ROG & Yoodo Hosting Amateur Mobile Legends League Running From May To July

ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) is teaming up with Yoodo to host an amateur Mobile Legends league later this month.
Aptly named ROG x Yoodo MLBB Esports Amateur League, this league will feature 64 teams from all over Malaysia as they go head-to-head for a shot at a total prize pool of RM12,000 and 20,000 MLBB Diamonds.
Chow Tuck Mun, Head of Yoodo, couldn’t be more excited to reveal the partnership. He stated:
“Yoodo has always been dedicated to bringing the best action to gamers in Malaysia, and we’re confident that participants will bring their A game for a thrilling and nail-biting tournament.”
With long-standing desires to tap into the mobile gaming sphere, Yoodo makes for the perfect partner for ROG to expand their dominance in the world of gaming. The community cup will provide a platform for young talents to sharpen their skills and promote healthy competition among local esports players. Yoodo Head later added:
“As champions of grassroots gaming, Yoodo is always looking for more ways to empower young talented gamers with opportunities to grow and showcase their talent. We’re thrilled to have sought out a like-minded partner in ROG with similar values and goals and look forward to how we can explore even further prongs of this partnership,”
Commenting on the partnership, Marcia Sung, Malaysia & Indonesia Country Product Manager for Smartphone Business Unit said
“There is no better way for us to expand into the mobile gaming arena than with the support of a partner which has tremendous experience in mobilegaming like Yoodo. No doubt this partnership will lend tremendous weight to Republic of Gamers(ROG) presence in the mobile gaming world, an area in which we have been keen to expand intofor quite a while. This tournament marks only the beginning of our work together, and we areexcited to begin planning future initiatives, all designed to benefit the consumer and gaming fansalike.”
TOURNAMENT INFO
Location: Malaysia (Online)
Total Prize Pool: RM12,000
Registration: 19–27 May
Qualifiers: 29 May
League Stage: 4, 5, 25, 26 June
Grand Finals: 2 July
Registration for the league starts today, 19 May until 27 May, with the Grand Final scheduled for 2 July. Teams can sign up here.


Yoodo Announces Mobile Legends Add-On & Geek Fam Esports Sponsorship

Yoodo held a press conference at the Battle Arena in Petaling Jaya earlier today, where they had several major announcements for Mobile Legends in Malaysia.

Yoodo has announced a brand new data add-on for Mobile Legends that will grant players 20GB worth of dedicated 4G LTE mobile data for the game.
From 26 August to 25 October 2020, the new Mobile Legends add-on is available at a discounted rate of just RM1 for 20GB of data.
This is the latest to the stable of Yoodo add-ons for mobile gaming which includes PUBG Mobile, Call Of Duty Mobile, and Arena Of Valor.
As a special bonus for users who purchased the add-on, five weekly winners will receive 1,000 in-game diamonds during the same period. Following this, the add-on will be priced at RM5 per 20GB of data.

In addition, Yoodo has stepped up once again by sponsoring the MPL MY/SG Season 6 as the Official Digital Telco. This marks the second season in a row that Yoodo is sponsoring the Mobile Legends tournament, following the immense success of last season which garnered over 9.5 million views across the season.
The battle begins on 28 August and rages on until 25 October 2020. MPL MY/SG Season 6 will feature six teams from Malaysia and four teams from Singapore crossing swords and slinging spells to walk away with a portion of a US$100,000 prize pool.
The biggest news of the day is that Yoodo is sponsoring the Geek Fam Mobile Legends esports team for the upcoming MPL MY/SG Season 6.

The team consists of:

Team Captain â€“ Dominus (Nik Aqieff)
Xorn (Muhammad Zul Hisham)
OzoraVeki (Poon Kok Sing)
Fighter – Artz (Muhammad Nazmie)
Marksman/Assassin â€“ Feekz (Amirul Shafiq)
Tank/Support â€“ Rumpel (Tai Ming Hong)

This marks Yoodo’s third team sponsorship in the past two years. It began in 2019 with the highly successful establishment of Yoodo Gank PUBG Mobile esports team, amd Yoodo FV, which focuses on the fighting game esports scene.


505 Games Reveals Gamescom 2022 Lineup & Public Demos, Featuring Miasma Chronicles

505 Games will be showing a number of world-first demos at this year’s Gamescom, set in Germany and is made public for everyone after being an online show during the worldwide pandemic.
Here’s what they have on tap:
Miasma Chronicles
From the makers of Mutant Year Zero comes this action-adventure game featuring a boy named Elvis and his mecha. Elvis can control the titular miasma with his gauntlet. Should be fun and quirky.

Stray Blade
An action game with Dark Souls-like combat and a fox-like companion named Boji who can gain new abilities and power up your sword.

Serial Cleaners
You play as one of the four eccentric cleaners employed by the mob in 1990s New York City to clean up evidence. The game’s coming out for PC and consoles on 22nd September.

Gunfire Reborn
Cel-shaded co-op shooting madness inspired by current rogue-lites, and starring furries. It’s getting rave reviews on PC; the game’s coming out on Xbox Game Pass this October.

Gamescom is from 24 to 28 August.


Overwatch League: London Spitfire Part Ways with Bishop

The London Spitfire has parted ways with their coach,Â Â Beom-joonÂ â€œBishopâ€ Lee. Instrumental in forming the London Spitfire roster, the departure of Bishop is even more surprising considering it happened midway through Stage 2 of the season. Under his guidance, the Spitfire won the Stage 1 playoffs and are in a strong position to again qualify for the playoff stage of Stage 2.
While no official reason for the departure was discussed, the official statement from London Spitfire simply read:
London Spitfire has today parted ways with coach Beom-joonÂ â€œBishopâ€ Lee. Bishop was instrumental in the formation of the Spitfire line-up, finding two of the world’s best Overwatch rosters, GC Busan and KongDoo Panthera, and fusing them into a single unit which was crowned Overwatch League Stage 1 champions.
We would like to thank Bishop for his contribution to London Spitfire and wish him all the bestÂ withÂ his future endeavors. Our new coaching structure will be announced in due course.
Bishop’s official Twitter posted a tweet which may allude to an unplanned departure as he is already looking for job opportunities within the league. A former KongDoo Panthera player prior to his coaching role, his departure from the Spitfire follows the transfers of two former KongDoo Panthera players from Spitfire in recent weeks – Fissure to Los Angeles Gladiators and Rascal to Dallas Fuel – leaving only two remaining former KongDoo Panthera players in the Spitfire squad, Bdosin and Birdring.

Unfortunate to have to leave mid-season like this, but @Cloud9 @Spitfire and I have agreed to part ways here! Looking for a new team in the meanwhile, so hope to see everyone soon :D!
â€” Bishop (@BishopOW) March 7, 2018
By the way, Bishop – we heard Shanghai Dragons have a coaching vacancy following Chen Congshan ‘U4’s departure. Perhaps worth looking into it, eh?

Staff change: Effective immediately, Chen Congshan â€œU4â€ steps down as the head coach of Shanghai Dragons. He will formally leave the post after a transition period of one week. Current assistant coach Sun Jun Young â€œKongâ€ will act as a stand-in coach.
â€” Shanghai Dragons (@ShanghaiDragons) March 6, 2018


Here Are The New Release Dates For A Quiet Place 2, No Time To Die, & More

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted the entertainment industry, causing many movies to be postponed, delayed, cancelled, or released on other platforms. However, several studios have begun announcing their new schedules for the near future, and that includes United International Pictures (UIP) Malaysia.
Check out the new UIP Malaysia 2020/2021 lineup below:
A Quiet Place 2 (3 September 2020)

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Sequel to A Quiet Place. Written and directed by John Krasinski.
Candyman (24 September 2020)

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A “spiritual sequel” to the first film, this new Candyman returns to the neighbourhood
where the legend began: the now-gentrified section of Chicago where the Cabrini-Green
housing projects once stood.
Without Remorse (1 October 2020)
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Tom Clancy adaptation. A former Navy SEAL turned CIA operative seeks revenge after
his girlfriend is killed by a Baltimore drug lord.
Halloween Kills (15 October 2020)
The saga of Michael Myers and Laurie Strode continues in the next thrilling chapter of the Halloween franchise.
G.I. Joe Snake Eyes (22 October 2020)

The origin story of the most mysterious and beloved character from the G.I. Joe
universe; Snake Eyes. Starring Henry Golding.
No Time To Die (12 November 2020)
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The 25th Installment of the James Bond Franchise. Bond has left active service. His
peace is short-lived when his old friend Felix Leiter from the CIA turns up asking for
help, leading Bond onto the trail of a mysterious villain armed with dangerous new
technology.
Clifford The Big Red Dog (3 December 2020)
When middle-schooler Emily Elizabeth wishes for her tiny, red puppy to grow big and
strong, she doesnâ€™t expect to wake up to find a twelve-foot tall dog in her small, New
York City apartment. In an effort to keep her beloved pet, Emily sets out to locate a
magical animal caretaker she hopes can restore Clifford to a normal size.
As she searches the city with her irresponsible Uncle Casey, schoolmate Owen, and Clifford the big red dog, word of Cliffordâ€™s size attracts the attention of an evil scientist who wishes to claim him as his own.
The Croods 2 (10 December 2020)
The Croods face their biggest threat since leaving the cave: another family.
Top Gun Maverick (24 December 2020)
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After more than thirty years of service as one of the Navy’s top aviators, Pete Mitchell
is where he belongs, pushing the envelope as a courageous test pilot and dodging the
advancement in rank that would ground him.
Coming 2 America (31 December 2020)
Akeem learns he has a long-lost son in the United States and must return to America
to meet the unlikely heir to the throne of Zamunda. A sequel to the 1988 comedy
‘Coming To America’.
News Of The World (21 Jan 2021)
Five years after the end of the Civil War, Captain Jefferson Kyle Kidd (Hanks), a
widower and veteran of three wars, now moves from town to town as a non-fiction
storyteller, sharing the news of presidents and queens, glorious feuds, devastating
catastrophes, and gripping adventures from the far reaches of the globe.
Stillwater (28 January 2021)
A father travels to Oklahoma to France to help his daughter who has been arrested for
murder.
Respect (18 February 2021)
Respect is the remarkable true story of Aretha Franklinâ€™s journey to find her voice in
the midst of the turbulent social and political landscape of 1960s America.
Nobody (25 February 2021)
Hutch Mansell is the guy you donâ€™t notice. A suburban dad, overlooked husband,
nothing neighbor. A nobody. When two thieves break into his home one night, the
incident ignites Hutchâ€™s unknown long-simmering rage, propelling him on a brutal path
that will uncover dark secrets he fought to leave behind.
Rumble (11 March 2021)
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In a world where monsters are tame and Monster Wrestling is a popular sport,
teenager Winnie seeks to follow her father’s footsteps as an elite trainer by turning an
unlikely monster into a powerhouse contender.
Untitled Paranormal Activity Movie (18 March 2021)
The Boss Baby 2 (25 March 2021)
Alec Baldwin returns to headline The Boss Baby 2, the follow-up to DreamWorks
Animationâ€™s blockbuster animated comedy.
Fast & Furious 9 (1 April 2021)

