VCT 2022: Stage 2 Masters Copenhagen – OpTic Defeat DRX Yet Again

I guess the saying ‘history repeats itself’ reigns true as OpTic beat DRX in the exact same fashion as last Masters in a rather memorable Valorant slew of matches.
Describing OpTic Gaming‘s current run in Masters Copenhagen as déjà vu is a drastic understatement. As of right now, OpTic’s series record and the bracket path it literally identical to Masters Reykjavík earlier this year.
Just like last time, OpTic met DRX in the upper bracket semi-finals to fight for their place in the Top 4. Last time, DRX failed to close out the series after winning Map 1 and unfortunately for the Korean side, they fail once again.
DO check out our STAGE 2 MASTERS SCHEDULE

optic absolutely obliterated
With Map 1 being OpTic’s signature pick of Fracture, DRX completely destroyed the GreenWall in an impressive 13–4. DRX looked unstoppable round after round, reaching double digits without conceding a single round. Regardless of OpTic’s Jaccob “yay” Whiteaker accumulating eight first bloods throughout the map with Chamber, it still wasn’t enough.

ANOTHER CLUTCH! @Buzz_kr | #VALORANTMasters pic.twitter.com/FgkQ0w68SQ
— VALORANT Champions Tour ?? (@ValorantEsports) July 17, 2022

DRX’s turn to get dismantled
In stark contrast, DRX’s map pick of Breeze was next and it seemed that OpTic wanted to give the Korean a taste of their own medicine.

Clean pistol round win @OpTic | #VALORANTMasters pic.twitter.com/3Dz3OFZIN1
— VALORANT Champions Tour ?? (@ValorantEsports) July 17, 2022

OpTic started off hot with an impressive pistol round followed by eight consecutive round wins before DRX were finally able to take two rounds off of the GreenWall. With the half closing out at 10–2, DRX were hopeful for a momentum reset going into the second half. It would turn out that being hopeful wouldn’t be enough as after winning the initial two rounds, OpTic would close out the map with the same score they themselves got dealt 13–4.
Both Teams at full throttle
With both teams now firing on all cylinders, the deciding map was played on Bind. Straight off the bat, it was obvious that DRX’s attempt to gain momentum in the first round was to play around the A site, but OpTic was quick to adapt and thwarted the attack, winning the round flawlessly.
With yay’s Chamber consistently getting first bloods, OpTic also saw their main entry, Victor “Victor” Wong put up good numbers in terms of first bloods as well. The half closed out at 8–4 in favour of OpTic.
The GreenWall was definitely confident and it had seemed that they had maintained momentum as they won the first two rounds of the second half, but like a corned dog, DRX held their own and managed to take seven out of the next eight rounds tieing the score at 11–11.
Now we had seen something similar the last time these two powerhouses clashed back in Iceland. DRX took Map 1 and OpTic replied by taking Map 2 resulting in a third map. This decider made it all the way to overtime due to OpTic failing to close out in the first 24 rounds, but luckily for them, overtime played out in OpTic’s favour as they managed to secure the win with a score of 15–13.
This time around OpTic weren’t too keen on letting this go to overtime and the boys over at OpTic buckled up and managed to win the last two rounds, securing themselves a spot in the upper bracket final.

With a Top 4 secured, OpTic will go on to face the Southeast Asian powerhouse that is Paper Rex on 22 July at 11:00 PM (GMT+8).
DRX fans do not fret as the Koreans do have a second chance in the lower bracket where they will be pitted against FunPlus Phoenix. A team who has just begun their lower bracket run. You can catch that game on 19 July at 2:00 AM (GMT+8).
For more VCT 2022 action, head over to our full schedule and livestream feature page.


Loads Of EA Games Get FPS Boost Support On Xbox Series X/S

Microsoft has added its Xbox FPS Boost mode on 13 more EA games, with 12 now supporting up to 120fps. The FPS Boost feature for Xbox Series X and Series S consoles is designed to make existing games run better with higher and steadier framerates, which makes for a better experience.
Check out the full list of games getting support for up to 120fps with FPS Boost (via Major Nelson):

Battlefield 1
Battlefield 4
Battlefield V
Mirrorâ€™s Edge Catalyst
Plants vs. Zombies: Battle for Neighborville
Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare
Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare 2
Star Wars Battlefront II
Star Wars Battlefront
Titanfall
Titanfall 2
Unravel 2

In addition, Sea Of Solitude is also getting FPS Boost mode with support for 60fps. There are now 23 games in total that include FPS Boost mode support, and the aforementioned 13 EA titles are all also available on Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, too.


Here’s What We Know About Baby Yoda So Far

We’re already halfway through (four episodes into) The Mandalorian, and the one thing unifying Star Wars fans all over the world is the introduction of the adorable Baby Yoda (for lack of a better name). This mysterious child is perhaps the most intriguing piece of lore in the franchise since, well, forever.
Let’s discuss what we do know (and don’t) about the cute little critter. Beware, for spoilers lie ahead.

Who Is Baby Yoda?

In the first episode, the titular Mandalorian is tasked with killing or retrieving an unknown package, which turned out to be a child who’s the same species as the legendary Master Yoda. Over the course of four episodes, he experienced several changes of heart and grew to care for Baby Yoda.
Let’s make one thing clear first, though I’m sure many are already aware of this fact. The Mandalorian‘s Baby Yoda is not the infant version of the Master Yoda we all know and love.
The name of Master Yoda’s species has never been officially named by George Lucas or anyone at Lucasfilm, and the only other canonical character from the same species was Master Yaddle, a member of the Jedi Council who briefly appeared in Star Wars Episode 1: The Phantom Menace.
All we know about Baby Yoda at this point is that the remnants of the Empire want him for some reason and that other parties are paying bounty hunters to kill him instead. We also know he is 50 years old (Yoda’s species age differently) and already exhibits considerable Force powers, as evident from him lifting a massive Mudhorn and saving the Mandalorian in Episode 2: Chapter 2: The Child.
Born In The Same Year As Anakin Skywalker, Chosen One Theory

If Baby Yoda is indeed 50 years old, he would have been born in 41 BBY. BBY is the Star Wars‘ equivalent of the real world’s BC (Before Christ) or AD (Anno Domini). It stands for Before Battle Of Yavin (BBY). The Battle Of Yavin took place at the end of Star Wars Episode IV A New Hope, which resulted in the destruction of first Death Star.
For context, the events of the Mandalorian takes place in 9 ABY (After Battle Of Yavin).
Anakin Skywalker was also born in 41 BBY. The biggest question on everyone’s mind is what if Master Qui-Gon Jinn discovered the wrong Chosen One? According to the canonical novel Master & Apprentice, the Chosen One prophecy states:
â€œA Chosen One shall come, born of no father, and through him will ultimate balance in the Force be restored.â€
We still don’t know who Baby Yoda’s parents are, or even if he has a father, so it’s possible that he could actually be the true Chosen One. At least, that’s what the theories are saying, though it’s all still too much of a stretch and illogical, considering how the entire franchise has revolved around the Skywalkers.
Why would they make a U-turn and make someone else the Chosen One?
Is Baby Yoda Related To Master Yoda?

As I mentioned above, Baby Yoda is not Master Yoda as an infant. However, speculations are rife that Baby Yoda could somehow be the offspring of Master Yoda and Master Yaddle. There are several reasons why this doesn’t make sense at all.
Firstly, it’s a convenient theory, the purpose of which is obviously to shoehorn the two only other members of the species, Yoda and Yaddle, in an effort to connect them to Baby Yoda. Secondly, and most importantly, one of the Jedi Order’s rules is that the Jedi are not allowed to have sexual relationships and marry, so it would be unthinkable to suggest that one of the greatest Jedi who ever lived would violate one of their tenets.
Is Baby Yoda a clone of Master Yoda?

When the Mandalorian went back and forcibly took back Baby Yoda from The Client (played by Werner Herzog) and the Imperials in Episode 3: Chapter 3: The Sin, there was a scientist involved, a doctor named Dr. Pershing (played by Omid Abtahi). What’s interesting here is that Dr. Pershing is a Kaminoan, which is proven from him wearing a Kaminoan patch.
The Kaminoans are a race or group of scientists from the planet Kamino, last seen in Star Wars Episode 2 Attack Of The Clones. They were best known for their cloning technology, and they were responsible for building the Clone army used by the Galactic Republic in the Clone Wars against the Separatists.
This lends a bit of credibility to the possibility that Baby Yoda could be a clone of Master Yoda, and that’s also why the Imperials want him. Maybe the Emperor wants Baby Yoda to either act as his new apprentice, extract the secrets of long life or immortality from him or whatever else.
Keep Watching

With four episodes left in the first season of The Mandalorian, there’s still a chance that all these questions and more would be answered by the end of it all. Let’s hope that Baby Yoda is more than simply a plot device, and will actually be an important new addition to Star Wars lore as a whole.
In the meantime, check out my review of the first episode of The Mandalorian here, or head on over here to discover The Mandalorian‘s real name as revealed by Pedro Pascal himself. Stay tuned on Kakuchopurei for more Star Wars stuff in the future!


Unreleased Dune GBA Game To Launch Kickstarter Campaign Next Week

Elland The Crystal Wars, an unreleased first-person flying shooter Dune game for Game Boy Advance will be launching a funding campaign on Kickstarter on 16 November 2021.
Elland The Crystal Wars was originally licensed with the IP of Dune, which was cancelled some 20 years ago. The game was previously developed by Soft Brigade, whose property was held by Cryo Interactive.
This will include 23 â€œhugeâ€ missions and various weapons and power-ups like missiles, bombs, and a â€œGrays Cannonâ€. The title is conveniently set in a â€œharsh desert worldâ€ at the edges of the universe, where you will â€œpilot a fighter ship and take care of several duties: escorting, guarding, destroying enemy ships and buildings, capturing vehicles, and collecting resources.â€

In the meantime, you can check out our feature on the classic Dune games from years ago.


You Can Score Football Manager 2020 For Half Off

Developed by Sports Interactive and published by Sega, Football Manager 2020 initially launched for in November 2019 for the PC (via Steam), Nintendo Switch, Android (Google Play Store), iOS (Apple App Store), and even Google Stadia for the first time ever. It’s the biggest one yet, and you can grab the game now with a whopping 50 percent discount across all platforms.

Get 50% off #FM20 now ðŸš¨
Football Manager 2020 is on sale now across all available platforms. Limited time offer.
ðŸ‘‰ https://t.co/MUnxaD6pkN pic.twitter.com/GzRc7CpugP
â€” Football Manager (@FootballManager) June 24, 2020
Football Manager 2020 (PC/Mac), Football Manager 2020 Mobile (iOS/Android) and Football Manager 2020 Touch (PC/Mac/iPad/Android tablet/Switch) will be available at half price until 6pm BST on 9 July 2020, or 1am GMT+8 on 10 July 2020 for Southeast Asian countries like Malaysia.
For an added bonus, those who purchase Football Manager 2020 on Steam will receive the pre-game editor and Football Manager 2020 Touch for PC/Mac for free.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jeZ13UiTdWA&w=560&h=315]


Godzilla Vs Kong Clashes In PUBG Mobile Update 1.4

New PUBG MOBILE version 1.4 updates are now available with a range of new modes, a new arena map, vehicles, combat improvements, items and other interesting content. One of the most exciting additions in the PUBG Mobile 1.4 update is the release of the Titan Strikes event.
Tying in with the release of Godzilla Vs Kong, PUBG MOBILE partnered with Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Pictures to bring the thrill and excitement of titans to PUBG MOBILE. Users will now get the chance to experience, interact and witness the power of titans at close range.
Godzilla has been appearing on the Erangel map since 11 May 2021. The mighty King Kong has been wowing players on the Sanhok map since 15 May 2021, while Mechagodzilla will be putting in appearances on the Livik map from 20 May 2021. The three titans will be amazing players until 8 June 2021.
The titans are not normally hostile to players but they can get irritated if too many players congregate in the same area. Players must show caution when observing the titans close up as itâ€™s possible to be crushed. On the positive side, titans will drop rare energy crystals that will give players an edge in combat. The event will also feature APEX Cybernetics facilities and monster settlements that can be explored and looted.

