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Gran Turismo 7 Update with SPEC II 1.40 arrives today – new cars, track, and features

Gran Turismo players! SPEC II Update 1.40* for Gran Turismo 7 arrives today with 7 new cars, the introduction of Lake Louise snow courses, 50 new license tests, 4-Player Split Screen races, custom events, and more. Available at no additional cost*, SPEC II is the biggest update to Gran Turismo 7 since launch and brings with it:

  • 7 new cars – including the highly anticipated Lexus LFA and Tesla Model 3  
  • New circuit – Lake Louise Snow Circuit
  • 3 Café / Extra Menus
  • Update to World Circuits  
  • Gran Turismo Sophy (AI Driver Agent) with Quick Race (PS5 Only)
  • 50 Challenges added to Licenses
  • Paddock added to Multiplayer Menu
  • 4-Player Split Screen Races (PS5 Only)
  • Features added to Photos / Scapes
  • Updated GT Menu / Dashboard  
  • New opening movie 

GT Sophy will now be integrated into Gran Turismo 7 on a permanent basis for PS5 users only. Users can set up a race fast with “Quick Race”, formerly Arcade Mode, where users can choose to race against the AI racing agent for even more exciting / challenging races.  

The SPEC II 1.40 update arrives Wednesday, November 2 at 5:00pm AEDT 

Take a closer look at the update here.

*Internet connection and Gran Turismo 7 game required for update

7 new cars being added this month!

Dodge Charger R/T 426 Hemi ‘68

A true 60s muscle car, the envy of collectors everywhere. 

(Can be purchased from Legends Cars)

Released by Chrysler in 1966, the Dodge Charger is one of the most representative models of the muscle car boom that swept the American car scene in the 1960s. While many other muscle cars were based on compact class platforms, the Dodge Charger was based on the larger intermediate class platform of the Dodge Coronet. The car is easily recognised by its elongated 2-door fastback silhouette. It was also popular for its power, as the car was fitted with a large displacement V8 engine across all model grades. The Charger received a minor facelift in 1968. One of the most exciting implementations in this update was the introduction of the ‘R/T’ (Road/Track) performance package. As standard, this package increased the sports performance of the chassis, including upgraded suspension and upgraded brakes, as well as the option to upgrade the engine to the 426 Hemi unit.

Dodge Charger SRT Demon ‘18

A demon born simply to run the quarter mile as fast as possible

(Can be purchased in Brand Central)

The 3rd generation Dodge Challenger was introduced in 2008 as the true successor to the masterpiece muscle car that was the original Challenger. The car is well known for the various performance models that have been released since its debut, but in 2015 the veil was lifted on the most powerful model yet, the SRT Hellcat. However, the star of the line-up had yet to appear. That was the SRT Demon, produced in a limited run of 3,300 units in 2018. This car is a monster built for the single purpose of winning drag races. The engine, based on the Hellcat model, has been tuned to produce 813.6 BHP on 100 or higher-octane fuel. Subsequently, the car can achieve such astounding figures as a 0-62 mph time of 2.3s and a quarter mile time of just 9.65s. The body is also a full drag strip setup with no passenger or rear seats included as standard, though they are available as an option. Even more surprising is the ‘Demon Crate’, a racing parts kit that Dodge sold to buyers for just one dollar extra. The equipment said to be valued at over six thousand dollars, included thinner front wheels and a high-octane tuned ECU for drag racing as well as air filters and a race-spec instrument panel.

Lexus LFA ‘10

An ultra-high-tech sportscar that achieved ultimate performance with mass-production quality. 

(Can be purchased in Brand Central)

20 years before Japan’s automotive industry was truly recognised by the world, Toyota created a sports car called the 2000GT which combined the latest technology of the 1960s. In the 21st century, Lexus would create another cutting-edge sports car that would continue that legacy; the LFA. Its development was not easy. The aim was to provide stable and consistent quality while incorporating emerging technologies such as carbon fiber body production. For Toyota, it was not enough to make components match and fit together manually; it was a matter of pride as a mass-production vehicle manufacturer to balance cutting-edge technology with consistent product quality. One of the most important factors of a sports car, the front-to-rear weight distribution ratio, is 48 to 52. To achieve this figure, they implemented a transaxle layout and mounted the radiator in the rear. The vehicle weight was reduced to 1,480 kg. Emphasis was also put on lowering the centre of gravity, utilising a dry-sump lubrication system so that the powertrain itself could be mounted lower. The 4.8 L V10 has a bank angle of 72 degrees with a factory redline of 9,500 rpm. The 552.3 BHP total power equates to 115.4 BHP per litre, but even with this performance level, the car is still relatively environmentally friendly. The transmission utilizes a 6-speed single clutch 2-pedal manual transmission, able to shift in just 0.2 seconds, a figure on par with the world’s top racing machines.

Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution II ‘91

Born from touring racing, the ultimate evolution of the 190 E.

(Can be purchased from Legend Cars) 

In the early 1980s, Mercedes-Benz decided to return to motorsports after a long absence. The car they developed was the 190 E 2.3-16, a sports model based on the compact 190 series. It was unveiled in 1983. The biggest highlight of the 2.3-16 was its engine, based on a 2.3 L SOHC inline-4 that Mercedes already had in production. A 16-valve DOHC head was added, and the engine was tuned by Cosworth, a company famous for F1 engines. The resulting powerplant boasted 182.4 BHP maximum output and 23.1 kgfm maximum torque. The 190 E 2.3-16 with this engine began racing in the Deutsche Tourenwagen Meisterschaft (DTM) in 1986, where it fell victim to a race car’s fate of endless evolutions. By 1988 the car had evolved into the 190 E 2.5-16, given a bigger engine in hopes of defeating its arch-rival the BMW M3. With displacement enlarged to 2.5 L, the engine could now make up to 197.2 BHP. A DTM homologation model, known as the 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution, began limited production in 1989. Then, in 1990, Mercedes released its ultimate 2.5-16: the 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution II. On looks alone, the Evolution II amazed all who saw it. Large wheel arch extensions had been added at the front and rear to accommodate the wide 245/40ZR17 tires, and the boot now sported a giant spoiler so big it hung over the rear end. The engine was further tuned, boosting output up to 231.8 BHP (power was said to exceed 325.4 BHP in the DTM racing version.) A mere 500 of these Evolution IIs were produced during its limited run, but it took the DTM by storm in 1992, showing its stuff against tough rivals and proving that it truly was the ultimate 190 E, forged in the fires of touring car racing.