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Ninth installment in the popular Fast and Furious franchise. Directed by Justin Lin.
Bios (15 April 2021)
Tom Hanks stars as Finch, the last man on Earth. An ailing inventor facing his own
mortality, Finch builds a robot to keep his beloved dog safe.
As the trio embarks upon an epic cross-country journey, the scientist must teach his creation to become â€œhumanâ€ enough to take care of its charge… and the beloved pet to accept a new master.
Infinite (27 May 2021)
A unique and sophisticated action-packed film centered on reincarnation, past lives
and futuristic technology. When a man suffering from inexplicable visions is contacted
by a secret society, he learns he must find a way to recall his past lives in order to stop
a madman from ending all life on Earth.
Micronauts (3 June 2021)
A scientific team is shrunk down to a micron level in order to enter a malfunctioning
computer which threatens the world’s stability.
Jurassic World 3 (10 June 2021)
The final chapter of the Jurassic World Trilogy.
Minions: The Rise Of Gru (1 July 2021)
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Sequel to Minions – the untold story of a twelve-year-old’s dream to become the world’s greatest supervillain.
The Tomorrow War (22 July 2021)
The Bad Guys (26 August 2021)
Mr. Wolf, Mr. Snake, Mr. Piranha, Mr. Shark and Ms. Tarantula hatch a plot to pull off
the ultimate heist.
Paw Patrol Movie (26 August 2021)
Halloween Ends (14 October 2021)
The saga of Michael Myers and Laurie Strode ends.
Mission Impossible 7 (18 November 2021)
Directed by Christopher McQuarrie. Tom Cruise returns as Ethan Hunt in this mega blockbuster franchise.
My Little Pony Movie (2 December 2021)
Sing 2 (23 December 2021)


Malaysia’s Naquib Azlan Grabs Final Leg Win In eRacing Global Edition

Malaysiaâ€™s Naquib Azlan produced the drive of his life to end the eRacing Global Edition 2020 with a bang. In a stunning performance, he managed to grab first place in the final leg of the Global Edition America at the RaceRoom; the Indianapolis GP.
Despite starting at the back end in the championship reverse grid race, Naquib burned rubber to gradually inch his way in the early proceedings to place himself in the top ten.

While Singapore’s Muhammad Aleef turned out to be the overall Gold Class championship winner, he was involved in an unfortunate collision early on, which needed an extra stop to replace the front wing on his RaceRoom Indycar. The clash proved costly as Aleef had to settle for a mid-pack finish in the final race.
Meanwhile, Naquib was engaged in a battle at the front with Yevan David from Sri Lanka. Naquib would ultimately prevail with an aggressive 3-stop strategy to win quite comfortably in the end.
Singaporeâ€™s Jason Tay eventually came through in second place after passing David on the start-finish straight. It was Tayâ€™s and Davidâ€™s first podium of the year.
After the dust had settled on a wonderful racing season, Aleef confirmed his victory as the overall champion of the Gold Class category with 160 points followed by compatriot, Miko Nassi (112), and Naquib (99).
InÂ other categories, Francis Matrillo from the Philippines won the Copper class while his compatriot, Zuriel Sumodobila emerged champion of the Bronze class and Singaporeâ€™s Jyn Mazvilton topped the Silver class.

With most sports being at a premium due to the global pandemic, eSports (specifically eRacing) has filled the void, offering motorsports fans their regular fix of high octane action.
Axle Motorsports founder and Global Edition organizer Alex Yoong said:
â€œThe finale to the season witnessed an exciting conclusion which saw Naquib emerging champion with the overall title going to Aleef.Esports and eRacing have seen exponential growths this season with fans flocking to our RaceRoom platform to get their daily fix of sports. We saw interest spiking up during the global pandemic and we hope to capitalize on this newfound passion for esports.We hope to attract more new racing talents next season which will, in turn, drive our viewing figures in 2021.â€Â
The culmination of the sixth and final round sawÂ theÂ PhilippinesÂ emerge champions of the inauguralÂ Nations CupÂ with 663 points followed by Singapore with 606 points and Malaysia with 545 points.


Borderlands 3 Mauriceâ€™s Black Market Vending Machine Location: 28th May

Another week, another Borderlands 3 Black Market Vending Machine relocation. Where is this week’s vending machine, you may ask? Read on and we’ll tell you all about it.
This week’s Black Market Vending Machine is located at Konrad’s Hold on Pandora. Head all the way straight until you come across the second set of ammo and health vending machines. Then head over to this bit on the left to see Maurice’s Black Market Vending Machine.

This week’s offerings are:

The Light Show pistol in all the Elemental flavours.
The Projectile Recursion shotgun.
The Nemesis pistol.

All in all, this is a great week for vending machine Legendaries since the first two weapons are top tier. Even better? This week’s buffed-up Trials of Discipline features the Flipper and Kaoson as guaranteed rewards. These are two of the best SMGs in the game, so give it a shot and team up with others to make your looting easier.


NieR Replicant Remaster Gets Release Date

During the Square Enix Tokyo Game Show 2020 panel, they finally announced the release date for NieR Replicant ver.1.22474487139â€¦ (also known as the NieR Replicant remaster)
It will release for the following regions on the following dates:
Japan: PS4, Xbox One (22 April 2020), PC (24 April 2020)North America/Europe: PS4, Xbox One, PC (23 April 2020)Asia: PS4, Xbox One (22 April 2020), PC (24 April 2020)
A new trailer was also shown during the panel, which featured our first look at the remastered areas within the game and a new version of Kaineâ€™s theme for the first time. In addition, he cover are for the Japanese and Western release of the game was shown during the broadcast.

Check out the cover for the Japanese/Asian version of the game below:

Check out the cover for the North America/Europe version of the game below:

The NieR Replicant remaster will receive a collectorâ€™s edition; â€œWhite Snow Editionâ€. It will come with the original soundtrack, artwork, voice actor scripts, pins, and more. The NieR Replicant â€œWhite Snow Editionâ€ is currently available to pre-order in Japan.


Guilty Gear Strive Season 2 Characters Might Arrive Sooner Than You Think

Arc System Works has shared the upcoming updates for its fighting game Guilty Gear Strive during EVO 2022.
Here’s what they have planned:
Summer 2022

New Character #6
Additional Character Color
PlayStation 5: Reduced input delay
PC: Reduced the connection time for the initial server connections

Fall 2022

Cross-Play Beta Test (all platforms): This global test is planned to be held in mid-September. More information such as how to join the beta test will be announced soon.
Cross-Play Update.
New Character #7.

Winter 2022

Battle Balance Patch

2023

New Character #8
Additional Stage #3
New Character #9
Additional Stage #4

As to who will be out first from the GG Strive roster? Well, we won’t know until later this week, most likely at the Guilty Gear Strive Top 8 and finals on Monday morning 8th August. Why not speculate and watch this video we did about future GG Strive additions?

For more EVO 2022 goodness, head to our feature page with the schedule and results.


Spark The Electric Jester 3 Launches This August

Need a 3D speedy platformer fix but don’t want to touch a Sega-made Sonic game? You should check out the third Spark the Electric Jester game instead.
Spark the Electric Jester 3 will be out for PC via Steam on 15th August according to developer Feperd Games. Imagine if you will Sonic Adventures but actually fun and more focused; Spark the Electric Jester 3 might be that one indie title that follows its inspiration and actually makes it better.
Here’s the official description, plus the trailer:
“Continuing directly from where Spark the Electric Jester 2 left off, join Spark on his mission to overthrow his rival once again. Blaze through fast action packed stages and experience a new and improved combat system.”


New Free Guilty Gear Strive Cross-Platform Network Beta Test Is Happening Next Week

Bandai Namco Entertainment Asia has announced a cross-platform network beta test starting from 3 February 2023 for Arc System Works’ Guilty Gear Strive available now on PS4, PS5 and PC via Steam for free.
A cross-platform network test will be held for four days from 3 February to 6 February 2023, with Guilty Gear Strive available free of charge and online multiplayer with no platform restrictions. The free open beta offers not only online matches, but also a variety of modes to play, such as a generous Tutorial for players new to fighting games and Training Mode for practice with an array of settings to adjust as needed. All DLC characters up to Sin Kiske are available to play.
The free open beta is also available on Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, and PC, so you can join from the new platforms scheduled for full release this upcoming Spring. The beta test will be held on a separate application from the main Guilty Gear -Strive- game. The application must be downloaded from the store on each platform.
Schedule

3 February, 9am GMT+8 – 6 February, 3pm GMT+8 2023
The free version will be available for download in advance, starting from 2 February October, 3pm SGT

Playable Characters

22 characters total (including all currently released DLC characters)

Available Modes

Tutorial Mode: Learn the basics of how to play.
Mission Mode: Learn useful techniques for matches in a mission format.
Survival Mode: Fight consecutive battles against the COM with a limited pool of health.
Training Mode: Recreate a variety of situations and practice to your heart’s content.
VS COM, VS 2P: Fight against the computer or a friend.
Online Match (Rank Tower, Open Park, Player Match): Play online against others from across the globe.
Combo Maker: Make your own original combo or setplay, and search for other players’ recipes to try.
Digital Figure: Set up characters, furniture, effects, and more to create your own unique scene.
Gallery: Check out the characters and BGM.


EA Announces Expanded FIFA 22 Esports Program

EA and FIFA have announced a new EA SPORTS FIFA 22 esports program anticipated to attract tens of millions of players and viewers. Featuring both 1v1 and 2v2 competitions, players will represent themselves, globally recognized esports organizations, real-world football clubs, and their nation in a diverse set of FIFA esports events.Â
The three competitions featured in the expanded esports ecosystem are the FIFAe Club Series 2022, the FIFAe Nations Series 2022, and the EA SPORTS FIFA 22 Global Series on The Road to the FIFAe World Cup 2022. The three pinnacle events of the series will all take place in summer 2022.

