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UBISOFT ANNOUNCES NEW GLOBAL “ESPORTS AND COMPETITIVE GAMING” DIVISION

UBISOFT ANNOUNCES NEW GLOBAL “ESPORTS AND COMPETITIVE GAMING” DIVISION

Starting January 2022, the Esports and Competitive Gaming division will operate as a consolidated global team, shaping the future of Ubisoft’s portfolio of existing and future competitive games.

Sydney, Australia February 2, 2022 — Today, Ubisoft announced the reshape of its internal esports teams into one “Esports and Competitive Gaming” division, a newly consolidated global team which, while continuously developing Ubisoft’s competitive gaming activity in local territories through regional and local experts, will work towards one common objective, shaping the future of esports and competitive gaming at Ubisoft, and deliver on the company’s mission: enrich players’ lives by creating memorable and meaningful experience, on all levels of competition.

“Building upon six years of experience drawn from our competitive gaming activities on titles such Tom Clancy’s® Rainbow Six Siege, Brawlhalla®, Trackmania® or For Honor®, and looking at the evolution of our industry across the board, the revamp of our internal structure will give us the adequate tools to enter the next chapter of our journey and shape the future of esports and competitive gaming at Ubisoft.”, shared Geoffroy Sardin, Senior Vice President, Executive Publishing at Ubisoft.

François-Xavier Deniele, at the forefront of all strategic topics since the early days of esports at Ubisoft and orchestrating the company’s esports operations in the EMEA region for the past 6 years, has been appointed Senior Director, Esports and Competitive Gaming. He will now oversee all aspects of esports and competitive gaming at Ubisoft and lead the team as it takes on current and upcoming challenges and opportunities across all esports and competitive gaming strategic topics. 

“We are proud of what our teams have accomplished over the past years in all regions, and of the milestones we have reached on our competitive portfolio in such a short time.” said François-Xavier Deniele, Senior Director, Esports and Competitive Gaming at Ubisoft. “Now our focus turns to 2022 and beyond. Strengthening esports and competitive gaming as a key pillar of Ubisoft’s culture, our streamlined internal organization will allow us to gain in agility, ultimately benefiting all our competitive ecosystems across Ubisoft’s portfolio of brands.”  

The Esports and Competitive Gaming division is dedicated to:

  • Building thriving and inclusive competitive ecosystems for Ubisoft’s portfolio of competitive games, for fans to engage and take part in, and for organizations and sponsors to grow in. Whether looking at our most mature esports scenes such as Rainbow Six Siege’s, Brawlhalla’s and Trackmania’s, or other existing and future competitive games, we are dedicated to grow each competitive ecosystem into reaching its full potential.
  • Creating a multi-year plan with competitive activities, tournaments and leagues adapted to all, and a clear path from amateur to professional play, that inspires and engages players across the world.  
  • Providing superior entertainment value and service to Ubisoft’s audience, through a diverse esports product offer, premium broadcast and event production, entertaining content, and a strong local presence allowing local communities to enjoy activities and content tailored for them.
  • Leveraging new opportunities by accompanying early on Ubisoft’s development and editorial teams across Ubisoft’s worldwide network of development studios, to collaborate on competitive games’ vision, scope and features, as well as revenue-sharing in-game items strategies. 
  • Implementing, in collaboration with partners and organizations, healthy and sustainable esports business models and revenue streams, that contribute to create a mature and virtuous environment for all. 

Within the perimeter of the aforementioned strategic mission and objectives, some of the team’s key areas of focus in the coming months and years will be to work their way towards going back to international esports events with live audience whenever the situation allows it, and to keep on investing in the growth of Ubisoft’s existing esports titles. Ubisoft has recently announced exciting plans for the Year 7 of Brawlhalla Esports and will make much anticipated reveals for the Year 7 of Rainbow Six Siege, for the game and its esports scene, during the upcoming Six Invitational.

In addition to the existing competitive activities on the company’s esports titles, the Esports and Competitive Gaming division is also looking to broaden the portfolio of games offering competitive experience to fans. Already in discussion with the development teams of some of Ubisoft’s upcoming games, the team is looking to build competitive ecosystems across a diverse range of game genres, and to build upon their success and experience with the R6 SHARE program on Rainbow Six Siege to create revenue sharing strategies for other projects.

Alongside broadening its portfolio, a key development axis will be to make competitive gaming more easily accessible to players, by embedding competitive gaming at the core of their regular gaming routine. To achieve this, Ubisoft will accompany platforms to offer direct ‘plug and play’ competitive experience on its games, whether it’s playing or watching, directly embedded in their platform.

“Our partnership with PlayStation to have Rainbow Six Siege be part of their native Open Series Tournaments is a great success and a great showcase of the ultimate grassroot activity.” explained François-Xavier Deniele. “It allows a different audience than the one taking part in our professional and semi-professional circuits to engage in competitive gaming and we are looking forward to multiply similar opportunities.”

And finally, the broadcast studios in Sao Paulo, Paris and Las Vegas, will also play a pivotal role as the showcases of Ubisoft’s competitive activities.