NISMO 400R ‘95

Boasting 400ps and an extremely limited production run, the ultimate R33 GT-R from NISMO. 

(Can be purchased from Legend Cars)

Launching in 1996 with a maximum output of 394.5 BHP and an eye-watering 12-million-yen price tag during a time when passenger cars were traditionally limited to 276.1 BHP in Japan and new R33 Skyline GT-Rs sold for roughly 4 million yen, the 400R was a fully tuned model that astonished fans by these two figures. Utilising all NISMO’s expertise with the R33 GT-R, it was developed with the aim of producing the fastest possible GT-R that could still be driven on the road. The 400R is equipped with a power unit based on a version of the RB26DETT engine called the RBX-GT2 and paired with N1-spec turbochargers to increase boost. To achieve the characteristics of a road-approved vehicle, maximum output was kept to a relatively moderate level considering the engine’s potential. However, using specially developed pistons and a hardier crankshaft, engine displacement was expanded to 2.8L, enabling it to achieve high torque at low rpms and making it easier to handle than the regular engine. At the same time, the engine delivers a mighty amount of power at high revs and so required the need for twin-plate clutch units to be fitted. A lightweight propeller shaft made from carbon fibre was also added along with a fully original suspension kit with Bilstein dampers, front and rear stabilizers, and reinforced bushings.

Porsche 911 GT3 RS (992) ‘22

A hyper performance streetcar packed with racing car features. 

(Can be purchased in Brand Central)

Released in the summer of 2022, the Porsche 911 GT3 RS (992) is a hyper-performance streetcar that brings the aerodynamics of the 911 GT3 R, a true race car, to the 992 model. Visually, the car has much more in common with racing cars than even its predecessor, the 991.2 model GT3 RS. The most obvious feature is the swan neck-mounted rear wing, the largest ever on a production Porsche model. It features an F1 style DRS (drag reduction system) which under certain conditions allows the wing to be positioned flat at the touch of a button, reducing drag, and enabling the car to reach its top speed. Additionally, when hard braking from high speeds, the front adjustable active diffuser can act as an air brake to increase braking performance. Along with those above, additional improvements to aerodynamic devices such as the front aerobars and air outlets on the front and rear fenders all result in a car that produces more than twice the downforce of the previous 991.2 GT3 RS. There are also other features taken from race cars such as the 911 GT3 R and RSR, like the front hood space which would normally serve as the luggage space but has been replaced with a front radiator. This is one of the key features of the 992 model GT3 RS.

Tesla Model 3 Performance ‘23

The bestseller from the company that changed the EV market forever. 

(Can be purchased in Brand Central)

The Tesla Model 3 is a sedan EV first introduced in 2016. One of the most compact Tesla models at 4,695 mm long, 1,850 mm wide and 1,445 mm tall, it was apparently designed with considerations for Japanese mechanical parking garages. Inside the sporty 5-door hatchback-style body is a surprisingly simple cabin space. There are almost no switches on the dashboard or centre console, with almost all functions of the car from the climate control to the “autopilot” system being controlled from a 15-inch touch screen. Many of these functions are also controllable via the Tesla smartphone app. The most powerful model in the line-up is the Performance Dual Motor AWD grade which was available from its debut until 2023. This all-wheel drive system places an electric motor on each of the front and rear axles and while the total system output has not been officially published, it has a 0-62.1 mph time of 3.3s and a top speed of 162.2 mph. Based on these figures and its market price, the Model 3 is almost unrivalled in its cost-to-performance ratio.

New Circuit: Lake Louise with 3 layouts

Lake Louise

Snow courses are finally here. Lake Louise is a completely new original course designed around a fictional ski resort located in the foothills of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks World Heritage Site. There are 3 layouts available starting with the ‘Long Track’ layout which features long straights and a variety of corner types from low to high speeds. Next, the ‘Short Track’ features a number of consecutive twisting turns. Finally, there is the ‘Tri Oval’ circuit with just 3 corners where drivers can enjoy full flat-out snow racing. All 3 layouts feature iced-over roads and allow for night races. ‘Snow tires’ are required to drive on these courses.

Lake Louise Long Track 

Total Length: 3,694m, Elevation Change: 78m, Number of corners: 11, Longest Straight: 765m

Lake Louise Short Track 

Total Length: 2,577m, Elevation Change: 63m, Number of corners: 7, Longest Straight: 765m

Lake Louise Tri-Oval 

Total Length: 3,068m, Elevation Change: 78m, Number of corners: 3, Longest Straight: 1,184m

3 New Café / Extra Menus

The following three Extra Menus have been added:

  • Extra Menu No. 31: ‘Road-Going Racers’ (Collector Level 30 and above)
  • Extra Menu No. 32: ‘Lexus’ (Collector Level 34 and above)
  • Extra Menu No. 33: ‘Red Bull X Series’ (Collector Level 49 and above)

Update to World Circuits 

5 new regular events and 2 new expert race events

The SPEC II update brings new features to World Circuits. There are not only a number of new races, but new ways to play as well. 