EA Sports Competitive Gaming VP Brent Koning said:
â€œFIFA competitive gaming is the future of global esports entertainment, enhancing how fans experience the game they love. FIFA possesses the pivotal platform for football fans around the world to insert themselves into their own sports story. In partnership with FIFA, the mainstream appeal of esports is evident.â€Â
FIFA Gaming and eFootball Director Christian Volk said:
â€œNewcomers, as well as established superstars – individually or as a team – will inspire entire nations of EA SPORTS FIFA players and get the opportunity to fame their game. A historic season full of thrilling competitive FIFA stories will captivate a global fanbase with this expanded ecosystem.â€Â
The Individual Best – EA SPORTS FIFA 22 Global Series on the Road to the FIFAe World Cup 2022

Qualification starts November 27 as the traditional 1v1 competitive FIFA format is showcased with online tournaments across 10 global regions. Register to compete HERE on 4 October 2021.
In addition, more than 30 leagues offer esports programs, Official League Partners, including the Premier League, Bundesliga, LaLiga, Ligue 1, MLS, CONMEBOL Libertadores, and UEFA Champions League will give fans residing in each respective nation the opportunity to represent real-world clubs.Â
The EA SPORTS FIFA 22 Global Series Rankings will be available on FIFA.GG.Â

FIFAe Club Series including the Debut of 2v2 FIFA Ultimate Team (FUT) CupsÂ

The FIFAe Club Series 2022 featuring 2v2 competition begins this November with the FIFAe Club Online Qualifiersâ„¢ and includes the new FUT Team of the Year and Team of the Season Cups on the Road to the FIFAe Club World Cup 2022.Â
Prepare your FIFA.GG profile today, as registrations start on October 5.

National pride in the FIFAe Nations Series

The FIFAe Nations Series 2022 will feature member associations competing against each other in this global 2v2 competition. Furthermore, national campaigns will find the top competitive stars.
All nations will begin their journey at FIFAe Nations Online Qualifiersâ„¢, with top national teams advancing to the FIFAe Nations Playoffsâ„¢ on the Road to the FIFAe Nations Cup 2022. Find out more at FIFA.GG.

FIFA Competitive Gaming Commissioner said:
â€œFootball would not exist without the power of teamwork. Our objective is to harness that power and use esports entertainment to connect football fans around the world to the game they love. Team-based FIFA competitive gaming will be a growth catalyst for future football fandom.â€
The Power of Competitive Gaming as Mainstream Entertainment

Watch the first entertainment-focused tournaments of the season as celebrities, football stars and top FIFA competitors showcase the 2v2 potential.Â
September 30: Watch legends across football, music, esports and entertainment raise money in the Twitch Rivals eSoccer Aid for UNICEF ft. FIFA 22. Pitting Team Soccer Aid World XI against Team England.Â
October 21: FIFA 22 Challenge will feature top ambassadors representing Team adidas and Team EA SPORTS. Reveal of the full participant list, and a special announcement for FIFA Ultimate Team (FUT) fans, will be later announced in October.Â

You can check out the â€œPitch Notesâ€ for more detail on all the featured changes this season.Â
More information about the FIFAe tournament series including its new FIFAe Squad and FIFA Sound strategy can be found on FIFA.GG.Â


Cowboy Bebop’s Main Trio On Their Characters & Working With A Corgi

It’s only one more week until the live-action adaptation of the revered sci-fi space bounty hunter show Cowboy Bebop shows up on Netflix. The show stars a trio of mercenaries trying to get by -Spike Spiegel, Jet Black, and Faye Valentine- as trouble catches up with them.
Courtesy of Netflix Malaysia, we were lucky enough to participate in a roundtable interview with John Cho (who plays Spike Spiegel), Daniella Pineda (who plays Faye Valentine), and Mustafa Shakir (who plays Jet Black), asking them some fun & thought-provoking questions about what it’s like playing characters from an anime masterpiece. This interview has been edited for clarity.
In addition, we participated in a roundtable interview with Cowboy BebopÂ showrunner Andre Nemec, and ask him about what it was like to translate the anime into live-action. Check out that interview here.

Did you watch the anime before getting cast in the role? What did you think of it?
Daniella Pineda: Mu (Mustafa Shakir) had watched the anime and was familiar with it. John and I both had not seen the anime. I’d heard of Cowboy Bebop but I had never watched it until the opportunity came to play Faye Valentine in which case I immersed myself in the anime and I was very, very struck by how contemporary and cinematic the anime was.
Mustafa Shakir: I loved it, by the way. (laughs)
John Cho: I had not seen the anime before the role came to me and I saw it and it was just really exciting. The opening sequence is enough to hook you and then you get into this world that’s completely original. As a movie lover, it was also such an interesting blend of so many types of genres and it was just really compelling and funny and romantic and daring.
Was it tough to maintain the hair and suit while filming?
John Cho: Yeah, we had different versions of the suit. We had to put padding in it if I was going to take a fall or something like that, and some stretchier fabric suits. But the hair, that was a constant issue. It was just a lot and it wanted to do its own thing. It would not listen to me. It was very disobedient.
Daniella Pineda: It was its first job.
John Cho: So, yeah, the hair was a struggle.

How did you develop and make these characters your own compared to the anime version?
John Cho: I hope it’s enriching. It was sort of the only version that I really put my mind to because I knew what we were going to be playing. The backstory and the expansion of the backstory and the explication of the backstory certainly changed how I was to play Spike. I felt like what was necessary was to bring the vulnerability further to the surface because I knew it was going to break at the end of Season 1. In terms of whether it was a good or bad move, all I can say is that I enjoyed myself and it was really fun to play.
Daniella Pineda: For me, I put pressure on myself on anything that I do. Whether it’s this or anything. That was the case with Cowboy Bebop and it was really important for me to get the blueprint of the character right but also have the freedom to make Faye Valentine my own and see what I could bring out from the anime that maybe you didn’t get. I just really wanted her to be someone who was fun to watch so I just had fun playing her.
Mustafa Shakir: I didn’t feel a whole lot of pressure but I felt a lot of honour and reverence for the material. That was shared with everyone collectively. Because we loved it so much, we did put that pressure on ourselves a little bit but mostly in a good way. Because that was the case, the costume department, everything supported my creation, you know, my interpretation of Jet Black. It was a good situation.
Do you have any favourite episodes from the first season that you enjoyed the most?
Daniella Pineda: That is a hard one.
Mustafa Shakir: I like the casino scene. To answer your question, the casino scene was really cool, especially because it’s the kickoff point. You know, the action is ramped up, if I had to pick one (scene).
John Cho: If you’ve seen the season, there’s a shot in the Londes episode where I come out and it’s just one of those, you don’t really get to do many of these as an actor, a really long steady cam shot where I come out of the building and we’re doing this memory piece and end up with Julia and it’s a dream sequence. There were all kinds of extras that had to be coordinated. There’s this particular satisfaction when you can a steady cam shot like that done.
COWBOY BEBOP (L to R) DANIELLA PINEDA as FAYE VALENTINE of COWBOY BEBOP Cr. GEOFFREY SHORT/NETFLIX Â© 2021
What was it like to work together with Ein, a real Corgi?
Mustafa Shakir: He attacked me once.
Daniella Pineda: Did he really? (surprised)
Mustafa Shakir: No. It’s a joke.
Daniella Pineda: Sorry, man. (laughs)
John Cho: Daniella is the Ein expert. She had most of the literal heavy lifting.
Daniella Pineda: The writers decided to bestow Faye Valentine with most of the Corgi scenes and interactions. I’ve said this before but it’s almost like the job of the dog was to try and deliberately be heavy.
That dog weighed, I don’t know, maybe 35 pounds (15kg). It’s not an exaggeration, now imagine take after take after take holding that cute little 35-pound dog and doing little dances and spins. I was in shape and my training prepared me for that.
Mustafa Shakir: He’s oddly shaped.
John Cho: That’s a cute pooch though.
Daniella Pineda: Yeah, he’s really cute. I mean, the butt looks like a loaf of bread. How can you hate a thing like that?
What’s it like to work and have to build off-screen chemistry during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Daniella Pineda: We had a very exceptional experience because we were in New Zealand and because that country did such a wonderful job at protecting their people and following protocol. We just sort of struck the jackpot. We were already shooting in New Zealand in 2019. Also, I think, given the nature of our show, which involves a lot of stunt training, a lot of choreography, just a lot in general.
Because of COVID-19, it felt like stakes were really, really high and I think we bonded simply because we spent so much time with each other and also because we had to finish the show. It seemed like there were a lot of stones being thrown at us not to finish.
We did, and I just think we got lucky because we had chemistry. It just happened, but you know, I think it was something that was earned with all of us.
Netflixâ€™s Cowboy Bebop premieres on 19 November 2021.


Netflix Unveils Interactive Map To Clear Up The Witcher Timeline

One of the major flaws of Netflix’s The Witcher is its confusing non-linear plot structure. Fortunately, Netflix has made an interactive map for viewers to clear up any and all questions about the events that occur in the timeline of the series.
Not only does this map reveal where Geralt was at the various points of Yennefer and Ciriâ€™s journeys, but it also helps newcomers to the franchise understand the difference between kingdoms like Temeria and Nilfgaard.
In addition, it even reveals the age difference between Geralt and Yennefer. When they first met, Geralt was 103 years old, while Yennefer was actually already 72 herself. The timeline of the map is divided into four tracks, following Geralt, Yennefer, Ciri and general history.

Clicking on the timeline will lead users to the location on the map, which lights up depending on which characters are involved. The weather also changes, depending on what event you’re clicking on, along with other dynamic effects that add to the experience.
Scrolling to the far left will explain the Conjunction of Spheres, where users will see ink falling onto the map, revealing the monsters and magical creatures that were brought into the world.
Scrolling all the way to the right and the map burns away to reveal a message: “Va’esse deiradh aep eigean, va’esse eigh faidh’ar.” That’s apparently Elder Speech for “something ends, something begins.”
Head on over here to check out Netflix’s The Witcher interactive map for yourself. In the meantime, showrunner Lauren S. Hissrich has confirmed that Season 2 of The Witcher will only arrive in 2021, and will be more linear in nature.


Altered Carbon: Resleeved Trailer Gives Us First Look At The CG Anime

Altered Carbon‘s second season has ended, but fans will be reunited with Takeshi Kovacs in just a few days.

Set to release on 19 March 2020, Altered Carbon: Resleeved is an anime movie that sees Kovacs dealing with the yakuza on the planet Latimer. A yakuza boss has died, and Kovacs has to team up with a Colonial Tactical Assault Corps member to protect an important tattooist.
As with many of Netflix’s exclusive anime, Resleeved features 3D-CG animation. Unlike shows like Ultraman or the upcoming Ghost in the Shell, however, the Altered Carbon spin-off sports a cel-shaded look that brings Telltale’s games to mind.
While I wish Netflix would focus a bit more on non-CG anime, the action scenes in ResleevedÂ do look pretty rad. I’d probably watch it with Japanese voice-acting if the option’s available though.
Oh, I almost forgot to mention: Cowboy Bebop writer Dai Sato is involved in this movie.