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Please visit Ubisoft News for the in-depth interview of François-Xavier Deniele and more details on the creation of Ubisoft’s global Esports and Competitive Gaming division.

About Ubisoft 

Ubisoft is a leading creator, publisher and distributor of interactive entertainment and services, with a rich portfolio of world-renowned brands, including Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry, For Honor, Just Dance, Watch Dogs, and Tom Clancy’s video game series including Ghost Recon, Rainbow Six and The Division. The teams throughout Ubisoft’s worldwide network of studios and business offices are committed to delivering original and memorable gaming experiences across all popular platforms, including consoles, mobile phones, tablets and PCs. For the 2020-21 fiscal year, Ubisoft generated net bookings of €2,241 million. To learn more, please visit: http://www.ubisoftgroup.com

© 2022 Ubisoft Entertainment. All Rights Reserved. Ubisoft and the Ubisoft logo are registered trademarks in the US and/or other countries. 

Trader Month in Red Dead Online: Boosts on Trader Sales, Bonuses on Free Roam Missions, Call to Arms, Plunder, Free Red Morning Tail Coat, Valentine’s Day Rewards, Discounts and More

A Spotlight on Trader Bonuses in Red Dead Online this Month – Plus 2X RDO$ on Free Roam Missions, Call to Arms, and More

In the months ahead, Red Dead Online will continue to showcase the opportunities for players to chart their adventures across the game’s vast frontier, with special events featuring bonuses on Specialist Roles, fan-favorite Showdown Modes, and all manner of unique experiences added to the game since launch.

Monthlong Trader Bonuses

With increased demand for furs during the winter months, trappers and merchants of all sorts (Butchers and Gus Macmillan included) will pay out an extra 50% RDO$ bonus for all Pelts delivered to them all month long. Pelts turned in as Materials to Cripps will also have an increased value, while all Trader Sales completed throughout the month of February will pay out double RDO$.

Experienced Traders who band together to protect a haul of goods from attackers in the Trade Route Free Roam Event will receive 2X Character and Role XP for their efforts. And all Traders who play Red Dead Online this month will also receive 10 Predator Bait, while Naturalists will receive 10 Blending Tonics.

2X RDO$ on Free Roam Missions

Keep an eye out for strangers and familiar faces offering Free Roam Missions while out and about on your travels — including the likes of Jake and Sadie Adler, Bonnie MacFarlane, Josiah Trelawny, Sean Macguire, and many more. These adventures are paying out 2X RDO$ as well, regardless of your nobility or notoriety.

2X RDO$ and XP on Plunder

Seize and steal supplies from a central location and deliver them safely back to your home base in Plunder, this month’s featured Showdown Mode. Be on the lookout for thieves from the opposing team or pilfer from their stash. Whichever team is sitting atop the most loot wins. PlayingPlunder will result in 2X RDO$ and XP for the next month.

2X RDO$ and XP on Call to Arms

Grab your weapons, place your allies at strategic positions around the perimeter, and batten down the hatches against wave after wave of ruthless attack. This month the fan-favorite Call to Arms mode is also paying out 2X RDO$ and XP.

Free Morning Tail Coat

Tumbleweed’s sheriff Sam Freeman needs help tracking down an abducted woman. Completing the A Land of Opportunities Mission “Love and Honor” anytime this month will earn you a red Morning Tail Coat.

Replay any A Land of Opportunities Missions by pulling up the Pause menu, selecting Progress, then Story Missions.

Featured Series Calendar

Here’s a rundown of all this month’s Featured Series bonuses in Red Dead Online. You can hop right into the Featured Series anytime directly from the main Red Dead Online menu. All Rewards and Offers will be delivered within 72 hours of completion.

February 1-7: Hardcore Elimination Series

  • Create a custom Outfit to receive an Offer for 50% off any Camp Dog.
  • Visit your Camp’s Stew Pot to see Cripps’ Special Stew recipe and make it anytime this week to receive a free The Hobo Life 1 Outfit for Cripps to wear.

February 8-14: New Hanover Series

  • Craft an Item while at your Campfire to receive the Pink Camp Flag.
  • Track down, find, and hunt any Legendary Animal to receive a red version of the Cornhill Hat.
  • Protect the town of Valentine from attackers in Call to Arms this week and reach Wave 3 to receive a red Chuparosa Poncho.
  • Play anytime this week to receive 5 Fine Brandies and 10 Chocolate Bars to spoil your beloved with — or enjoy them all by yourself… no judgment here!
  • Win any Featured Series to receive an Offer for 5 Gold Bars off the Butcher’s Table.

February 15-21: Sport of Kings and Last Stand Series

  • Owners of a Large Camp will receive an Offer for 50% off a Camp Tent.
  • Complete a Trader Sell Mission and completely fill up your Trader Materials to receive an additional 2,000 Trader XP.

February 22-28: Tumbleweed Series

  • Play this week’s Featured Series to receive an Offer for 30% off a Deluxe Campfire.
  • Craft any item at Gus’ store to receive a red pair of Mountfleet Gloves.