Introducing 5 new regular race events like ‘World Touring Cars 900’ and ‘X2019 Nations Cup’ as well as 2 new expert race events.

5 New Regular Events 

  • World Touring Cars 900: Trial Mountain / Nurburgring / Suzuka Circuit / Autopolis
  • X2019 Nations Cup: Interlagos Circuit / Sardegna Road Track / Dragon Trail / Trial Mountain Circuit / Lake Maggiore Circuit
  • World Rally Challenge Gr. B: Lake Louise
  • Japanese 4WD Challenge 600
  • Pick-Up Truck Race: Lake Louise

2 Expert Race Events 

  • Clubman Cup+: Watkins Glen International / Special Stage Route X / Fuji Speedway / Monza Circuit 
  • GT Cup Gr. 3: Mount Panorama / Daytona International Speedway / Deep Forest Raceway / Red Bull Ring 

A quick list of races currently enterable. New ‘Event Directory’ button. 

The new ‘Event Directory’ button added to the top-right of the screen allows players to quickly find any events they can enter. Pressing the button brings up a list of all races that are enterable with current settings. Players can then select a race from the list to enter straight away.

The ending is just the beginning. Keep on racing with the ‘Weekly Challenge’. 

The ‘Weekly Challenge’ is a new weekly event that gives players a list of events to complete. Completing all of them will earn players a special reward. These events will be picked from current World Circuit events along with all-new race events as well.* *This mode is only available once players have reached the ending movie.

<weekly_challenge.jpg>

Gran Turismo Sophy (AI Driver Agent) with Quick Race (PS5 Only)

Play with Gran Turismo Sophy on the PS5 version. Set up a race quickly and easily with ‘Quick Race’. 

‘Arcade Race’ has now become ‘Quick Race. Players can now choose to race against regular AI or the prototype AI racing agent ‘Gran Turismo Sophy’ for even more exciting races than ever before.* Additionally, credit prizes increase based on the player’s Collector Level and Circuit Experience progress. This race mode is easier than ever to get into, and even more replayable. 

* Gran Turismo Sophy mode is only available on the PS5 version of Gran Turismo 7. Certain cars and courses are currently unavailable in this mode and subsequently cannot be selected.

50 Challenges added to Licenses

The new ‘Master License’ has been added to the License Centre, where players learn the ins and outs of sports driving step by step. Starting from the basics, 50 new expert challenges have been added. These will become available to play once the normal licenses have been cleared.

Paddock added to Multiplayer Menu

Engage in casual conversation at the ‘Paddock’ 

With the Spec II update, there are big changes in multiplayer as well. The ‘room’ screen in Meeting Places has now become the ‘Paddock’ parking area. In the Paddock players cannot only communicate with each other but also take a look at certain cars close-up. Players can not only access the Paddock from World Circuits as before, but also from the Multiplayer menu.

4-Player Split Screen Races (PS5 Only)

The ‘2P Split Screen’ mode has changed to ‘Split-Screen Race’. Up to 4 people can now play together in Split Screen mode. (PS5 Only) One controller per person is required.

Features added to Photos / Scapes

Slow shutter modes 

New slow shutter speeds have been added to the camera when using the Race Photo mode during the post-race replay. It is now possible to set the shutter between 1s and 1/30s. Use the slower shutter to make dark scenes brighter, capture light trails and photograph dynamic movements. Experience a whole new frontier of photographic expression.

New Scapes features and spots 

‘Player’s Favourites’ (The 30 Most Popular Spots) has been added to featured Scapes. Additionally, to celebrate the addition of the 3000th Scapes Spot, the ‘Polyphony Digital Tokyo Studio’ spot has been added.

Updated GT Menu / Dashboard

‘Player’s Favourites’ (The 30 Most Popular Spots) has been added to featured Scapes. Additionally, to celebrate the addition of the 3000th Scapes Spot, the ‘Polyphony Digital Tokyo Studio’ spot has been added.

Learn more about the new Gran Turismo 7 update at the PlayStation Blog

For the latest PlayStation news, follow PlayStation Australia on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram

Embrace the warm weather these holidays with Summer of Magic!

Kickstart Summer with Friday Night Magic  

Summer is nearly here and WPN stores are welcoming the warm weather with special Friday Night Magic events and exclusive new rewards. Whether you’re thirsty for competition, looking for a chill Commander pod, or just getting your feet wet with Magic: The Gathering, Friday Night Magic is the best place to play. So, get ready and grab your mates to get in on the action from December through January!

FNM Rewards to Collect | December 1 – January 26
During the Summer of Magic season, each Friday Night Magic event will be revamped with a host of collectible rewards featuring a unique Aussie style. Players can get their hands on exclusive beach towels, fridge magnets and sunglasses by participating in FNM events. New variations are available to collect during December and January, so be sure to come back each month to collect all that’s on offer! Here’s a preview of what’s available during each season:

*Summer of Magic events are only between December 1st, 2023 – January 26, 2024. Prizes are limited to Australian & New Zealand participating WPN retailers only. Speak to your local WPN store on how to get these items.

Relive 2023 in Style | Chaos Sealed Events: December 1
Starting December 1, participating WPN retailers will be hosting special ‘Chaos Sealed’ events. These events are an awesome end-of-year experience for players looking for a unique way to relive some of the best recent Magic releases. Players will battle it out by building limited decks from themed boxes* containing 4 x draft boosters, 1 x Jumpstart 2022 booster, and 1 x randomised Collector booster. Chaos Sealed events will also be the first chance to score new Summer of Magic themed items!

*Chaos Sealed boxes contain: 1 x Jumpstart 2022 Booster, 1 x Brothers War Draft Booster, 1 x Phyrexia: All Will Be One Draft Booster, 1 x March of the Machine Draft Booster, 1 x Wilds of Eldraine Draft Booster and 1 x Collector Booster randomised from listed releases.