Hearthstone Update Adds The Deadmines Mini-Set

Patch 21.6 has come to Hearthstone. Edwin VanCleef has a bone to pick with everyone who found themselves so United in Stormwind. The Deadmines Mini-Set introduces 35 all-new cards, and if that werenâ€™t enough, Edwin and his pirate crew are also coming to Mercenaries, Hearthstoneâ€™s latest game mode.
On top of all that, Diablo, the Lord of Terror himself, continues to wreak havoc in the tavern. For a limited time, Diablo will be a playable hero in Battlegrounds and will join Duels as the modesâ€™ first dual-class character.
Deadmines Mini-Set Launches on November 2

Batten Down the Hatches, the Deadmines Mini-Set is Here.
Delve into the Deadmines in the United in Stormwind Mini-Set. Edwin VanCleef and his crew are waiting for you with 35 unique new cards featuring Pirates and new synergies designed around the Tradeable keyword.
The Deadmines Mini-Set, which launched worldwide on November 2, consists of 35 distinct cards: 4 Legendary cards, 1 Epic card, 14 Rare cards, and 16 Common cards. Those new cards can be found in United in Stormwind packs, or you can get the entire 66-card* Mini-Set for US$14.99 or 2000 Gold.
Pirates coming to Hearthstone Mercenaries
Mercenaries is getting its first content update. Edwin and four more iconic swashbucklers are raiding Hearthstoneâ€™s newest game mode with unique new abilities and Pirate synergies! On top of that, weâ€™re introducing three new Bounties and Bounty Bosses for your new recruits to take on.
You can check out the full 21.6 Patch Notes here: https://playhearthstone.com/en-us/news/23739023


Take-Two Plans To Launch 93 Games Over The Next Five Years

During a call with investors today to discuss its Q4 2020 results, games publisher Take-Two Interactive shared thatÂ they are planning to release a whopping total of 93 games from its various internal and external developers over the next five years.
According to Take-Two Interactive president Karl Slatoff (via GamesIndustry.biz), 63 of these games will be “core experiences”, 17 â€œmid-core titles” and 12 â€œcasual/arcadeâ€ games. It’s worth pointing out that “core experiences” don’t necessarily mean AAA titles, but are instead described as “engaging experiences, where you can play anywhere from five minutes to five hours at a time.”
To divide them even further, 47 of them will be from existing franchises while 46 would be brand new IPs. 72 of them are planned for multiplatform release (console, PC, and streaming), while seven (out of the 72) will also available on mobile.
The remaining 21 would be specifically for mobile platforms. Last but not least, 67 of these titles will be paid games, while 26 would be free-to-play.
Slatoff clarified that some of these could be subject to delays or postponement, while even more games could be added in the future. He also reassured that all 93 titles will be full games and not DLC.
Developers under Take-Two include Rockstar Games, 2K Games, Ghost Story Games, Private Division, and Socialpoint. However, the biggest caveat here is that the 2021 fiscal year will be relatively light on new releases, so the 93 planned titles will begin launching in the 2022 fiscal year.
Surely one of the 93 games must be GTA 6, right?


Superman Legacy Now In Pre-Production & Script Is Complete, Confirms James Gunn

For those who don’t know, April 18 is the annual celebration of Superman’s debut and on this year’s Superman Day, DC Studios boss James Gunn has taken the occasion to announce that the upcoming Superman Legacy is now officially in pre-production.

I’m honored to be a part of the legacy. And what better day than #SupermanAnniversary Day to dive fully into early pre-production on #SupermanLegacy? Costumes, production design, and more now up and running. pic.twitter.com/TJYpCRmdsf
— James Gunn (@JamesGunn) April 18, 2023

What that means is that official work has begun on the project, including costumes, production design and more. In a reply below that tweet, Gunn also confirmed that the full script for Superman Legacy is finished, which means that the project is further along than we all expected when it was first announced in February 2023.

The whole script.
— James Gunn (@JamesGunn) April 18, 2023

Superman Legacy will be directed by James Gunn, but none of the cast members has been revealed yet. It is slated to premiere on 11 July 2025.
According to Warner Bros’ official logline, Superman Legacy tells the story of Superman’s journey to reconcile his Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing as Clark Kent of Smallville, Kansas. He is the embodiment of truth, justice and the American way, guided by human kindness in a world that sees kindness as old-fashioned.
Superman Legacy will be the first movie in the new rebooted DCU or DC Universe. You can read more about that in detail by heading over here for my previous coverage.


Apex Legends’ Next Move May Make Or Break The Game

Apex Legends could be getting crossplay soon, according to a new rumour that the feature might be announced for Respawn Entertainment’s battle royale game during EA Play 2020 tomorrow at 7am GMT+8 on 19 June 2020. This yearâ€™s online showcase event was pushed back one week from its original scheduled date of 12 June 2020 in the wake of the #BlackLivesMatter protests.
One of the biggest rumours is that Apex Legends might finally be getting cross-platform support, comes courtesy of VentureBeatâ€™s Jeff Grubb. In his article, he stated that a crossplay announcement for the game now would give it time to build a stronger player base to support a launch on the PS5 and Xbox Series X later this year.
During EA Play, Respawn also might finally announce a Nintendo Switch version, alongside possible PS5 and Xbox Series X announcements. It would certainly boost the battle royale game back to the top of the charts.

Be sure to tune in to EA Play Live this Thursday, June 18, at 4PM PT to unearth what’s next for Apex Legends. We’ll see you there. ðŸ˜‰ðŸ˜‰
ðŸ‘€ : https://t.co/4UJFwuhsR4 pic.twitter.com/u2qV7taNOa
â€” Apex Legends (@PlayApex) June 16, 2020
However, neither EA nor developer Respawn Entertainment have confirmed crossplay as of yet. That said, a crossplay announcement now would be a great way to revitalize the game, which has slumped into stagnancy after its incredible start in 2019. With so many similar games now vying for attention like Riot Games’ Valorant taking the world by storm, Apex Legends will need every edge it can get to rise again.


EA Sports FC 24 Gets New Trailer, Live Stream Happening This Friday

EA SPORTS has unveiled the EA SPORTS FC 24 Ultimate Edition cover, featuring some of the game’s top players alongside past legends of the beautiful game. The star-studded cover marks a new era for EA SPORTS, as fans and players will help usher in a new chapter of the world’s game with FC 24 while underlining the global nature of football fandom.
In the EA SPORTS FC 24 trailer, captured entirely in EA SPORTS’ Frostbite Engine, fans can watch the FC 24 Ultimate Edition cover come to life and get a first look at the new game. It is narrated by award-winning actor Daniel Kaluuya.

To kick off a whole new chapter and in celebration of EA SPORTS FC, the global football community is invited to Join the Club at a special livestream event at 12.30 am GMT+8 on 14 July 2023. This event will feature a keynote from executive spokespeople & special guests, including details on the upcoming EA SPORTS FC 24 title, and reveal the highly anticipated Standard Edition global cover athlete.
EA Sports and FIFA officially ended their 30-year partnership in May 2022 after they failed to strike a new licensing deal.
The same modes will be in EA Sports FC as well, including Ultimate Team, Career Mode, Pro Clubs and VOLTA Football. EA also claims that more than 19,000 players, 700 teams, 100 stadiums and 30 leagues will still be there, including exclusive partnerships with the Premier League, La Liga, Bundesliga, Serie A, the MLS and more.


Cyberpunk 2077 Is Delayed; Please Don’t Act Too Shocked

So who’s hyped about Cyberpunk 2077 coming out this April? Well, you’ll have to wait a little longer.
Unsurprising to most triple-A titles that seem to have a lot of hype attached to them, CD Projekt Red will be delaying its long-awaited sci-fi RPG Cyberpunk 2077 from April to 17th September. The company’s official statement according to studio co-founder Marcin Iwinski and head of studio Adam Badowski?

“We are currently at a stage where the game is complete and playable, but there’s still work to be done. Night City is massive -full of stories, content, and places to visit, but due to the sheer scale and complexity of it all, we need more time to finish playtesting, fixing, and polishing.
We want Cyberpunk 2077 to be our crowning achievement for this generation and postponing launch will give us the precious months we need to make the game perfect.”

We have important news regarding Cyberpunk 2077’s release date we’d like to share with you today. pic.twitter.com/aWdtR0grYV
— CD PROJEKT RED (@CDPROJEKTRED) January 16, 2020

I’m sure this has jack all to do with Final Fantasy VII Remake being delayed to April, but something tells me that helped them make this delay decision. In any case, more power to them Polishing the game to a higher standard than usual. It’s only 5 months more; there’s ample time to wait.


Here’s How The Samurai Shodown Characters Fight In KOF XV

SNK just dropped a new gameplay trailer for The King of Fighters XV’s new Team Samurai, which consists of Samurai Shodown veterans Haohmaru and Nakoruru, and 2019 newcomer Darli Dagger.
Samurai Shodown characters are known for their big damage and footsie plays, but these three swordwielders will be retrofitted into KOF XV’s gameplay. That means loads of combo potential and follow-ups. Of course, the blood from their special moves and Super moves are removed for obvious reasons.

Team Samurai for KOF XV will be out on 4th October for all platforms that have KOF XV. The trio are priced at US$15.99 just like past character packs.


Overwatch Contenders Season 1 Playoffs: Can Anyone Stop EnVyUs?

The Birdman – Seagull’s debut with EnVyUs went as planned early this morning as they brushed fourth seed FNRGFE aside to advance into the finals of the Overwatch Contenders Season 1 for North America. Subbing in for Mickie,Â  Seagull marked his first official EnVyUs appearance on his trademark Pharah on Oasis and along with Taimou on McCree and Effect in the lineup, saw a triple DPS setup from the Boys in Blue.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=09XBzYaPmZs&w=560&h=315]
Seagull’s second map appearance was even more impressive as less than five seconds in, he took out Suds right out of the sky with a direct hit. This encapsulates how EnVy has improved exponentially just by the addition of a projectile specialist and it is hard to see beyond them for North America’s greatest hope at the upcoming Overwatch League.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=09XBzYaPmZs?start=393&w=560&h=315]
Some may worry for Mickie’s place in the team but we are confident that Seagull isn’t a replacement of him, but rather an option to keep their opponents guessing. The unpredictability of the EnVyUs lineup following Seagull’s inclusion casts away the EnVyUs of old who were pretty rigid in their approaches. Chips who ran a Pharmercy combo with Seagull should not be forgotten as his brilliant positioning and game sense ensured Seagull remain dominant in the skies while Effect and Taimou cleaned house.
As it stands, EnVyUs (or Dallas Fuel) is currently the best non-Korean team in the professional scene at the moment. North America finally have a fighting chance against Lunatic-Hai and Cloud9 KongDoo.
In the other Contenders Playoff match for North America, FaZe Clan will be the team standing in EnVyUs’ way in the final as they brushed aside Envision esports despite losing the first map. Convincing wins on Hollywood, Volskaya and Route 66 locked in a 3-1 win and a shot at the $40,000 prize as champions. The last time EnVy met FaZe Clan, EnVy walked out comfortable winners at 3-1, only surrendering the sole point to FaZe clan via overtime play on Hanamura. With Seagull on board, we see that scenario repeating itself, if not better in EnVy’s favor.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1SaWoG8v8fQ&w=560&h=315]
No surprises on the EU side of things as both Misfits and Team Gigantti lived up to expectations to move on to the finals. However, C9 didn’t make it easy for Misfits as they forced a fifth map to decide their tie by defying the odds and tying the score 2-2 with a win on Watchpoint Gibraltar. Misfits who only lost two points in the entire regular season found themselves in a situation foreign to them – actually staring at a potential defeat – but managed to pull everything together to secure an easy win in the deciding map on Ilios.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5EjlUdciInE&w=560&h=315]
Team Gigantti vs 123 was a much tighter affair than the 3-0 score suggested as both teams didn’t give an inch to their opponents but in the end, Gigantti’s collective chemistry and experience won them the day. They will meet the only team to have defeated them all season in Misfits who earlier showed some vulnerability in their match against C9.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=McE4hWq7rVM&w=560&h=315]
The final match for Overwatch Contenders Season 1 for NA and EU takes place tomorrow morning (Kuala Lumpur/ Singapore/ HK) and you can catch it live on Twitch.