Discounts

We can’t all be fighters all the time. This Valentine’s Day is dedicated to the lovers amongst us, and local salespeople are getting in the spirit of things by offering half off all Corsets, Top Hats, Ties, Dresses, and all Barber services for those looking to spiff things up for a night out on the town.

Naturalists can visit Harriet Davenport and purchase the Sample Kit for 5 Gold Bars off and Legendary Animal Pheromones for 70% off, while legendary trapper Gus Macmillan is offering his Ram Horn Trinket for 40% off. Those just cutting their milk teeth as budding Naturalists can get the Varmint Rifle for 75% off at all Gunsmiths or via the Catalogue, while the Carcano Rifle is going for 40% off. Stylish entrepreneurs can take 40% off Trader Role Outfits this month. All Stables, meanwhile, are offering 40% off Missouri Fox Trotter horse breeds.

Wanderlust is a familiar feeling on the frontier, that’s why all Camp upkeep, setup, and relocation fees are waived this month. Travel, see the world, don’t be afraid to pitch your tent in different locales.

Tailors are also offering discounts on select clothing and accessories this month — see the full list below:

  • 50% off Brass Spectacles
  • 60% off Flixton Hat
  • 40% off Glenwood Coat
  • 40% off all Boots

Prime Gaming Benefits

Red Dead Online players who connect their Rockstar Games Social Club account to Prime Gaming through February 28 will receive Reward for a free pair of Pants and an Offer for 30% off an Arabian Horse.

Check Rockstar Support for details and limitations.

Coming Soon to Xbox Game Pass: Contrast, CrossfireX, Ark: Ultimate Survivor Edition, and More

Coming Soon to Xbox Game Pass: Contrast, CrossfireX, Ark: Ultimate Survivor Edition, and More

by Megan Spurr, Community Lead, Xbox Game Pass

Happy February! We’ve got games to fire up your imagination station, whether you want to tame even more dinosaurs, destroy castles with custom-built siege engines or challenge yourself with some rogue-like adventures. There are games for all types here. Let’s beef up your to-play games list!

Coming Soon

Contrast (Cloud and Console) ID@Xbox – February 3
Explore a dreamlike, vaudevillian world of the 1920s, in which you can shift freely in and out of shadow. Tasked with helping a young girl named Didi, you will unravel the mysteries behind her troubled family and the dark secrets that must be exposed to re-shape her future.

Dreamscaper (Cloud, Console, and PC) ID@Xbox – February 3
An endlessly replayable action roguelike with a waking/dreaming gameplay cycle. By night, delve deep into your subconscious, facing nightmares in an ever-changing world filled with unique items, abilities, and challenges. By day, explore the city of Redhaven, build relationships and unlock permanent upgrades to take on the next dream stronger than ever.

Telling Lies (Cloud, Console, and PC) ID@Xbox – February 3
An investigative thriller game with non-linear storytelling, Telling Lies revolves around a cache of secretly recorded video conversations. Starring Logan Marshall-Green, Alexandra Shipp, Kerry Bishé, Angela Sarafyan, and directed by Sam Barlow, creator of Her Story and writer/designer of Silent Hill: Shattered Memories.

Besiege (Game Preview)(Cloud, Console, and PC) ID@Xbox – February 10
Besiege is a physics building game where you construct war machines to obliterate fortresses, annihilate legions of soldiers, navigate hazards, and solve physics puzzles. In the single-player campaign, you’ll conquer your way through four distinct islands, each with its own theme, packed with fully destructible levels and see you bring your enemies to their knees. Learn more about Besiege (Game Preview)here!

CrossfireX (Console) – February 10
Available on day one with Xbox Game Pass: Play the first CrossfireX single-player campaign, Operation: Catalyst, developed in partnership with Remedy Entertainment. Take control of a Global Risk unit, as they traverse through enemy territory to save their captured teammate and uncover the dark secrets of the Black List Mercenary group.

Edge of Eternity (Cloud, Console, and PC) ID@Xbox – February 10
Available on day one with Game Pass: Wage epic turn-based battles as you follow Daryon and Selene on their quest to find a cure to the all-consuming Corrosion in this grand tale of hope and sacrifice, created by a small team of passionate JRPG lovers.

Skul: The Hero Slayer (Cloud, Console, and PC) ID@Xbox – February 10
Skul is a fast-paced action rogue-lite where losing your head is encouraged. Featuring 100 playable characters each with their own unique abilities and a ton of items that can create wild synergies, the battles are as electrifying as they are challenging.

The Last Kids on Earth and the Staff of Doom (Cloud, Console, and PC) – February 10
Battle hordes of zombies and monsters in The Last Kids on Earth and the Staff of Doom, a semi-open world action RPG that tells a new story in the post-apocalyptic town of Wakefield. Playing as teen survivors Jack, Quint, June, or Dirk, you’ll explore zombie-infested streets on your quest to stop Malondre, a powerful adversary from obtaining the Staff of Doom.

Ark: Ultimate Survivor Edition (Cloud, Console, and PC) ID@Xbox – February 14
Experience everything that the Ark franchise has to offer with Game Pass in this definitive collection! Tame and ride primeval creatures as you explore savage lands, team up with other players to compete in epic tribal battles, and travel together on the greatest dinosaur-filled adventure of all time.

