Registrations now open for official TFT Reckoning OCE series hosted by ORDER with Riot Games.

• Registrations are now open for the official Teamfight Tactics Reckoning Oceania Series, hosted by ORDER in partnership with Riot Games.
• The series is the official OCE pathway to the TFT Reckoning World Championship to be held in China later this year.
• Open qualifiers begin May 22, with a mid-set invitational held in July, culminating in a Regional Finals September 4-5.
• In addition, fans will be treated to an exhibition event showcasing the best players from Oceania and SouthEast Asia highlighting the region’s top talent.

May 18, 2021

Registrations are now open for the official Teamfight Tactics Reckoning Oceania series hosted by ORDER in partnership with Riot Games, with the first open qualifier kicking off on May 22.

With a combined prize pool of $13,500 AUD, the series will feature a new format consisting of online open qualifiers and a mid-set invitational, culminating into the Regional Finals hosted on September 4-5. The Regional Finals will see the top 16 TFT players battling it out to crown Oceania’s regional champion.  The OCE representative will continue on to the TFT Reckoning World Championship, which for the first time, will be a live, in-person event held in China later this year.

ORDER is excited to again partner with Riot Games, having previously hosted the OCE TFT FATES Series earlier in the year. In addition to hosting the official series, ORDER will also be providing training and scrim opportunities for OCE’s top 16 regional competitors to prepare them for the Regional Finals and, for one, their international appearance on the world stage.

Open Qualifiers — May 22 – July 4

There will be four open qualifiers throughout Set 5, starting May 22, with the top eight players from each round qualifying for the Reckoning Mid-Set Invitational in July. Each open qualifier offers a prize pool of $600 AUD.

●  Open Qualifier 1: May 22-23                                                                                             
●  Open Qualifier 2: June 5-6                                                                                                
●  Open Qualifier 3: June 19-20
●  Open Qualifier 4: July 3-4

Snapshot Ladder Leaderboard

In addition, 32 players from the snapshot ladder leaderboard will join the Reckoning Mid-Set Invitational. Updated on Wednesdays at 12:01am AEST, starting May 12, the leaderboard will highlight each week’s top 75 players from the official TFT in-game Challenger ladder.

To be eligible, players must play a minimum of 10 ranked matches each week with the leaderboard designed to award the most consistent performing competitors. Accommodating for rough patches, each player’s lowest scoring week will be dropped from their overall score total. On July 1, the top 32 players from throughout the set will qualify for the Reckoning Mid-Set Invitational.

More info on the Ladder Snapshot Leaderboard can be found at ocetft.com/ladder
                                                                                               
Reckoning Mid-Set Invitational — July 10-11 & 17-18

The Reckoning Mid-Set Invitational will feature the best 64 players from the open qualifiers and ladder leaderboard. They will battle it out over two weekends for a prize pool of $4,500 AUD, with the top 16 players proceeding to the Regional Finals. Players can qualify for the Mid-Set Invitational via two methods:                                                                                                                                
●  32 players – top 8 from each Open Qualifier
●  32 players – from the Snapshot Ladder Leaderboard
                                                                                   

OCE Regional Finals — September 4-5

The Regional Finals will be held September 4-5, and will showcase the best 16 players in the region. They’ll be competing for a share of $6,600 AUD and the chance to represent Oceania at the TFT Reckoning World Championship!

OCE vs SEA Showdown

In support of the wider TFT community, ORDER also has announced plans to host an exhibition event bringing together some of the best players from Southeast Asia and Oceania. The friendly battle will help highlight the quality of TFT talent across the APAC region and provide additional entertainment for fans worldwide. Details to be announced closer to the date.

Players and fans can head to ocetft.com for more information, updated leaderboards and to join the official Discord.

For the latest news and highlights, follow @ocetft.

About ORDER

ORDER is the leading team in Australian esports. Consistently performing across the biggest esports in Australia; CS:GO, Rainbow 6, Valorant, League of Legends, and Street Fighter. ORDER is a globally recognised and nationally dominant team with an aim to create a mainstream brand helping to shape the future of gaming culture, supported by brand partners Logitech G, Alienware, PUMA and Intel.

Fender and Citizen Watch Collaborations Detailed Alongside Patch 5.55 Release Date

LONDON (17^th May, 2021) – SQUARE ENIX® unveiled new information on Patch 5.55 for FINAL FANTASY® XIV Online ahead of the release of Endwalker™, the highly anticipated fourth expansion pack for the award-winning MMO.

During Saturday’s Letter from the Producer LIVE stream, Producer and Director Naoki Yoshida outlined new content fans can expect from Patch 5.55 and beyond as FINAL FANTASY XIV: Shadowbringers comes to an end.

Patch 5.55 will launch on 25^th May, bringing additions to the main scenario questline, YoRHa: Dark Apocalypse and Save the Queen questlines, as well as marking the start of official service for the PlayStation®5 version following an open beta period.

Yoshida also outlined the upcoming special event calendar, which includes the Make It Rain in-game event in July, the Moonfire Faire and The Rising in-game events in August, and a return of the FINAL FANTASY XV collaboration in September.