Additionally, a new map arena will be available in 1.4 update which goes live on 1 June 2021. The new â€œHangarâ€ arena will provide excitement around every corner and action at every turn. The new challenging arena map supports Team Deathmatch modes, Training Arena, and Team Gun Game.
Apart from the new gameplay, there is also an â€œover the shoulder (OTS)â€ mode which will make its debut in the version 1.4 update. OTS mode allows players to quickly switch stances without using a scope and provides a stable stance for targeting enemies, making it easier to give them a one-way ticket to the next match.
Also, the new â€œCoupe RBâ€ vehicle will be coming, a 2-door sports car that can only carry the driver and one passenger. This car is the fastest vehicle in PUBG MOBILE capable of accelerating up to 150 KM/hour, players can experience this fast vehicle on the maps of Erangel, Miramar, Sanhok and Livik.
Players can expect the latest update that presents Royale Pass Season 19 with the Traverse theme and other epic collaborations. PUBG MOBILE will soon prepare an exclusive collaboration with British automotive manufacturer, McLaren to bring one of their supercars into the game. Furthermore, the cute and adorable characters from LINE will also adorn this phenomenal mobile game later on.


Thor: Love and Thunder Lives Up To Its Epic & Comedic Moniker

I’m pretty concerned with Taika Waititi’s directorial future. Because if he keeps on churning great work, he may not have time or energy to go back to his indie-level comedy works like with What We Do In The Shadows, Hunt For The Wilder People, and Jojo Rabbit.
On the other hand, we do need an influx of comic book movies like Thor: Love and Thunder, a lovely sequel to the last Marvel Cinematic Universe comic book film Thor: Ragnarok. It retains the manic pace and direction while delivering a fine blend of comedy, action, and storytelling. It may take a number of liberties from the comic book source material, but if it’s for the sake for a cohesive and evenly-paced film that’s guaranteed to captivate anyone’s attention, I say butcher away.
Lightning Crashes

Thor: Love and Thunder picks up after the main man Thor Odinson (Chris Hemsworth) and his post-Avengers Infinity War and Avengers Endgame storyline: he teams up with the space crew Guardians of the Galaxy much to the chagrin of Starlord (Chris Pratt). Thor is still finding his purpose and drive, so the film’s call to action involves him splitting up with the space gang and going back to New Asgard to deal with a new threat: Gorr the God Butcher (Christian Bale) who has a Necrosword that can kill gods and give him shadow demon-summoning powers.
Meanwhile, Thor’s scientist ex-girlfriend Jane Foster (Natalie Portman) somehow can wield Mjolnir and ends up teaming up with Thor, making for an awkward kind of reunion. Together, alongside Korg (Taika Waititi who is a character, the director, and the show’s narrator) and New Asgard mayor Valkyrie (Tessa Thompson), they go through a series of classic Thor adventures across universes as you would expect from a Jack Kirby-penned joint.
And what a lovely tour we get, along with some fun bantering between our heroes and the people they meet. We’re talking colourful gaudy worlds that look like they were inspired by the late 80s and 90s metal/rock band album covers. I mean, if you’re going to go all out with the Guns n’ Roses soundtrack, you might as well make your space viking fantasy look as awesome as possible. Props to the third act’s world effect and its twist though; it’s creative and sets out to instill a sense of awe and dread.
The main cast also get their time in the limelight, with props clearly going to the chemistry and reconnecting between Thor and Jane Foster, as well as the now-ladyboss Valkyrie who has her own lamentations or two. Christian Bale’s Gore is the kind of villain you feel for, given the intro the film setting up the main reason why he’s doing the deity-slaying in the first place.
We even get to see Russell Crowe ham it up as arrogant Greek god Zeus and Korg the rock buddy sharing his insight with the Thor gang with his quips or two. The show’s comedic edge from its director is also in full swing, from the obliviousness of our main character in any situation, to the show’s new pair of four-legged additions that will make the rounds on TikTok and/or Twitter due to their one unique trait. We’re not kidding around.
And it also gets its well-paced story arc resolved in under an hour and 50 minutes, including the obligatory mid-credits and post-credits scenes that will make fans of the MCU universe and comic book lore jump for joy. It doesn’t outstay its welcome and has a ton to surprise many folks from a storyline and lore perspective. Fans of the characters will get the payoff they deserve given the MCU version’s context, especially with Natalie Portman’s character and Chris Hemsworth’s future in the comic book movie plot threads and many phases.
Thunder Peel

If anything, the only fault I can bring up with Thor: Love and Thunder is that its bombastic fights are what you would expect from an MCU joint: big, loud, epic, and safely edited for consumption. Not that there’s anything wrong with that, especially with the fight involving Thor bestowing his powers to the unlikeliest of subjects, but there’s nothing that really stands out unless you aren’t completely desensitized by the MCU line of films.
Thor: Love and Thunder is the perfect summer movie treat, as well as a funny and exhilarating action thrill ride with some touches of heart and drama. With a cast that clearly loves working in the film and a good amount of humour and comic book nods here and there, not to mention the action scenes and the lovely choice of music -the majority from Guns N’ Roses’ best album– you’ll be sure to ride this lightning more than once.
Final Score: 90/100


HBO GO July 2023: Our Picks & Highlights

I’m sure you won’t want to waste time sifting through HBO GO’s extensive catalogue of shows and movies just to decide on what to watch. The streaming site updates its site every day, week, and month with new content, so I’m here to save your precious time.
Here are my personal recommendations and highlights for HBO GO July 2023 lineup and how to fill up your free time with worthwhile content at home:
Evil Dead Rise (7 July 2023)

A twisted tale of two estranged sisters, Ellie and Beth, whose reunion is cut short by the rise of flesh-possessing demons, thrusting them into a primal battle for survival as they face the most nightmarish version of family imaginable. Stars Alyssa Sutherland, Lily Sullivan, Morgan Davies, Gabrielle Echols and Nell Fisher.
Premieres Friday, July 7 on HBO GO.
Check out my review of the movie here.

Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris (8 July 2023)

An ordinary woman’s dream of owning a Christian Dior gown leads her on a Parisian adventure where her unwavering spirit charms the elite. Stars Lesley Manville, Isabelle Huppert, Lambert Wilson, Alba Baptista, Lucas Bravo, Ellen Thomas, Rose Williams and Jason Isaacs.
Premieres Saturday, July 8 on HBO GO.

Full Circle (13 July 2023)

This Max Original limited series follows an investigation of a botched kidnapping which uncovers long-held secrets connecting multiple characters and cultures in present-day New York City. Stars Zazie Beetz, Claire Danes, Jim Gaffigan, Jharrel Jerome, Timothy Olyphant, CCH Pounder, Phaldut Sharma, Adia, Sheyi Cole, Gerald Jones, Suzanne Savoy, Ethan Stoddard, Lucian Zanes and Dennis Quaid.
Premieres Thursday, July 13 on HBO GO.

Ticket to Paradise (15 July 2023)

A romantic comedy about the sweet surprise of second chances. Georgia and David team up as exes who find themselves on a shared mission: to stop their lovestruck daughter from making the same mistake they once made. Stars George Clooney, Julia Roberts, Kaitlyn Dever, Billie Lourd and Lucas Bravo.
Premieres Saturday, July 15 at 9pm on HBO (Astro Ch 411) and HBO GO.

Superpowered The DC Story (20 July 2023)

Narrated by Rosario Dawson, this three-part Max Original DC documentary series takes an unprecedented look at the enduring and influential legacy of DC, allowing fans to rediscover the universe of characters, as well as the iconic comic book company’s origins, its evolution and its nearly nine-decade cultural impact across every artistic medium. Featuring a wealth of interviews with the industry’s most prolific creators and the actors who bring their iconic characters from the page to the screen, Superpowered: The DC Story reminds us that at the heart of DC are the comics – the four-color fantasies that forever spark the imagination and instil hope.
Premieres Thursday, July 20 on HBO GO.

The Lazarus Project Season 1 (20 July 2023)
The Lazarus Project – Gallery Images
George wakes to discover he’s reliving the same events over again. Mystified, he is introduced to The Lazarus Project, a top-secret organisation that uses its ability to turn back time to save the world from extinction. When George’s girlfriend, Sarah, suddenly dies, and the project won’t reset time to save her, he faces a choice between helping Lazarus or going rogue. Stars Paapa Essiedu.
Premieres Thursday, July 20 on HBO GO.

Smile (29 July 2023)
Caitlin Stasey in Paramount Pictures Presents in Association with Paramount Players A Temple Hill Production “SMILE.”
After witnessing a bizarre, traumatic incident involving a patient, Dr. Rose Cotter starts experiencing frightening occurrences that she can’t explain. As an overwhelming terror begins taking over her life, Rose must confront her troubling past in order to survive and escape her horrifying new reality. Stars Sosie Bacon.
Premieres Saturday, July 29 at 10pm on HBO (Astro Ch 411) and HBO GO.


ALGS Split 2 Playoffs 2023: What You Need To know

We’re almost at that time for high-level Apex Legends play; Split 2 Playoffs, baby!
Teams from all over the world have been hard at work scrimming for weeks and weeks to be crowned the next champion. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered for what to expect and what we know for the Playoffs.
What’s different at LAN this time? ALGS Split 2 Playoffs will still be held at the Copper Box Arena in London from July 13-16, 2023. However, every single match will now be broadcasted on main stage. Previously we’d have all groups A, B, C and D playing at the same time in which 2 will be on Main Stage and the other 2 groups will be playing backstage. This is a great way for fans to watch their favourite teams play live, and to also cheer them on for the crown.

This time there will also be official Meet & Greets for the teams, so be sure to bring your team jerseys or merchandise to get them signed by your favourites. If you don’t have any, don’t worry, for the first time ever, Team Merch Booths are being introduced this event. TSM, DarkZero, Alliance, Luminosity Gaming, as well as JLINGZ are partners of the event and their merchandise will be sold there. There will also be limited-edition Playoffs merchandise that will be available at the event itself.
A Free Play area sponsored by WD Black will be there, free Monster Energy samples for the crowd, and daily giveaways for every attendee each day.

ALGS Split 2 Playoffs Schedule
Group Stage Part 1: 13 July 5pm GMT+8 onward
Groups Stage Part 2: 14 July 5pm GMT+8 onward
Bracket Stage: 15 July 5pm GMT+8 onward
Finals: 16 July 11pm GMT+8

As mentioned earlier, every single match will be broadcasted on Main Stage. For those back home, don’t worry, our trusty Command Centre will make sure you don’t miss a single moment.