Infernax (Cloud, Console, and PC) ID@Xbox – February 14
Available on day one with Game Pass: Infernax is the adventures of a great knight who returns to his homeland only to find it plagued with unholy magic. While on your quest to find and destroy the source of this corruption by any means necessary, you will face ruthless creatures, dangerous beasts, and precarious terrains.

DLC / Game Updates

Grounded: Into the Wood Update – Available now
Explore the depths of the termite stronghold, traverse the scorching coal-laden remnants of the BBQ, and test your skills against dangerous new “friends” and challenges in the expanded yard in Grounded’s Into the Wood update!

Microsoft Flight Simulator World Update VII: Australia – Available now
World Update VII: Australia features new aerial imagery, high-resolution elevation maps, and 3D cities. Soar over the renowned Great Barrier Reef, visit modern architectural feats, explore the evocative forms of interior deserts, and tour new handcrafted airports and points of interest. This free update also includes new discovery flights, fresh landing challenges, and bush trips that highlight this beautiful region of our planet. Learn more here!

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Perks

Go claim these new Perks now in the Perk gallery on your Xbox console, Windows PC, or Xbox Game Pass mobile app for iOS/Android.

Smite: Season 9 Starter Pass – Available Now
Get started in Smite with the Season 9 Starter Pass! This pack includes free Skins, Gods, and more. Learn more about Season 9 here!

World of Warships: Exclusive Starter Pack – Available Now
Grab the World of Warships Exclusive Starter Pack to take the helm of the legendary battleship Dreadnought and a sturdy cruiser Charleston with impressive firepower! You will also get a week of Premium Account for maximum comfort.

Phantasy Star Online 2: February Member Monthly Bonus – February 2
Get a head start with free items to strengthen your units & weapons and revive you during battles!

Leaving February 15

Don’t let the following games leave without a proper farewell. This is your chance to grab some extra achievements or jump back in where you left off. As always, be sure to use your membership discount to save up to 20% and keep these games in your library before they go!

  • Control (Cloud, Console, and PC)
  • Code Vein (Cloud, Console, and PC)
  • Final Fantasy XII The Zodiac Age (Console and PC)
  • The Medium (Cloud, Console, and PC)
  • Project Winter (Cloud, Console, and PC)
  • The Falconeer (Cloud, Console, and PC)

Welcome to the bottom of the announcement! I’ll need some ideas for building a mega Tek base in Ark to hide from dinosaurs in, send us your base builds over at @XboxGamePass and @XboxGamePassPC and stick around for more updates. Catch you next time!

FREE RAMBO-INSPIRED CROSSOVER MISSION NOW AVAILABLE IN FAR CRY 6

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA — February 2, 2022 — Today, Ubisoft® announced that “All the Blood”, a new free mission inspired from and paying homage to the first three RamboTM movies, is now available for all Far Cry 6 players. Ubisoft signed the deal with STUDIOCANAL, rights holder to Rambo I-III movies in order to bring this special event to life. Far Cry 6 is available worldwide on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PlayStation®5, PlayStation®4, as well as Windows PC through the Ubisoft Store and the Epic Games Store. Players can also subscribe to Ubisoft+ on PC.

In “All the Blood”, players will be meet and help a RamboTM superfan against the Yaran military in a blood-soaked rampage of vengeance straight out of an 80’s action blockbuster, blending stealth with over-the-top action and references to iconic RamboTM moments. Upon completing the mission, players will unlock the Vengeance Bow, a deadly explosive weapon effective against helicopters and heavy units. Upon unlocking the Vengeance Bow, it will be available to use permanently within the main game.

Starting today, players will also be able to purchase the RamboTM Bundle, giving them access to Rambo-inspired gear to customize their characters with, featuring the iconic gear, weapon, vehicle, and more from cinema’s most notorious guerrilla soldier.

Since its worldwide launch on October 7, 2021, Far Cry 6 added new Special Operations, a Danny Trejo mission, as well as two major DLC as part of the Season Pass, Vaas: Insanity and Pagan: Control. The third and final DLC, Joseph: Collapse, is set to release shortly.

Led by Ubisoft Toronto***, Far Cry 6 is an open-world first-person shooter that plunges players into the heart of a modern-day guerrilla revolution. On the island of Yara, President Antón Castillo vows to restore his nation to its former glory while grooming his son Diego to follow in his footsteps. Yet, paradise comes at a cost and enriching his country means subjugating those who don’t follow his vision. Players will take up the cause to liberate Yara as Dani Rojas – a local Yaran and military drop out – tries to escape Yara but ends up joining revolutionary group, Libertad. As Dani, players will experience the adrenaline and chaos of “resolver” guerrilla combat, Far Cry style, with the most creative and innovative arsenal yet. 

Discounts of up to 40% off select editions of Far Cry 6, as well as up to 25% off the Season Pass for Far Cry 6 owners, will go live this week across PC, console, and Stadia stores.

For more information on Far Cry 6 and its Season Pass, please visit Farcry.com.