Further Patch 5.55 details outlined during the livestream can be found below:

• Patch 5.5 Main Scenario, Part II – The second part of this final main scenario update before Endwalker sets the stage for the upcoming expansion in grand fashion.
• YoRHa: Dark Apocalypse – Additional YoRHa: Dark Apocalypse story has been added to this epic crossover questline.
• “Save the Queen” Questline Update – This latest update includes a new field area, “Zadnor,” an increased resistance rank cap of 25, final enhancement of resistance weapons, and new large-scale battle content Dalriada for up to 48 players.

In addition, SQUARE ENIX announced collaborations with guitar powerhouse Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (“Fender”) and CITIZEN to create premium, FINAL FANTASY XIV-themed goods for fans to enjoy, as well as the upcoming release of FINAL FANTASY XIV: Shadowbringers — The Art of Reflection -Histories Unwritten-, the second art book for the critically acclaimed expansion pack.

Debuted during the Letter from the Producer LIVE at FINAL FANTASY XIV Digital Fan Festival 2021, electric guitar manufacturer Fender has created a limited run of FINAL FANTASY XIV STRATOCASTER® guitars, featuring imitation crystal detailing, custom branding on the neck, and a custom, vintage-style hard shell case adorned with the FINAL FANTASY XIV logo. Fender will begin to take pre-orders for the FINAL FANTASY XIV STRATOCASTER® guitars in the Americas, EMEA and Australia in late 2021 and ship in early 2022.

Players can also look forward to the electric guitar’s addition in-game as the newest instrument for performance actions. The in-game model is inspired by the FINAL FANTASY XIV STRATOCASTER guitar and will feature the ability to switch between five different audio tones, including clean and distorted sounds. Additionally, players can also enjoy special performance features for the guitar including pick slide and mute effects. Furthermore, a new indoor furnishing—the Magitek Electric Guitar—designed after the FINAL FANTASY XIV version of the Stratocaster®, will be available to purchase in the Manderville Gold Saucer.

CITIZEN is also working in collaboration with SQUARE ENIX to create two FINAL FANTASY XIV-themed watches—named the LIGHT and DARKNESS models—inspired by a crystal of light and the Warriors of Darkness, respectively. Designed under the full supervision of the FINAL FANTASY XIV development team, both models have simple, classic designs suitable for any occasion and let owners feel connected to the FINAL FANTASY XIV universe as they go about their day. These new models will be available for pre-order on the SQUARE ENIX Store from today until Wednesday 30^th June at 3:59pm BST in both LIGHT and DARKNESS varieties.

In addition, the company announced the upcoming release of FINAL FANTASY XIV: Shadowbringers — The Art of Reflection -Histories Unwritten-, the second art book for the MMO’s critically acclaimed expansion pack. Now available for pre-order from the Square Enix Store and book retailers, this deluxe, large-format volume showcases artwork from YoRHa: Dark Apocalypse and the Eden raid series, as well as concept art of characters, environments, and more. The art book will also include a bonus code to redeem an in-game “Wind-up Runar” minion.

The book is available for pre-order on the Square Enix Store, alongside a variety of new items debuted in celebration of Final Fantasy XIV Digital Fan Festival 2021, including character figures, a set of Ascian-themed wine glasses, jewellery, a series of job icon-patterned accessories, and more: https://sqex.to/ShmwF

Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn — The Art of Eorzea -Another Dawn- will also be republished as a new, physical edition, scheduled for release on 8^th February, 2022. The physical edition of this book will include a bonus code to redeem an in-game “Wind-up Enterprise” minion, and is available for pre-order: https://sqex.to/esC20

Furthermore, six previously released artbooks have been confirmed for digital release by Square Enix Manga & Books imprints:

• Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn — The Art of Eorzea – Another Dawn –
• Final Fantasy XIV: Heavensward — The Art of Ishgard – Stone & Steel –
• Final Fantasy XIV: Heavensward — The Art of Ishgard -Scars of War –
• Final Fantasy XIV: Stormblood — Art of the Revolution – Western Memories –
• Final Fantasy XIV: Stormblood — Art of the Revolution – Eastern Memories –
• Final Fantasy XIV: Shadowbringers — The Art of Reflection – Histories Forsaken –

Players will now be able to enjoy the art of FINAL FANTASY XIV Online digitally, with e-book editions* becoming available for purchase from book retailers beginning 8^th February, 2022.

*Digital editions of the art book will not include in-game item bonus codes.

The recently announced fourth expansion pack of the FINAL FANTASY XIV Online saga, Endwalker, is scheduled to release 23^rd November, 2021 for PC, Mac, the PlayStation®5 system, and the PlayStation®4 system. Endwalker is the culmination of the Hydaelyn and Zodiark story, in which Warriors of Light will encounter an even greater calamity than ever before, and will bring an abundance of new content, including multiple new jobs, an increased level cap, vast new areas, adjustments to the battle system, as well as a variety of new battle, crafter and gatherer content.