First up will be Misfits vs Team Gigantti which will start about 1AM Kuala Lumpur/ Singapore time.

Next up, the match most of us are most excited about – EnVyUs vs FaZe Clan will start at about 530AMÂ Kuala Lumpur/ Singapore time. Don’t feel like staying up late? Fret not. We will be bringing you the full roundup of it Monday morning with post-match reports and analysis.


Battletoads (2020) Guide: How To Conquer This 90s Throwback

Rare and Dlala Studio’s Battletoads sequel/remake for the PC and Xbox One may not be for everyone, but it definitely delivers on the thrills of a 2D multi-genre action game. And also will curb-stomp your hopes and dreams.
We’ve prepared this “no commentary” walkthrough for most of the tough segments in the game, as well as how to get all the artifacts on a level. Spoilers, naturally, since these videos contain cutscenes & story stuff.

Act 1

Act 2

Act 3

Act 4


Diablo Immortal Closed Alpha Is Now Live

Blizzard has announced that the Diablo Immortal Closed Alpha test launches today, starting from today for a limited number of Android users in the Australia region who register, along with select press and content creators, will be able to participate in the Closed Alpha of the mobile game.
This will be the second alpha test for Diablo Immortal and will be introducing loads of new updates, features, and systems for players to delve into. The Closed Alpha will stay live for several weeks to ensure players will be able to experience all content to the fullest with ample time to provide feedback.
So, what’s coming in the Diablo Immortal Closed Alpha? Check out the breakdown below, but you can head on over to the blog postÂ for an in-depth overview of all the new content.
New endgame and PvP systems:

The Cycle of Strife, faction-based endgame system â€“Â Players will fight as either Shadows or Immortals through various PvP and PvE activities in a continuous cycle to claim the throne as the ultimate defenders of Sanctuary.

Shadows –Â Shadows rally together in groups known as Dark Houses to challenge the Immortals in many ways such as raids against their precious Vault. Shadows must also complete Contracts to grow their houses and ultimately challenge Immortals in a PvP showdown through the Rite of Exile to try and take their place as the new defenders of Sanctuary.
Immortals â€“Â Immortals are the elite defenders against the Burning Hells, designated as the best of the best. They must fight to grow their dominance and defend against the Shadows to remain on top. One player will earn the right to lead the Immortals and can nominate up to four Lieutenants to bestow powerful Crowns to, which will grow in power and provide buffs to them and their allies in battle.

The Battleground, 8v8 PvP team battleÂ â€“ Players can participate in an epic 8v8 team fight within the Battleground. Two groups will form between attackers and defenders as they fight for dominance on the battlefield.
New end-game feature, HelliquaryÂ â€“ The Helliquary allows players to locate and challenge powerful demon bosses. Once defeated, players can trap them and claim awesome rewards.
Essence Transfer system addedÂ â€“ Players can extract Essences from Legendary items they have obtained and transfer them to other Legendary items in their collection to customize and craft the perfect item.

Expanded content:

New class, the Crusader now playableÂ â€“ The Crusader is a mid-range hybrid caster/melee fighter who wields powerful weapons, heavy armor, and righteous holy magic. They will be playable alongside the Barbarian, Demon Hunter, Monk, and Wizard (Necromancer to come in a future testing phase)
Level cap raised from 45 to 55Â â€“ Players will be able to progress up to level 55 and will have access to a new paragon tree at max level.
Two new zones to exploreÂ â€“ DefendÂ Mount ZavainÂ from the Khazra goatmen as they threaten the homeland of the monks. Scour theÂ Frozen Tundra, a snowy wasteland where the remaining armies of Baal still linger after the Lord of Destructionâ€™s downfall.
New dungeon addedÂ â€“ TheÂ Cavern of EchoesÂ located deep in the Frozen Tundra is where players will hunt down the mysterious Iceburn Tear relic.


Here’s Our Review Of The Final Fantasy CafÃ© Specials Down South

In case you missed the news, our neighbours from Singapore just launched its first-ever Final Fantasy-themedÂ cafÃ© promotion at WatanabeÂ CoffeeÂ to promote Dissidia Final Fantasy NT. Not only did they decorate the place with a ton of Final Fantasy memorabilia, they also are serving a special Final Fantasy-themed set.
And yes, Kakuchopurei got a hands-on with it. Only not with our hands and instead with forks and spoons because it’s a tad too hot to the touch. Here’s what they’ll be serving for the next two weeks-and-a-half.

We got a taste of the special set above, and let’s just say that this is on-par with the stuff they serve in the Japanese versions of the video game-themed promoÂ cafÃ©s. That’s a backhanded compliment. You see, most of these food-based tie-ins favour style and presentation over quality and then charge you an arm and leg for it.
In fact, we suspect that a couple of these recipes are repackaged items from past Square Enix cafÃ©s like Luda’s Bar, albeit with a few twists here and there.Â But we digress.
Let’s break down each delight and give each of them a rating using the appropriate Final Fantasy game. Because metaphors!

Moogle Curry & White Stew
Japanese chicken curry with prawn and vegetables in cream sauce. Kupo!
Kupopo! Our first highlight does look pretty as advertised. From the closed eyes to the pom-pom to the red nose, you almost feel bad for obliterating the little fella’s face with your fork and spoon.
Almost.
It’s a pity the actual curry isn’t top tier, unlike the game which the actual Moogle debuted from. The texture isn’t as thick as it should be and isn’t as sweet as the best curry packet. It sure as hell isn’t too spicy, but that’s just getting 1/3rd of your Japanese curry requirements just right: it doesn’t merit a passing grade.
On the plus side, the chicken is pretty tender and the white cream sauce goes well with the prawns. The white side of the dish hits all the right notes with the savoury flavour with some hint of pepper. Or it could just be our hunger pangs, kupopo.
Final Fantasy Comparison: This dish reminds us ofÂ Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII. Its flaws are glaring, but the other half of the creation has the best of intentions and gave us the feels. Close to greatness, yet so far away.
Materia mocktail on the left, Moogle peach drink on the right.
Moogle (Peach Juice)
Peach juice with strawberry syrup, topped with whipped cream and cherry.Â
A wise man who goes by the name of Homer once said that whoever gets the sugar gets the power and then the women. If that’s the case, then this Final Fantasy peach concoction is going to rule the world, because it’s chock full of said commodity.
In liquidated form anyway. The strawberry syrup seeps through the peach concoction like the Lifestream through a destabilized Mako reactor. Only this one wouldn’t outright kill you upon ingestion (unless you’re diabetic, in which case steer clear). The whipped cream doesn’t help the fact that it’ll overload your taste buds with crazy amounts of sweet, not to mention make your mouth feeling all foamy inside.
But hey! If you have a sweet tooth, this one’s all yours. The peach flavour does help neutralize the sweet sensation but only by a small margin. You’re going to feel the sugar rush from the Flare blast combination of syrup and whipped cream.
Final Fantasy Comparison: This drink is Final Fantasy IX incarnate. It’s full of fan service and homages featuring all the things you love from the old days of sweetened old-school fruit drinks and classic whipped cream, but the more you drink it, the more you get sick when you reach the last third of the story…I mean drink.
MateriaÂ (Mocktail)
Pineapple juice with calpisÂ and blue curacao, topped with ice and cherry. Stir for maximum effect.Â
Welp, we have a winner of a thirst quencher here. Calpis itself is incredibly refreshing, so why not mix in some lovely vitamin C and manganese in juice form? The unique citric taste of pineapple coupled with the yogurty essence of Asahi’s branded cultured milk staple makes for an awe-inspiring mixture that can send you all the way up to 7th Heaven.
There’s also just a right amount of blue curacao and ice to go along with the obligatory cherry topping. The drink isn’t overloading your tastebuds with sugar, so it can become a tongue cleanser of sorts. The drink itself also really, REALLY looks good and sticks true to the source materia(l).
Bottom line: it’s a lovely Japanese take on a Blue Hawaiian mocktail. Unless you really, REALLY hate pineapple or Calpis, you should steer clear of it. But you shouldn’t because this mocktail’s the clear blue winner within our circles.
But why isn’t there a whiskey ball to complement the drink? We felt like the creators -brace yourselves- dropped the ball here.
Final Fantasy Comparison: Final Fantasy VIII. It’s not for everyone, and each part on its own can’t stand on its own two feet. But if blended together and taken as a whole, you’ll end up experiencing a pretty unique take on an old classic name.
We’re just glad that drinking this doesn’t bring back memories of an absolutely tepid and horribly-written love story complete with a shoehorned Faye Wong number.
Want more geek-related food reviews? Just let us know on our webpage, Facebook page, and Twitter.Â


Polis Evo 3 Strikes Up Unlikely Partnership With Popular Mobile Game

Malaysia’s most explosive cop action blockbuster franchise, Polis Evo, is coming back to complete its trilogy with Polis Evo 3, and it’s set to be unleashed in cinemas nationwide in Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei on 25 May. In commemoration of the movie’s release Astro Shaw and PUBG MOBILE have joined forces to bring you an epic cross-branding event in the game!
You can now get special voice packs featuring the iconic voices of Inspector Khai and Inspector Sani from the movie Polis Evo 3. And guess what? These dialogues were personally recorded by the actors themselves!
You can also download the OST “AYUH” from the movie and enjoy it playing in the game’s lobby. And to top it all off, the trailer for the official PUBG MOBILE x Polis Evo 3 event will be released soon on PUBG MOBILE’s official social channels. Keep an eye out for it, and get ready to experience the ultimate gaming crossover event!