For the latest news on all of Ubisoft’s games, please visit: news.ubisoft.com 

***In close collaboration with Montreal. Other studios involved include Ubisoft Shanghai, Ubisoft Berlin, Ubisoft Kyiv, Ubisoft Philippines and Ubisoft Montpellier 

INDIE Live Expo 2022 Expands to Two Days, Features World Premieres 21-22 May, 2022

INDIE Live Expo 2022 Expands to Two Days, Features World Premieres 21-22 May, 2022

Previous Four Installments of Online Showcase Amassed More Than 42.5 Million Viewers

TOKYO – 1 February, 2022 – INDIE Live Expo, the digital showcase series connecting indie game fans worldwide which has a combined more than 42.5 million viewers across four shows to date, returns with a fifth installment to take place across two days: Saturday, 21 May, 2022 and Sunday, 22 May, 2022. 

The live streaming event will take place across two shows,simulcast in English, Japanese, and Chinese on YouTube, Twitch, Twitter, and other platforms to be announced. DAY 1 will spotlight currently-available indie games that fans can play right now, including information and a focus on gameplay footage. DAY 2 will feature world premieres of brand-new, unannounced games, and new information on previously-announced titles, along with an “INDIE Studios Around the World” feature and live performances.

INDIE Live Expo 2022 aims to raise the bar after each previous INDIE Live Expo set viewership records. INDIE Live Expo Winter 2021 set a new high of 13.9 million viewers around the world. The event showcased more than 560 titles, including the reveal of Persona composer Shoji Meguro’s new title Guns Undarkness, PlatinumGames Inc.’s SOL CRESTA, Apogee Entertainment’s Turbo Overkill, Humble Games’Unpacking, PLAYISM’sDEEEER Simulator: Your Average Everyday Deer Game, Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly, and more.

Developers interested in taking part can pre-register for the event starting today through Thursday, 24 February at 2:00 AM EST. Additionally, the INDIE Live Expo Letter’s next issue releases Friday, 4 February, and offers useful information on indie game marketing, promotion, and development, along with information on the impact from participating in INDIE Live Expo Winter 2021, with signups available here.

“We set new records with our last event and have even higher expectations for INDIE Live Expo 2022, which is all thanks to participating publishers, developers, and viewers from all over the world,” said Ryuta Konuma, Founder, Ryu’s Office. “We have exciting things planned, and look forward to using our resources and platform to show amazing games from creators to more people than ever before!”

Sponsors wishing to take part can submit inquiries here, with a variety of opportunities available including logo placements, special video segments, and more. INDIE Live Expo Winter 2021’s sponsors included Cygames, PlayStation, 505 Games, Freedom Games, Phoenixx, Kodansha, WhisperGames, INTI CREATES, Gemdrops, and Why so serious. Additionally, outlets and content creators interested in co-broadcasting INDIE Live Expo 2022 can sign up here to register their interest, with incentives available for those who register.

For more information, please visit the INDIE Live Expo website, follow @INDIELiveExpoEN on Twitter, and search for #INDIELiveExpo on social media.

About Ryu’s Office

Ryu’s Office offers in-depth marketing solutions for smartphone, console, arcade, and PC games in Japan. They are particularly focused on the planning and production of numerous live broadcasts based out of Japan for the gaming industry.

To learn more, visit the official Ryu’s Office website.

ROCKET LEAGUE SIDESWIPE SEASON 2 ARRIVES TOMORROW

Game update today prepares for Season 2 and introduces Casual Playlists

SAN DIEGO – February 1, 2022 – Psyonix, the San Diego video game developer, today announced that Season 2 of Rocket League Sideswipe, the standalone free Rocket League game for mobile devices, will go live tomorrow, February 2 at 8 a.m. PST (4 p.m. UTC). Season 2 brings a new Rocket Pass, Season Challenges and a brand new Volleyball Mode. 

Volleyball Mode is a high-flying, 2v2 mode which features a central net, a new ball and no goals. Players will instead score when the ball hits the ground. Volleyball Mode replaces Hoops modes from Season 1, as Extra Modes will rotate each Season. 

A game update will go live today at 4 p.m. PST (12 a.m. UTC, Feb. 2) to prepare for Season 2’s launch and introduces Casual Playlists. Casual Playlists will allow players to compete in various Game Modes without impacting their rank, similar to Casual Playlists in Rocket League.

Season 1 Rewards will be given out following Season 2’s launch, for the highest rank the player achieved during the inaugural Season. Season 1 Rewards are Titles and Quick Chat stickers.

More details about Season 2 can be found in the blog HERE

ABOUT ROCKET LEAGUE SIDESWIPE

Rocket League Sideswipe is a standalone game that brings the competitive, car soccer gameplay of sports-action hit Rocket League to mobile screens with a new perspective on the field! Built from the ground up for mobile devices, Rocket League Sideswipe features fast-paced gameplay in multiple game modes, competitive Online Matches, seasons, and tons of customization options. Featuring intuitive touchscreen controls that make it easy to pick up and play for longtime Rocket League players and newcomers alike, Rocket League Sideswipe is available to play on Android and iOS devices.