FINAL FANTASY XIV: Endwalker’s full trailer can be found here: https://youtu.be/I4uwkvxsUac

Visit the official FINAL FANTASY XIV: Endwalker site here:

” https://eu.finalfantasyxiv.com/endwalker/

With over 22 million total registered players and a new expansion on the way, there has never been a better time for newcomers to begin their adventures in the critically acclaimed FINAL FANTASY XIV Online saga. The expanded Free Trial now includes all content from A Realm Reborn and the Heavensward™ expansion (and updates through Patch 3.56), as well as an additional playable race (Au Ra), and three additional playable jobs (Dark Knight, Astrologian, and Machinist). Free Trial players can enjoy hundreds of hours of award-winning gameplay and story experiences equivalent to two full FINAL FANTASY titles, without limit on playtime.

Related Links

Endwalker Teaser Site: http://eu.finalfantasyxiv.com/endwalker/
The Lodestone®: http://eu.finalfantasyxiv.com
Official Facebook®: https://www.facebook.com/FinalFantasyXIV
#FFXIV

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 161 million units worldwide; DRAGON QUEST®, which has sold over 82 million units worldwide; TOMB RAIDER®, which has sold over 82 million units worldwide; and the legendary SPACE INVADERS®. Square Enix Ltd. is a London-based, wholly-owned subsidiary of Square Enix Holdings Co., Ltd.

ABOUT FENDER MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS CORPORATION:

Since 1946, Fender has revolutionized music and culture as one of the world’s leading musical instrument manufacturers, marketers and distributors. Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (Fender)–whose portfolio of owned and licensed brands includes Fender®, Squier®, Gretsch® guitars, Jackson®, EVH®, Charvel® and Bigsby®–follows a player-centric approach to crafting the highest-quality instruments and digital experiences across genres. Since 2015, Fender’s digital arm has introduced a new ecosystem of products and interactive experiences to accompany players at every stage of their musical journey. This includes innovative apps and learning platforms designed to complement Fender guitars, amplifiers, effects pedals, accessories and pro-audio gear, and inspire players through an immersive musical experience. Fender is dedicated to unlocking the power of musical expression for all players, from beginners to history-making legends. In 2021, Fender celebrates 75 years of giving artists “wings to fly,” carrying on the vision of its founder, Leo Fender, and connecting players through a shared love of music.

ABOUT FENDER MUSIC CO. LTD:

Fender Music Co., Ltd. is the Japanese subsidiary and APAC Headquarters of FENDER MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS CORPORATION, a global guitar and amplifier production company founded in 1946. Since its establishment in April 2015, the company has been engaged in the sales, promotion, quality control, and customer support of FENDER®’s flagship guitar and bass products, TELECASTER®, STRATOCASTER®, PRECISION BASS®, JAZZ BASS®, as well as the TWIN REVERB, amplifiers, audio equipment, and lifestyle goods in the Japanese and Asian markets. We aim to be a “brand that supports all players” and support everyone who loves music. http://fender.co.jp

About CITIZEN WATCH

CITIZEN WATCH is a true manufacture d’horlogerie with a comprehensive manufacturing process that extends from creating a watch’s individual components to its final assembly. The company operates in more than 140 countries and regions around the world. Since its founding in 1918, CITIZEN has held the belief of “Better Starts Now” — that is, no matter who you are and what you do, it is always possible to make something better, and now is the time to start doing it. Based this belief, we have created watches, invented and improved technologies and explored the future of watches such as our proprietary light-powered Eco-Drive technology and state-of-the-art satellite-synchronized timekeeping

*The final design and specifications are subject to change without notice.

FINAL FANTASY XIV © 2010 – 2021 SQUARE ENIX CO., LTD. All Rights Reserved.

FINAL FANTASY XIV: ENDWALKER © 2021 SQUARE ENIX CO., LTD.  All Rights Reserved.

LOGO ILLUSTRATION: ©2021 YOSHITAKA AMANO

All current global employees and new hires who join the company before September 2021 are eligible to receive free private KRAFTON shares

AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS – MAY 14, 2021 – KRAFTON, Inc. Chairman, Byung Gyu (BG) Chang, recently announced plans to give up to $89 million USD in private KRAFTON shares to all current global team members and new hires who join the company before September 2021.

Given the complexities of the South Korean market, participation in an upcoming Employee Stock Ownership Program is limited to domestic team members. To support overseas members, BG decided to privately gift his own KRAFTON shares to all global employees. Through an internal email to global employees, BG Chang expressed his gratitude towards all members of KRAFTON, noting the company’s continued success would not be possible without the dedicated individuals across the world who are driving toward a common goal – to make KRAFTON one of the top entertainment property creators in the world.

“This gesture is an expression of my passion and commitment to our global audience, market, and employees,” said BG Chang, Chairman of KRAFTON, Inc. “It brings me joy to be able to invest in our team members as they have helped build the company into what it is today. Together, we will continue to build KRAFTON into something greater.”

In addition to fostering the growth of its talent through a competitive compensation system and various new internal company initiatives, KRAFTON is actively recruiting some of the world’s top talent in a bid to hire an additional 700 employees throughout the next year.

