When Square Enix was finally able to announce the release date for Final Fantasy X|X-2 HD Remaster, they were only able to do so the for PS3 version of the game, with the PS Vita release date left unstated and a mystery. But, it seems that the time for them to reveal its coming has now arrived as news has just come with that very information.
Those worried they would be forced to choose one of the other based on which ever released first, needn’t worry though as it turns out they will be releasing the same date. That’s right, Remaster will be hitting PS Vita at the same time, so players can pick whichever platform they prefer, either digital or retail.
Both digital and retail versions of Final Fantasy X|X-2 HD Remaster, as well as both PS3 and PS Vita will be priced at £29.99 and available in Europe on March 21st, 2014. Though some features for the retail version of the PS Vita will require online connection to download.
So, players will be able to enjoy the international versions of both games in HD, with the updated soundtracks and trophy support on PS Vita the same day as PS3. Plus, those that get both versions will be able to carry over their save game data between the two systems via the PSN, making a great benefit for those that can never have too much Final Fantasy.
Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag is just about ready to release its first single player DLC, so that players can continue the journey and see what becomes of Edward Kenway’s former quartermaster Adewale. Setting the DLC 15 years offers up plenty of time for Adewale to have gone a long way on his own path and with these 9 new missions, player will be able to explore it themselves.
With the “Freedom Cry” DLC set to come out this week for Xbox 360, PS3, Xbox One, PS4, and PC it makes sense for Ubisoft to put its launch trailer out now to show off just what players can expect. Showing off Adewale giving hope to his people as they strive for independence, as well as him in action with his machete and blunderbuss, the trailer seems like a good primer for the action players themselves will be taking in game.
Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag itself has met with some good review scores for both past and new gen consoles, so we’ll see if this DLC can live up to the quality when it releases Tuesday on Xbox 360, Xbox One, and PC and Wednesday for PS3 and PS4.
The popular sandbox game Minecraft is planned to be released on December 17th for the Playstation 3 in North America. Mojang, the developers of the successful game, recently stated on Playstation Blog that the building adventure game is also porting to the PS4 and PS Vita, though the exact release date is unclear. Players can expect it to be released some time in the next year. The game is being ported over to the Playstation platforms by 4J Studios, the company that ported Minecraft to the Xbox 360, which sold over 10 million copies. An Xbox One version of Minecraft is also in development, and all of the ports to different platforms will be handled by 4J Studios. Here are some of the questions that Mojang developer Owen answered on the PS Blog.
Q: Does Minecraft: PS3 Edition feature everything from the other versions of Minecraft? Minecraft: PS3 Edition comes with everything present in other console versions. They’re pretty much identical to play, and will be developed in tandem from now on.
Q: Will Minecraft: PS3 Edition feature DLC texture packs and skins? Downloadable skins and texture packs will be available from PSN soon after release.
Q: Will there be PlayStation-specific content? PlayStation-specific skins and texture packs would be cool! Fingers crossed, eh?
Q: Will Minecraft: PS3 Edition feature Remote Play or compatibility with the PS4 or PS Vita editions? We don’t know yet, sorry. We’ll let you know as soon as we do.
Q: Does Herobrine feature in Minecraft: PS3 Edition? Probably not.
Make sure you mark your calendars for the 17th of December. PS3 users will finally be able to access their pickaxes and shovels from their PlayStation 3 units. Just don’t forget to keep the Creepers away from you when you first start playing it on their newly ported consoles.
JUST DANCE™ 2014 CELEBRATES the holidays WITH NEW DOWNLOADABLE tracks
Just Dance involves the Just Dance Generation in the creative process with Stardoll design contest
London, UK— December 16, 2013 — Today, Ubisoft announced the latest batch of DLC songs for Just Dance 2014, available from December 17 for all current and next-gen gaming systems. The tracks included are:
“Can’t Get Enough” by Becky G Ft. Pitbull
“Don’t You Worry Child” by Swedish House Mafia
“I Need Your Love” by Calvin Harris Ft. Ellie Goulding
“My Main Girl” by Mainstreet
“Gangnam Style” by PSY
“Applause” (official choreography by Richy Jackson) by Lady Gaga
“#thatPOWER” (alternate choreography) by will.i.am Ft. Justin Bieber
For the first time in Just Dance history, a DLC track features avatar costumes designed by two Just Dance fans selected through a contest held earlier this year. The contest was open to fans from France, Germany, Spain and the United Kingdom, and was created with Stardoll, the virtual paperdoll community site. Through the contest, fans could virtually take part in one of the key aspects in the making of Just Dance: the creative avatar wardrobe design process.
