modes of play mean more opportunities to level up your character to further heights until you’re done getting the sets you want. With high levels of difficulty to tackle -from the peak Torment setting to the Greater Rift max difficulty cap- it’s indeed a long way to the top.
As fun as its predecessor Diablo 2 is (and it’s accessible too by the by), it still has 2003 mechanics that just won’t gel with anyone these days. Losing your items when you die? Methodical pacing? It’s for a different crowd. Diablo 3 is clearly tailor-made for anyone looking to get into the action RPG business while not sacrificing its core loot gameplay.
How Do I Play It Now? Diablo 3 is available now for PC and consoles. You’ll be spending at least US$40 for the whole package; it’s a lot better than spending US$12,000 for Diablo Immortal’s predatory gacha system.
Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance

When Did It Come Out? 2013.
What Is It? A 3D hyper action game that stresses on the “hyper action” moniker with over-the-top moves and spot-on controls. This particular Konami and Platinum Games-made title stands out because it’s the continuation of the Metal Gear Solid 4 story following one of its characters Raiden as he fights a new group of villains.
Why It’s Still Great? Apart from the title Revengeance? The game has an excellent combat system focused on slowing down time and cutting enemies down to pieces, as well as adhering to the Devil May Cry/Bayonetta school of combos, over-the-top attacks, and cancelling one move to another. Main character Raiden can also parry attacks easily, meaning you can keep the offense going while shutting down opponent’s counters when the time is right.
Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance also boasts memorable boss fights, capped off with one of the most ludicrous and epic final showdowns ever created for video games where Raiden fights a corrupt politician. It has to be seen to be believed.
How Do I Play It Now? This one’s a bit tricky. You could play it on PC via Steam right now, but some regions are barring this title. Your most reliable method of playing this classic is to have an Xbox 360 or PlayStation 3 to load up the physical CD version.
Know any other old gaming classics we should add to this list? Let us know!


What to Expect at Comic Fiesta 2017

Malaysia’s largest comic market will be opened in 24 hours time. Even as many are preparing to spend their entire weekend and a lot of their savings at this mega-sized anime, comics, and games spectacularÂ â€“ here’s a refresher course on what to do and look out for.

Once the doors open for Comic Fiesta 2017, which is held from December 15 and 16 2017 at KL Convention Centre (KLCC), it is as if the floodgates have opened. Fans will pour in and it will be a spectacular sight as they rush all over to their chosen zones within the event space. Word of advice: don’t run or be overwhelmedÂ â€“ just breathe, take in the experience in slow motion, and enjoy the experience.
Now first, check the event map first. Always, ALWAYS, do that. Here’s the handy image from the Comic Fiesta Facebook:

And the schedule too!

The horde rush, as the organisers are prone to calling it, will split and move to their respective areas of interests. As usual, the highlightsÂ â€“ comprising the comic market, VIP cosplayer, special discussion panels, and major eSport tournaments, are proper attractions. This, of course, is capped off with ever-popular late evening concerts.
One can swing over here to check out the major highlights for Comic Fiesta 2017.
While there are so many events to consider, what does one look forward to Comic Fiesta this year?
Most critical of them all, before going into the breakdowns, are the VIPs for this year’s event. The images below will speak for themselves:

Then there is the art gallery area where the Comic Fiesta 100 Days Countdown is on full display. This, by far, is the only other art aspect of the event, so nobody should miss it!

Now for the other highlights:
First, the comic market and vendor areas. With the former, it’s the first stop for any veteran attendees for this event. This main-stay aspectÂ â€“ the bread and butter for Comic FiestaÂ â€“ gave meaning to it as there are no such activities prior. It is the other anchor aspect for art and creativity, so it is a must-visit for all.

The vendors, which consist of industry, commercial, and government sectors, are the ones who empower the event. They trickled in initially to learn how they can fit and came in droves once they understood the event’s potential.
Second, the ‘Creative Factor’ segments. Originally a bunch of panels peppering Comic Fiesta during its early years, it evolved into a proper two-day industry conference. Every year, since its inception, it turned into a major draw for creatives who want to learn from some of the industry’s best.

Third, the eSports activities that has anchored itself at the front doors of Comic Fiesta. Being focused wholly on indie comics, anime, and videogamesÂ from the start, this inclusion is very logical for Comic Fiesta. After it first appeared, this aspect became a major calendar event for major games tournament. Besides League of Legends, there are two Capcom-powered bouts taking place as well along and a huge collection of mobile and indie games developers are showcasing their works as well.

Just as massive, and only second to the comic market in popularity and size, are the evening festivities on both days. Introductions are not necessary for this as it’s pretty much a straightforward concert and music festival that caps-off Comic Fiesta.

Oh, there are plenty of cosplay activities as well – cosplay idols included! Here is a teaser of what is in store:

There are loads to see and do at this year’s comic extravaganza. Just make sure to drink plenty of fluids and be prepared for gridlock crowds. Enjoy the weekend with all these fun-filled activities and keep safe!


Anthem’s 1.0.3 Update Axes Respawn Restrictions & Change Up Endgame Loot

Anthem had its fair share of problems pre and post-Day One patch, but at least Bioware are on the case. They’re doing their darndest in improving the game bit by bit, and it shows.
Just recently, Anthem global community manager Jesse Anderson posted a detailed long list of fixes and additions in the new 1.0.3 update on Reddit. It went live on 9 March; let’s go through what the most important ones are.

Respawn restrictions are removed. The patch instead adds in respawn timers to all missions and now bases the timers on the activity the players are in.
Loot drops have been changed up. Players who are already level 30 will not be receiving white and green drops.
Audio will not be dropping out and will be improved.