For more information about KRAFTON, please visit https://www.krafton.com/.
 

# # #

About KRAFTON, Inc.
KRAFTON, Inc. is a collective of independent game development teams responsible for various entertainment properties, including PUBG, PUBG: NEW STATE, ELYON, and TERA. The name, which is derived from the word craftsmanship, is an acknowledgment of the company’s never-ending pursuit of innovation and creating engaging experiences. KRAFTON currently consists of PUBG Studio, Striking Distance Studios, Bluehole Studio, and RisingWings. For more information about KRAFTON, please visit https://www.krafton.com.

Slow your breathing and use your head to protect those you care about the most

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. – May 14, 2021 – Your time has come to aid and protect the weak so that they will become strong. Perfectly timed with the new film, Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba the Movie: Mugen Train, join the Demon Slayer Corps and face off against vicious, supernatural beings in a brand-new Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba collaboration for Puzzle & Dragons. Now through May 27, players can train alongside their favorite characters from the critically acclaimed manga.

Players will be rewarded with Child of Brightness, Tanjiro Kamado, as a free login bonus during the duration of the event. Tanjiro isn’t alone – his sister Nezuko, his friends, and the Hashira are all ready to put their lives on the line to take down the Twelve Kizuki. Whether you prefer Water Breathing, Thunder Breathing, or Beast Breathing, these new characters and their techniques will fit a range of playstyles.

Dungeons
Two new dungeons and classic enemies stand in your way, but no matter what, you can fight! Become stronger and follow Muzan Kibutsuji to the ends of Hell!

• Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba is a special dungeon with five different difficulties. Clearing it gives players a chance of receiving items like Demon Slayer Medal – Gold.
• Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba-Fixed Team is a Fixed Team dungeon that rewards players with Demon Slayer medals and one pull from the Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Memorial Egg Machine for the first-time clear.

Monster Exchange
During this event, players can exchange collected Demon Slayer Medals for a Warding Mask from Urokodaki. You don’t need to complete Final Selection to fight with the Demon Slayer Corps this time, but it can still protect you from harm.

Special Bundles
If you really want to get in the demon slaying-spirit, purchase special bundles, including one with a special Demon Slayer Orb Skin! The skin features Tanjiro, Nezuko, Zenitsu, Inosuke, and Kanao.

The following special bundles will be available for purchase during the event:

• 1 Magic Stone + Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Egg Machine: One pull from the Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Egg Machine for $0.99 USD along with a Magic Stone.
• 20 Magic Stones + ★8 Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Egg Machine Bundle: Guarantees a ★8 rarity character for $19.99 USD along with 20 Magic Stones.
• 20 Magic Stones + Kanao Tsuyuri Egg Machine Bundle: Kanao Tsuyuri and a special Demon Slayer Orbs Skin for $19.99 USD along with 20 Magic Stones

*Please note that the Egg Machine names may be shortened in-game due to character limit restraints.

©Koyoharu Gotoge / SHUEISHA, Aniplex, ufotable

Puzzle & Dragons is a mobile gaming phenomenon that continues to see tremendous growth, featuring an addictive combination of puzzle, dungeon-crawling, and monster-collecting gameplay. In the game, players can capture, collect and evolve thousands of elemental monsters while incorporating quick thinking to chain combos and maximize the abilities and skills of their monsters. To date, Puzzle & Dragons has surpassed 80 million downloads worldwide and can be downloaded from the App Store and Google Play.

For information on GungHo Online Entertainment America, visit www.gunghoonline.com.

ABOUT GUNGHO ONLINE ENTERTAINMENT AMERICA
GungHo Online Entertainment America, Inc. (GOEA) is a multiplatform publisher dedicated to delivering the best titles, content, and support for the online gaming community. Established in 2012 and led by former Square Enix U.S.A. and XSEED Games executive Jun Iwasaki, GOEA is the US division of GungHo Online Entertainment (GOE), an established Japanese publisher. GOEA’s content partners include leading developers Grasshopper Manufacture, SUPERTRICK GAMES, Game Arts, Acquire, and Gravity, all of which are subsidiaries of GOE. GOEA publishes and distributes network-oriented games for console, handheld, mobile, tablet, and MMO-style games for PC. GOEA is located in El Segundo, CA. For more information, visit www.gunghoonline.com.

The Half-Human Half-Vampire Nazi-hunting Femme Fatale BloodRayne Receives Final Major Update on PC

DENVER, COLORADO (May 14, 2021) — Today, publisher of retro-and-modern games Ziggurat Interactive is pleased to announce that they have launched a set of major updates for their enhanced “Terminal Cut” editions of BloodRayne and BloodRayne 2. This final update includes updated visuals and audio enhancements, localization fixes, gameplay balances, and more. This update comes in addition to the already impressive enhancements previously introduced by the Terminal Cut editions, which included upscaled cinematics, controller support, and improved rendering.

The Ultimate Update is a free upgrade for existing BloodRayne: Terminal Cut and BloodRayne 2: Terminal Cut PC owners via both Steam and GOG.com.