Friday Night Magic will be heating up soon. Contact your local WPN retailer to learn more about these events, rewards, and schedules. You can find your nearest store at: https://magic.wizards.com/en/play-events/summer-of-magic

ILLFONIC PROMOTES SHANNON GERRITZEN TO HEAD OF PUBLISHING

Inspiring Women and Men in Gaming, Gerritzen Has A Path For IllFonic.

November 1, 2023 (Lakewood, Colorado) – IllFonic is thrilled to announce the promotion of Shannon Gerritzen former Vice President of Marketing and Communications to Head of Publishing. Gerritzen’s new role answers the call to IllFonic’s recent move to publish fellow indie studios’ games, starting with Killer Klowns From Outer Space: The Game. She will now oversee the publishing arm of IllFonic, which will now include the Marketing and Communications departments while exploring new business opportunities.

This move is no surprise to those who know her; Gerritzen carries over 11 years of gaming experience, five of which have been with IllFonic. With a background spread across hardware, eSports, and game development, Gerritzen’s keen vision has grown the marketing department from two (including herself) to twelve employees, not counting the numerous global agency partners and contractor aid. She has worked tirelessly on Predator; Hunting Grounds, Arcadegeddon, Ghostbusters: Spirits Unleashed, and now, Killer Klowns From Outer Space. Her unmatched talent will surely bring continued success to what’s next for IllFonic.

“Shannon has been growing the marketing and communication side of IllFonic for the past five years. She continues to make key power moves that put IllFonic in a position to publish our own titles and work with external studios,” Chief Executive Officer Charles Brungardt remarks. “There is no one better to run IllFonic Publishing than Shannon. Our industry is rapidly changing; with Shannon at the publishing helm, our team is confident her abilities will drive IllFonic’s internal and external project focus while positioning us for success.”

Before Gerritzen’s time in gaming, she worked as an advocate for our oceans and waterways. She led the efforts for the non-profit Surfrider Foundation in Washington State and assisted in British Columbia, to protect our waters on city, state, and federal levels.

“I’ve leaned on my past experiences in PR and events to shape how I look at marketing a game.” Gerritzen reflects. “I now look forward to growing the publishing department. I want to bring games and IPs to IllFonic that we are fans of. We create worlds we want to play in; it’s at the core of our passion and every game we make.”

Outside of work, Gerritzen is a proud mother to two grown sons. She is an avid hula dancer, tennis player, and mentor, often found on her standup paddleboard or riding a wave off the West Coast. This fashionista and traveling road warrior is full of tales as she is a true Renaissance Woman living in 2023. To learn more about Shannon Gerritzen, see her “Meet the Dev” write-up on IllFonic.com – Here.  

About IllFonic Inc.

Founded in 2007, IllFonic is an independent video game developer and publisher with studios in Lakewood, Colorado, and Tacoma, Washington, and remote employees worldwide. Our staff comprises video game, music, and technology veterans redefining how games are made and marketed. Titles and collaborations include Killer Klowns from Outer Space: The Game, Ghostbusters: Spirits Unleashed, Arcadegeddon, Predator: Hunting Grounds, Friday the 13th: The Game, Dead Alliance, Star Citizen, Evolve, Armored Warfare, and Nexuiz. For more information, visit www.illfonic.com.  

SPEAR BEARER NOVICK JOINS TOWER OF GOD: NEW WORLD AS A NEW PLAYABLE TEAMMATE

New Costumes, a New Side Story, and Limited-Time Events Await Players in New Game Update

LOS ANGELES – November 1, 2023 – Netmarble, a leading developer and publisher of high-quality mobile games, has released a new game update for its collectible card game RPG, Tower of God: New World. Players can experience a new teammate, a new side story, costumes, and limited-time events.

New teammate SSR Novick (Blue Element, Tanker, Spear Bearer) is a member of an elite team formed by Khun Aguero Agnes for Rachel. His skill increases Physical Resistance and protect allies with Swiftness Increase Block. Novick is obsessed with authority and order which gains the attention of Khun Aguero Agnes who asks him to lead the team from time to time. When a new teammate is recruited, Novick uses it as an opportunity to challenge Khun Ran and attempt to reorganize the group’s leadership order. It is a one-sided rivalry, but they work well together.

Players can experience a new Tower of God: New World side story called Rak’s Strange Adventure. Rak is separated from his team in the final test and encounters a group of barnacle goblins. Complete this story and receive Normal Summon Tickets (x10). Additionally, a new costume has been added for Hansung Yu (Beyond the Luminous Snowfield).

The following limited-time events are now available until Nov. 15:

  • November Check-In Event: Check-in the game for 14 days and receive Normal Summon Tickets (x30), Suspendium (x3,000), Soul Crystal (x100) and more.
  • Element Training Event: Earn Element Crystals based on the elements used to dispatch teammates. Crystals can be exchanged for various items at the event Exchange Shop.
  • Novick’s Growth Mission: After acquiring SSR Novick, players can clear various in-game missions to earn abundant rewards including SSR Novick, Normal Summon Tickets and more.

In Tower of God: New World, players can take control of fan-favorite characters to ascend the Tower. Join Twenty-Fifth Bam – and more than 70 characters – as he fights his way through the Tower in gorgeous 3D animation that will make players feel like they have stepped into an anime world. Players will experience fast-paced battle mechanics while utilizing a unique Slot System that powers up a particular “slot” instead of a specific character.

The game is now available on Google Play and the App Store while the PC version is available to download from Google Play Games Beta. Players are encouraged to sign up on Discord and other social channels (YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and Facebook) for the latest information.