COMPETITION FORMAT
The tournament will commence with the Group Stage, where teams will be divided into four groups of ten. Each team will compete in a six-match series against every other group, showcasing their skills and strategies.
Following the Group Stage, the Bracket Stage will kick off on Saturday, July 15th. Teams will be ranked and placed in a double-elimination bracket, reflecting their performance in the Group Stage. This stage will determine which teams proceed further in the tournament.
After battling through the double-elimination bracket, the top 20 teams will emerge victorious and secure their spots in the highly anticipated Match Point Finals. Set to take place on Sunday, July 16th, the Match Point Finals will bring together the crème de la crème of the tournament, showcasing thrilling matches and intense competition to determine the ultimate champion.

Split 2 Playoffs: The Groups

The  40 qualified teams come from all over the world. The North American region has 11 teams, South American region has 5, the EMEA region has 10, APAC-North region has 9 and APAC-South region has 5. Each region has sent a specific number of teams based on their regions performance in the Split 1 Playoffs.

North America

South America

Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA)

Asia-Pacific North (APAC N)

Asia-Pacific South (APAC S)

Broadcasting Talent
Our favourite casters are back and on air for this split 2 Playoffs at LAN. Fan favourites, RKN, currently of Sentintels and Sabz_Bear of TSM will also be joining the broadcast.

For those who won’t be at the event, we’ve got you with our official watch parties and broadcast partners.

Official Watch Parties
ENGLISH
NiceWigg & Greek – Twitch

PORTUGUESE
Pokizgames – Twitch | Youtube

FRENCH
Oraxe & Wisethug – Twitch | Twitch

CHINESE
Restiafps – Twitch

Official Broadcast Partners

JAPANESE
CyberZ – Twitch | Youtube

PORTUGUESE
WooHoo – Twitch

THAI
Friends Project Co – Twitch

MANDARIN
Myriad Stars (Newer Esports) – Twitch

SPANISH
Titan Masters – Twitch

HINDI
Basik Marketing/ The Esports Club – Twitch | Loco
PRIZING
Teams participating in the Split 2 Playoffs are vying for a portion of the impressive $1,000,000 USD prize pool and crucial Playoff Points, which serve as a gateway to qualifying for the highly anticipated ALGS Year 3 Championship.
The prize pool will be allocated among the top 20 teams, providing teams with a significant incentive to showcase their skills and compete fiercely for their share of the winnings. Yes, you heard that right. The top 20 teams will all get a share of the prize money!
For more information on the distribution of Playoff Points, you can refer to the ALGS Official Rules.

TWITCH DROPS
From July 13 to 16, fans stuck at home can watch and earn four exclusive cosmetics after logging the following watch time each day on participating Twitch channels:

13 July (60 minutes): “Charbroiled” R99 skin
14 July (60 minutes): “Fiery Fractals” Wraith skin
15 July  (60 minutes): “Ratting” holospray
16 July (60 minutes): “Predator” weapon charm

To receive all the drops from the list above, you will have to watch on the correct day and for the correct amount of time. Remember to link your EA accounts so you actually get the drops! Stay tuned for more live updates on the ALGS Split 2 Playoffs!

How To Watch ALGS Season 2 Playoffs
Check out the Twitch livestream below:
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Showa American Story Features Cowboy Girls, Samurai Swords, And Zombie-Killing

NEKCOM Entertainment and Project SAS will be releasing an upcoming action RPG called Showa American Story, which features a ton of zombie-killing and yakuza-exterminating. It also comes with 80s pop culture and B-movie references aplenty.
Players will be controlling Choko, a woman back from the dead and seek truth and revenge.
“Find allies to overcome the dangers of this world: from hordes of bloodthirsty undead to yakuza and bÅsÅzoku gangs who fight for their own interests, just like in your favorite b-movies from the 80s! Wield ChÅko’s katana and get ready to face hordes in frenetic combat where you pull off crazy combos and spill A LOT of blood.”
While the zombie-killing trope is old, the action and combat looks solid. We look forward to seeing more of this, being a conoisseur of titles like the Bayonetta, Dead Rising, and Onechanbara series. Showa American Story will be out for PC, PS4, and PS5; no release date has been confirmed. Check out the action-savvy trailer below.


Budget Switch: Nintendo’s Console Is Getting A Bunch Of Indie Titles

The Nintendo Switch is getting a lot of indie games it seems, according to the latest Nintendo Direct video showcase sadly not featuring Reggie Fils-Aime.Â Let’s break down our top picks.
Into The Breach (Out Now)

The makers of FTL has created an arguably decent turn-based strategy game featuring a kaiju invasion, a bunch of military tanks and choppers, and some tense limited resource-influenced gameplay.
Dragon: Marked For Death (13th December)

That new Inti Creates game with the knights, wizards, and frenetic side-scrolling action coming out this year. If you liked the Mega Man Zero and Azure Gunvolt series, you’ll fall in love with this medieval spin on a classic formula.
Hyper Light Drifter (6th September)

The 8-bit sprite-stylized moody action adventure Legend of Zelda homage will be available for Switch. Also this game is a rare case of a Kickstarter project that’s been incredibly successful.
Mineko’s Night Market (Early 2019)

This adorable Animal Crossing-esque life simulator is about a little girl who has to sell stuff, collect cats, chase a mythical cat named Abe, and find out more about the island you live in. It’s also whimsical AF.
Levelhead (November 2018)

Remember the guys who made Crashlands, that pretty awesome survival game you didn’t know existed? Well they’re making a platformer that features an extensive level editor. Looks like fun!
King of the Hat (Early 2019)

It’s a hat-based 2D party game where you knock off people’s hats to win. Also an adorable game.
Untitled Goose Game (Early 2019)

After eons has passed, we finally get a goose simulator where we control a lone goose who trolls people. This is truly what people want out of life, apart from a goat simulator.
Towerfall (27th September)

This version of Towerfall features the full game and its expansions. You can’t do no wrong with this multiplayer fightfest if you haven’t played it yet.
Bullet Age (November 2018)

Need a co-op Contra 2D run-and-gun game that isn’t a mobile cash grab? You could do worse than this.
Check out the full Nintendo Direct video below:


How Much Is The New Asus ROG Phone In Malaysia?

Guess past rumours aren’t what they seem: Malaysia will be getting the upcoming Asus ROG Phone a little later than usual with quite a price tag.
The Asus ROG Phone will cost you a mere RM3,999. Let’s break it down:

You can get one version of the phone for RM3,499 with 128GB storage space. The RM3,999 version comes with 512GB storage space.
Both these phones come with an accessories bundle worth RM450. The bundle contains the Aeroactive Cooler and a sweet ROG Phone Case.
You can start pre-ordering the phone now from today until 4th November 2018 from Asus outlets in Malaysia and online via Lazada and Shopee.
Here’s your list of accessories you can buy for your megaton gaming phone.

ROG Phone Case â€” RM199
ASUS Professional Dock â€” RM299
GAMEVICE controller â€” RM349
Mobile Desktop Dock â€” RM599
ROG Suitcase â€” RM599
ASUS WiGig Display Dock â€” RM899
TwinView Dock â€” RM999

The specs are pretty high-end to justify the price tag. 7.2 hours worth of wi-fi gaming time from its battery life, OLED screen, the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon processor to beat most smartphone contenders: this beast’s got it all.
No, there’s no specific release date for the Asus ROG phone. Our guess is around November-ish since the cut-off date for the pre-orders is at 4th November.

Sounds lovely? If this is your cup of tea and prefer this over the Nintendo Switch or Nintendo 3DS, by all means, go ahead.
Aside: the Asus ROG TUF gaming laptops also made their debut: their prices range from RM3,699 to RM5,299 depending on the specs. The TUF series are rugged gaming laptops that come with decent laptop price tags. How rugged, you may ask? They’re military grade; let the Asus product managers show you.
View post on imgur.com

Take a look at the pics of the Asus ROG Malaysia gaming machine “launch” party.


Marvel’s Secret Invasion Brings Back The Spy Thriller & Political Intrigue Of Captain America Winter Soldier

Secret Invasion is the first Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) Disney+ series of 2023 and it might be one of the best yet. After several series with Egyptian gods and superpowers in 2022, we’re back to exploring the more grounded and gritty part of the MCU. While each of the shows in 2022 introduced a new hero into the MCU, Secret Invasion shines the spotlight on existing characters like Samuel L. Jackson’s Nick Fury and others.
Skrulls Attack!
Kingsley Ben-Adir as Rebel Skrull leader Gravik in Marvel Studios’ Secret Invasion, exclusively on Disney+. Photo courtesy of Marvel Studios. © 2022 MARVEL.
It’s great to see Samuel L. Jackson in a prominent role again in the MCU with Secret Invasion. As Nick Fury, he didn’t really get much to do in the MCU after 2019’s Captain Marvel, but this series changes that. As a legendary veteran actor, he brings the most layered performance of Nick Fury to Secret Invasion. In the movies, he’s pretty much focused on being this distant secret agent man who can do anything. In Secret Invasion, we learn more about him as a character, including his having lived through a time when Americans were still segregated according to the colour of their skin. Yes, just like 2021’s The Falcon And The Winter Soldier, Secret Invasion isn’t afraid to explore mature and controversial subject matter, such as racism (both in human skin colour terms and in terms of wider xenophobia when involving the Skrulls), the often-inhumane treatment of refugees and more. Also, Nick Fury in Secret Invasion feels like he’s actually human, with flaws and regrets that haunt him, which makes him a more interesting character.
Even after only having watched two episodes of Secret Invasion, there is plenty of political intrigue, thrilling espionage, conspiracies and emotions. It has a lot of tension with a grounded and gritty tone that evokes the more realistic vibe of 2014’s Captain America The Winter Soldier and 2021’s The Falcon And The Winter Soldier. Best of all, the narrative twists can be unexpected and shocking at times, leaving you wanting more at the end of each episode. Speaking of that, the ending of the first episode of Secret Invasion will probably be one of the most controversial ones yet for an MCU Disney+ series, but it will also quickly establish how high the stakes are in Secret Invasion, and believe me, they are.
(L-R): Cobie Smulders as Maria Hill and Samuel L. Jackson as Nick Fury in Marvel Studios’ SECRET INVASION, exclusively on Disney+. Photo by Des Willie. © 2023 MARVEL.
Despite being different from the comic book version of Secret Invasion, the sense of paranoia is still there. However, the biggest change is that the MCU version of Secret Invasion doesn’t waste time in establishing who the main antagonists are early on. Therefore, the core mystery isn’t who the bad guys are, but instead, it’s Nick Fury scrambling to figure out what exactly they’re planning to do before it’s too late. Some characters are greyer than others, which makes for some great performances from the supporting cast of characters and that’s what you want in a spy thriller like this. These include new ones such as Olivia Colman’s Sonya Falsworth and Emilia Clarke as G’iah, as well as returning characters like Ben Mendelsohn’s Talos and Don Cheadle’s Rhodey.
There are six planned episodes for Secret Invasion, and the first two episodes are both more than 50 minutes long, which means that you’re getting plenty of meat with each episode. The rest of the episodes in Secret Invasion will likely be around the same length as well. This is especially so because some people complained about how short the sitcom-length episodes in She-Hulk and even Ms Marvel were. It doesn’t seem like Secret Invasion will feel rushed like those shows did.
Old Man Nick Fury
(L-R): Samuel L. Jackson as Nick Fury and Ben Mendelsohn as Talos in Marvel Studios’ SECRET INVASION, exclusively on Disney+. Photo by Des Willie. © 2023 MARVEL.
More than anything, Secret Invasion is essentially the solo series that Samuel L. Jackson’s Nick Fury deserves after all these years of working mostly behind the scenes in the MCU. The setup in the first two episodes is amazing; now all Secret Invasion has to do is to stick the landing and so far, it looks very much capable of doing that too.
FINAL SCORE: 80/100
We received an early screener of the first two episodes of Marvel’s Secret Invasion courtesy of Disney+ Hotstar Malaysia. Marvel’s Secret Invasion is slated to premiere on Disney+ Hotstar on 21 June 2023.