The Ultimate Update Features:

• (Steam) Trading Cards, badges, and emoticon support have all been added
• (GOG) Wallpapers in HD resolutions are available in the game extras folder
• BloodRayne: Terminal Cut
  • Textures on enemy models restored to their original console version aesthetic
  • Japanese voice-acting and subtitles added
  • Additional rendering improvements to water and other textures
  • Miscellaneous bugs fixed
• BloodRayne 2: Terminal Cut
  • Ephemera boss fight rebalanced
  • Restoration of missing music and audio tracks
  • Improved graphical fidelity for bonus materials
  • Russian language localization improvements
  • Miscellaneous bugs fixed

“When we launched the Terminal Cut editions of BloodRayne and BloodRayne 2 in 2020, a new generation of fans were awakened to Rayne’s malevolent and lusty adventures,” said Michael Devine, SVP of Business Development. “We’ve continued to make improvements fans have been asking for, and we are excited to launch what we know are the best versions yet of the original games.”
 
The third-person horror action series BloodRayne introduced gamers to Rayne, a brutal half-vampire femme fatale traveling the world to foil Nazi plans, battle supernatural threats, and uncover more about her vampiric heritage. Featuring a unique protagonist, fast-action combat, vampiric powers, and a globe-spanning storyline, BloodRayne and BloodRayne 2 offer a dynamic and visceral gameplay experience. Beloved by fans and critics alike, BloodRayne became a true cross-media phenomenon, spanning games, comics, and films across the early 2000s.
 
BloodRayne: Terminal Cut and BloodRayne 2: Terminal Cut are available now on PC via Steam and GOG for 40% off. The Ultimate Update is available today for free to those who already own the games.
 
Ziggurat Interactive has over 40 Retro Classic titles slated for release this year, with new games every month. Keep up to date on the latest news from Ziggurat on Facebook, Twitter, and the company’s official website.

About Ziggurat Interactive

Ziggurat Interactive was launched in late 2019 with the goal of preserving and expanding the legacy of video games. Headquartered in Denver, Colorado, Ziggurat creates and celebrates games — expanding the audience for both retro and new titles by making them accessible to players of all types while bringing classic licenses and new IPs to market through a variety of distribution channels across multiple platforms.

###

Fractured Veil’s Mutant-Infested Hawaii Welcomes Tourists in Q2 2022 Via Steam Early Access

SEATTLE – May 12, 2021 – Fractured Veil, the survival game set in a future Hawaii ravaged by time, technology, and mutants from Paddle Creek Games, embraces the apocalypse with an Aloha state of mind on PC via Steam Early Access in Q2 2022.

One hundred years after a teleportation system fractured reality and caused a global apocalypse, Maui’s not much of a tourist destination anymore. Horrific mutants roam the Valley Isle’s breathtaking beaches and tropical forests. The only non-mutated humans on the deserted island awaken in a facility created by a shadowy tech company. The good news: each time they die, they resurrect as a new clone. The bad news: being killed by mutants still hurts!

Make the most out of life in a fallen paradise alongside hundreds of other cloned survivors. Scour the dense 64 square kilometer map for valuable crafting resources, potential allies, and loot-filled dungeons full of useful items and challenging foes. 

Lay down roots by creating a base with an intuitive building interface for much-needed shelter from the elements, mutants, and less-than-friendly fellow clones. Claim land by building upgradeable totems capable of protecting structures and hard-earned loot while offline. In Fractured Veil, fun comes first. Forget turning off the game then coming back later only to find hours of work stolen or destroyed.

Forge alliances with fellow tropical wastelanders and venture into NPC-controlled safe zones to take on quests and trade with vendors. Complete multi-step quests to learn more about the local culture and strange circumstances that led to civilization’s downfall alone or with allies. Earn experience to unlock talents that increase stamina, health, and crafting abilities that might just make surviving another night a possibility.

Those tempted to make other survivors’ lives hell should note: someone’s always watching. AI-controlled drones patrol the map, broadcasting the action to the official Fractured Veil website, Twitch, and Steam pages. Tune in to catch up on events happening around the in-game multiverse, like deadly dungeon runs with top streamers or all-out wars between clone groups. Then hop into a veil and travel to another reality to experience life on a different server, complete with different loot.

“Fractured Veil combines the best aspects of survival sims and MMORPGs to create an unpredictable social sandbox to explore,” said Ryan Wianko, Project Director, Paddle Creek Games. “Hunt mutants on Maui’s famous white-sand beaches, build a community with friends, or hop through veils to visit other servers: ourapocalypse has something for everyone.”

Fractured Veil will be available on PC via Steam Early Access in Q2 2022. A Kickstarter campaign is planned for Q3 2021. For more information on Fractured Veil, visit the official website, wishlist on Steam, and follow the official Twitter account.

About Paddle Creek Games

Paddle Creek Games is an independent video game studio based in Seattle, Washington and Montréal, Canada. The 12-person team is composed of industry veterans who have provided service for more than 300 titles, including Fortnite and Gotham Knights. Paddle Creek Games seeks to create engaging, systems-driven experiences that leave players with lasting memories.

