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May 14, 2019

Antstream Successful Crowdfunding Campaign Comes to an End – Early Access to Start May 28

Public Response to the Month-Long Campaign has Been Overwhelmingly Positive with Hundreds of Backers Pledging to Support the First Retro Gaming Streaming Platform

London, United Kingdom – May 13, 2019 – The first cloud gaming platform dedicated to retro games, Antstream, has successfully wrapped up its Kickstarter campaign, surpassing its original and stretch goal funding objectives. Antstream will now focus on launching the exclusive Early Access of the platform, accessible to Kickstarter backers, on May 28, 2019.

Looking further ahead, Antstream aims to beta launch for the general public sometime later in the year, when retro fans worldwide will be able to seamlessly enjoy hundreds of gaming classics on their PC (Windows and Mac), Xbox One, or Android mobile devices. The Kickstarter campaign has not only allowed Antstream to fast-track the development of the PS4 application, to be released this year, but also to add an extra 50 new multiplayer friend challenges to the early access version.

More details can be found on the Kickstarter page for Antstream.

Antstream will enable gamers to enjoy decades of gaming classics, allowing them to play countless carefully curated titles from the ‘70s, ‘80s, and ‘90s instantly. Signing up to Antstream will give all retro fans fully licensed gaming gems to enjoy such as Ikari Warriors, Joe & Mac, California Games, Zool and Double Dragon, without the need for massive downloads or fiddly emulators. Antstream’s unique multiplayer challenge system adds a new and exciting twist to some of the most iconic games ever created, enabling gamers to challenge their friends to Score Attacks, Speed Runs and Boss Rushes amongst others. Taking advantage of the latest technology in cloud-based gaming, Antstream is as simple as installing the app, creating an account, picking a game – and play!

With the beta launch of Antstream later this year on PC (Windows and Mac), Xbox One, and Android mobile devices, 400 classic games will be available – with many more licensed titles to be added soon after.

A full list of games so far announced on Antstream can be found here.

More details can be found here: www.antstream.com. For the latest updates follow Antstream on Facebook and Twitter.

About Antstream

Founded in 2013 by Steve Cottam, Antstream is an independent technology company based in London. Antstream brings decades of iconic video games to modern devices including PC (Windows and Mac), consoles, and Android mobile devices. Through an affordable subscription, gamers will have instant access to thousands of games playable directly from the cloud, with no downloads or installs. Antstream has a strong executive team, including gaming industry veteran Ian Livingstone CBE (Chairman), Jon Burton as Creative Director (Founder of TT Games), Miyake Kazutoshi for Licensing (former CEO of Sega Europe). For more information, please visit: www.antstream.com.

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Wanking Simulator officially announced

Press Releases

Philip Federico

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May 14, 2019

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Wanking Simulator officially announced

In the third quarter of 2019, Wanking Simulator will be released on PC. According to the game creators, this uncompromising simulator will stand out with its unique gameplay model, a dose of absurd humor and a high potential for spreading “masturbating chaos”. Wanking Simulator will also offer an unconventional system of challenges and freedom of actions that will depend on the players’ tastes and temperament.

MrCiastku – an independent developer is working on the new simulator, and the publisher will be Ultimate Games S.A.

The developers indicate that Wanking Simulator is a unique combination of virtual destruction as well as virtual masturbation. This unconventional simulator also has an intriguing history, beginning with – as in the best Alfred Hitchcock productions – its own kind of earthquake.

The main character is Winston Gay, whose indecent behavior proved to be too loud. Neighbors concerned about the noisy activity of the character and corrupt authorities deprive him of his home. Now, all that is left for the desperate Winston is to get revenge on the residents of Gay Bay and to this end, he intends to use the skill in which he has the most practice.

The gameplay of the game created by MrCiastku is mainly spreading “masturbating chaos”. The primary goal will be to destroy as many things as possible – before getting caught by law enforcement. There is also the possibility to use various superpowers (e.g. weakening of gravity and teleportation). The developer is also preparing additional game modes where you can adjust the conditions of fun yourself. The gameplay will be free and divided into a 5-day cycle (each day with different events).

“Wanking Simulator is an original project that is based on completely absurd and politically incorrect assumptions. The surrealistic setting of this simulator can evoke thoughts like the animated series South Park” says the CEO of Ultimate Games S.A., Mateusz Zawadzki.