Polis Evo 3 brings back Malaysia’s hottest buddy cop duo, Zizan Razak as Inspector Sani and Shaheizy Sam as Inspector Khai, as the mainstays of the Polis Evo franchise. And that’s not all – the Polis Evo family is also expanding with big names such as Sharnaaz Ahmad, Nora Danish, Syafiq Kyle, Douglas Lim, Farali Khan, Fauzi Nawawi, Fezrul Khan, and Eyka Farhana in this film.
If that’s not exciting enough, Polis Evo 3 also features special cameos by well-known local actors and personalities, including Michael Ang, Ben Amir, Wanna Ali, Zulin Aziz, Fauziah Gous, Ezzaty Abdullah, Iman Corrine Adrienne, Danial Zaini, Radin ERA, Kamaliah Mat Dom, Datin Fadilah Mansor, Daniel Cheang, Isha Norsham ERA, and social media influencer Zukieeeee, along with a short but thrilling appearance by Dato’ Afdlin Shauki.
So, what’s the scoop on Polis Evo 3? Well, this time around, Inspector Khai and Inspector Sani are back for a new mission, but this time they’re joined by a special highly-skilled team including Inspector Dani, Inspector Julie, and Inspector Dell, who each bring their own expertise. However, things take an unexpected twist as the criminal’s next potential target is Inspector Khai himself. Inspector Khai and Inspector Sani’s friendship is put to the test when they realize the suspect’s personal connection to Inspector Khai’s dark past.

The Polis Evo franchise has showcased the abilities and unique direction of different directors, with the first Polis Evo film grossing RM18 million and Polis Evo 2 grossing RM25 million. And for the third instalment, breakout film director Syafiq Yusof takes on the task of directing yet another daring attempt in the action-comedy genre. Produced by BlackFlag, for the first time ever, the latest Polis Evo film sees the collaboration of three major Malaysian producers Astro Shaw, Skop Productions, and TGV Pictures.
According to Executive Producer of Polis Evo 3 and Vice President of the Malay Nusantara Business and Head of Astro Shaw, Raja Jastina Raja Arshad, “The highly anticipated third instalment of the box-office franchise Polis Evo is finally here. This time, Polis Evo 3 certainly offers more action, more drama, and more explosiveness, and it also features the expansion of the Polis Evo family through new characters who will join in the fun and complement the ‘bromance’ between Inspector Khai and Inspector Sani.”
But that’s not all! Polis Evo 3 is teaming up with brands such as PUBG MOBILE for a creative promotional campaign, along with a special short video featuring international social media influencer Sofyank. The film’s exhibitor partners are also joining in on the fun with some creative initiatives.
The movie tickets for Polis Evo 3 will be available for purchase starting on 11 May, in cinemas nationwide. And if you’re a die-hard fan, you can catch a ‘sneak preview’ on 24 May—one day earlier than the film’s official release date.


Gamescom Asia Addresses Questions Regarding Upcoming 2020 Event

The folks behind the upcoming Gamescom Asia 2020, Koelnmesse, have released an official response to our recent article where we brought up some concerns and questions pertaining to the upcoming event.
We were told that Singapore was picked as the host for the inaugural event due to its “thriving gaming ecosystem, excellent infrastructure, accessibility, and positioned as an established business hub for the region”.Â

In a declaration that should send many video games fan into a frenzy, Koelnmesse added the following.

“Singapore fulfillsÂ many characteristics of a metropolitan city and will serve to bring the region together with Gamescom Asia as an international destination. Currently, neighboringÂ events seek to serve a more domestic market and local audience.
We believe that the region lacks a global Tier 1 gaming event that expands on both B2B and B2C components despite the populace difference and this should entice and encourage neighboringÂ markets and gaming communities alike to invest in Singapore.”

Adding on to that statement and clarifying on how will it be run,Â KoelnmesseÂ assured that they are well-versed with the local scene and market and has beenÂ organizing trade fairs and conferences in Singapore and the Southeast Asia region for the past 20 years.
Addressing to questions pertaining to the hand-picked organization to run the event, Eliphant – best known for being organizers of Singapore’s largest gaming show, GameStart Asia – KoelnmesseÂ emphasized that Eliphant are NOTÂ co-organisers of Gamescom Asia.

“[Eliphant] will partner with Koelnmesse to provide consultation and share their experience as well as to build on the current foothold that GameStart has established over the years.
Eliphant has been organizing a leading B2C gaming event for the Singapore market for the past 6 years, but GameStart will exit the market and make way for Gamescom Asia.
“Working with GameStart will give Gamescom Asia a headstart by building on an existing community, but Gamescom Asia will add to this with a true B2B event, gaming industry conference, international audience, and fresh content.
TheÂ Koelnmesse team based in Singapore will work closely with (local partner) Eliphant to ensure that we do not discount the legacy and reputation that GameStart has created in the region.”

Acknowledging the difference in market climate and taste in SEA compared to other parts of the world,Â Koelnmesse said this:

“European publishers who are serious about Asia will make use of Gamescom Asia to explore and understand this market, as well as to develop their business, connect to the industry here, and localise their content.
There is a lot of untapped potential in Southeast Asia â€“ currently the fastest growing market in the world – and the local audience is hungry for new content. We are expecting a healthy mix of Western and Asian participation at the event, with publishers from Europe, but of course also from China, Japan, etc.”

Sounds Good?

While KoelnmesseÂ has addressed most of our questions, skepticism still lingers as to whether they are able to pull off an event worthy of the Gamescom brand right here in Asia. For a start their claim of Singapore having the right infrastructure doesn’t hold much water as almost every major SEA city are pretty much on par.
In addition to that, Singapore is the most expensive city in the region making it costly for everyone outside of Singapore to attend. Gamescom is best known for its accessibility and ability to attract the largest crowd in all of the gaming shows. If they aim to emulate or at least come close to that, certainly Indonesia or Malaysia would serve this purpose ten times over.
Lastly, Singapore, in our opinion, while hosts a number of regional offices for games publishers in this region, does not reflect the gaming climate of gamers in Southeast Asia.

Based on the breakdown above, the number of gamers in Singapore make less than 3% of the total gamers in the SEA region. This is hardly significant to represent the demographic of gamers in these waters.
Regardless of these potential issues, it is great that next year is looking pretty grand and prestigious when it comes to video game expos for Southeast Asia. Gamescom Asia will take place from 15 to 18 October 2020.


Guilty Gear Xrd Is Getting Rollback Netcode

Fighting game fans who stuck with Guilty Gear Xrd through thick and thin will finally get their much-requested wish.
Arc System Works announced during fighting game tournament CEOtaku that Guilty Gear Xrd REV 2 and Guilty Gear Xrd Revelator will be getting rollback netcode. Instead of, you know, a Guilty Gear Strive character reveal which a good number of people are clamouring for. Regardless, it’s still a major update for the people still playing the game since 2014.
The game’s rollback public test starts late October for a limited time on the PC version (via Steam). The update will most likely be out in full after that period.


The CS GO Intel Extreme Masters Tournament Returns To Sydney This October

ESL has revealed that it will bring more world-class esports to Australia later this year as Intel Extreme Masters (IEM) returns to Sydney for the fourth time.
IEM Sydney 2023 will happen in connection with SXSW Sydney 2023 on October 16-22. Fans from Australia and beyond can look forward to cheering on their favourite Counter-Strike teams during the final stage of the competition, which will take place in the Aware Super Theatre at ICC Sydney in Sydney, Australia.
Featuring 16 top-tier Counter-Strike teams from around the globe, the competition kicks off with the Group Stage on 16 to 18 October 2023. During those days, the competing squads will face off in two groups of eight.
At stake are one of six available spots in the Playoffs on October 20-22 and a share of the US$250,000 total prize pool. Furthermore, the winning team will qualify for the first next ESL Pro Tour Championship event in 2024, and can add a win in the race to the Intel® Grand Slam helping them get one step closer to obtaining its US$1,000,000 cash prize.
The 16 competing squads consist of six Partner Teams, a Local Hero Invite, and four teams qualifying via the ESL World Ranking. The remaining five teams qualify via regional Open and Closed Qualifiers:

Europe

Open Qualifier #1 – August 9-10 – Two teams progress to the Closed Qualifier
Open Qualifier #2 – August 11-12 – Two teams progress to the Closed Qualifier
Closed Qualifier – August 23-25 – Featuring eight teams of which two teams qualify for IEM Sydney 2023

North America

Open Qualifier #1 – August 9-10 – One team progresses to the Closed Qualifier
Open Qualifier #2 – August 11-12 – One team progresses to the Closed Qualifier
Closed Qualifier – August 24-25 – Featuring four teams of which one team qualifies for IEM Sydney 2023

Asia

Open Qualifier #1 – August 9-10 – One team progresses to the Closed Qualifier
Open Qualifier #2 – August 11-12 – One team progresses to the Closed Qualifier
Closed Qualifier – August 24-25 – Featuring four teams of which one team qualifies for IEM Sydney 2023

Oceania

Open Qualifier #1 – August 9-10 – One team progresses to the Closed Qualifier
Open Qualifier #2 – August 11-12 – One team progresses to the Closed Qualifier
Closed Qualifier – August 22-23 – Featuring four teams of which one team qualifies for IEM Sydney 2023

Graeme Du Toit, Head of Sales & Marketing Australia at ESL FACEIT Group, said:
“Since our last IEM Sydney tournament in 2019, we’ve heard the growing chorus of Australian esports fans who have expressed their desire for a return of this iconic event. So, when we were presented with a special opportunity to host IEM in Sydney again this year, we leapt at it. We’ll be counting on our fans to once again show why they’re the best esports crowd in the world this October.”
Shaun Clark, Senior Director Game Ecosystems – CS:GO at ESL FACEIT Group, said:
“Australia has a special place in our hearts when it comes to Counter-Strike events. Over the past months, Melbourne has been an amazing host for our ESL Challenger competitions, and we definitely can’t wait to come to Sydney with another IEM event. The city has already seen some of the greatest teams in Counter-Strike history be crowned Champions, including SK Gaming, FaZe Clan, and Team Liquid. Now, fans can look forward to another unforgettable event, as the world’s best teams will return to the city soon.”
The ticket sale for IEM Sydney 2023 starts on 22 June 2023, at 4:30 pm AEST. 3-day General Admission tickets are available from A$159, with General Admission Plus (A$199), Premium (A$279) and ‘God Mode’ (A$1,399) ticket types also available. More information about the ticket types and how to secure your particular ticket can be found here.
SXSW badge holders with a Sydney Platinum (A$1,495) or Games (A$1,095) badge can also access all three days of IEM Sydney 2023. An allocation of seats in the Aware Super Theatre will be set aside each day for SXSW Sydney badge holders. Learn more and buy your badge at https://sxswsydney.com/.
IEM Sydney 2023 will be broadcast live on ESL Counter-Strike’s Twitch and YouTube channels, and via dedicated broadcast partners. For more details about the competition, check out the official website and follow ESL Counter-Strike on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. For more general information, head over to eslfaceitgroup.com and follow ESL FACEIT Group on LinkedIn.