Fractured Veil is the team’s first title. For more information on Paddle Creek Games, visit the official website.

New Reaper Job, Male Viera Race, New Oceanian Data Center and Collector’s Edition Details Revealed Alongside Full Cinematic Trailer

LONDON (15^th May, 2021) – SQUARE ENIX® announced today that Endwalker™, the fourth expansion for its critically acclaimed MMO, FINAL FANTASY XIV Online, will launch on 23^rd November, 2021 and is now available for pre-order. Producer & Director Naoki Yoshida revealed the release date, alongside new information about upcoming content in the expansion, during the opening keynote address at the Digital Fan Festival 2021.

The full cinematic Endwalker trailer also debuted during the digital event, which includes a new theme song composed by Masayoshi Soken with vocals by Sam Carter from the chart-topping band Architects.

The trailer is available here

The second job that will be introduced with Endwalker is the ‘reaper’—a scythe-wielding melee DPS job who summon avatars while fighting in close-quarter combat. A first look at the reaper in action can be seen here

Additionally, male Viera will be added as a new playable race, joining the existing female Viera. The male Viera reveal trailer is available here:

 The Newly Announced Reaper Job and Male Viera Playable Race

An outline of all Endwalker content reveals from the keynote address can be found below:

• New Job: Reaper
• New Playable Race: Male Viera
• New City: Old Sharlayan – a trailer can be viewed here:

• Travel to Expansive New Areas: Labyrinthos and Mare Lamentorum – trailers can be viewed here:

• New Threats to Overcome: The Magus Sisters
• New Alliance Raid Series: “Myths of the Realm”
• A New Data Center: Oceania

Additional trailers revealed during the Digital Fan Festival 2021 include:

New Area “Thavnair”

New Town “Radz-at-Han”

Dungeon Crawl

Explore Many New Towns and Areas, Including Old Sharlayan and Thavnair

A comprehensive list of content announced for Endwalker, including information from the FINAL FANTASY XIV Announcement Showcase held in February, is available here: https://sqex.to/xiZAF

The FINAL FANTASY XIV: Endwalker Collector’s Edition

Finally, SQUARE ENIX revealed details of the FINAL FANTASY XIV: Endwalker Collector’s Edition, which will be available for pre-order on the SQUARE ENIX Store from 12pm BST on Saturday 15^th May: https://sqex.to/AO7kw

The FINAL FANTASY XIV: Endwalker Collector’s Edition is a bundle containing a copy of the FINAL FANTASY XIV: Endwalker Digital Collector’s Edition for Windows® and Mac, and the physical Collector’s Box.

For PlayStation®5, PlayStation®4, and Steam players, the Collector’s Box will be available to order as a standalone product. The Endwalker Collector’s Box includes the physical goods listed below—the box does not include a copy of Endwalker, in-game bonus items, or pre-order bonuses:

• Endwalker Special Art Box – A unique glossy white-inlaid box that features an illustration of Hydaelyn and Zodiark by artist Yoshitaka Amano.
• Expertly Crafted Paladin Figure – An impressive high-quality figure that showcases the Warrior of Light as a paladin using Passage of Arms to shield allies from harm. Including the base, the figure measures approximately W 6.10″ x D 8.46″ x H 7.28″ (W 15.5cm x D 21.5cm x H 18.5cm).
• Art Collection & Frame Set – A collection of ten B5-sized (approx. 7.2″ x 10.1″ / 18.2cm x 25.7cm) art prints featuring key visuals from throughout the history of FINAL FANTASY XIV, from version 1.0 through Endwalker. The set also includes a frame so you can showcase your favorite image.
• Azem Pin – A pin created to mimic the appearance of Azem’s crystal. Designed to fit in the palm of your hand at approximately 1″ x 1.2″ (2.5cm x 3.0cm).
• Loporrit Mini Plush – A mini plush version of a Loporrit. The plush is approximately 6.5″ tall (16.5cm).

Additionally, the FINAL FANTASY XIV: Endwalker Digital Collector’s Edition is now available for pre-order from participating retailers, and includes the following in-game bonus items:

• In-game Item: Arion Mount – A new mount designed to complement paladin, the signature job of Endwalker. A trailer for the mount can be viewed here:

• In–game Item: Wind-up Porom Minion – Porom, one of the young twins who joins your party in FINAL FANTASY IV, arrives as a minion you can share new adventures with.
• In-game Item: Death Scythe: Reaper Weapon – The Death Scythe from FINAL FANTASY XI makes its appearance in FINAL FANTASY XIV as a reaper-exclusive weapon.

The Arion Mount and Death Scythe Digital Collector’s Edition In-Game Items

Players who pre-order FINAL FANTASY XIV: Endwalker from participating retailers will be eligible to receive the following pre-order bonuses:

• Early Access – Early access is tentatively scheduled to begin on Friday, 19^th November, 2021 at 9am (GMT) and will allow users the ability to play Endwalker before the official release.
• In-game Item: Menphina Earring – A gorgeous earring with a design that draws inspiration from the moon. This useful earring features attributes that will vary according to the user’s class/job and current level when equipped and grants a 30% increase in EXP up to level 80 when worn.
• In-game Item: Wind-up Palom Minion – Palom, one of the young twins who joins your party in FINAL FANTASY IV, arrives as a minion you can share new adventures with.