In order to find the winning looks, Stardoll users voted for their favourite design and the two winning designs (top and bottom piece of clothing) were then selected by the Just Dance development team. The designs will appear on the dancer in the track “My Main Girl” by Mainstreet!
Furthermore, Stardoll users can purchase Just Dance costumes in a special online store, exclusively available on the Stardoll site from November 26 to December 31.
Those that are looking for another LEGO adventure have something to on the horizon to look forward to with LEGO The Hobbit now on its way. Featuring Bilbo, Gandalf, and more Dwarves than you can shake a stick at as they try to clear their home of a rather nasty dragon, but what’s a journey without obstacles along the way? A trip. Probably a boring one.
But these guys aren’t on a trip, its a full scale journey with adventure stuff. Warner Bros. and TT Games have even released the first trailer for the game to show off what players can expect to face on this journey, as well as a nice look at the LEGO-fied version of many of the characters players can expect to find in the game.
Those wanting to see what this first trailer has to offer can find it embedded below. LEGO The Hobbit itself is set to release in 2014 for consoles Xbox 360, PS3, Wii U, Xbox One, and PS4, handhelds PS Vita and Nintendo 3DS, plus of course the PC.
New Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor screenshots now available
The Black Gates are infiltrated by Sauron’s army, murdering all in their path. Talion revives from the grave having lost all he holds dear, denied the peace of death… why did he survive?
Today, Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment and Monolith Productions release five new screenshots and concept art for recently announced Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor. Below you’ll find a link to download the assets, which provide a deeper look into the game’s dynamic world and next gen features.
These assets include screenshots and concept art that showcase:
Talion
• Players take the form of Talion, a ranger who loses his family and everything he holds dear, only to be returned from death by a mysterious Spirit of vengeance.
Mordor
• Set between The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor begins on the night of Sauron’s return to Mordor, throwing the region into turmoil.
Nemesis System
• Discover a powerful and dynamic next-gen gameplay mechanic that allows players’ actions to shape enemy relationships and characteristics, creating personal and unique stories and gameplay arcs that remain persistent even after death.
Wraith abilities
• Players command Wraith Powers to orchestrate and execute their vengeance to outwit enemies, infiltrate the ranks, and dominate within an adaptive world.
Melee combat
• A multitude of enemies will require different tactics, encouraging the player to advance their skills, abilities and weapons to become legendary through a system of rune rewards crafted according to the player’s strategy.
About the game:
Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor delivers a dark story of retribution as players will assume the role of Talion, a ranger who loses everything on the night of Sauron’s return to Mordor. As Talion’s personal vendetta unfolds, players uncover the mystery of the Spirit that compels him, discover the origin of the Rings of Power and confront the ultimate nemesis.
With a dynamic next-gen game environment powered by the Nemesis System, players orchestrate their personal plan of vengeance as they bend Mordor to their will; ensuring a unique experience to all players. Every enemy players face is a unique individual, differentiated by their personality, strengths and weaknesses.
Enemy encounters create personal archenemies specific to every gameplay session. Players must outthink each distinctively different enemy to infiltrate the ranks and dominate within the dynamic world that remembers and adapts to their actions and choices.
Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor will be available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Windows PC.
The Brazilian track of Beto Carrero, awarded as best GP of 2012 Motocross Championship and in 2013 for their great organization, is located in Estado de Santa Caterina, one of the most acclaimed tourist sites of the country. The location of the track is strategic: it is on the coast and close to the biggest theme parks in Latin America – Beto Carrero World – and near Penha, famous for its 19 beautiful beaches.
Gautier Paulin:
Super stylish Gautier Paulin has only been racing motocross for a limited time, but the now 22-year-old Frenchman from Draguignan is an ex-World BMX champion, already a European Motocross champion and multiple GP winner in MX1 and MX2 including impressive race victories at the 2009 and 2011 Motocross of Nations for team France. Paulin took his first GP victory in 2009 at the opening round in Italy and the French rider battled for the MX2 Title, tallying up 2 GP wins and 7 podium finishes to end 3rd in the MX2 championship standings. 2011 saw Paulin on board a 250cc with Monster Energy Yamaha team as he went on to gain 7 podiums with a last minute decision to replace his injured team-mate in the MX1 class at the final round in Fermo, Italy. The result was a maiden victory in his first appearance in the Premier class, setting the tone for good things to come in 2012 with the Kawasaki Racing Team. After two successful seasons in MX1 Paulin has already won 8 GPs (5 in MX1 and 3 in MX2) and amassed 7 podiums in 2013, becoming the biggest title threat for 2014.