Latest Overwatch Short Focuses on Our Favorite Virtual Esports Athlete

The latest Overwatch short is out and this time around, focuses on our favorite Dorit- munching Meka pilot, Hana ‘D.Va’ Song. Entitled ‘Shooting Star’, the animated short focuses on D.Va’s heroics saving the city of Busan from a surprise attack from the omnics. Check it out.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q7j2d6YCQbg&w=560&h=315]
It’s been a while since we last saw a special animated short so Blizzard’s move in releasing one focusing on one of the most popular heroes does make up for the long wait. How popular is D.Va? Well our recent poll found out that she’s the most popular hero amongst Indonesian Overwatch players.Â


The Most Shocking Invincible Moments We Really Want To See Animated

As you can tell from the recent trailers, the Amazon-exclusive animated adaptation of Invincible is not meant for kids. It’s an R-rated superhero show that’s half-optimistic and half-bloody since we’re dealing with superheroes and villains who can punch through regular people like butter.
Writer Robert Kirkman and artists like Corey Walker and Ryan Ottman (alongside other guests) knew how to portray the visceral bits of superhero stories in a very, VERY detailed fashion. And there are even some shocking bits that don’t come with blood and guts either.
We’re going to point out the infamous parts of the comic that would make us curious about how they’ll look in the Amazon series. The show may deviate a lot from the comic book story arcs, but we’re guessing they’ll hit the same plot beats and their effects listed below.
Just a warning: the following comic book panels are going to be very, VERY violent and have moments that can trigger people. Also, major plot spoilers; that’s also important to point out if you want to watch the Amazon series fresh.

Nolan Murders This World’s Version of the Justice League

This one’s going to happen in the first season. Nolan, or Omni-Man, calls the Guardians of the Globe back in the homebase and proceeds to murder all of them simultaneously to accelerate his plans to conquer Earth for his Viltrumite race. This is just 7 issues in, so you can imagine how shocking this turned out back in 2003.
We’re pleased to report that the animated version of this scene is done in a very gratuitous fashion. At least they made this universe’s version of Aquaman feel useful before his headache of an end.
Nolan Beats Up Mark To Near-Death

This one’s going to happen in the first season, definitely. Nolan lets Mark know about his plans for assimilating Earth for the Viltrumites. Mark flats out refuses. Nolan beats Mark to near-death all across the city, and also lets him know that he never cared for his mother. In a fit of frustration and because Mark does not want to join his dad, Nolan left Earth and is torn up about it.
This also led to Mark’s mom Debbie Grayson also in a state of depression and resorting to alcohol. See, all that banter between Nolan and Mark? It was leaked to the public since it was spoken through an intercom given via the government since Nolan was working for the Pentagon’s top brass Cecil Steadman. This naturally put a toll on Debbie Grayson’s mental state.
Mark’s Half-Brother Accidentally Kills The Mauler Twins
Through some circumstances, Nolan ends up having another child with another lover after his betrayal of Earth. So now Mark has a half-brother named Oliver. He gets to know him and spends time with him on Earth alongside Mark’s mom, who take a shining to him.
Despite his genetic makeup and his alien strength, Oliver is still pretty young, naive, and doesn’t think highly of Earth and its people. When out patrolling and trying out the superhero gig, Oliver attempts to stop the Mauler Twins from committing their usual science-related crimes. Oliver does not know his own strength, loses his temper while fighting the twins, and then this happens…

This is why Batman trains his ward hard; so that they don’t accidentally kill the bad guys they try to apprehend.
Right in front of the current superhero group trying to contain the problem. Oliver did try to justify his actions, but Invincible chastised him, telling him that’s not how it works on Earth. Of course, Oliver did bring up a problem that even Invincible had trouble answering: humans don’t seem to think that their lives are precious due to the wars and troubles they love to start. Why should Oliver, since he knows he isn’t human?
This becomes a conundrum on Mark’s mind throughout the series too.
One of Invincible’s Adversaries Accidentally Fries His Own Family To Death
In a rather inadvertent and morally-grey story bit, Invincible went up against a villain named Powerplex who blames him for the death of his sister. She was in the city and was one of the casualties during the Invincible & Omni-Man fight.
Powerplex then asked his wife (who supports Powerplex fully) and his child to act as kidnapped victims to lure Invincible so that he can get his revenge for his dead sister. Because Powerplex can’t control his powers after absorbing a lot from Invincible’s kinetic punches, he ends up frying everyone in the vicinity.

He lashes out at Invincible for this, but in the end, he calmed down and turned himself in. He does vow to one day kill Invincible for the collateral damage he has done, and to avenge all the deaths he’s caused. It’s rather chilling and effective that the series takes a few dark turns with this kind of story-telling.
Conquest Kills Eve; Mark Returns The Favour
After a catastrophic world event involving Mark’s many, many evil clones, a Viltrumite named Conquest comes down to claim Earth. Mark attempts to fight him off, but he’s clearly over his head as Conquest is built and bred for fighting tons of Viltrumites. So it seems like a one-sided fight, especially with the rest of the Invincible-verse heroes out of commission at the time.
During the skirmish, Eve gets out of her coma and attempts to help Mark, but she ends up getting killed in a brutal fashion.

Mark, obviously pissed off at seeing his beau die in his arms, goes all out against Conquest in yet another violent moment where our hero deals with the threat permanently in this masterful comic panel layout.

Though Eve did come back to life due to her powers, Robert Kirkman at the time knew how to pull our strings with major deaths like these. See The Walking Dead for proof of this.
Viltrumite Grand Leader Nearly Kills Mark, Oliver, & Nolan
If you thought Conquest was tough, wait until you see what Viltrumite Emperor Thragg is capable of. During the Viltrumite War saga, the trio of Mark, Oliver, and Nolan teamed up with an ex-Viltrumite, Allen the Alien, and the Coalition of Planets to deal with the Viltrumite army.
They succeeded, committing genocide and destroying the Viltrumite homeworld through a last-ditch effort involving a space gun and flying through a planet’s centre. This angered Thragg, who then proceeded to nearly execute the heroes.

I said “execute” because it’s akin to a one-sided fight. Try as they might, Mark and Nolan had no chance against the king of all Viltrumites who knows all the combat techniques of the universe since birth. The only reason the trio survived is because Thragg came to his senses and decided to assimilate themselves into Earth; this was clearly inspired by Nolan’s previous “takeover” attempt in a twist of irony.
Mark Imagines Bloody Hypotheticals
Post-Viltrumite War, Grand Regent Thragg and his Viltrimite loyalists fly to Earth to assimilate with the humans. Mark feared the worst, and flew back to Earth with Nolan after recuperating in Talescria. Mark has a lot of horrific hypotheticals running in his head, like the one below.

Seeing Thragg standing over the corpses of his mother and loved ones is pretty messed up, even if it’s just a “what if?” scenario.
The New Invincible Covers Up His Girlfriend’s Accidental Murder
So this one time, Mark contracts a Viltrumite space disease that makes him lose his powers. So he has a pal named Bulletproof taking over his spot, helping Atom Eve out with the Invincible Incorporated hero mercenary business. Issue 91 and onward showcases a bit of Bulletproof/Zandale’s life with his girlfriend and his parents.
Turns out he has a twin brother named Tyrone who was a scientist trying to get superpowers via science stuff. He drugged Zandale and proceeded to use him for said science stuff, only for him to accidentally get vaporized. Zandale got his superpowers as a result.
He pretended to be Tyrone because he knew he was their favourite. So he led a double-life. When he confessed all this to his parents, they threatened to call the cops on him. Frustrated, Zandale’s girlfriend ended up hitting his mom with a frying pan, unwittingly killing her.

One thing led to another, and both parents are dead. Zandale and his girlfriend covered it up, saying that they died from a car crash. Yet another dark entry in the seemingly-bright Invincible universe.
Dinosaurus’ Las Vegas Stint
David Anders, a seemingly normal person, can transform into super-criminal Dinosaurus if he starts getting bored. Funny transformation, but lethal results. Dinosaurus made his presence felt by vaporizing an entire city into glass.
Why? Because Dinosaurus wanted to save the world in the long-term. Of course, this does affect Invincible’s viewpoint later as he teams up with Dinosaurus and somehow justifies upending the world to save billions in the future. Basically he’s taking in Thanos’ point of view before realizing it’s catastrophic.
Dinosaurus “Kills” Invincible

Dinosaurus makes a statement by fake-killing Invincible. See, he made a clone and switched it with the real Mark via teleportation to fool the world, so that Invincible can pretend to be dead to escape the world. This didn’t fly with him, and thus he and Dinosaurus had another debate on the latter’s actions.
The fact that the issue starts off with the top image is proof enough that the comic can still shock and awe people.
Angstrom Levy’s Final Fate

So Angstrom is a super-smart villain who can travel between dimensions. He was the one responsible for bringing in evil parallel Invincibles to destroy Earth in an effort to tarnish the original Invincible’s reputation. To control the evil mob, he stranded them in a deserted universe. Only one survived; he proceeded to nab Angstrom and deal with him in his own universe.
Angstrom gets dissected by the evil Invincible’s scientists. It’s a pretty grisly fate for one of Invincible’s long-time adversaries.
Robot’s Master Plan Goes Into Motion

Robot ends up pulling off his big plan of taking over the world without being on the forefront. He does this with his army of Robot mecha clones (improved ones that can counter-attack Viltrumites and folks like Mark) and kill a lot of superheroes & folks who would not agree to his “takeover”. This includes Cecil Stedman and traditional superheroes like Black Samson.

The crazy part about all this? It worked! Robot managed to get the cooperation of the Viltrumites and created world peace, and all with him running things behind the shadows. The line he needed to cross to achieve world peace is pretty much obliterated thanks to his incredibly long experience dealing with the Flaxans. Now imagine this arc played out with Zachary Quinto’s voice; that would be worth waiting years for, if we’re being frank.
Mark Loses 5 Years Of His Life
In a “reboot” story of sorts, Mark ends up going back in time and solve all the errors he did in the past. While a lot of lives were saved in that parallel Earth, he wasn’t happy and did not actually conceive a child with Eve; Rex Splode was still alive after all.

Mark understandably wants to erase this new timeline and future, since he rather see his current life through, potentially dooming countless lives but also giving him a drive to make things better. This led him to come back to his current timeline, but with a 5-year timeskip.

The gist of it is: his child is already grown up and is attending school, Eve has marital problems since she didn’t have Mark for 5 years, and a lot of the world has moved on. This also includes Robot/Rex making Earth a better place to live in and also being tight with the Viltrumites and Mark’s dad Nolan (who rules the Viltrumites). Alongside all this baggage, his time in alternate Earth also made him question about what it means to be a hero: is it truly worth sacrificing your own happiness for the greater good? At least Invincible’s last few issues made that very, very clear. It’s not visceral shock, but rather an emotional one that plays out in several issues.
Mark Gets Raped By A Viltrumite
Probably the most controversial scene in the comic that may be animated involves a later story arc when Mark returns from a parallel universe trap initiated by former ally Robot. After being dumped by a pregnant Eve for going after Angstrom Levy on a “hunch”, Mark was pretty much alone. Then Viltrumite flies into the fray.
Anissa, who is infuriated with the inferiority of the males on Earth she wishes to mate with for the Viltrumite grand plan, ends up being allured by Mark as of late. He obviously refuses her advances, since she is batshit insane, bloodthirsty, cruel and so forth. However, she isn’t going to take this lying down. She proceeds to beat the shit out of him and…

I’m not going to post the rest of the story here because it can be very harrowing and trigger-inducing. Still, I’m pretty impressed that this story angle was handled with some level of class, seriousness, and had repercussions down the line that influenced the story right to the very end.
Know any shocking Invincible moments you’re looking forward to seeing in the Amazon animated series, you sick puppy you? Want to know what’s in store for Invincible Season 2 and 3? Let us know!