As Ultimate Games S.A. points out, the only action of a sexual nature will be the masturbation of the main character. Despite the controversial topic, no genitals or organic liquids will be seen in the game. The new simulator is supposed to be purely humorous.

Wanking Simulator will be released on PC (Steam) in Q3. 2019. Later, the game will most likely also appear on the current generation consoles.

Wanking Simulator (Steam): Wanking Simulator

Wanking Simulator trailer:

Sniper Elite V2 Remastered Launch Trailer Released

Jamie Laike Tsui

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May 14, 2019

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Sniper Elite V2 Remastered Launch Trailer Released

Rebellion released the Sniper Elite V2 Remastered launch trailer just ahead of the game’s launch. The trailer sets the stage for the game, detailing the brutal close quarter combat between the Nazi and the Soviet forces in the streets of Berlin. Viewers are introduced to Karl Fairburne, an American sniper sent in to eliminate three high value targets to prevent the Soviet forces from acquiring the Nazi’s V-2 rockets.

Sniper Elite V2 Remastered updates the classic shooter once again with the latest graphics. The game now supports 4K and HDR on PC and consoles. All platforms will benefit from overall improvements to the graphics, including overhauled assets and modern rendering techniques.

Sniper Elite V2 Remastered is set to launch on Switch, PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One on May 14th. The game is priced at $34.99 USD/$49.95 AUD on all platforms. Steam and GOG users who own Sniper Elite V2 will be able to upgrade their copies for only $9.99 USD/$14.50 AUD.

Fell Seal: Arbiter’s Mark Review

Travis Bruno

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May 13, 2019

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Fell Seal: Arbiter’s Mark

Developer: 6 Eyes Studio
Publisher: 1C Company
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One (Reviewed)
Release Date: Available Now
Price: $29.99 – Available Here

Overview

For every massive Kickstarter that gamers hear about there are ten smaller ones that tend to go unnoticed despite ending up being successfully funded. Fell Seal: Arbiter’s Mark happens to be one of those latter games as it may not have broken the bank but it did reach its initial goal and a little extra. With a lofty target of creating a tactical RPG similar to the classics that many fans of the genre remember, does Fell Seal: Arbiter’s Mark hit the mark?

Story

Long ago a massive creature laid waste to the world and only through the powers of those deemed “Immortals” did this beast manage to be put down. In an effort to prevent such chaos from destroying the land ever again these Immortals banded together to create a council that would try to keep balance in the world. Though the Immortals are powerful, they cannot survey the entire planet and such have created the Arbiter position, men and women who act in the people’s best interests with their world being law.

Kyrie just so happens to be one of these Arbiters and has worked tirelessly to enforce the laws of the land while earning the respect of her close allies. Within minutes of starting a patrol Kyrie witnesses a wealthy looking man slaughter an innocent in the streets. After performing her duty and arresting the man who claims that he will receive no punishment, it becomes clear that the order of Arbiters might not be as flawless as it once was. Things grow dire as this man is not only released without punishment but is even crowned one of the “Marked.”

Whenever an Immortal wishes to leave their position, a Marked is chosen by each member of the council to undergo a pilgrimage that, if completed, will grant them a position on the council as the new Immortal. Above the law and seen as untouchable, Kyrie continues her pursuit, only to learn that the darkness that was rumored to plague the Arbiters has seeped further into the organization than anyone could have possibly imagined.

Being a tactical RPG Fell Seal: Arbiter’s Mark isn’t in a hurry to get its storyline moving at a brisk pace but even then it doesn’t take long to actually hook your attention. This is thanks to some strong worldbuilding and a likable core cast of characters that players will immediately come to like. The narrative build-up throughout the game is a strong one partly due to the unique style of lore and the optional scenes that players can view that expand upon the named characters in the party. It is also a rather nice touch that although magic exists, technology still thrives rather well to the point that firearms and other advancements have been made.

Alongside the main story missions and some side content players will find that Fell Seal: Arbiter’s Mark is a rather lengthy RPG but may clock in a bit under what many may expect for a tactical one, though this does vary depending on just how much you may want to grind levels. Even then this is a story that holds up incredibly well despite its slow pace.