MXGP features all the riders, teams, bikes and rules from the official MXGP 2013 calendar, including a redesigned career mode for the authentic feel of the Motocross lifestyle. The game will be available in March 2014 for PlayStation 3, PlayStation Vita, Xbox 360 and Windows PC. For more information, visit the Facebook page. Check out the screenshots below and prepare for some Motorcross action.
Players are still diligently gunning down enemies, and performing silent take downs in Batman: Arkham Origins’ multiplayer mode, and today the guys at Warner Bros have given us a brand new game mode to test our skills. The new “Hunter, Hunted Mode” pits players against each other in a 3v3v1 scenario where the last man standing is king.
You will play as either one of Bane’s thugs, one of Joker’s gang members, or as the caped crusader with the aim of being the last man standing. To celebrate the new game mode, which is available today, Warner Bros. have also kicked off a Double Credits weekend. From now until 6pm AEST on Tuesday the 17th, players will earn double the usual credits from matches that they can then spend on Cobblepot Crates.
This extra game mode comes soon after the recent story DLC that was recently made available to players. Are you still playing Batman: Arkham Origins? Let us know in the comments below, and if you are trying to decide if it is worth your time to pick up this Christmas, then check out our review here. As always, stay tuned to Capsule Computers for all the Batman news as it becomes available; same bat-time, same bat-channel.
Gamers will be the first people in the world to get behind the wheel of the brand new 2015 Ford Mustang (virtually of course) by playing EA‘s hot little racer; Need for Speed: Rivals. The brand new car was revealed to the world just a few days ago, and now Need for Speed: Rivals players will find the hot little number sitting in their garage when they next turn on their game.
Mark Bently; Ford’s product licensing manager released a brief statement about the car’s inclusion in the game, stating that:
We worked closely with the development team at EA to provide them with engineering data for the new Mustang, several months before we showed it to the rest of the world. Computer design models enabled the game developers to create an accurate representation of the new Mustang before it goes on sale.
If you played Need for Speed: Rivals, you’d be here by now
The brand new Mustang joins its brothers, the Mustang “Hero Car” from the upcoming Need for Speed film, the cop-exclusive Ford Shelby GT500 Mustang, and a whole array of exciting high-end cars for players to jump behind the wheel of and experience that type of pure escapism that only video games can accomplish. EA have put up a little video of the new car which you can check out below, and don’t forget to take a look at our Need for Speed: Rivals Review. With more cars and more excitement around every bend, make sure you stay tuned to Capsule Computers for all the hot Need for Speed action as it becomes available.
Disney has had a less than stellar year when it comes to its family-friendly films, so it is easy to be hesitant about their latest princess-centric film; Frozen. Luckily, those fears are quickly washed away when the movie begins. Stellar animation and a killer voice cast underlie an incredibly strong script filled with emotional depth and touching moments that will have you believing in the power of family over anything else.
Story
Like many of Disney’s family-friendly films, Frozen is heavily inspired from old literature – namely Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale The Snow Queen. Set in the Kingdom of Arendelle, Frozen follows the story of two princesses – Elsa and Anna. Elsa was born with a special gift – she is able to control the powers of ice and snow. In an accident that almost kills Anna, their father the King locks the castle gates, limiting the girl’s access to the outside world, and keeps Elsa hidden away in her bedroom until she learns how to control her power. One day the King and Queen are killed when their ship capsizes out at sea, and the girls have to continue on without them.
Three years later, and the gates are finally opened for Elsa’s coronation as Queen of Arendelle but while she tries her best to maintain her composure and keep her powers locked away, she loses control and inadvertently unleashes a blizzard through her kingdom before fleeing to the snow-draped mountains for solitude. Anna quickly jumps onto her horse and heads out into the wilderness to save her sister, and along the way meets with a brash young ice salesman – Kristoff.
Frozen isn’t afraid to make subtle jabs at previous movies. A prime example is the fact that Anna falls deeply in love and agrees to marry a young foreign prince the day she met him causing both Elsa and Christophe call her judgement into question. It is good to see that Disney at this point can see that even though their old films are timeless classics that resonate deeply with people from all ages, that the characters in them never made rational decisions.
Frozen’s greatest strength comes from the deep, emotional connection that you will make with the characters, and the connections they will make among themselves. For once this isn’t a Disney-princess film that circles around finding the one true love or living happily ever after. Sure those elements are there, but they very much take a back seat to the bond that Anna and Elsa have with each other as sisters. I for one loved this aspect of the movie, and it gave the movie a lot more depth than you would expect from watching the trailers.