Warhammer 40K Darktide Is Pure Fun & Cathartic Violence

Platform(s): PC, Xbox Series X/S
Genre: First-Person, PvE, Co-Op Shooter, Hack And Slash
Developed by Fatshark, Warhammer 40,000 Darktide, or Warhammer 40K Darktide, is a new online co-op action shooter game set in the gritty and dark Warhammer 40K universe. The best way to describe this game is probably Left 4 Dead in the Warhammer 40K universe, and after spending several hours in the closed beta, it’s almost just as fun.
In Warhammer 40K Darktide, you begin playing by going through character creation and creating your convict – a reject who, by doing missions, will gain trust and climb the tower of respect built within the ranks of the Inquisition. Players decide the backstory of their convict and choose a look that matches it. When creating their first convict, the player can select between predetermined classes, backstory, and personality choices, which affect voice acting, specific customization options, perks, etc. These will also affect your character’s dialogue and determine what they say during gameplay, including lots of banter lines and the like.

There were four classes available in the closed beta, including the Veteran [Male/Female], Zealot [Male/Female], Ogryn [Male – in the 40K lore, female Ogryns don’t exist] and Psyker [Male/Female]. Each class has a personality that affects your character’s development in the narrative, what cosmetics you can attain, and how they interact with teammates on their strike team. So, yeah, each class has their own unique weapons and skills/abilities, which I only managed to get a small taste of in the closed beta.
After creating your character, you get dropped into the main hub (The Mourningstar), where you get to pick your mission from the mission board. There were several types of missions, including Raid, Repair, and Assassination. Just like Left 4 Dead, the best thing about Warhammer 40K Darktide is that all the missions are set in atmospheric levels that are easy enough to navigate, and just like Left 4 Dead, things can get intense when suddenly a horde of enemies can descend on you at any time, which makes for an awesome time with your friends and allies.

What makes Warhammer 40K Darktide so fun to play is its combat. The combat is best described as a mix between meaty melee and classic FPS. Each class can switch between melee and shooting at the click of a button, but what’s impressive is that they both feel equally satisfying and punchy. That’s no easy feat. Slicing and dicing enemies feel great, especially with the blood and gore, while the shooting feels punchy and solid; including basic weapons like the Lasgun (the game’s version of an assault rifle).
I managed to play as each of the four classes and each of them has its own strengths and weaknesses. For example, the Veteran class is perhaps the most vanilla, and more for those used to shooting. Zealots are the fastest class, which is perfect for hit-and-run melee tactics. Ogryns are the best melee attackers in the game and are great at handling hordes. My favourite was the Psyker, who has psychic powers with an ability to literally use the Force to pop enemies’ heads off in glorious bloody violence. They’re also great for one-on-one damage dealing, as you can even pop the heads of larger and more powerful enemies.

Overall, Warhammer 40K Darktide is a fun and great game so far. However, during the closed beta, I experienced several crashes and sudden disconnections. These aren’t unexpected in a closed beta, but they happened frequently enough that I hope it won’t be the case when the game fully launches. Otherwise, the game runs surprisingly well despite its amazing graphics and emphasis on action. Besides that, I only have a few qualms, such as the ammo feeling a bit too limited at times, the lack of a class indicator next to player portraits (some classes like Veterans and Zealots can look similar), and better optimization.

Even as someone who doesn’t usually play online co-op games in his free time, I can see myself jumping into Warhammer 40K Darktide whenever I feel like I want to indulge in cathartic violence.
We were given access to the Warhammer 40,000 Darktide closed beta courtesy of Fatshark. Warhammer 40,000 Darktide launches on PC on 30 November 2022, with an Xbox Series X/S version in the works.


Battlefield 6 To Be Officially Revealed Next Week

EA has officially announced via Twitter that Battlefield 6 (or whatever the next Battlefield title turns out to be) will be officially unveiled next week at 10pm GMT+8 on 9 June 2021. A trailer or announcement will probably be available at that date and time, which will finally reveal the next entry in the franchise.

#Battlefield RevealJune 9 pic.twitter.com/DvNEcCDtPg
— Battlefield (@Battlefield) June 1, 2021

Last month in May 2021, images or screenshots from Battlefield 6 were apparently leaked, but EA and DICE did not comment on them.
Battlefield 6Â (or whatever its eventual title will be) isÂ currently planned for a 2021 release, along with a confirmed mobile game thatâ€™s coming in 2022. This upcomingÂ BattlefieldÂ will not only be the first in the franchise for next-gen consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X, but it will also be the first new entry since 2018â€™sÂ Battlefield 5Â orÂ Battlefield V.
Stay tuned on Kakuchopurei.


Ubisoft Celebrates 35th Anniversary With Six Weeks Of Free Content

Ubisoft has announced that from 2 November to 19 December 2021, Ubisoft is celebrating its 35th birthday with a six-week-long program of giveaways, rewards, and sales.
Players are currently able to play Ghost Recon Breakpoint at no cost as part of the first of a series of free weekends during Ubisoft 35 celebrations. In addition, the Ubisoft Store is currently holding a Ubisoft 35 sale, with up to 80 per cent off on a range of games including Rainbow Six Siege and Assassinâ€™s Creed Valhalla, amongst many others.
There are also select PC games that will be offered for free for a limited time. Once redeemed, these as-yet-unrevealed games can be downloaded and kept in playersâ€™ Ubisoft Connect libraries. Throughout the event, free rewards will be available to players, including free in-game content for games such as Far Cry 6 and Rainbow Six Siege.
For more information, you can visit the official website here. Check out the trailer below:


Players Rank The Entire Apex Legends’ Arsenal From Best To Bad

The Apex Legends community is a very tightly knit community, especially over at the Apex Legends subreddit. Recently, a member of the community came up with a survey to vote on the people’s go-to characters and weapons. 2000 fellow players chipped in their votes.
Redditor CharlieBeaulieu crunched the data; here are the results.
Legends
With the speedster Octane being the latest addition to the roster, he isn’t the top on the list. In fact, the list surprised me as I thought the elusive Wraith would be number one.
“Who’s ready to fly on a zip line? I am!”

Coming in at number one is Pathfinder, with 37% of the players favouring the humourous robot. Pathfinders useful abilities offer players extra verticality in a game where it matters.
The next Legend is Lifeline, with 16.9% of players enjoying her rapid healing and increased survivability. Her ability offers healing in a game where health is a premium.
The other Legends rank as below:

Wraith – 11.5%
Octane – 9.1%
Bangalore – 8.0%
Bloodhound – 6.6%
Mirage – 4.1%
Caustic – 4.0%
Gibraltar – 2.8%

Pistols
The trusty early game weapon to fend yourself before you move on to beefier weapons.

The Wingman leads the pack with 57% of the players favouring the hand cannon, choosing this over the other two;

RE-45 – 40.2%
P2020 – 3%

Shotguns
The bane of close-range combat (CQC). Surely dominating even with a slow rate of fire, only requiring the precise timing and a semblance of aiming to deal heavy damage.

A majority of 64.4% of the players favour the Peacekeeper thanks to its 11 pellet spray for maximum damage output.

EVA8 Auto – 32.7%
Mozambique – 2.9%

I’m surprised anyone even voted for the Mozambique shotgun pistol. Well, to each their own I guess.
Sniper Rifles
Having control over a vast, open space can spell victory for your team and here, the sniper rifle holds dominance over long-range control.

That’s why the Longbow DMR scores 64.9% due to its upgradability in terms of attachments and ease of use, balanced with its hefty damage.

Triple Take – 20.5%
G7 Scout – 14.6%

Assault Rifles
The staple weapon of any FPS, the main dish, the versatile damage-dealer.

It’s no surprise that the R-301 Carbine holds the top spot with a staggering 78.1% of players.
Well, yours truly is guilty of the same as I usually ask my squadmates to ping one of these for me. It’s an 18 round rifle dealing accurate damage over a decent range, and that’s without any upgrades.
Here’s where the rest of the weapon lay;

Havoc – 11.6%
Hemlok – 7.1%
Flatline – 3.2%

No surprise seeing the VK-47 Flatline down there. Absolutely crap tier weapon with unpredictable recoil spraying in all directions even at close range. I’d rather pick up a Mozambique than a Flatline.
Submachine Guns
The distant relatives of the shotguns, ripping anything apart that’s a few metres of the wielder with an insane rate of fire at the cost of low magazine size and lower damage.

The R-99 shreds everything at close range, especially with a barrel mod and extended mag. That’s why 72.9% of the players love it.

Prowler – 22.8%
Alternator – 4.4%

Machine Guns
Heavy hitters which can double as suppressive fire. Versatile enough for any range provided you have the correct attachments.

The Spitfire wins this category, hailing up to 74.4% of the players thanks to its 180 damage per second, and has a potential 2.8 second tactical reload speed.
The Devotion takes up the rest at 25.6%. It is a deadly squad wiper, but it’s balanced with its hard-to-find ammo, in which it requires a lot.
Throwables
Or ordnance, whatever you prefer to call them. Very useful utility in certain situations. Having these at hand could possibly shift the delta into your favour.
The Arc Star holds number one with 82.4% of players loving the electric shuriken thanks to its shield breaking damage and it’s slowing effect. Not to mention, it sticks to surfaces.

Grenade – 10%
Thermite – 7.5%

Loadouts
Now we come to the meat of the conversation. CharlieBeaulieu rounded up the players’ favourite loadout on the battlefield. These are among the most popular weapon combo;

Longbow, R-99
R-301, R-99
Longbow, R-301
R-99, Wingman
R-301, Prowler

As you can see, there is a mixture of long range and close range specialization, as well as a versatility build. It’s best to communicate with teammates and balancing out the team’s damage potential in terms of range and weapon proficiency.
Conclusion
With the insight provided, players can now adjust their gameplay with statistically proven weapons and loadouts, possibly boosting chances to win.
It’s also fun to see the who’s who of the battlefield, as these chunks of data open up a whole new perspective of the field, giving experienced players an idea on how to counter the meta.
In fact, most of these weapons tally with our complete guide which you can check out here.
So, were your expectations in line with the statistics? Drop a comment below and tell us your favourite loadout.