Deadpool 3 Announced; Will Be Part Of The MCU & Still Foul-Mouthed

It’s confirmed: we’re getting a Deadpool 3, and it’s going to be part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. And most importantly, it’s going to retain its R-rating.
The third instalment’s script will be worked on by Ryan Reynolds, which was previously penned by Bob’s Burgers writers Wendy and Lizzie Molyneux. Here’s the scoop via a Collider interview with Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige:

“It will be rated R and we are working on a script right now, and Ryan [Reynolds is] overseeing a script right nowâ€¦ It will not be [filming] this year. Ryan is a very busy, very successful actor. Weâ€™ve got a number of things weâ€™ve already announced that we now have to make, but itâ€™s exciting for it to have begun. Again, a very different type of character in the MCU, and Ryan is a force of nature, which is just awesome to see him bring that character to life.”

Up until now, we weren’t sure if MCU films will ever be R-rated or go beyond PG-13. Of course, the key takeaway is that Deadpool 3 won’t be filmed or released anytime soon since there’s a buttload of MCU films to go through. From 2021 and beyond, we have WandaVision, The Falcon & Winter Soldier, Black Widow, Loki, Shang-Chi and the Legend of The Ten Rings, What If…?, Eternals, and a third Spider-Man film starring Tom Holland.
WandaVision will start airing on 15th January on Disney Plus.


Doom Patrol Season 3 Launches On HBO GO Malaysia Next Week

DCâ€™s strangest group of heroes will be back to save the world again when the Emmy nominated series Doom Patrol returns for its third season. The first three episodes of Doom Patrol Season 3 will debut same time as the U.S. exclusively on HBO GO from Thursday, 23 September 2021 while each subsequent episode premieres every Thursday.
Doom Patrol reimagines one of DCâ€™s most beloved groups of Super-Heroes: Robotman aka Cliff Steele (Brendan Fraser), Negative Man aka Larry Trainor (Matt Bomer), Elasti-Woman aka Rita Farr (April Bowlby), Crazy Jane (Diane Guerrero) and Cyborg aka Victor Stone (Joivan Wade), all led by modern-day mad scientist Niles Caulder aka The Chief (Timothy Dalton).
Each member of the Doom Patrol suffered a horrible accident that gave them superhuman abilities but also left them scarred and disfigured. Part support group, part Super Hero team, the Doom Patrol is a band of superpowered freaks who fight for a world that wants nothing to do with them.
The synopsis for Doom Patrol Season 3 reads:
Season three opens on the culmination of Dorothyâ€™s (Abi Monterey) confrontation with the Candlemaker that leads to a devastating loss.
The Doom Patrol is at a difficult crossroads and each member struggles to face who they are and who they want to be.
And things get a whole lot more complicated when Madame Rouge (Michelle Gomez) arrives in a time machine with a very specific mission, if only she could remember it.
The first two seasons of Doom Patrol by streaming or downloading all episodes on HBO GO.
Doom Patrol is produced by Berlanti Productions in association with Warner Bros. Television with Jeremy Carver, Geoff Johns, Greg Berlanti, Sarah Schechter, Chris Dingess and Tamara Becher-Wilkinson serving as executive producers. The series is based on characters created for DC by Arnold Drake, Bob Haney and Bruno Premiani.
Whatâ€™s interesting for fans of DC Comics is that this season will finally introduce the Brotherhood Of Evil, which is one of the main arch-nemesis of Doom Patrol and the Teen Titans. Perhaps weâ€™ll see a crossover between Titans and Doom Patrol in the near future? Fingers crossed.
In the comics, the Brotherhood Of Evil was founded by the Brain and his partner, the talking French gorilla with a machine gun named Monsieur Mallah. They consisted of many other villains as well, including Madame Rouge. This will be their live-action debut, but theyâ€™ve appeared in animation before; most notably in the 2003Â Teen TitansÂ animated series.

Stay tuned for my review of Doom Patrol Season 3 soon. In the meantime, check out the Doom PatrolÂ Season 3 trailer below:


Disney+ Cancels Willow After Just One Season

According to a report from Deadline, Disney+ has cancelled Willow after just one season. Willow is a sequel series to George Lucas’ 1988 fantasy-adventure film of the same name. The first season premiered on Disney+ in November 2022.
The story began when an aspiring sorcerer, played by Warwick Davis, is whisked away on a journey to protect an infant empress Elora Danan and vanquish the evil Queen Bavmorda from their world of Andowyne. Now, the story continues with Davis reprising his titular role, as he leads an unlikely crew of heroes on a quest to protect Andowyne from an even larger foe than they had imagined possible. Willow also starred Ellie Bamber, Ruby Cruz, Erin Kellyman, Tony Revolori, Amar Chadha-Patel, Dempsey Bryk, and Joanne Whalley.
In the meantime, check out our spoiler-free review of the series by heading over here.
Courtesy of Disney+ Hotstar, we also received the opportunity to interview Dempsey Bryk (Airk) & Ruby Cruz (Kit). This interview has been edited for clarity.


WayForward Announces 2D Shooter Spidersaurs For Consoles

WayForward just announced a pretty rad-looking 2D run-and-gun shoot-em-up featuring spiders and rock stars.
It’s called Spidersaurs and you play either officer-in-training Adrian or punk rocker Victoria as they run, jump, climb, and shoot their way out of many 2D levels filled with spiders, creatures spliced with spiders, and other monstrosities with eight-legs/mandibles.
If you like 2D shooters like Contra and Metal Slug, you’ll feel right at home with Spidersaurs. Plus, both Adrian and Victoria have character-specific run-and-gun powers which means different playstyles for co-op play! Check out the gameplay trailer below.

Spidersaurs will be out for PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series in Spring 2022. The game was out on Apple Arcade back in 2019.


Avatar The Last Airbender’s Princess Azula Is Getting Her Own Comic Book Expansion

Fan-favourite Avatar The Last Airbender character Princess Azula (also known as the sister of Zuko and one of the main antagonists of the animated series) is getting her own comic book / graphic novel expansion, Avatar The Last Airbender: Azula In The Spirit Temple, from Dark Horse Comics and Avatar Studios.
According to Screen Rant, Avatar The Last Airbender: Azula In The Spirit Temple will be published on 26 September 2023. The graphic novel is written by Faith Erin Hicks with art by Peter Wartman and colour by Adele Matera, with lettering by ComicCraft’s Jimmy Betancourt.
In the original Avatar The Last Airbender animated series, Azula was last seen imprisoned in a Fire Nation prison until Zuko (who is now the Fire Lord) eventually frees Azula to search for their mother in The Search graphic novel. In more recent comics, Azula has become obsessed with causing chaos in her brother’s Fire Nation.

The synopsis for Azula In The Spirit Temple reads:
In this story: Azula continues her destabilization campaign against the Fire Nation and her brother, Fire Lord Zuko. But after a failed attack on her latest target, Azula finds herself in a mysterious forest temple inhabited by a solitary monk. What first seems like a place to safely pass the night is quickly revealed to be something horrifyingly different. Azula is forced to confront her past and will finally face her chance at redemption…but will she take it?
It was back in early 2021 when Nickelodeon announced Avatar Studios to make more series and movies set in the world of Avatar The Last Airbender. There are currently three new Avatar The Last Airbender animated movies in the works, but no official details have been unveiled so far.


Here’s What You Should Catch On Netflix Malaysia In December 2019

Now that Netflix has its own dedicated team/division for Malaysia, it’s easier to discover what’s coming to our own regional lineup. The official Netflix Malaysia Twitter account has revealed everything new that’s arriving here in December 2019, which you can check out below.

6/12:
Marriage Story
Three Days of Christmas
13/12: 6 Underground
16/12: Bring It On: All Or Nothing
20/12:
The Witcher
The Two Popes
24/12: Lost In Space S2
26/12: You S2
31/12: DC’s Justice League
â€” Netflix Malaysia (@NetflixMY) December 3, 2019

Here are my personal recommendations for what you should totally watch out of all those new shows and movies coming to Netflix Malaysia in December 2019:
Harold & Kumar: Escape From Guantanamo Bay (1 December 2019)

I was probably not old enough to watch this movie when it came out in 2008 (I was 14) but that didn’t stop me from watching this funny and charming stoner comedy. While the genre has all but died out (mostly), Harold & Kumar: Escape From Guantanamo Bay is the second of three movies starring the hilarious duo of John Cho and Kal Penn as Harold Lee and Kumar Patel, respectively.
It also stars Neil Patrick Harris of How I Met Your Mother as a sleazier and more dirtbag version of himself, and the movie features tons of offensive jokes. They literally don’t make many stoner comedies like this anymore, so check it out when it becomes available.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7sM0zfuaJiM&w=560&h=315]
V-Wars (5 December 2019)

Tired of vampires and vampiric tropes? Well, give V-Wars a chance because this might be the resurgence of the fatigued genre. It follows the story of a scientist and his best friend as they face the evolving crisis of a deadly outbreak that fractures society into opposing factions in a conflict between humans and vampires.
If that’s not enough, it stars some pretty good eye-candy in the form of Ian Somerhalder of The Vampire Diaries’ Damon Salvatore fame and Laura Vandervoort of Smallville‘s Supergirl fame.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M1kuAdVKvuE&w=560&h=315]
The Witcher (20 December 2019)

The Witcher probably needs little to no introduction, especially among gamers and pop culture enthusiasts, as it likely one of the most highly-anticipated Netflix shows in 2019. An adaptation of Andrzej Sapkowski’s best-selling novels, it stars Henry Cavill as the monster-hunting mutant named Geralt of Rivia, in a fantasy-oriented land known as the Continent.
With the gaping void left by Game Of Thrones, The Witcher will scratch that fantasy dungeons-and-dragons live-action itch, and then some. Get ready for an epic of massive proportions when this premieres.
Lost In Space Season 2 (24 December 2019)

Good science fiction shows are far and between nowadays, which is why I watched and immediately liked the first season of Lost In Space when it premiered in April 2018. It took them almost two years to crank out another season, but with this show’s extremely high production values and great writing, it’ll be worth the wait.
This show is also unique in that it focuses on a particular family instead of a ragtag group of misfits or outlaws. It’s sort of like Star Trek, but with believable family dynamics and an awesome-looking robot named, well, Robot.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pdwBMPKUV3E&w=560&h=315]


Netflix Announces Enola Holmes 2, Leading Stars Return

Last year in September 2020, Netflix released the Enola Holmes movie starring Stranger Things actress Millie Bobby Brown as the sister of Sherlock Holmes, who was played by Henry Cavill of DCEU’s Superman fame. Now, the streaming giant has announced that it is officially getting a sequel.
Both leading stars will return for Enola Holmes 2, as well as writer Jack Thorne and director Harry Bradbeer.

The sequel is afoot!
The adventure continues as Millie Bobby Brown & Henry Cavill return to the world of ENOLA HOLMES, reteaming with director Harry Bradbeer & writer Jack Thorne on a second film based on Nancy Springer’s book series about Sherlock Holmes’ brilliant sister. ? pic.twitter.com/7tsr1fbej2
— NetflixFilm (@NetflixFilm) May 13, 2021

In a statement to Empire, Millie Bobby Brown said:
“I canâ€™t wait to collaborate again with my Enola Holmes family.
Enola holds a special place in my heart â€” sheâ€™s strong, fearless, intelligent and brave. I look forward to fans seeing how her journey continues!”
At the time of writing, no release date or plot details have been revealed.