Gameplay

Being a tactical RPG player will find that enemy encounters will take place on an isometic field where every unit has a turn based on a variety of stats. On a turn each unit can move and make an action such as attacking, casting a spell to deal damage, heal an ally (or an enemy), use an item, or take an environmental action. It is possible to attack and then move as well should you want to take advantage of a position then retreat. The interesting element in Fell Seal: Arbiter’s Mark is that every action provides a unit with experience points. This means simply casting a buff can provide a unit with crucial XP, though if no action is taken then a unit’s next turn will come up a bit faster.

While enemies and player units have various weaknesses to certain elements, it is interesting to note that the terrain of a level can play a unique role in some fights. Moves that end up shoving the target can be used to bump them into another to deal damage to both foes, or simply shove them off a cliff for extra damage. Height advantages can allow ranged units and magic users to attack without fear of reprisal so positioning does play a factor here, making the game feel like a true tactical RPG.

Of course along those lines are the fact that there are numerous classes in Fell Seal: Arbiter’s Mark with each one having unique abilities and passive buffs. While most units only start with access to a few starting classes additional ones can be unlocked by learning enough skills in these classes. Completing battles rewards units with AP that can then be used to unlock various skills for their current class and it is entirely possible that you will need to shift their class from one to another even if you happen to like certain abilities simply to advance the unit further down their growth path. It is interesting to note that sub-classes can be equipped to keep certain helpful skills accessible, though these sub-classes do not receive experience.

It is worth noting that due to this high level of micromanagement that players will almost always need to spend some time with their units after a battle to apply various points, potentially change classes and equipment, and more. There is even a crafting system that allows players to upgrade and craft certain types of gear and items, which are handled a bit differently in this game. Generally items are a limited resource that can be hoarded like a dragon and never used but in Fell Seal: Arbiter’s Mark items are restocked after every battle but are limited while actually in a fight. New items can be crafted in the aforementioned crafting system and already owned items can be upgraded to be more effective.

While players are given a number of story characters to use in battle players can also create brand new fighters through the Guild. By spending gold new units can be hired and leveled up to match the player’s current level with their all currently unlocked classes being available to choose from. This system allows for players to not only fill in a niche role but also to possibly replace a former unit. There are multiple difficulty levels for players to choose from when starting the game and even a custom setting that allows the player to modify each setting to fit their playstyle.

This means that things can be made easier to allow players to make it through with minimal grinding and no real punishment for having a unit die in battle or crushingly difficult with enemies appearing in greater numbers, having elite units mixed in, and even featuring injuries that add temporary ability nerfs that stack for every loss (only recovered by sitting out a battle) to flat permanent death for units. As such the Guild may play a bigger role depending on just how difficult you want this game to be, which is a rather nice touch as it makes a tactical RPG such as this not only accessible for those who aren’t familiar with the genre but also one that can push veterans to the limit.

Visuals & Audio

Capturing the classic art style of popular tactical RPGs in the past is a hard task but 6 Eyes Studio has managed to pull it off swimmingly. Not only are the environments that players fight in varied enough to keep things interesting but there are numerous enemy types with little variations that help keep battles fresh. Even the designs and details of the characters are lovingly created, though it is worth noting that when creating a new unit in the Guild it is better to try and match one of the available portraits if you want consistency, though the actual sprites can be as off design as possible should the player choose.

One issue that does arise is the fact that the isometric battlefield does occasionally get in its own way, with units getting in the way of one another and proper targeting taking more time than it should and being able to swing the camera even one notch would have been a nice addition. The game also features a fitting soundtrack with a solid variety of background music that fits the stages well.

Overall

Fell Seal: Arbiter’s Mark aimed quite high and has successfully hit that target by not only delivering solid tactical gameplay but also an engaging storyline that may start slow but feels engrossing soon after the start. With players being able to customize the difficulty as they see fit and a remarkable level of polish to the game’s mechanics, players will find that this game offers plenty of different ways to win and modify their party even if grinding and an occasionally problematic camera hamper the fun from time to time.

Capsule Computers review guidelines can be found here.

Mary Skelter 2 Announced for Western Release on Switch

Travis Bruno

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May 12, 2019

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Mary Skelter 2 Announced for Western Release on Switch

It may have seemed that Mary Skelter 2 wouldn’t be released in the West after the PlayStation 4 version eventually was butchered with censorship but it looks like the game will still be releasing entirely untouched on the Nintendo Switch. Idea Factory International has announced that they will be bringing Mary Skelter 2 to North America and Europe for the Switch as a digital download on the Nintendo eShop. This release of Mary Skelter 2 will also include Mary Skelter: Nightmares, the first game, with revamped systems and balance changes. The game will feature English and Japanese audio but currently there is no release window.