ABOUT PSYONIX™
Based in San Diego, CA, Psyonix is a critically acclaimed video game developer and a leading expert in Unreal Engine technology. For more than 20 years, the studio has been a driving force behind some of the most successful games in the industry, including Gears of War, Mass Effect 3, XCOM: Enemy Unknown, Bulletstorm, Unreal Tournament III, Unreal Tournament 2004, and the award-winning Sports-Action hit, Rocket League®. Psyonix joined the Epic Games family in 2019. 

© 2022 Psyonix. All rights reserved. Psyonix, the Psyonix logo, Rocket League, the Rocket League logo, Rocket League Sideswipe, and the Rocket League Sideswipe logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Psyonix in the USA and elsewhere.

LIFE IS STRANGE REMASTERED COLLECTION OUT NOW

Brand New Collection Features Remastered Versions of the Critically-Acclaimed Life is Strange and Life is Strange: Before the Storm, Available Now on Xbox One, PlayStation®4, Steam and Google Stadia

LONDON, UK (Feb 1, 2022) – SQUARE ENIX Ltd. today announced the launch of the Life is Strange™ Remastered Collection, enhanced versions of the first two games in the award-winning series. Featuring updated character models, improved motion capture and more, players will be able to experience legendary leads, Max and Chloe, like never before on Google Stadia, Xbox One, PlayStation®4, and PC Steam.

Watch the Life is Strange Remastered Collection, launch trailer here:

Jon Brooke, Co-Head of Studio at Square Enix External Studios states: “Firstly I wanted to recognise DONTNOD for creating the incredible original Life is Strange game and now offer thanks to Deck Nine Games for improving the emotional on-screen performance of these beloved characters. The result of both teams hard work is that the Life is Strange Remastered Collection can be the beginning of an exciting and emotional journey for many new players for years to come.”
 
At the centre of Life is Strange and Life is Strange: Before the Storm are the magnetic and relatable friends, Max and Chloe. Players will harness Max’s supernatural rewind ability and Chloe’s quick-witted attitude to unravel and affect the events surrounding two astounding mysteries in the Oregon town of Arcadia Bay. 
 
The Life is Strange Remastered Collection features:

  • Updated character models and environment visuals
  • Improved motion captured lip sync and facial animation
  • All-new engine and lighting upgrades
  • Updates to some puzzle gameplay
  • Life is Strange: Before the Storm Remastered includes previously released deluxe content (bonus outfits and the ‘Farewell’ bonus episode)
  • All licensed tracks & original scores from the original games

The Life is Strange Remastered Collection is available on Google Stadia, PlayStation 4®, Xbox One, GeForce Now, PC Steam on February 1 2022. PlayStation 4 and Xbox One versions will also be compatible with the next-gen PlayStation 5, and XBOX SERIES X|S. The Nintendo Switch version will be available at a later date.

Purchasers of the Life is Strange: True Colors Ultimate Edition will also receive the Life is Strange Remastered Collection.
 
Read more on the Life is Strange: blog: http://lifeisstrange-blog.tumblr.com/
Buy Life is Strange Remastered Collection: https://lifeisstrange.square-enix-games.com
Visit the Life is Strange official website: https://lifeisstrange.square-enix-games.com
Life is Strange: official Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/LifeIsStrangeGame/
Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/LifeIsStrange
Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeisstrangegame/
Join our Discord: https://discordapp.com/invite/lifeisstrange

About Deck Nine Games
Deck Nine Games are an independent videogame developer devoted to bringing together two passions; meaningful storytelling and rich gameplay. Its talented team of developers have won awards for their work in films, TV and videogames. Located at the foot of the Colorado mountains, Deck Nine Games is focused on becoming a premium developer of narrative adventure games for consoles, PC and mobile devices.
For more information on Deck Nine Games visit: www.DeckNineGames.com
 
About DONTNOD Entertainment
Founded in 2008, DONTNOD is an independent studio that develops video games in popular genres, such as adventure (Life is Strange), action (Remember Me) and RPG (Vampyr). Every new game is an original, multi-platform creation with a unique narrative experience and gameplay and is aimed at a wide audience, whether released in episodes, or in “one-shot” format. The studio has built an international reputation amongst working with worldwide leading publishers such as Square Enix, Bandai Namco Entertainment, Focus Home Interactive and Capcom. www.dont-nod.com
DONTNOD (ISIN code: FR0013331212 – ALDNE) is listed on Euronext Growth Paris
 
About Square Enix External Studios
Square Enix External Studios is a London based development and publishing group that works with top development studios across the world, establishing new intellectual properties and developing new franchises within the umbrella of Square Enix Holdings. Square Enix External Studios have been responsible for multiple games including RPG Shooter OUTRIDERS®,the Just Cause® and Life is Strange® series, and titles such as Batman: Arkham Asylum® and Sleeping Dogs®.
 