About Netmarble Corporation

Established in Korea in 2000, Netmarble Corporation is a leading developer and publisher of top-grossing mobile games worldwide. Through powerful franchises and collaborations with acclaimed IP holders, Netmarble strives to elevate the gaming experience and entertain audiences globally. As a parent company of Kabam and SpinX Games, and a major shareholder of Jam City and HYBE (formerly Big Hit Entertainment), Netmarble’s diverse portfolio includes Lineage 2: Revolution, MARVEL Future Fight, Ni no Kuni: Cross Worlds, The King of Fighters ALLSTAR, The Seven Deadly Sins: Grand Cross, and forthcoming PC games like Paragon: The Overprime. More information can be found at http://company.netmarble.com.

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Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising Release Date Shifts to December 14

New Preorder Bonuses Announced; Second Beta to be Held from November 9

TOKYO, JAPAN – Nov 1, 2023 – Tokyo-based video game publisher and developer Cygames, Inc. (HQ: Shibuya-ku, Tokyo; President: Koichi Watanabe; hereinafter referred to as “Cygames”) has shifted the release date for Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising to allow for additional fine-tuning. Published and produced by Cygames, and developed by Arc System Works Co., Ltd., the game is now scheduled to be released on December 14, 2023 for the PlayStation®5, PlayStation®4, and Steam platforms. Cygames has also revealed additional information regarding a second open beta test and preorder bonus content through the PlayStation™Store.

New Release Date for Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising

The release date for Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising is now as follows:
New release date: December 14, 2023
Previous release date: November 30, 2023

In accordance with the new release date, Early Access play included with preorders of the Deluxe Edition from the PlayStation™Store will now begin on December 11, but may be rescheduled for maintenance or other reasons.

Cygames sincerely apologizes to fans looking forward to the game’s release. The decision to move the release date was made to further improve the game’s quality and deliver the best experience possible to players.

Second Open Beta Goes Live November 9 – November 12 (PT)

A second open beta test for Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising will be held from November 9 to November 12 on the PlayStation®5, PlayStation®4, and Steam platforms.



This beta test will feature cross-platform multiplayer as well as the Grand Bruise Legends! party mode. More details regarding the beta will be announced on the official GBVS X (formerly Twitter) account.

Additional Preorder Bonus Announced: PSN Avatar Set

An additional PSN Avatar Set preorder bonus will now come included with preorders for Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising from the PlayStation™︎Store. This preorder bonus is not currently planned to be included with the game post-release.

The avatar set includes:

  • Gran
  • Djeeta
  • Siegfried
  • Nier
  • Narmaya
  • Beelzebub
  • Seox

(This preorder bonus will be included with existing preorders and is available only for the PlayStation®4 and PlayStation®5 platforms.)

Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising Product Details

Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising Standard Edition – MSRP $49.99

  • Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising Game
  • Granblue Special Item Set: GBVSR Pack (PlayStation®4 and PlayStation®5 only)
  • PSN Avatar Set (PlayStation®4 and PlayStation®5 preorders only)

Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising Deluxe Edition – MSRP $74.99

  • Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising Game
  • 4 Color Variants for the 28 Base Characters
  • 3 Weapon Skins for the 28 Base Characters
  • Deluxe Character Pass Part 1
  • 6 DLC Characters and Premium Avatars
  • 4 Color Variants for the 6 DLC Characters
  • 3 Weapon Skins for the 6 DLC Characters
  • Costume “Guider to the Eternal Edge” (Gran)
  • Costume “Guider to the Eternal Edge” (Djeeta)
  • Premium Avatar “Vikala (Yin)”
  • Granblue Special Item Set: GBVSR Pack (PlayStation®4 and PlayStation®5 only)
  • PSN Avatar Set (PlayStation®4 and PlayStation®5 preorders only)
  • PlayStation™︎Store preorders only: Early Access (Early Access play begins December 11, 2023)

Granblue Fantasy: Versus on Sale Now

Granblue Fantasy: Versus is currently on sale on the PlayStation™Store and Steam for a limited time. Don’t miss this opportunity to hop in and try the first entry in the series!

Sale Period

PlayStation™Store: Until 11:59 p.m. November 8, 2023 (local time)

Steam: Until 9:59 a.m. November 8, 2023 (PT)

Obtain an Exclusive Badge by Transferring Save Data

Players who transfer their save data from Granblue Fantasy: Versus to Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising can obtain an exclusive badge to display on their player profile. Don’t hesitate to take this opportunity to purchase the game while it is on sale to obtain this exclusive bonus content!

(Up to 4 badges can be displayed on a player’s profile card.)

(This bonus content can be obtained when creating a save file for Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising if GBVS save data is present.)

For more information, please follow the links below:

Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising Official Site: https://rising.granbluefantasy.jp/en/

GBVS Official X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/gbvs_official

Granblue Fantasy Versus Official YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gbvs_official

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BLUE ARCHIVE LIVESTREAM CELEBRATES TWO-YEAR ANNIVERSARY, REVEALS NEWEST EVENT STORY

Highlights:

  • Nexon hosted 500 Blue Archive fans in person at Korea’s IVEX STUDIO
  • Participants enjoyed several activities in a specially decorated area featuring an artistic Event Story background
  • An official web novel, webtoon contest and various collaborations are in the works to expand Blue Archive’s IP
  • 2-Year Anniversary event to offer in-game rewards such as Pyroxenes and special furniture

SEOUL – Nov. 1, 2023 – Five hundred dedicated Blue Archive fans packed Korea’s IVEX STUDIO in Seoul last week for a special anniversary livestream: a retrospective celebrating two years with the renowned anime-style RPG where team leads from Nexon Games discussed the newest event story, “Alabaster Calling Card: Mansion Masquerade and the Essence of Beauty,” as well as a suite of upcoming content and quality-of-life improvements to the game.