Pre-order bonus codes will be delivered upon pre-ordering Endwalker and can be redeemed immediately. Thanks to the in-game items being delivered ahead of launch, anyone pre-ordering Endwalker will be able to use their Menphina Earring to catch-up to level 80 before the expansion releases on 23^rd  November.

With over 22 million total registered players and a new expansion on the way, there has never been a better time for newcomers to begin their adventures in the critically acclaimed FINAL FANTASY XIV Online saga. The recently expanded Free Trial now includes all content from A Realm Reborn and the Heavensward™ expansion (and updates through Patch 3.56), as well as an additional playable race (Au Ra), and three additional playable jobs (Dark Knight, Astrologian, and Machinist). Free Trial players can enjoy hundreds of hours of award-winning gameplay and story experiences equivalent to two full FINAL FANTASY titles, without limit on playtime.
 
Related Links

Endwalker Teaser Site: http://eu.finalfantasyxiv.com/endwalker/
SQUARE ENIX® Press Site: https://www.square-enix-press.com/
The Lodestone®: http://eu.finalfantasyxiv.com
Official Facebook®: https://www.facebook.com/FinalFantasyXIV
Official Twitter®: @FF_XIV_EN
Official Instagram®: @ffxiv
#FFXIV

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 161 million units worldwide; DRAGON QUEST®, which has sold over 82 million units worldwide; TOMB RAIDER®, which has sold over 82 million units worldwide; and the legendary SPACE INVADERS®. Square Enix Ltd. is a London-based, wholly-owned subsidiary of Square Enix Holdings Co., Ltd.

FINAL FANTASY XIV © 2010 – 2021 SQUARE ENIX CO., LTD. All Rights Reserved.

FINAL FANTASY XIV: ENDWALKER © 2021 SQUARE ENIX CO., LTD.  All Rights Reserved.

LOGO ILLUSTRATION: ©2021 YOSHITAKA AMANO

ENDWALKER, SHADOWBRINGERS, the FINAL FANTASY XIV logo, CRYSTAL DYNAMICS, DRAGON QUEST, EIDOS, EIDOS MONTREAL, EORZEA, FINAL FANTASY, the FINAL FANTASY logo, THE LODESTONE, SPACE INVADERS, SQUARE ENIX, the SQUARE ENIX logo, TAITO and TOMB RAIDER are registered trademarks or trademarks of the Square Enix group of companies. PlayStation” and the “PS” Family logo are registered trademarks and “PS4” and “PS5” are trademarks of Sony Interactive Entertainment Inc. All other trademarks are properties of their respective owners.

###

Ultimate Fishing Simulator 2, the new sequel to the bestselling fishing game, will debut in Early Access for PC in the second part of 2021 – announced Ultimate Games S.A. The developers are preparing many improvements and novelties. A free demo is now available on Steam. In 2022 Ultimate Fishing Simulator 2 will be released on consoles: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S and Nintendo Switch. A VR edition will also be developed.

Ultimate Fishing Simulator 2 is being developed by the Polish studio MasterCode and will be published by Ultimate Games S.A.

The first instalment of Ultimate Fishing Simulator made its debut on PC in 2018, and was followed by a VR and console edition. It’s currently the highest rated simulator in its category – 88% of the game’s Steam reviews are positive and it holds a Metascore of 70/100. As the publisher informs, the PC version of Ultimate Fishing Simulator alone has sold more than 210 thousand copies, while the number of sold DLCs exceeded 270 thousand.

“Our goal is to set new standards when it comes to fishing simulators. Work on Ultimate Fishing Simulator 2 has already suffered some delays, which is simply due to the fact that we want to deliver the game in the highest possible quality. The new instalment will significantly differ from the first one. We are preparing many different improvements and completely new elements. In a nutshell – Ultimate Fishing Simulator 2 includes, among others, vastly improved graphics, additional third person perspective mode (TPP), as well as new dynamic water and fish AI systems” – said Rafał Jelonek, COO at Ultimate Games S.A.

MasterCode is also preparing many other novelties. The creators are promising, for example, a new version of the underwater camera with hook and fish close-ups, the possibility to fish in a given fishery during different seasons and a special fish routines system based, among others, on the time of the day. For example, the behaviour of a given species of fish during the feeding time will be different from their routines during the resting time.

As the creators indicate, Ultimate Fishing Simulator 2 is a significant step towards an even more faithful representation of the reality of fishing.

“When creating Ultimate Fishing Simulator 2 we did not concentrate solely on avid fishing enthusiasts. We are working on two game modes – one of them will be simplified and aimed at new players, including those who have not had any contact with fishing before” – added Rafał Jelonek.

A free demo of the simulator is now available on Steam and it will give the players the possibility to check out one of the fisheries, the American Jackson National Park – Snake River. The developers have explained that the location was created with river fishing in mind, and in the demo version the fishery offers some of the content planned for the full version of the game.