Here’s A Video Preview Of The Awesome Street Fighter 35th Anniversary Concert That Recently Took Place

We talked about the recent Street Fighter 35th anniversary concert, which you had to pay for to watch the stream and offline version a week or so ago. Now, Capcom has taken one tiny part of the two-hour special to show to the public.

Here’s a short preview of the concert, featuring an arrangement of Ryu and Ken’s OST from Street Fighter 2.

? STREET FIGHTER 35th Anniversary Concert ??????
The streamed version of the concert is available now until 2/12 at 11:59PM JST. Here's a preview of the Ryu-Ken Stage segment! #SF35th
? Watch Now – https://t.co/5bw0bVsiwp pic.twitter.com/ShdIZ2fytU
— Street Fighter (@StreetFighter) February 6, 2023

The concert stream is available on the Zaiko platform from now until 12th February 10:59pm GMT+8. You’ll have to pay US$40 for the stream. Stay tuned for our full review of the concert on Kakuchopurei.


CD Projekt Red Faces Possible Fine By The Polish Government

Poland’s Office Of Competition And Consumer Protection (UOKiK) has opened an investigation into CD Projekt Red over the bad state of the console versions of Cyberpunk 2077 at launch (PS4 and Xbox One).
In a statement to Polish legal newspaper Dziennik Gazeta Prawna, a UOKiK spokesperson announced that the Polish government agency will be monitoring the situation regarding CD Projekt Red and their continuing work on Cyberpunk 2077.
“We ask the entrepreneur to explain the problems with the game and the actions taken by him.
We will check how the manufacturer is working on introducing corrections or solving difficulties that prevent the game from playing on different consoles, but also how it intends to act in relation to people who have complained and are dissatisfied with the purchase due to the inability to play the game on their equipment despite the manufacturer’s previous assurances.”
UOKiK is just one of many problems plaguing CD Projekt Red, as various parties have also unleashed lawsuits against the Polish developer for misleading them on the game’s ‘broken’ state at launch for the console versions.
The Polish government agency has the power to slap a fine on CD Projekt Red worth up to a whopping 10 percent of their annual revenue. While that’s unlikely at this point (since it has never happened before despite being legally possible), it’s still another potential problem faced by CD Projekt Red.
You can check out a handy recap of all the problems plaguingÂ Cyberpunk 2077Â since launch byÂ heading over here.


HORI Announces New Fighting Controller & Stick For PS5

Sony Interactive Entertainment PlayStation and HORI have announced a new HORI Fighting Commander OCTA pad and Fightstick for the PS5. HORI previously released high-quality Fighting Commander pads for the PS3 and PS4.
The new controller features top-quality components for accuracy and durability, including micro switches, as well as a Short Throw Analog with an 8-way gate for increased accuracy & execution. It also has adjustable D-Pad sensitivity and an easy-to-use 6-button layout, headset input and onboard audio controls, as well as the ability to customize settings with the companion app.
The PS5 Fighting Commander pad is also compatible with PS4 and PC and will cost US$60 when it releases sometime later in 2022.
Additionally, HORI announced the Fighting Stick Î± for the PS5 (US$199.99). The tournament-grade Fighting Stick Î± opens for easy customization and maintenance. It also features replaceable top-panel artwork, HAYABUSA buttons and stick lever, a 3.5mm audio jack, as well as the ability to create custom profiles through the companion app.

Both of these peripherals are officially licensed by Sony. There are no release dates yet, but stay tuned on the official website here.

Introducing the HORI Fighting Commander OCTA and Fighting Stick ? for PS5. Revolutionary gear to take you to championship gold, coming soon: https://t.co/gI84zfMohO pic.twitter.com/eMqZTHrYjl
— PlayStation (@PlayStation) January 17, 2022


Tactics Ogre: Reborn Has A Release Date

Square Enix and PlayStation may have let slip the release date for its port of the strategy role-playing game classic Tactics Ogre: Reborn.
Tactics: Ogre Reborn will be out for PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 consoles on 11th November; this is according to recent listings on tracking website PS Deals. No word on whether the remaster will be out for other platforms, so file this game as a PlayStation exclusive for now.
Check out the screenshots and the features list of the game below:

Key Features

A tactical role-playing game depicting the struggle for control of the Valerian Isles.
Your choices affect how the story unfolds, and even how it ends, with a game system that allows for multiple paths through the game and multiple endings. The story takes place through the eyes of a young man named Denam. The decisions he makes will alter the fate of those around him, and shift the course of Valeria’s history.
Fight pitched tactical battles on three-dimensional battlefields. The completely revamped AI enables enemies to adapt their tactics to the situation, providing a battle system that always keeps you thinking and never grows old.
The class-wide level management system used in Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together (2010) has changed to a unit-by-unit level system. Theorycraft your way through endless combinations of classes, equipment, skills, and magic.
Enjoy numerous playability improvements, such as a quicker pace of battle, auto save, and a complete overhaul to the controls and UI to make it easier to get into the game than ever.
The unparalleled details of the characters and backgrounds from the original Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together (1995) have been painstakingly recreated in high definition.
The cutscenes are fully voiced in English and Japanese, and all of the music has been re-recorded with live performances! The voices bring new life to the complex motivations of the characters that make up the factions and shifting political alliances of this epic story.
When you advance far enough in the game you’ll unlock the World Tarot, enabling you to travel back in the story with the power of your forces intact; an incredibly useful feature in a game where your choices have such a huge impact on how the story unfolds. If you wonder what a different choice would have led to, now you can find out!
Travelling back isn’t limited to the story; the Chariot Tarot lets you rewind up to a certain number of moves during battle. In a game of tactical battles where a single mistake can mean the difference between victory and defeat, you can play without worrying that you’ll back yourself into a corner.
Enjoy a wealth of endgame content such as the 100-level Palace of the Dead.


PS Plus July 2022 Adds Crash Bandicoot 4, Man Of Medan & More

Gamers will have four new games to look forward to in the PlayStation Plus Asia July 2022 lineup. From 5 July 2022 to 1 August 2022, PS Plus subscribers will be able to redeem Crash Bandicoot 4 It’s About Time, The Dark Pictures Anthology Man Of Medan, Arcadegeddon and Zero Strain.
Crash Bandicoot 4 It’s About Time | PS4/PS5

An all-new Crash adventure awaits! Dr. Neo Cortex and N. Tropy are back at it again and launching an all-out assault on not just this universe, but the entire multiverse. Wield four powerful guardians of space and time that give Crash and Coco the power to bend the rules of reality and conquer dangerous obstacles in exciting new ways. And you’ll not only play as the wumping, jumping, marsupial duo: experience things from different perspectives with the one and only Dr. Neo Cortex. Play as Crash, Coco, Tawna, Dingodile, or Dr. Neo Cortex and battle bosses such as N. Gin, Louise, Nitrus Brio, and Nefarious Tropy.
Check out our review here.

The Dark Pictures Anthology Man of Medan | PS4

In this branching, cinematic horror game from the creator of Until Dawn and The Quarry, five friends set sail on a holiday diving trip that soon changes into something much more sinister. All playable characters can live or die, with the choices you make deciding their fate. Experience your terrifying story alone, with a friend online* or go for safety in numbers with up to five players offline.
Check out our review here.

Arcadegeddon | PS4/PS5

Gilly, the owner of a local arcade, is trying to save his business from a faceless mega-corporation, Fun Fun Co. …and what better way to stick it to the man than with a brand-spanking-new super game. Unfortunately, the corp gets wind of Gilly’s plan and launches a cyberattack, injecting a virus into the game. Now it’s up to you to rise up and save both the game and the last remaining local arcade in this ever-evolving co-op multiplayer shooter. Offering a mix of PvE and PvP gameplay, you and up to 3 friends online* to explore multiple biomes, compete in mini games, find hidden chests, and battle a crazy cast of enemies and bosses.

Zero Strain | PS4/PS5

Zero Strain is a fast-paced shooter set in a series of top-down arenas, where strategic use of offense and defense are critical to surviving each challenge. MOBA elements are mixed with frenetic shoot’em up action for a unique and rewarding experience in neon wireframe presentation. Each of the “constructs” you pilot offers a different array of armaments that are charged by the damage you deal, allowing you to deploy more powerful abilities against the strongest foes! Strategize on the fly to take down enemy waves and reach uncharted dimensions.


You Can Finally Buy The Formerly-Banned Taiwanese Horror Game Devotion

Remember the horror game Devotion? It was released in February of 2019 and was praised by many before it was removed from Steam after a few years. Why? Because the game contained an easter egg that depicted Chinese president Xi Jinping in a bad light.
Also, GOG almost released the game in 2020, but it didn’t due to “many messages from gamers”. After all that nonsense, the game is finally available in digital form directly from Red Candle Games. It’s available for US$17 for both Windows and Mac.

Hello, Red Candle e-shop is now online. https://t.co/smmZxHj7zQ#??Detention, #??Devotion and our future projects will all be on e-shop in DRM-free format.
We hope to provide a direct and simple purchasing channel for players who’re interested in our games. pic.twitter.com/1SxzBZSiyW
— redcandlegames (@redcandlegames) March 15, 2021

You can also buy the studio’s previous horror game Detention, which costs US$11.99. Both Devotion and Detention are DRM-free on the site. So if you fancy some horror games focused on broken people, this should be your jam.


Apex Legends Streamer Shroud Out Of Commission Due To Scooter Accident

Michael â€œShroudâ€ Grzesiek is currently one of the world’s top streamers, thanks to his quick adoption of Apex Legends last month. Previously, he has streamed other shooter games in the past like Counter-Strike, PUBG, and Call of Duty.
That’s why fans were alarmed when he posted on Twitter yesterday that he will be “out of commission for a bit” due to an elbow surgery after getting into a scooter accident.

It’s my left arm, dw the aims still there. Movement might be a little slow as I recover :p.
â€” Michael Grzesiek (@shroud) March 11, 2019
Shroud is best known for his godly aiming in shooters, which has made him popular on Twitch and amongst Apex Legends players. He reassured fans in a later tweet that he hasn’t lost his “aim”, but his “movement might be a little slow” as he recovers from his elbow surgery.
Shroud’s roommate and fellow streamer Justin â€œJust9nâ€ Ortiz recently explained more about his accident during a stream. He said:

â€œHe hit the brakes too hard, and he flew over the handlebars about 10 to 12 feet, onto the asphalt. Now, being Mike, heâ€™s looking out for his right arm, he fell on his left armâ€”all of his weight. He got a bunch of road rash from about his hip down to the middle of his thigh. Itâ€™s all purple and blue, all fucked up.
He landed on his elbow, put a huge hole in his elbow. From what I understand, he tore a ligament and removed a piece of the bone from the elbow, so [the surgeons] need to go in and reattach that bone to his elbow.â€

That does sound pretty bad, but a recent tweet by Just9n showed Shroud in relatively high spirits just before his surgery, which means that fans have nothing to worry about. We wish Shroud a speedy recovery and a swift return to Apex Legends.