Baby steps, Bioware. After all, it’s your first action RPG loot-and-shoot game; it’s not as easy as one would think. Why do you think companies like Blizzard take eons to create Diablo II and Diablo III?
While you’re here, why not check out our Anthem guides?

Basic Guide

Ranger Guide (via PlayStation Galaxy)


Tencent Is Investing Money In The Folks Behind Bayonetta

Good news for hyper action gaming fans, we think. Platinum Games, the developers behind the Bayonetta series, Vanquish, and the upcoming Babylon’s Fall, will be receiving a capital investment from Tencent Holdings.
This is a basis of a new partnership between the two that will not affect the independence of Platinum Games; the latter will operate under its current corporate structure. This capital investment, according to CEO Kenichi Sato, will help strengthen the company’s foundation as a business and expand to self-publishing. “[This will help achieve] a wider global perspective, while still creating high-quality games that stay true to our name.”
Sounds all well and good, but when it comes to investments and promises of independence, nothing lasts forever. Let’s hope Bayonetta 3 and Babylon’s Fall still retains their design vision amidst all this.


Talks About A Fallout New Vegas Sequel Are Happening

Itâ€™s still too soon, but Fallout New Vegas 2 could be a possibility as developers Obsidian are in â€œvery early talksâ€ with Microsoft according to a journalist.
Jeff Grubb of VentureBeat spoke on his premium Giant Bomb show Grubbsnax, claiming that original developer Obsidian could create a sequel to the cult classic RPG, now that itâ€™s under the same roof as license holder Bethesda.
Grubb states that itâ€™s currently still too early to confirm, but mutterings of Obsidian and â€œFallout New Vegas 2â€ have been whispered about in the same sentence. He added that weâ€™re still years away from anything concrete but thereâ€™s an interest at least and conversations are being held which could lead into something actually a reality.
â€œA lot of people at Microsoft think that this could work and thereâ€™s a lot of interest to make it happen.â€
Microsoft acquired Obsidian in 2018 and then moved on to absorb ZeniMax Media, parent company of Bethesda Softworks in 2021. With all the ruckus between Microsoft and Sony having a contest to see who can buy the most companies, a return to the Mojave Wasteland could be just the thing to give Microsoft the leg up.
You canâ€™t truly call yourself an RPG fan unless youâ€™ve played Fallout New Vegas, so maybe now is as best a time to pick it up. In other Fallout news, did you know a TV series is in the works?


Rainbow Six Siege’s New Operator Lets You Get Physical With Walls

Why break walls with hammers or explosives when you can just use your good old fists?
Rainbow Six Siege’s upcoming Operation Void Edge will kick off Year 5 of the multiplayer shooter, and it’s bringing with it two new Operators. The first is Oryx, a Jordanian defender so strong that he can smash Siege’s destructible walls and knock down enemies by dashing at them (even if they have shields). The second is Dutch attacker Iana, who employs sneakier tactics courtesy of her fancy hologram.
Oryx’s dash comes with the caveat that it consumes charges that require time to replenish, and wall-smashing drains them all at once. Furthermore, smashing through walls (barricades are fine) will chip at his health. On the bright side, he also has the nifty ability to climb through open floor hatches, and it doesn’t consume charges.

I’m intrigued by Oryx’s reliance on physicality over gadgets, but those who like mind games might be more partial to Iana. Her hologram is unable to cause damage and can’t repel or climb, but is otherwise identical to Iana in terms of movement, appearance, and sound. The hologram, however, has the edge of not triggering traps it passes, allowing Iana to scout maps without endangering herself.
Operation Void Edge will also bring with it a reworked version of the Oregon map, in addition to various gameplay updates. Among the changes to Oregon include a new freezer section for its basement and a new floor plan for the attic connector.
New operators aside, expect to see “major reworks” of the operators you know and love (or hate). Ubisoft’s blog post has revealed that Tachanka will be the first to get the treatment.Â IGN recently reported that the defender has ditched his turret and can now carry his machine gun around instead, as well as getting a sweet new incendiary grenade launcher.


Twitch Removes Popular PogChamp Emote Due To Gooteck’s Recent Tweet

Following the recent news of Twitch discouraging its content creators and streamers from posting violence-inducing content related to the Capitol Hill protests and breach, the livestream platform also made the decision to remove its most-famous emote from its service.
We are referring to the PogChamp emote. This is due to statements from the face of the emote, one Ryan “Gootecks” Gutierrez who is renowned for being a fighting game player and personality as well as for the CrossCounter TV video channel on YouTube.
His recent tweet is “encouraging further violence after what took place in the Capitol today”; he posted a banned video of a Capitol Police firing a shot at an unarmed woman carrying a Trump flag who also happened to be part of the breach.

Warning: this is graphic, but it’s important for everyone to see this video because we don’t know how it will try to be spun or suppressed and she gave her life for our country. ??
Rest In Peace #MAGAMartyr ? pic.twitter.com/MNGP8MAvFk
— gootecks (@gootecks) January 6, 2021

The full quote from Twitch is below (via Twitter):

“We’ve made the decision to remove the PogChamp emote following statements from the face of the emote encouraging further violence after what took place in the Capitol today.
We want the sentiment and use of Pog to live on â€“ its meaning is much bigger than the person depicted or image itselfâ€“ and it has a big place in Twitch culture. However, we can’t in good conscience continue to enable use of the image. We will work with the community to design a new emote for the most hype moments on Twitch.”

We've made the decision to remove the PogChamp emote following statements from the face of the emote encouraging further violence after what took place in the Capitol today.
— Twitch (@Twitch) January 7, 2021