About Square Enix Ltd.
Square Enix Ltd. develops, publishes, distributes and licenses SQUARE ENIX®, EIDOS® and TAITO® branded entertainment content in Europe and other PAL territories as part of the Square Enix group of companies. Square Enix Ltd. also has a global network of leading development studios such as Crystal Dynamics® and Eidos Montréal®. The Square Enix group of companies boasts a valuable portfolio of intellectual property including: FINAL FANTASY®, which has sold over 163  million units worldwide; DRAGON QUEST®, which has sold over 83 million units worldwide; TOMB RAIDER®, which has sold over  84 million units worldwide; and the legendary SPACE INVADERS®. Square Enix Ltd. is a London-based, wholly owned subsidiary of Square Enix Holdings Co., Ltd.
 
More information on Square Enix Ltd. can be found at https://square-enix-games.com

Dying Light 2 Review

Dying Light 2

Developer: Techland
Publisher: Techland
Platforms: Xbox Series X Xbox OnePlayStation 4PlayStation 5, PC (Reviewed)
Release Date: 4 Feb 2022
Price: $59,99 USD – Available Here $99,95 AUD – Available Here

Overview

It’s safe to say now that 2021 wasn’t exactly an exciting year for gaming. The impact of COVID on the gaming industry was obvious so we didn’t have a large repertoire of high-profile releases last year. I did enjoy spending my time with Forza Horizon 5, Psychonauts 2, and such but I wasn’t exactly drowned in new releases like the year before. But there was one game from last year that I eagerly awaited and then it got delayed – Dying Light 2. And then it got delayed again. But here it is now. Almost a year later but released and playable. You might wonder what is so special about this game. It’s simple. Dying Light combines some elements that you rarely see in other games. Parkour, melee combat, simple RPG elements, and an engaging story. I had fun with the previous game so let’s see if the sequel lives up to it.

Story

The story is set 15 after the events in Dying Light. Harran Virus has spread across the world and it is evolved, plunging the world into a period known as the Modern Dark Ages. And no more Kyle Crane, you now play as Aiden Caldwell. He is a member of an outcast group known as Pilgrims, constantly wandering the world looking for resources. His path takes him to Villedor to search for his sister Mia. She might be a key to the past he cannot remember. Your adventures in Villedor will inevitably have you engaged with two of the main factions there, Survivors and Pacifists. Siding with either of those in the certain mission will have an impact on the story and give you some benefits depending on who you assign certain city districts. More on that later.

Gameplay

In Dying Light 2 some features are taken away and some newly introduced. Techland giveth, Techland taketh away. What is easy to notice right away is more emphasis on melee combat. No more guns, except for bow. But now we have new toys in the form of paragliders (excellent for covering large distances) and a grappling hook. Also, enemies are keen to block on your every 2nd or 3rd hit, so combining your melee attacks with parkour is a must. The weapon drop is pretty generous from what you can find in boxes and on enemies. They always scale around your level but you can improve them with various mods. Those range from shock, freeze, bleed damage to durability. As for armor pieces, you can combine them into your own custom build or focus on a certain class. There are sets aimed for tanks (emphasis on health points and survivability on combat), rangers (emphasis on ranged damage aka bow) or you can match all the armor pieces into a set that will give you more experience in parkour. Speaking of experience, you earn it after completing quests, fighting, and parkouring. The skills points you earn are divided into two main parts, combat and parkour. One peculiar thing about all the unlockable skills is that I found none of them to be a “game-changer”. Sure, it’s nice to have a rotating jump or a wall run or a sliding kick but the combat is already a great mixture of melee and parkour by default so you’re not exactly missing out if you take your time in acquiring skills. And as I mentioned, later in the game you get to assign certain city resources to either Pacifists or Survivors. Giving more city resources to Pacifists will reward you with various traps and weapons placed all over the city, while the Survivors are keener on strategically placing ropes, gliding spots, and jump pads to help you while parkouring.

Visuals

Let’s be clear, the visual jump from Dying Light to Dying Light 2 is astounding. The characters are way more detailed, as well as zombies. I also love how you can completely change your melee weapon visually just by attaching different mods to it (while improving its stats along the way). Every piece of armor on you (pants, top, gloves, etc) is distinct so once you hit a decent level you can stop caring about armor stats and focus on the only thing that matters at the point – the fashion. And notable mention also goes to the incredibly detailed infrastructure and level design of Villedor. Sure, you unlock fast travel points pretty early in the game but they are no match for parkouring from one point to another, no matter how big is the distance between those. Start from any point of the city, put a map marker anywhere else on the map, and on your way to there you will have just one continuous run that includes slides, jumps, gliding, and a grappling hook. Parkouring in here takes some time to master but once you get the hang of it, you will be pretty proud of yourself for what you can do.

Audio

The adrenaline-filled parkour, combat, and night runs are so intense that it took me a while to pay attention to the music here. But once I got to the nearest safe house and decided to do more sidequests instead of just aimlessly running around, I noticed things. Things like muffled and slowed down dubstep while I’m climbing to one of the buildings, the shift in music once you unlock a radio tower, and the tense pounding of the drums as I am being chased by a pack of volatiles. The voice acting is also superb, with a notable mention of Lawan, voiced by Rosario Dawson.