Blue Archive follows the exploits of Sensei across the many schools of the academy city of Kivotos as they solve various problems and guide students towards success. As an act of appreciation for the kind words, fan art, and overall engagement with the beloved game’s captivating ensemble of gun-toting students, Executive Project Director Kim Yong-ha said, “We are truly honored to share this special occasion with the Sensei for our two-year anniversary, and we will continue working hard to make Blue Archive an IP that will be loved for a long time.”

During the livestream, the latest event story “Alabaster Calling Card: Mansion Masquerade and the Essence of Beauty,” occupied the spotlight with an on-stage discussion from Kim and Producer Park Byunglim and a brand-new glimpse into the event story’s gameplay. In this new escapade, players will employ dynamic, strategic combat and a charismatic cast of characters to assist the Game Development Department as they attempt to protect artwork from a cunning thief. Players will earn Yuzu (Maid) for completing the first stage of the event story, Millennium Times Square. The livestream also provided a peek into the event’s newest pickup recruitments, the Mystic-type Striker Aris (Maid) and Explosive-type Striker Toki (Bunny) from the Millennium Science School.

Other reveals from the stream included:

  • All New Soundtrack – Kim and Park revealed that the official OST Pack will be returning with a new Game Development Department theme.
  • Abundance Awards – To reflect on the two years that users have enjoyed Blue Archive, Nexon also hosted the Abundance Awards during the stream. Players with unique achievements and play histories were celebrated, such as those who have acquired 2,600 Elephs for a single student. The ceremony also featured a segment where fans shared their personal stories related to Blue Archive.
  • More MerchBlue Archive’s official online merch shop, Schale Store, will be stocked with new merch to commemorate the 2-Year Anniversary, and the collaboration with AniPlus, which began last November, will be renewed to enable fans to purchase merch offline.
  • Upcoming Expansions – The Blue Archive team also confirmed that Nexon is in the process of expanding the Blue Archive IP through an official web novel, a webtoon contest and various collaborations with Korean companies.
  • Celebratory Events – Adding to the excitement, several anniversary celebrations are imminent. Players who log in to the game every day until Tuesday, Nov. 14 at 1:59 AM (UTC) will be rewarded with 100 Pyroxene, and a Steel Sliding Cabinet on day seven. Additionally, unique images of distinct Blue Archive academies will be released every day at 6:59 p.m. UTC from Thursday, Nov. 2 until Thursday, Nov. 9 and players will receive 100 Pyroxene for making an appearance.
  • In-Person Festivities – IVEX STUDIO also hosted an experience zone decorated for the “Alabaster Calling Card: Mansion Masquerade and the Essence of Beauty” event story, where Nexon hosted engaging activities, handed out discount coupons for the Samsung Galaxy Store, and gifted special photo cards to participants. In addition, the Samsung Galaxy Store featured a special booth commemorating Blue Archive’s official launch on the app, offering fans the chance to verify their pre-orders and write personal notes on a message wall to win fun gifts.

The Special Blue Archive 2-Year Anniversary Live Stream is available on the official YouTube channel, and more details on the 2-Year Anniversary updates and events can be found on the special 2-Year Anniversary webpage.

  • 2-Year Anniversary Special Page: [LINK]

About NEXON Co., Ltd.

Founded in 1994, NEXON Co., Ltd. (Nexon) (3659.TO) is a company engaged in the production, development and operation of online games and Virtual Worlds. First listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange in December 2011, Nexon was placed on JPX400 in 2015 and added to the Nikkei Stock Index 300 in 2017. In 2020, Nexon was added to the Nikkei 225. Nexon currently has more than 50 live games in more than 190 countries on PC, console, and mobile. Major game franchises include MapleStory, KartRider and Dungeon&Fighter. In 2021, Nexon completed the acquisition of Embark Studios AB, a company based in Stockholm, Sweden, developing multiple projects for global release.

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New Teardown Overview Video Showcases the Revolutionary Sandbox Game with a Voxel Twist

The award-winning PC game comes to consoles with a ton of content on Nov. 15

MALMÖ, SwedenNov. 1, 2023 – Saber Interactive and Tuxedo Labs are excited to offer a sneak peek into Teardown, the groundbreaking title that redefines the sandbox gaming experience, coming to PlayStation®5 (PS5®) consoles and Xbox Series X|S on Nov. 15, 2023. Teardown features a simulated, fully destructible voxel world, brought to life with a cutting-edge custom game engine that takes full advantage of the advanced physics capabilities of modern consoles, promising boundless creativity and unrestricted chaos.

In today’s new overview video, viewers will get an inside look at everything Teardown has to offer. An array of gameplay modes will be available, from gripping story campaigns and carefree sandbox modes to creative playgrounds and support for user-created mods.

In the Campaign Mode, players will step into the shoes of a struggling demolition business owner, tasked with high-stakes missions like demolishing private property and corporate espionage. Meticulously plan your escape to avoid law enforcement as you turn a profit and collect a powerful arsenal of tools for your next job.

For those seeking a more unstructured experience, Teardown‘s Sandbox Mode provides a platform for experimenting with physics and explosions. Meanwhile, Creative Mode allows players to unleash their full imaginations by building structures from in-game materials that become integral parts of the destructible world.

Prepare to embark on a thrilling adventure where destruction knows no bounds when Teardown makes its highly anticipated debut on PS5® and Xbox Series X|S on Nov. 15, 2023. Pre-orders are now open on Xbox. PlayStation owners can wishlist today, and the game’s Standard Edition will be available to PlayStation®Plus Extra and Premium/Deluxe subscribers at release.

Teardown is also available now on Steam. For more information, visit TeardownGame.com, and join the community on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and Discord.