The emotional depth really caught me off-guard. The trailers and previously shown footage really painted the picture of a happy, friendly, jovial film that the whole family would sing and dance along to, but that wasn’t quite what we got. Frozen has moments of frivolity and Anna’s cute awkwardness do make for some laughs, but Frozen is so much more than that. There is an incredible amount of emotional depth here, and some really serious themes get brought up throughout the course of the movie.
For anyone wondering if this movie is still appropriate for your little ones just remember – Snow White featured 7 dwarfs murdering a witch after she demanded a huntsman cut out a princesses heart – and there is nothing anywhere near that level of darkness. However, Elsa is still a dark character, not through her actions but through what she represents. Elsa carries a burden so heavy and she feels that she cannot share it with anyone – not even those that love her. It is heart breaking watching Anna constantly reach out only to be rebuffed by her sister who feels that she can’t let her in. Don’t be afraid though, this is a Disney movie and of course that means a happy ending, and Frozen gets an ending that is fitting for everyone involved.
Video
Disney have given us a fantastic looking movie in Frozen, further refining the 3d animation that was really introduced in Tangled, and taking it further than ever before. Characters all retain the classic Disney animated style but a lot of life and character comes from even the smallest details. Things that weren’t possible in the past, like expressionate eyes, or subtle visual cues really help Frozen come alive. 2013 seems like the perfect time for this movie, as I cannot imagine it being as great as it is without the incredible visuals to back it up.
Frozen features a couple of recurring themes and motifs that are all elegantly and beautifully presented through the course of the film. The first of these motifs is (as you would expect) ice and snow. As well as being representative of the emotions characters are feeling, the whole premise of the film revolves around snow, and Disney have done a wonderful job in drawing and animating everything from the snow-laden rooftops through to torrential blizzards. Several scenes have Elsa throwing snow and ice into the air, creating beautiful patterns that are mesmerising to look at.
I was hoping that Frozen would be the first feature-length film to utalise Disney’s new “Meander,” artstyle which blends 3d and 2d animation together (the animation was used in their recent animated short – Paperman). Sadly though this wasn’t to be. There isn’t much to complain about here though, as the animators have worked incredibly hard to present a movie that is as appealing visually as it is emotionally.Audio
The voice work for Frozen is simply amazing. Kristen Bell and Idina Menzel play their roles of Anna and Elsa perfectly. The duo are joined by an array of supporting characters from Olaf the snowman (Josh Gad) who wants to see summer, Kristoff the ice-salesman (Jonathan Groff), and Hans the prince (Santino Fontana) that Anna falls madly in love with immediately after meeting. The cast all give their absolute all to their roles, and make these animated characters truly come alive.
Voice work is one thing, but this is a Disney Animated movie for crying out loud! That means MUSIC! Singing and dancing has always been a staple of Disney, but some movies don’t give it the same justice as others. Luckily, Frozen knocks it out of the park. Every song in the film’s soundtrack is catchy, passionate and relevant to the story. It can sometimes be a little disjointing for characters to suddenly burst into song (even when it may seem unnecessary or impractical) the tunes will have you bobbing along, or even singing them aloud.
If there is one weakness to the soundtrack, it is the fact that there is no traditional “Villain Song” to accompany the film’s evil do-er. There is still a villain-song though, and it is cleverly disguised as something completely different. The option to go this route really makes you go back and reflect on earlier events in the movie with a whole new light.
While going back and reflecting on the film is great, there is one song that is powerful, emotional and downright amazing. Even without contextt , Menzel’s showstopping number – Let it Go is hauntingly beautiful and it is easy to see why it has already been nominated as one of the Golden Globe contenders for Best Original Song. Menzel puts so much heart and soul into her role as Elsa, and Let it Go lets it all explode out. The song is about freeing yourself, disregarding the judgements of others, being who you want to be and no longer hiding who you are inside. It is the type of amazing track that transcends the movie it was introduced in and can be applied to so many situations in life.
Overall
Frozen was a very different movie than I expected when I walked into the cinema, but it was definitely for the better. Frozen is easily one of Disney’s best films of the modern era, with its lovable cast of characters, deep story, top notch animation and a soundtrack that rivals some of the greats from the Disney Renaissance. Frozen really is THE movie to see this season, and if it only does one thing, it is prove that Disney is BACK!
Capsule Computers review guidelines can be found here.
When Square Enix was finally able to announce the release date for Final Fantasy X|X-2 HD Remaster, they were only able to do so the for PS3 version of the game, with the PS Vita release date left unstated and a mystery. But, it seems that the time for them to reveal its coming has now arrived as news has just come with that very information.