Mary Skelter 2 evolves the core elements in Mary Skelter: Nightmares to bring to you a world teeming with twists and turns, topped with a new battle feature where the previous protagonist, Jack, is now a Nightmare. Players can use his Nightmare powers to defeat enemies, but at a maddening cost. Set in an alternate reality that includes familiar characters from the first installment, players must relive the torturous dungeon experiences and find ways to feed an almost insatiable prison.

Final Fantasy VII Remake Multi-Part Release Unchanged

Travis Bruno

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May 11, 2019

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Final Fantasy VII Remake Multi-Part Release Unchanged

If you were hoping that the long absence from the spotlight meant that certain plans for Final Fantasy VII Remake would be changed then we have some bad news for you. While the North American presentation for the game featured only positive news as well as a new trailer after years of silence the Japanese side of things unfortunately revealed that plans from four years ago are still in motion.

That plan happens to be the fact that the game will still be released “as multiple parts.” More information for Final Fantasy VII Remake is still set to be revealed by Square Enix in June and it is worth noting that the original game was released on three discs (all included in one purchase) back in 1997.

The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel III Trailer Introduces Some New Allies

Travis Bruno

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May 11, 2019

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The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel III Trailer Introduces Some New Allies

A new English trailer for The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel III has been released by NIS America and this time around the focus is on introducing fans to the new allies that will be joining Thors Military Academy. Each of these characters are given a brief bit of dialogue and a chance to show off their combat abilities. Currently The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel III is set to be released on the PlayStation 4 sometime this fall in North America and Europe.

For those who haven’t been keeping up with the series this game begins nearly a year and a half after the Erebonian civil war, and much has changed since then. From the shifting stances of countries to the internal politics of the Empire, and even the life of Rean Schwarzer, the shadows of the past have given way to the embers of a new chapter. Now graduated from Thors Military Academy, Rean has become an instructor at the Thors Branch Campus, a newly-opened academy that quickly finds itself thrust onto the national stage. It is here that he takes the lead of a brand new Class VII, and must guide a new generation of heroes into an unknown future.

Though all is calm now, the nefarious Ouroboros organization continues to weave a dark plot that could engulf the entire continent in war…or perhaps something even more sinister.

Persona 5 Royal “Morgana’s Report #1”

Travis Bruno

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May 11, 2019

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A couple of weeks ago Atlus finally announced Persona 5 Royal and gave us some details and now the company has begun releasing what will be a series of videos called “Morgana’s Report.” These videos, while in Japanese, will give us a closer look at various elements in the game and this first one happens to introduce us to new story elements such as the new character Kasumi Yoshizawa, the new confidant Takuto Maruki, and the third school semester that was not previously available.

You can check out the video below and currently the second report is set to be released sometime in June. As for the game itself, Persona 5 Royal will be released on the PlayStation 4 on October 31st in Japan and sometime in 2020 for Western audiences.

Kill la Kill: IF Introduces New Ryuko Matoi Story

Travis Bruno

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May 11, 2019

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Kill la Kill: IF Introduces New Ryuko Matoi Story

Arc System Works has released some new details for Kill la Kill: IF announcing that players will be able to unlock a brand new scenario featuring Ryuko Matoi once they complete Satsuki Kiryuin’s story mode. This, just like Satsuki’s story, will be a brand new creation that allows players to play as Ryuko and discover her side of the story.

After Ryuko is defeated by Satsuki, Nui appears before her. Now determined to become stronger, is Ryuko really going to ask Nui to train her!? And what about the secret of the Original Life Fiber that was not revealed in the original series? Kill la Kill: IF is currently set to be released on July 26th in North America and Europe for the PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, and PC.

Saints Row®: The Third™ – The Full Package is Now Available on Nintendo Switch and Live with Memorable Moments #4

Press Releases

Philip Federico

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May 11, 2019

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Saints Row®: The Third™ – The Full Package is Now Available on Nintendo Switch and Live with Memorable Moments #4

Unleash open world mayhem and take the fight to control Steelport anywhere

Larkspur, Calif., – May 10, 2019 – Deep Silver today is thrilled to announce the release of Saints Row: The Third – The Full Package on Nintendo Switch. The time has come to experience all the action, chaos and humor of the 3rd Street Saints in this portable installment of Saints Row. To commemorate the launch, take a look back at one of the most iconic scenes in Memorable Moments #4: Deckers.Die, where The Boss goes high tech in a cyber journey to Syndicate.