From all the broys around the world, wishing this beautiful man a swift recovery. We love ya dude. Keeping him in good spirits. Broy is still ðŸ‘ing after taking a gnarly spill. Heâ€™s currently in surgery and will find this arrangement in his room from all of us â¤ï¸ pic.twitter.com/CpKEaJUOjP
â€” Justin (@just9n) March 12, 2019


Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 PlayStation Page Pops Up On The UK Version

More news and information on Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 might be imminent or coming sooner than expected, as the official PlayStation page for the game has appeared on the UK PlayStation store (PSN store).
Just two months ago, Insomniac Games also reiterated that the game is still slated to launch for the PS5 sometime in 2023. Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 was originally announced during a PlayStation Showcase in September 2021.
Much of the development team that brought you Marvel’s Spider-Man is returning to produce Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, including Bryan Intihar (creative director) and Ryan Smith (game director). Tony Todd (of Candyman fame) will be voicing the symbiote-fueled Venom in Marvel’s Spider-Man 2. Yuri Lowenthal and Nadji Jeter will reprise their roles as Peter and Miles respectively.
Re-watch the first trailer below:


[Rumour] Fortnite Might Have A First-Person Mode Next Season

According to the reliable Fortnite leaker HYPEX on Twitter, a first-person mode is on the way in the next season of content.
It’s still unclear how this mode will be introduced into the game, but it seems it will lock players to first-person during all gameplay phases.

Fortnite's First Person mode is finally coming in NEXT SEASON ?
The same reliable source confirmed it to me & @ShiinaBR, and now @GMatrixGames & @iFireMonkey got confirmation from their side too. pic.twitter.com/SASj2E6TRS
— HYPEX (@HYPEX) March 4, 2023

Speaking of the next season, rumours are swirling that Season 2 of Fortnite’s latest chapter will have a battle pass inspired by the hit anime Attack on Titan. The current season is set to end on 8 March, but it’s anyone’s guess when the next one will start.
Most likely it’ll be on 9 March, but Fortnite’s famous end-of-season events have been known to take the game offline for days, so it could be later.

EREN YEAGER FORTNITE SKIN INFO ?
– Looks EXACTLY like this image, with a mid-season variant (Titan most likely)– Emote is "Scout Regime Salute" (Like this image)– Pickaxe is a hardened titan first (on a stick)– Animated Emoji, Wrap & Banner– Page 2 with more cosmetis pic.twitter.com/mkuacjZNtL
— HYPEX (@HYPEX) March 4, 2023

Let’s take a step back and talk about the last major update, Fortnite Chapter 4. It came out at the end of last year and introduced some fantastic new skins based on gaming icons like the Doom Slayer and Geralt of Rivia from The Witcher series.
But it wasn’t just cosmetic changes – Fortnite was also moved to Unreal Engine 5, which brought some serious technical improvements to the game. Nanite, Lumen, Virtual Shadow Maps, and Temporal Super Resolution are just some of the features that make Fortnite’s graphics look better than ever.


The Book Of Boba Fett Episode 5 Breakdown & Easter Eggs Explained

The fifth episode of The Book Of Boba FettÂ Season 1 is now streaming on Disney+ Hotstar Malaysia. Iâ€™ll be discussing heavy spoilers so if you havenâ€™t seen it or want to avoid spoilers, nowâ€™s your chance to stop reading.
The Book Of Boba FettÂ finds legendary bounty hunter Boba Fett and mercenary Fennec Shand navigating the galaxyâ€™s underworld when they return to the sands of Tatooine to stake their claim on the territory once ruled by Jabba the Hutt and his crime syndicate.
It stars Temuera Morrison and Ming-Na Wen. Jon Favreau, Dave Filoni, Robert Rodriguez, Kathleen Kennedy and Colin Wilson are the executive producers. Karen Gilchrist and Carrie Beck serve as co-executive producers, with John Bartnicki producing and John Hampian as co-producer. There will be seven episodes in the first season.
You can check out my previous breakdowns ofÂ The Book Of Boba FettÂ Episode 1,Â Episode 2,Â Episode 3Â and Episode 4 here.
In addition, you can check out my previous breakdowns ofÂ Marvelâ€™s What Ifâ€¦? Episode 1,Â Episode 2,Â Episode 3,Â Episode 4,Â Episode 5,Â Episode 6,Â Episode 7,Â Episode 8Â andÂ Episode 9 here.
If you havenâ€™t, you can check out my previous breakdowns and easter egg articles forÂ WandaVisionÂ Episode 1 and 2,Â Episode 3,Â Episode 4,Â Episode 5,Â Episode 6,Â Episode 7,Â Episode 8Â andÂ Episode 9.
ForÂ The Falcon And The Winter Soldier, you can check out my previous breakdowns forÂ Episode 1,Â Episode 2Â andÂ Episode 3,Â Episode 4,Â Episode 5Â andÂ Episode 6.
For previous breakdowns ofÂ LokiÂ episodes, check outÂ Episode 1 here,Â Episode 2 here,Â Episode 3 here,Â Episode 4 here,Â Episode 5 hereÂ andÂ Episode 6 here.

Mando Is Back

The ending of Episode 4 teased the arrival of The Mandalorian AKA Din Djarin, and it’s true. He appears in the opening moments of Episode 5 on a job to hunt down a target named Kaba Baiz.
And Din Djarin Still Has The Darksaber

Now we know whether he kept the Darksaber or gave it to Bo-Katan at the end of The Mandalorian Season 2.
Star Wars Has Its Own Ringworld

A ringworld or ring planet is a common thing in many sci-fi properties, but this is probably the first time that it’s been seen in Star Wars. One of the most popular examples of a ringworld is in the Halo franchise.
The Heavy Armoured Mandalorian Is Part Of The Vizsla Clan

The name of the heavy armoured Mandalorian is Paz Vizsla. His family name will sound familiar to Star Wars fans who have watched Star Wars The Clone Wars or Star Wars Rebels. Pre Vizsla was the leader of the Mandalorian terrorist organization Death Watch and he was the wielder of the Darksaber at the time before getting killed by Darth Maul.
Paz is likely related to Pre Vizsla.
The Great Purge Or The Night Of A Thousand Tears

The Empire committed genocide on the planet Mandalore in the Great Purge or The Night Of A Thousand Tears, and this is the first time that we’ve seen a depiction of it. The only reason that Din Djarin’s sect survived is because they were in hiding on the moons of Concordia.
Din Djarin Wants To Make Grogu A Mandalorian Foundling

If you’ve never watched The Mandalorian, you probably wouldn’t know what a Foundling is. Basically, it’s anyone who is adopted by a Mandalorian and can therefore be raised as a Mandalorian. Din Djarin himself is a Foundling.
Din Djarin Has To Atone For Having Removed His Helmet

Din Djarin wins his duel against Paz Vizsla, but he has to atone for having removed his helmet by going the place below the mines of Mandalore.
This BD Droid Is The Same Model As BD-1 From Star Wars Jedi Fallen Order

Oh, hey, it’s a reference to the Star Wars Jedi Fallen Order game from Respawn Entertainment. In that game, protagonist Cal Kestis also has a BD droid as his companion, who he names BD-1.

It’s An N-1 Starfighter From Star Wars Episode 1 The Phantom Menace

The Naboo Royal Guard used these N-1 Starfighters in Star Wars Episode 1 The Phantom Menace. A young Anakin Skywalker piloted it back then.
Below is what it originally looked like:

Star Wars Episode IV A New Hope Reference

The ship part that Din Djarin asks the Jawas to find is a cryogenic density combustion booster. This is actually the same part that Han Solo used to try and hold back the walls of the trash compactor in Star Wars Episode IV A New Hope.

The Same Location That Anakin Skywalker Went Pod Racing In Star Wars Episode 1 The Phantom Menace

Beggar’s Canyon was the same track that a young Anakin Skywalker pod raced through in Star Wars Episode 1 The Phantom Menace.

It’s Paul Sun-Hyung Lee Reprising His Role As Captain Carson Teva

Paul Sun-Hyung Lee originally appeared as New Republic Captain Carson Teva in The Mandalorian Season 2 Episode 2 The Passenger and Season 2 Episode 4 The Siege.
Din Djarin Agrees To Help Boba Fett But Wants To Visit Grogu First

Din Djarin agrees to help Boba Fett but wants to visit his “little friend” first, which is likely Baby Yoda AKA Grogu.
Directed By A Returning The Mandalorian Director

Bryce Dallas Howard is not only beautiful and talented but she also directed several episodes of The Mandalorian, including Season 1 Episode 4 Sanctuary and Season 2 Episode 3 The Heiress. Her episodes have all been great, which means she likely inherited those “directorial” genes from her father, Ron Howard.
We only have two episodes left for The Book Of Boba Fett, so the climax inches ever closer. Until next time, excelsior!


CoDBLOPS4 Goes Battle Royale – Here’s How We Think It Should Be Done

Everybody’s jumping into the battle royale bandwagon nowadays and the folks at Treyarch are no different. Earlier today, the creators of the Black Ops brand announced that ‘Blackout’, a battle royale mode is on its way and will pretty much be the replacement for the absent singleplayer mode in Call of Duty: Black Ops IIII (whoever decided to go with ‘IIII’ instead of ‘IV’ needs to be fired immediately). Will they redefine the battle royale genre or have they just jumped the shark? Despite not being yuuuuge fans of the genre, we have a feeling that this move is more of the former than the latter.
Known for their esports pedigree, the Call of Duty franchise is finally tackling the (still) growing genre which has many detractors of late due to its perceived unsuitability as an esports title. However, the fact that folks pretty much at the forefront of FPS esports is delving into the scene alone is proof that the battle royale genre is far from achieving its final form.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TktjCqG4p7Y&w=560&h=315]
Today we are going to discuss about several steps we feel Treyarch would be wise to consider in order to make not only Blackout, but the battle royale genre a thriving esports ecosystem in years to come.
Bring Pick 10/ Pick 13 Into Blackout
It needn’t have to be exactly the same as the typical pick 10 (or 13 in Advanced Warfare) as seen in past CoD games. Just focus on the essentials whereby each player will get to decide which trait to emphasize on from the start; be it appearance (helmet/ kevlar/ camo), abilities (extra sprint stamina/ radar detection etc) as well as passive perks (shield regen / high alert etc)Â  to ensure added layers of tactical nuance, variety of playstyles and parity even during early stages ofÂ  skirmishes.
If Treyarch really want to make ‘Blackout’ viable and THE face for battle royale esports, then they need to reduce the randomness of drops which is currently the biggest undermining factor for the likes of PLUNKBAT and Fortnite from becoming an esports powerhouse they sought to be.
And please – to ensure mechanical skill prevail over lucky drops, allow players to start rounds with a weapon – possibly a sidearm of choice or dual-wield; whichever suit the player’s style. This move will drastically reduce early eliminations simply due to random, bad scrounging luck. Many potential battle royale players (me included) were turned away purely by this fact and if Treyarch manage to solve this issue, we have a feeling that battle royale esports will reach and gain tons of brand new players.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4QNzu_AlTD0&w=560&h=315]
More Firepower and Fully Destructible Structures
While Fortnite is indeed the more enjoyable option compared to PLUNKBAT due to its array of highly combustible arsenal, its overall pool of weapons still left a lot to be desired.Â None of these riding on RPGs nonsense please.
Also in CODBLOPS4, we should expect access to never-seen-before, futuristic yet believable firepower that will leave the likes of PUBG and Fortnite trailing in the dust.Â Bring in rail-guns, miniguns … heck plonk in grenade launchers while you are at it. Point is – more explosions and destruction for a more enjoyable battle royale experience. Destructible surroundings will encourage creative solutions in taking down one another leading to much more satisfying wins.
The inclusion of traps such as tripwires, mines, drones, RC bombs and IEDs will bode well for the sneakier players who prefer less-conventional style of confrontations and redefines the meaning of being the lone survivor.
More Vehicles; Less GimmicksÂ
One of the core separators between PLUNKBAT and Fortnite were the vehicles. While the decision to ditch vehicles could be Epic Games’ prerogative to differentiate themselves from the self-claimed pioneer of battle royale genres in PLUNKBAT, CODBLOPS4, fortunately, doesn’t have that issue.
Treyarch are free to experiment and implement different types of vehicles into their battle royale game and as mentioned in the trailer, will include flying ones as well. No more limited to land and water, Blackout takes the battle to the skies that opens a different dimension to how battle royale games are played. Some may point out that it removes the level playing field amongst players but with the inclusion of high-powered weapons mentioned earlier, traversing the battlefield with a loud chopper may not be the smartest method to survive long in the game.
We also expect CODBLOPS4 to totally dodge the instant-building mechanics which has come to be known as one of Fortnite’s defining traits – a good move considering this feature was also one of the factors many favored PLUNKBAT.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ooyjaVdt-jA&w=560&h=315]
Esports can be whacky and looney at the same time but underneath all that, need to have that aura of professionalism in it. This area, we feel could be Fortnite’s biggest obstacle which plays to PLUNKBAT and CODBLOPS4’s favor.
The new leader in the genre thanks to their aggressive campaign and constant updates, one of the reasons Fortnite, despite its popularity, still fail to appeal to most hardcore esports players was due to its cartoonish art-style. Thankfully for CODBLOPS4, this will not be an issue thanks to its realism route.Â Esports athletes want to be taken seriously like their traditional sports counterparts. Doing the ‘Backpack Kid’ dance after winning a round? We may have an uphill battle there.
These points above are just a few of the features we hope to see in Call of Duty: Black Ops IIII’s Blackout mode. Figure you have better ones? As usual the comments section is right down below.