Overall

Far from it that Dying Light 2 is a flawless game, but there are some hiccups that I only noticed after 30 or so hours of playtime. Some sidequests are pretty simplistic in nature and can only be described as filler quests. I remember a certain that required me to go to a building next to a quest giver, kill a few zombies, take the quest item and come back. All of it was done in under 3 minutes. Paragliding is also rough around the edges, especially in one sidequest that requires you to go through 27 checkpoints with tight turns and not enough speed. But these are all things that are far from having any negative impact on the game. All I can say is that Dying Light 2 is a definite improvement over the previous game, visually and in terms of gameplay. The wait was justified, even with all those delays. You know how they say – all good things are worth waiting for.

Capsule Computers review guidelines can be found here.

Dying Light 2 Stay Human First Hour Of Gameplay

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Joins us for the first hour of gameplay for Dying Light 2 Stay Human as we explore the first area of the game, meet up with fellow pilgrim Spike, take on some infected zombies (called Biters) and learn more about our hero Aiden as he searches to find his missing sister Mia.

The virus won and civilization has fallen back to the Dark Ages. The City, one of the last human settlements, is on the brink of collapse. Use your agility and combat skills to survive, and reshape the world. Your choices matter.

Over twenty years ago in Harran, we fought the virus—and lost. Now, we’re losing again. The City, one of the last large human settlements, is torn by conflict. Civilization has fallen back into the Dark Ages. And yet, we still have hope.

Dying Light 2 Stay Human
Developer: Techland
Publisher: Techland
Website: http://support.techland.pl/
Platform: Windows
Release Date: 5 Feb, 2022
Price: $59.99

Available now on Steam – https://store.steampowered.com/app/534380/Dying_Light_2_Stay_Human/

Summary:

Recommended – “A definitive improvement from the first game, with enhanced parkour mechanics, weapon customization and melee combat.

Check out our review for Dying Light 2 Stay Human Here

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THE KING OF FIGHTERS XV DLC KICKS OFF WITH TEAM GAROU AND TEAM SOUTH TOWN

TWELVE ADDITIONAL CHARACTERS WILL RELEASE THROUGHOUT 2022 BRINGING THE ROSTER TO A MASSIVE 51 PLAYABLE FIGHTERS

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – February 1st, 2022 – SNK Corporation, the creators of the upcoming THE KING OF FIGHTERS XV (KOF XV) are excited to announce the upcoming DLC characters joining the fighting game phenomenon. A total of 12 DLC characters are planned to release this year after THE KING OF FIGHTERS XV launches on February 17th, 2022 on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Windows 10, Steam and Epic Games Store.

View the latest trailer

The first wave of fighters is Team 1 (Team GAROU) which will release in March, with the second wave Team 2 (Team SOUTH TOWN) releasing in May. Team 3 will release sometime during Australia & New Zealand winter and Team 4 will be releasing in spring. Each team is comprised of 3 fighters, so the total number added onto the current roster of 39 means players can expect to fight with 51 star-studded characters in THE KING OF FIGHTERS XV

Team 1 (Team GAROU) launches March 2022 and will consist of ROCK HOWARD, B. JENET, and GATO from the smash-hit fighter GAROU: MARK OF THE WOLVES.

ROCK HOWARD

Though he’s the son of the fearsome Geese Howard, this young fighter with a complicated past was raised by Terry Bogard. A virtual prodigy when it comes to fighting, Rock has learned to utilise fighting styles passed down from both his father and stepfather. B. JENET convinces him to join Team GAROU this KOF. (CV:Yuma Uchida)

GATO

This cold and calculated master-class fighter always strays away from the pack. He set out for vengeance after his mother died at the hands of his father. Though he wishes to go his own way, B. JENET was able to convince him to join the team as she has some info on his father’s whereabouts.

B. JENET

The leader of a band of pirates known as the Lillien Knights, B. JENET has traveled the world far and wide. Daughter of the Behrn family, an influential international cartel, she became bored of her luxurious but tedious life and ran away to form the Lillien Knights. After the tumultuous events of the previous KOF, B. JENET has her suspicions that the worst is not over yet and sets her sights on joining this KOF to see what’s in store.

Team 2 (Team SOUTH TOWN) will launch in May 2022 and add the characters GEESE HOWARD, BILLY KANE, and RYUJI YAMAZAKI from the world-famous FATAL FURY series.

Team 3 for THE KING OF FIGHTERS XV is coming in the Australia & New Zealand winter, while Team 4 will release in spring 2022. Their characters will be revealed soon.

PRODUCT DETAILS

Title: THE KING OF FIGHTERS XV

Platform: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Windows 10, Steam, Epic Store
Genre:
Versus Fighting
Developer:
SNK Corporation
Players: 1-2 local / 2-8 Network
Co-Publisher: Koch Media
Release Date: 17 February 2022

Website: https://www.snk-corp.co.jp/us/games/kof-xv

About SNK

Headquartered in Osaka, Japan, SNK develop, publish, and distribute interactive entertainment software on a global scale. Known for such franchises as THE KING OF FIGHTERS, METAL SLUG, and SAMURAI SHODOWN, SNK continues to focus on their rich console game and arcade history.