Saints Row: The Third – The Full Package is the ultimate release of one of gaming’s most beloved entries, debuting on a Nintendo system for the first time ever and loaded with new features for Switch. Take a look below at everything Saints Row: The Third – The Full Package is bringing your way:

City of Sin – Disrupt and dismantle the Syndicate stranglehold on weapons, cybercrime, and criminal rackets. Discover the secrets of Steelport, where there is action on every street corner, for better or, more likely, worse.

Weapons of Crass Destruction – It’s one thing to defeat your enemies, but humiliating them is even better. Hover jets, human cannonball cars and melee weapon madness are all part of the fun.

Crazy Customization – Create the most bizarre characters ever seen, from obscure celebrities to Ninja Pirates. Inside every sinner, there is a Saint and this insane level of customization will get you to either one.

Portable Over The Top Co-op – Steelport is always more fun with friends. Fly solo or play online with a homie, and for the first time – two players can play side to side via online or local multiplayer. Imagine freefall skydiving, landing in your partner’s flaming pickup as you make a desperate run toward a heavily armed Syndicate base.

The Full Package – Includes all three mission packs and more than 30 DLC items. All previously released content is included on the game card.*

* Two DLC packs – the Bloodsucker Pack and the Unlockable Pack, have been omitted for game balance and improvement based on feedback.

Additionally, those who purchase the game at their local Gamestop will receive a special Deluxe Pack to accompany their copy Saints Row: The Third – The Full Package, which is loaded with all the stylish swag you’ll need to become a Third Street Saint, including:

16”x 24”Double-sided Poster, featuring iconic Saints Row: The Third artwork to hang in your crib

Official Saints Row: The Third purple microfiber screen cloth, to keep that screen mean and clean

Get a grip on your stick with a set of Saints Row Analog Stick Thumb Grips

Represent and tag your console with two Saints Row Console Sticker Sheets

Three Double-sided Lithographs featuring six of the series’ most infamous Third Street Saints

Double-sided Alternative Artwork Inlay for players to pimp out their boxed copy in style

Deluxe Game Case Sleeve featuring the original “old skool” 2011 artwork for extra tasty nostalgia

For more information on Saints Row: The Third – The Full Package on Nintendo Switch head over to www.saintsrow.com.

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About Saints Row: The Third
Years after taking Stilwater for their own, the Third Street Saints have evolved from street gang to household brand name, with Saints sneakers, Saints energy drinks and Johnny Gat bobble head dolls all available at a store near you. The Saints are kings of Stilwater, but their celebrity status has not gone unnoticed. The Syndicate, a legendary criminal fraternity with pawns in play all over the globe, has turned its eye on the Saints and demands tribute. Refusing to kneel to the Syndicate, you take the fight to a new city, playing out the most outlandish gameplay scenarios ever seen.

About Deep Silver
Deep Silver develops and distributes interactive games for all platforms. The Deep Silver label means to captivate all gamers who have a passion for thrilling gameplay in exciting game worlds. Deep Silver works with its partners to achieve a maximum of success while maintaining the highest possible quality, always focusing on what the customer desires.

Deep Silver has published more than 200 games since 2003, including its own brands like the open world extravaganza Saints Row, the zombie action franchise Dead Island, and the grim post-apocalyptic future of the Metro series. Upcoming highlights from Deep Silver include Dead Island 2. Deep Silver also owns the development studios Deep Silver Dambuster Studios in Nottingham, UK; Deep Silver Fishlabs in Hamburg, Germany, and Deep Silver Volition based in Champaign, IL, USA. For more information please visit www.deepsilver.com

Koch Media is a leading producer and distributor of digital entertainment products (software, games and films). The company’s own publishing activities, marketing and distribution extend throughout Europe and the USA. The Koch Media group has more than 20 years of experience in the digital media business, and has risen to become the number one distributor in Europe. It has also formed strategic alliances with numerous games and software publishers: Bethesda, Capcom, Kaspersky Labs, NC SOFT, Sega, Square Enix and Tecmo-Koei, etc. in various European countries. With Headquarters in Höfen, Austria Koch Media owns branches in Germany, England, France, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, the Nordic regions, Benelux, Australia, Czech Republic and the United States.