Call of Duty: Black Ops 4 is scheduled to be released on October 12, 2018, for PC, PlayStation 4 and Xbox One


Rockstar Games Working on Fixing Red Dead Redemption 2 Bugs

Rockstar Games has revealed that it’s working on an upcoming Red Dead Redemption 2 Title Update that will be addressing at least one confirmed bug.
Since the game launched on October 26, gamers who have reached Chapter 2 or 3 in Red Dead Redemption 2 have complained of some vital companions disappearing from camp. Missing gang members include John Marston, Abigail, Sadie, and little Jack. This meant that players would lose out on interacting with these characters in the camp for entire chapters.
In an answer to a bug report on its Rockstar Support page, the developer acknowledged the missing gang members bug and is “currently working on a fix to be included in an upcoming Title Update.”
It’s good to finally receive official feedback from Rockstar after almost two weeks playing the game in its current state. There’s definitely some severely crippling bugs and glitches that need to to be addressed by the developer.
I encountered several bugs in RDR2 myself, where my Arthur had hollow eyes and mouth, as well as missing (invisible) limbs and hair that doesn’t grow. Although these don’t exactly sound game-breaking, they break immersion for a game that strives so hard for realism. This also somewhat affected my scores for the game in my recent Red Dead Redemption 2 review, which you can check out here.
As of now, Rockstar has not revealed a release date or window for when the upcoming Red Dead Redemption 2 Title Update might be arriving. Let’s hope it comes out soon. Seeing my Arthur like this (see below) every single time I boot up the game is getting really depressing.


Tokyo Game Show 2020 Official Stream Kicks Off With Xbox Gaming Showcase…

Article originally published on 1st September.Â
With COVID-19 wrecking every public event for games, online is the way to go for these exhibitions. Luckily, the Computer Entertainment Suppliers Association are prepared to do just that with Tokyo Game Show 2020 Online.
The organization just released the live stream schedule for their showcases via the Tokyo Game Show YouTube channel. Here are the highlights:
-24th September (Thursday) will have Xbox doing their Game Show showcase 2020. This is followed up with Square Enix(who has their own timetable of stuff going on) and Lightning Games. The latter will have some indie games like Hardcore Mecha, HAAK, and ANNO: Mutationem.
-25th September (Friday) will have Sega and Atlus showcasing their upcoming titles. We’re guessing another Yakuza game, a new Sonic(?) game, some tidbits on Shin Megami Tensei V, and a new Persona title. Capcom will also show off more Resident Evil Village.
-On 26th September (Saturday), D3 Publisher will show off Earth Defense Force: World Brothers, while a Cygames-sanctioned Shadowverse: Champion’s Battle tournament will take place. Koei Tecmo and Tencent will also appear and show off new titles too.
-On the last day, 27th September (Sunday), we’ll be getting a special Koei Tecmo Dynasty Warriors 20th Anniversary livestream, a Bandai Namco Sword Art Online and Scarlet Nexus special program, a Genshin Impact pre-launch live-stream, and a PUBG esports tournament to cap off the show.
You can tune to the livestream here on the 24th September onward. Full schedule right after the video which you can use right now to set a reminder for. All times are in GMT+8 (Malaysia, Singapore, The Philippines, etc.)

24th September

19:00 â€“ Opening
20:00 â€“ Xbox Tokyo Game Show Showcase 2020Â (YouTube) â€“ The Xbox Tokyo Game Show Showcase is a place where everyone can have fun.
21:00 â€“ Square EnixÂ (YouTube)
22:00 â€“ Lightning GamesÂ (YouTube) â€“ Three brand new indie titles presented by Lightning Games:Â Hardcore Mecha,Â HAAK, andÂ ANNO: Mutationem. Donâ€™t miss out on the freshest game development story and latest gameplay demonstration!

25th September

18:00 â€“ Keynote
19:00 â€“ Sega / Atlus TVÂ (YouTube) â€“ Check out Sega / Atlusâ€™ lineup featuring existing and upcoming titles releasing this fall. Donâ€™t miss the special Sega 60th anniversary event and other live stream broadcasts featuring various guest personalities as we bring you the latest information, including an overview of our Tokyo Game Show exhibit!
20:00 â€“ GungHo Online Entertainment Tokyo Game Show Official Live StreamÂ (YouTube)
21:00 â€“ Capcom Special ProgramÂ (YouTube) â€“ Watch out for the Capcom Special Program, to be live-streamed as part of TGS 2020 Online! Reveals and latest game updates are planned for titles such as Resident Evil VillageÂ and more!
22:00 â€“ Mouse ComputerÂ (YouTube)
23:00 â€“ Efun New Title Information Live StreamÂ (YouTube) â€“ The latest information onÂ Illusion Connect,Â Stella Chronicle, and two games expected to be launched next year by Efun.
24:00 (midnight) â€“ Fujitsu Connected TechnologiesÂ (YouTube) â€“ An eSports variety program delivered using arrows 5G mobile technology.

26th September

10:00 â€“ D3 Publisher: Save the Square Earth!Â Earth Defense Force: World BrothersÂ TGS 2020 Live StreamÂ (YouTube) â€“ Introduce â€œEarth Defense Force: World Brothersâ€ in the program.
11:00 â€“ HappinetÂ (YouTube) â€“ Happinet plans to release information on a variety of new titles that Happinet will be responsible for selling in Japan. We are planning a variety of programs such as the introduction of unreleased information, video clips and gameplay videos.
13:00 â€“ Spike Chunsoft:Â Cyberpunk 2077Â Night City WireÂ (YouTube)
16:00 â€“ Level-5 Special MeetingÂ (YouTube) â€“ Introducing the latest information on Level-5.
16:00 â€“ GREE Animation Game Show 2020Â (YouTube)
17:00 â€“ Cygames: TGS 2020 Special Sneak PeekÂ Shadowverse: Championâ€™s BattleÂ (YouTube) â€“ Tune in for a sneak peek at Cygamesâ€™ upcoming title,Â Shadowverse: Championâ€™s Battle, coming exclusively to Switch. Special guests from the gameâ€™s cast will be joining us in bringing you the latest previews and more for this highly anticipated release!
18:00 â€“ Japan Game Awards 2020: Day 1
19:00 â€“ Konami Info ShowÂ (YouTube) â€“ Tune in for the latest Konami news and updates!
20:00 â€“ Koei Tecmo Games: TGS 2020 Special Program: Two Key TitlesÂ (YouTube) â€“ First half: The first live stream forÂ Atelier Ryza 2: Lost Legends & the Secret Fairy,Â , the first game in theÂ AtelierÂ series where the main character continues her journey! Second half: To be announced at a later date.
22:00 â€“ I-O Data DeviceÂ (YouTube) â€“ I-O Data Device supports gameplay, practice, and streaming on a variety of devices. Here are some products that help gamers update their games just a little bit more.
23:00 â€“ Tencent GamesÂ (YouTube)

27th September

10:00 â€“ LinekongÂ (YouTube) â€“ Introduction toÂ YsÂ series development history and connections;Â Ys VIII: Lacrimosa of DanaÂ smartphone game latest information; and give the latest version a try!
11:00 â€“ Japan Electronics CollegeÂ (YouTube) â€“ Introducing student works from the three game departments!
12:00 â€“ AquaÂ (YouTube)
13:00 â€“ AKRacingÂ (YouTube)
14:00 â€“ Koei Tecmo Games:Â Dynasty WarriorsÂ 20th Anniversary Live StreamÂ (YouTube) â€“ Conversations reflecting on the seriesâ€™ trajectory, special plans to celebrate this milestone, the announcement of two newÂ Dynasty WarriorsÂ series titles, and more!
15:00 â€“ Konami:Â Momotaro Dentetsu: Showa Heisei Reiwa mo Teiban!Â (YouTube) â€“ A special show featuring the latestÂ Momotaro DentetsuÂ game,Â Momotaro Dentetsu: Showa Heisei Reiwa mo Teiban!
16:00 â€“ Bandai Namco Entertainment:Â Sword Art OnlineÂ andÂ Scarlet NexusÂ Special ProgramÂ (YouTube)
18:00 â€“ Japan Game Awards 2020: Day 2
19:00 â€“ KLab Games:Â Bleach: Brave SoulsÂ Bankai LiveÂ (YouTube) â€“Â Bleach: Brave SoulsÂ Bankai Live is coming to TGS 2020 Online! This program will have interactive elements like Co-Op Quests where viewers can play with the guests as well as all the latestÂ Brave SoulsÂ news.
20:00 â€“ miHoYo:Â Genshin ImpactÂ Pre-Launch Live StreamÂ (YouTube) â€“ A special program for TGS 2020 Online! On September 28, miHoYo will launch its new gameÂ Genshin Impact.
21:00 â€“ PlayerUnknownâ€™s Battlegrounds Japan eSports Conference 2020Â (YouTube) â€“ PUBG Corporation would like to display the development of eSports history in Japan, as well as future initiatives. In addition, a custom match will be implemented to commemorate the conference.
23:00 â€“ Ending


Legends Of Runeterra Is An Accessible Card Game Even Non-LoL Fans Will Love

Platforms: PC, iOS, Android
Genre: Online Collectible Card Game Using League of Legends Settings
The last card games I played were PokÃ©mon and Yu-Gi-Oh, only the latter of which was on a digital platform (and both of which were when I was a teenager). With that in mind, I went into Riot Games’ new League Of Legends spinoff, Legends Of Runeterra, not only with all the experience of a card game newbie, but also someone who has never played League Of Legends.
Would the learning curve of a game like this be too much for newcomers, especially for someone like me, who’s unfamiliar with both card games in general and League Of Legends lore? I can’t even name a single character from the popular MOBA title. Despite all of that working against me, I was ultimately surprised to discover that I actually enjoyed my time with Legends Of Runeterra.
Zero LoL Lore Knowledge? No Problem!