About Tuxedo Labs

Tuxedo Labs is a tech-driven game studio in Malmö, Sweden. We are a small team of seasoned game developers creating innovative and unique games based on new technologies. Our mission is to push the limits in both game technology, interactivity and gameplay. To achieve that, we create our own tools and game engines, like it used to be. Our first game, Teardown, is based on groundbreaking voxel technology combined with destruction physics and ray tracing. Tuxedo Labs is a standalone entity under Saber Interactive, an Embracer Group company. www.tuxedolabs.com

About Saber Interactive

An Embracer Group company headquartered in the U.S., Saber Interactive is a worldwide publisher and developer consisting of over 20 studios in the Americas and Europe. Creating games for all major platforms based on original and licensed IPs, Saber’s titles include Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2, John Carpenter’s Toxic Commando, World War Z, SnowRunner and Evil Dead: The Game. Founded in 2001, Saber is known for two decades of development partnerships with AAA publishers, producing The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt for Nintendo Switch, Halo: The Master Chief Collection, Crysis Remastered and many others.

Dark adventure True Virus also on Xbox consoles

Dark adventure True Virus also on Xbox consoles

True Virus, a dark point-and-click adventure game with an unsettling atmosphere and unique graphics and music, is making its debut on Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S consoles. The release date is set for November 1 this year. Previously, True Virus appeared on Nintendo Switch, and the game will also hit PC and PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 in the next few months.

True Virus is a new game developed by Polish studios Farmind Studio and 100 GAMES. Ultimate Games S.A. is the publisher of the title for Xbox One. Thanks to backward compatibility, the game also works on Xbox Series X|S.

True Virus – Xbox Trailer:

True Virus (Microsoft Store): https://www.xbox.com/games/store/true-virus/9ppsp23ddzkw
True Virus (Nintendo eShop): https://www.nintendo.com/store/products/true-virus-switch/
True Virus (Steam): https://store.steampowered.com/app/1514900/True_Virus/

The new title is a point-and-click adventure game with 2D graphics, where gameplay focuses mainly on exploration and solving puzzles that require a creative approach. True Virus is distinguished by stylish cartoon graphics and sound design in a unique style. As the developers point out, it takes an average of 4-5 hours to complete the game.

The player takes on the role of a mental hospital patient who wakes up in a reality devastated by a mysterious and highly deadly pandemic. The goal is to break free and get to the truth about the horrific events behind the mysterious virus.

True Virus is for gamers who like disturbing and at the same time out-of-the-box stories. Stylish graphics and appropriate music here create a unique atmosphere of honesty in a crumbling world. Learning the truth will require both attentiveness and creativity from the player,” says COO of Ultimate Games S.A., Rafal Jelonek.

True Virus – main features:

  • dark point-and-click adventure;
  • exploration and puzzles;
  • intriguing story;
  • unique graphic design;
  • disturbing soundtrack.

The game’s release date for Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S is set for November 1, 2023. True Virus will also be released on PC (Steam) and PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 in the coming months.

Tune in to the Terrifying Series Premiere of Genvid Entertainment and Konami Digital Entertainment’s SILENT HILL: Ascension

Sydney, Australia – 1st November 2023: Genvid Entertainment and Konami Digital Entertainment are streaming SILENT HILL: Ascension, a Genvid Interactive Series from today. Available now, fans can install SILENT HILL: Ascension and sign up for a free account on their mobile device or at Ascension.com on a desktop computer.

Fans can watch SILENT HILL: Ascension – The Essentials to learn how this one-of-a-kind series works. This video will explain how audiences make daily decisions and impact the story through puzzles and other elements. It also highlights that choices are available at a minimum of 24 hours, so every fan anywhere in the world can participate each day without needing to be there live.

SILENT HILL: Ascension follows the complex lives of two families in peril, including Rachel Hernandez – a rising mystic acolyte, mother and community leader who will perform a ritual on new cult member, Joy Cirelli, who seeks spiritual healing. When things go horrifically wrong… Should Rachel tell Joy to a) Finish the oath b) Run! or c) Plead for mercy? You – the whole audience – decide! Come back every day to participate in more compelling decisions, which will ultimately determine which of these characters survive to the end of the story.

“We’ve put a lot of effort crafting the story of the Johansen and Hernandez families, working with Konami Digital Entertainment to expand the SILENT HILL lore in intriguing ways,” said Stephan Bugaj, Chief Creative Officer of Genvid Entertainment. “Creating a story where collective audience choices will determine the canonical ending has never been done before.”

Fans can return to the mobile streaming app or Ascension.com anytime to watch the latest scenes on-demand, solve puzzles, and participate in story decisions (almost all decisions are open for 24 hours or more so a worldwide audience can participate). Or join live at 12 pm AEDT daily as new scenes unfold and participate in interactive adventure sequences with the rest of the audience that impact the long-term fate of lead characters.

“Today is special because SILENT HILL: Ascension is the first project in the resurrection of the SILENT HILL franchise” said Motoi Okamoto, producer of the SILENT HILL series at Konami Digital Entertainment. “I am very proud of this project as the SILENT HILL series producer and I am sure that you will love it.”

While SILENT HILL: Ascension is a free experience, fans can customise how they appear to the community in chat, leaderboards and special cameos inside the show itself. There will be a cameo contest daily inside the app where winners will have characters, they make appear inside cinematic sequences or interactive action scenes.

As a special, limited-time offer for early fans, Genvid is making available a SILENT HILL: Ascension Founder’s Pack. The Founder’s Pack is available until the 14th of November and includes exclusive profile customizations such as a Founder’s icon, Founder’s frame, and exclusive themed frame, emoji, and sticker. The Founder’s Pack also includes a Season Pass allowing fans to unlock over 100 tiers of rewards and Influence Points plus additional exclusive cosmetics. The Season’s Pass is valid for the remainder of the SILENT HILL: Ascension season or approximately 6 months worth of content.