Ultimate Fishing Simulator 2 – features:

• a new instalment of the top-rated fishing game of recent years;
• numerous improvements and features;
• diverse fisheries modelled on real locations;
• maps with different seasons;
• various fishing techniques (spinning, float, ground and fly fishing, sea, ice and beach fishing);
• several dozen types of fish;
• new dynamic water and fish AI systems;
• FPP or TPP view;
• boats, skills, trophies;
• extended multiplayer mode;
• licensed fishing equipment (such as Sakura).

The new simulator will be released on PC in the second half of 2021 – it will debut in Steam Early Access, which is planned to last around half a year. After the final release the developers will concentrate on creating DLCs. In 2022 Ultimate Fishing Simulator 2 is scheduled to premiere on VR systems and consoles: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S and Nintendo Switch.

Ultimate Fishing Simulator 2 (Steam):
https://store.steampowered.com/app/1136380/Ultimate_Fishing_Simulator_2

Basic information:

title: Ultimate Fishing Simulator 2
genre: fishing, simulation, sports, casual
producer: MasterCode
publisher: Ultimate Games S.A.
language: English, Polish, French, Italian, German, Spanish, Russian, Japanese, Portuguese, Simplified Chinese, Turkish
release date: 2^nd part of 2021 (Steam Early Access), 2022 (PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, VR systems)

Minimum technical requirements:

operating system: Windows 7 (64-bit) or newer
processor: Core i3-6100 or equivalent
memory: 6 GB RAM
graphics card: GeForce GTX 750 or equivalent
DirectX: Version 11
storage: 12 GB of available space
sound card: DirectX compatible

New Employee-Focused Customizable Work Model Adapts to Meet the Evolving Landscape of Game Development

ROSWELL, Ga. – May 14, 2021 – Tripwire Interactive, developers of the Killing Floor, Red Orchestra, Rising Storm and Maneater franchises, and Tripwire Presents, the publishing division that focuses on releasing  great games from other independent studios, including Chivalry 2, Espire 1: VR Operative and Road Redemption, today announced the implementation of their innovative and exciting Next Gen Work Model, a new hybrid work plan that will allow all members of the studio full flexibility in designating the balance between in-office and remote work. Starting immediately, the Next Gen Work Model will allow Tripwire employees to create their own individual plan with the option to work hybrid in-office and remote in any variation of their choosing, fully remote, or fully in-office. By offering fully customizable hybrid, in-office and remote work opportunities, employees at Tripwire can choose to create a work plan of their own that best suits their personal and professional needs.

As they adapted to the physical restrictions of the recent pandemic, Tripwire discovered there were great benefits to offering remote work yet found that many employees shared they were missing the benefits of on-site work. Based on this, Tripwire is taking the opportunity to formalize a new permanent, flexible work model that offers the choice of hybrid in-person and remote work plans, breaking the limitations of physical location and broadening the pool of prospective creative talent available to the studio. Tripwire believes this new approach will not only foster a more productive and creative environment amongst their teams, but will also add a layer of diversity to their staff that solely in-office work does not as easily afford. Tripwire gathered and utilized direct employee feedback while creating the Next Gen Work Model in an effort to strike a balance between creative efficiency and personal work-life balance; both of which were essential aspects in the studio leadership’s decision to implement the employee-first work model company-wide.

“By allowing flexible hybrid on-site/remote work plans we’re providing the best of both worlds with the collaborative and relational benefits of in-office work and the quality-of-life benefits of remote work,” said Tripwire CEO John Gibson. “With offering these flexible hybrid, full time remote, and full time on-site work options we’re serving the desires and needs of next generation teams.”

Tripwire will retain their physical headquarters in Roswell, Georgia as their base of operations and as an available office for employees who chose to work in an in-person capacity. The Next Gen Work Model will be available to both existing and new employees.

Tripwire continues to grow and is currently accepting applications for a variety of positions. For more details on available job openings, please visit https://tripwireinteractive.com/#/careers.  

For more information on Tripwire Interactive please visit their official website and follow them on Twitter, Facebook and YouTube.

About Tripwire Interactive

Formed in 2005 as a humble independent developer founded by gamers who found success in the video game modding community, Tripwire Interactive has developed and self-published multiple critically acclaimed titles in the wildly popular Killing Floor and Rising Storm franchises, which have collectively sold over 20 million units to date. The studio’s latest project, Maneater, breaks new ground in the popular action RPG genre and finds players taking on the role of a deadly shark with the uncanny ability to evolve as it feeds.

Since then, Tripwire Interactive has expanded its business with the publishing division, Tripwire Presents, turning its experience and resources to include publishing titles spanning multiple platforms and genres from other talented independent studios. Tripwire Presents aims to help like-minded independent studios bring their titles to market, including Chivalry 2 developed by Torn Banner Studios, Espire 1: VR Operative developed by Digital Lode, and Road Redemption developed by EQ Games and Pixel Dash Studios. All product titles, publisher names, trademarks, artwork and associated imagery are trademarks, registered trademarks and/or copyright material of the respective owners. All rights reserved.