Going into Legend Of Runeterra, I expected to be clueless from the very beginning. Fortunately, the folks at Riot Games have crafted an easy-to-understand tutorial for newcomers to the franchise. You don’t need to be a veteran card game or League Of Legends fan to start playing Legends Of Runeterra.
In some games, tutorials are a hassle to play through, and they’re enough to make anyone lose interest before even starting the actual game. That’s not the case here, as the developers have provided not only basic tutorials, but also a lot of more in-depth ones called Prologues, each of which focuses on certain unique cards and Decks that players can try out for themselves.
I can’t remember the last time that I actually played through most of the tutorials available in a game, as it’s usually better just to learn as you play the game instead of going through a boring tutorial which the developers clearly didn’t put much effort into. Legends Of Runeterra is the opposite of that, and to my pleasant surprise, the game is quite easy to jump into.

I appreciate how minimalistic and intuitive the UI in Legends Of Runeterra is.
A clunky and messy UI would have intimidated and scared off potential players, which signifies that Riot Games really knows their stuff.
The core gameplay loop is simple enough to pick up and play, yet still full of depth and will take time to truly master.

There are essentially two types of cards; Champions/Units and Spells. Each player has 20 Nexus points (the player’s HP) and the objective is, of course, to reduce the opponent’s Nexus to zero. The Champions/Units have two values to take into account when playing them; the left number indicates its Attack value or damage output while the right number indicates its Health (which can be whittled down with Attacks).
You see, each player can either Attack or Block during their respective turns. The Attack token will switch from player to player, and the player who doesn’t have it in any given turn must prepare to Block the player’s Attack attempt (if they choose to do so). You can also Pass your turn, as sometimes it’s better to wait and take advantage of whichever (Attack or Block) is more in your favour, or to wait for your Mana to build up.
In order to use a card (be it Champions/Units or Spells), players need to put them into Play. If they’re in your hands, they’re useless (other than Burst Spells). However, players also require Mana (or energy points) to put them into play, with each card requiring different Mana points to put into play. Your Mana will gradually replenish and increase every few turns as the Attack token exchanges between players.
For example, sometimes I allow my opponent to Attack me without even attempting to Block him, as I don’t want to waste any Mana or Champions/Units during that turn. Despite that being a huge risk that results in me losing several Nexus points, I take the opportunity in my next turn to put better cards into play for a counterattack. This is integral to my specific strategy as many of my more powerful cards need some hefty Mana to put into Play.

The placement of your cards when Attacking or Blocking is vital. It’s essential to think carefully before using Spells as well since Burst Spells can be put into Play and used instantly, while Slow and Fast Spells require players to put them into Play for one turn before being able to unleash them. Even so, Slow Spells make up for that disadvantage by having powerful effects that can change the tide of battle.

In truth, there are a lot more layers to the gameplay and combat in Legends of Runeterra that I’m still learning more and more about the game with every match I play even after hours of playtime.
It manages to be complex without incurring too much of a steep learning curve, which is a godsend for newbies like me.

Less Is More

One of my favourite things about Legends Of Runeterra is the fact that players are limited to only choosing cards from two (2) different Regions in a single Deck. So far, there are only six Regions available in Legends Of Runeterra (with the recently-added Rising Tides expansion increasing that number to seven in total with the new Bilgewater Region).
I discovered that League Of Legends features a total of 17 Regions, so it’s wonderful that Riot Games is already working to add more of them.

Each Region comes with unique cards and abilities.
Being limited to only two Regions means that I can plan my strategy without being too shackled (if I could only use cards from one Region) or too spoilt for choice that it would intimidate newbies like me (if I had access to all six Regions for a single Deck).

Most of my starting cards were from Demacia and Freljord, so I chose to build my first custom Deck based on those two Regions. They work surprisingly well together, and I could already devise a decent Deck (for a newbie, that is). Well, their effects don’t clash at least, and that was good enough for my first custom Deck.
Satisfying Progression

To obtain new cards for your Decks, the developers have made it easier. Players can simply change the Region that they want to accumulate XP for, thus working towards getting new cards solely from that Region. This is especially great for anyone who chooses to focus on one or two specific Regions to build their Deck.
However, the caveat is that players will be limited to what Region they’ve chosen to ‘activate’ at any given time, which makes it harder to obtain cards from other Regions at the same time. A more random progression system would’ve mitigated that issue, but this focused progression is better suited for those who already want to stick to their favourite Regions and playstyle.

I know of many card games requiring players to spend actual money in hopes of obtaining decent cards from random booster packs.
That’s not a problem with Legends Of Runeterra, as the freebies you get with the daily and weekly rewards should be more than enough to build a decent Deck.
For instance, Wildcards allow players to craft any card of the same corresponding rarity (Common, Rare, etc.) for free.

Top Mobile Performance

To be expected from Riot Games, the animation quality in Legends Of Runeterra is very high. For instance, there’s a gameplay mechanic in the game where Champions can level up and evolve into stronger versions when certain criteria are met. For instance, Attacking at least twice with Garen will level him up, while Tryndamere has to actually die by being Attacked before he can level up.

The point here is that players are treated to a brief but intricate animated sequence whenever these Champions level up.
I always look forward to my Champions levelling up, as the short animation never fails to evoke a sense of power.
The animation quality also extends to other smaller aspects, like Guardians.
The very first Guardian players obtain by default is the League Of Legends unofficial mascot, Poro.

These Guardians don’t directly affect combat in any meaningful way, besides looking cute and cheering you on in matches. The Spells in Legends Of Runeterra also exhibit flashy visual effects that make use of particles and lighting. It’s amazing that my Sony Xperia XZ Premium from 2018 can still run the game at Ultra Quality smoothly.

Legends Of Runeterra feels incredibly-optimised, despite still being in Early Access when I was playing it. I didn’t encounter any crashes or severe issues, but of course, Riot Games was still adding and removing features in update after update during that period of time. In hindsight, that makes it even more impressive how stable the game is.

While I may not be well-versed in League Of Legends lore, I also adore how Champions and Units would often converse in unique dialogue and interact with each other, regardless of whether they’re from the same or different Regions.
It gives the game even more flavour, and it’s a feature that fans would be able to appreciate even more than I did.

A Story Mode Would Have Been Nice

If there’s one true flaw in Legends Of Runeterra that I can point out, it’s that the game would benefit from featuring some kind of single-player story mode or campaign of some sort.
That would certainly help newbies like me get more acquainted and invested in the lore.

Perhaps Riot Games could emulate Hearthstone’s Adventure Mode, where players start with a smaller and simpler deck while fighting computer-controlled opponents, with each victory giving them a chance to grow and strengthen their deck. These singleplayer-focused expansions would be exciting for those who much prefer single-player experiences over playing online against other human players.
A Card Game Even Non-LoL Fans Can Play

Playing Legends Of Runeterra hasn’t suddenly made me a fan of card games or League Of Legends. It’s not that great of a game, but it’s definitely a game that I enjoyed playing and wouldn’t mind returning to from time to time.
Look out, Hearthstone, Shadowverse and all its digital card game ilk, a new title is joining the fray, and it’s a good one.
Pros

Very well-optimised…
… which is incredible considering the high quality of the game’s flashy animation and visual effects.
Easy to pick and play, thanks to interesting and well-made tutorials.
Accessible gameplay and addicting progression system.
Can easily acquire new cards without having to spend money.
You don’t need to know League Of Legends lore to play this game…
… but LoL fans still have a lot to appreciate, lore-wise.

Cons

Lacks a single-player story mode or campaign.

FINAL SCORE: 80/100
Legends Of Runeterra was reviewed on a Sony Xperia XZ Premium via a review copy courtesy of Riot Games.


Take A Look At These New Bloodborne T-shirts, Dear Hunter

Just a little over four years ago, the entity known as FromSoftware granted us a gift called Bloodborne. Though our minds were young, we saw its beauty. For some of us, we etched into our hearts an undying love for the PS4 exclusive.
As if to reward us for our devotion, Sony Interactive Entertainment has formed a covenant with Japanese clothing boutique TORCHTORCH to illuminate the world once more. Through this matrimony, new Bloodborne-themed t-shirts are born into the world, ready to be donned by those whose eyes have truly opened.
Currently, four designs are being sold on the website but a kind soul by the name of Nibel says that four more are on their way. The shirts are priced around Â¥4,500 (excluding taxes) depending on size and colour. Take a look, dear hunter:

This isn’t TORCHTORCH’s first foray into the horrifying worlds crafted by the wizards of FromSoftware. In the past, they have also forged and sold the very rings that appear in the Souls games. Have a gander at their Instagram to find out more.


Thaiger Uppercut 2022 Results [Update]

Thailand recently hosted its annual fighting game tournament major in the form of Thaiger Uppercut 2022, which took place at Bangkok.
The premiere fighting game tournament is one of the majors under the Tekken World Tour 2022 circuit. It also features a huge number of top players from around the world like K-Brad, Ulsan, Infiltration, and Knee, not to mention Thailand’s finest like Book and MindRPG
Check out the results of each fighting game in the tournament below. This post will be updated with the latest results; the tournament is still ongoing at this point of writing.
Guilty Gear Strive

1. Infiltration (Zato-1)
2. K-Brad (Millia)
3. Zalphx (Axl)
4. WDP|BALLxZA (I-No, Zato-1)
5. Zeidge (Nagoriyuki)
5. Gyanbu (Nagoriyuki)
7. Starz (Ky)
7. Talon|Book (Sol)

Dragon Ball Fighter Z
1. MDNM|UchihaFZ (SS4 Gogeta, Vegito, Janemba)
2.Xanxus (Ultra Instinct Goku, Vegito, Broly)
3.FGO (Blue Gogeta, Vegito, Lab Coat 21)
4.Ezstealx (Super Baby 2, Goku Black, Janemba | Vegito, SS4 Gogeta, Lab Coat 21)
5.WDP|D4Z (Fused Zamasu, Cell, Cooler)
5.WDP|AxeWooD (Beerus, Jiren, Super Baby 2)
7.Doraemonfanboyya (Jiren, Nappa, Frieza)
7.WDP|BALLxZA (Lab Coat 21, SS4 Gogeta, Android 16)

Street Fighter 5
1.UYU|Oil King (Seth)
2.TGU|MindRPG (Dictator)
3.b3lLz (Laura)
4.Talon|Book (Ken)
5.Solemn Swift (Laura)
5.God-Guan Du (Poison, Falke)
7.Jinkouyuki (Urien)
7.Thai|TotoKosit (Nash)

Tekken 7

1.Dawood Sikandar (Alisa)
2.DRX|Knee (Feng, Steve, Paul)
3.Talon|Book (Jin)
4.KDF|Ulsan (Kazumi, Bob)
5.MSC|Uncle Ben (Shaheen)
5.ShinAkuma (Akuma)
7. Juiestorm (Nina)
7.Lan (Julia)

DNF Duel
1. Infiltration (Ranger)
2.Just a Scrub (Berserker)
3.Zeidge (Crusader)
4.TGU|MindRPG (Crusader)
5.Tetsuga-Ar (Swift Master)
5.HiFightTH (Crusader)
7.Chanee92 (Hitman)
7.Gyanbu (Swift Master)