Fans can stay up to date on details of Genvid, Konami Digital Entertainment, Bad Robot Games, and Behaviour Interactive’s SILENT HILL: Ascension by visiting Ascension.com and following Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok and X.

About Genvid Entertainment

Genvid Entertainment, LLC is a subsidiary of Genvid Holdings, Inc. and the first distributor devoted to bringing massively interactive live events (MILEs) to market based on globally renowned brands like the award-winning The Walking Dead: Last Mile. With a focus on authenticity, immersive storytelling, and accessibility on any video streaming platform, global audiences can influence beloved worlds and characters in ways big and small to help decide the outcome and shape canon for interactive streaming series like Borderlands EchoVision Live and SILENT HILL: Ascension, releasing in 2023.

About Konami Digital Entertainment

Konami Digital Entertainment, which is the core company of Konami Group, develops entertaining content for mobile, console and card games. The company is known for global franchises such as eFootball™, Metal Gear, Silent Hill, Castlevania, and Contra, as well as the Yu-Gi-Oh! Trading Card Game series. www.konami.com/games/corporate/en/

About Bad Robot Games

Bad Robot Games was founded by Bad Robot (Lost, Cloverfield, Westworld, Star Wars) with the mission to continually reinvent how stories are played. Initially formed by a small Bad Robot team passionate about innovating in gaming, Bad Robot Games has become a full-scale game development and publishing house working on new and existing IPs. Bad Robot Games is a fully remote  company whose diverse community of creatives empowers them to make games in which all players can see themselves.

About Behaviour™ Interactive

Behaviour Interactive is the largest independent Canadian gaming studio, with more than 1,200 employees worldwide. Behaviour is best known for its flagship franchise, the multiplayer survival horror game Dead by Daylight™, which has entertained over 50 million players across multiple platforms. The studio is currently expanding its portfolio of original IP with multiple projects, including the highly anticipated base building and raiding title Meet Your Maker™.

Google Play is a trademark of Google LLC.

SILENT HILL is a trademark of Konami Digital Entertainment Co. Ltd. All other trademarks and registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners, without intent to infringe.

Time Travel RPG Reverse: 1999 Tops Charts

20TH CENTURY TIME TRAVEL RPG REVERSE: 1999 TOPS CHARTS ACROSS iOS AND ANDROID DEVICES IN OVER 160 COUNTRIES AND REGIONS INCLUDING THE US, UK, JAPAN AND MORE

Rewind Time With New Animated Trailer; Traverse The Millennium With Timekeeper Vertin’s EP And New Chapter III & IV Trailers

Hong Kong, October 31, 2023 – 20th Century Time-Travel Strategic RPG Reverse: 1999 has topped charts across the App Store and Google Play in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, France, Japan, Korea and more than 160 countries and regions in total since its global launch on October 26. The title also earned a prestigious recommendation from the App Store. Acclaimed by fans for its cinematic visuals, awe-inspiring Ultimates, and full English voice acting featuring a distinct range of dialects and accents, the game’s latest milestone shortly follows its achievement of 1M global pre-registrations prior to release. Reverse: 1999 is also available on PC via the game’s official website.

In celebration of Reverse: 1999’s global launch, a new animated trailer illustrating time’s unwinding has been shared.

Find out the truth behind the “Storm” as Timekeeper Vertin and a team of arcanists in Reverse: 1999’s first animated trailer: 

On the eve of a new era, drops of rain break free from gravity’s pull and float toward the endless sky. The familiar sparkle of champagne and glitter of confetti quickly fades as 1999 rewinds itself. The future is quickly replaced by the advent of the Sixties’ counterculture and Roaring Twenties’ social trends. The “Storm” has arrived, bringing about the end of progress.

Vertin, the Timekeeper, is the only person immune to the “Storm.” As the continuation of time crumbles, she vows to learn the truth behind this mysterious tempest.

Through the eras, Vertin gathers a team of arcanists, otherwise known as the ones born with eccentric powerful abilities. The esteemed student Sonetto, the rebel DJ Regulus, the wealthy lady Sotheby, the aristocratic wandmaker Druvis III, and the engineering wunderkind X are a few of the talented that join her cause. When a rival group of arcanists known as Manus Vindictae confronts Vertin, the Timekeeper pulls the thread of a mysterious Spinning Wheel. Does fate apply in an unraveling universe? Reverse: 1999’s lore and plot are as broad as they are dense, giving players a rich continuum to rewind and discover.

The title’s new Chapter III and IV trailers offer a brief glimpse of the vast, era-spanning narrative complimented by astounding visuals and top-tier voice acting in the full version of the game, unveiling more about Vertin’s childhood in the St. Pavlov Foundation and the conflict and unity inside the Foundation. 

Learn more about the cinematic lore of Reverse: 1999 with its Chapter III and Chapter IV trailers.

Furthermore, a new high-quality EP for protagonist Vertin titled “Unexpected Storm” has been revealed, showing her staring at the upcoming “Storm” by a street.

Prepare for the “Storm” with Vertin by listening to Reverse: 1999’s new EP HERE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s6jaeSFznV8

Download Reverse: 1999 today on the App Store, Google Play, and PC via the game’s official website. Join Vertin’s team of arcanists via Discord and follow on X / Twitter, YouTube, Facebook, and the game’s official website.

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ABOUT BLUEPOCH GAMES CO. LTD

Established in 2020, Bluepoch is an ambitious, passionate and globally-focused company. Our team has committed itself to exploring the vast potential of anime through the creation of dreamlike, immersive, and heartfelt games. Our imagination is as infinite as the starry universe.