Over the past four weeks, The Adventure Company (division of Nordic Games) have been placing a series of classified adverts in London’s The Times Newspaper; in preparation for the third chapter ‘A Murder Of Ravens’ in The Raven-Legacy of a Master Thief on September 24.
Nik Blower, PR, Marketing and Franchise Director at Nordic Games stated, “The Times classified adverts have been used for decades to great effect to track down missing persons and objects and we thought that this would be an ideal medium to offer up a search for the elusive Raven. From those who were genuinely trying to help in the search to the slightly more ludicrous responses, we were extremely pleased with the number and variation of responses we received to these adverts and it really demonstrates how the hunt for a master criminal can capture the public imagination.”
The Raven – Legacy of a Master Thief takes players on an adventure across 1960s Europe, on the hunt for The Raven art burglar in order to protect the legendary sapphire, the “Eye of the Sphinx” on its journey from Switzerland to Egypt.
For those wishing to hunt down The Raven themselves, the season pass is now available on Steam for PC, Mac and Linux and during December via PSN and Xbox Live.
It was just announced that the One Piece Unlimited World Red3DS game will feature two original characters strictly designed for the games story, now while we saw one of the characters briefly during one of the game’s trailers we never really got a good view of it, well now we have a few. To me the most “stand out” piece of information is that, unlike a lot of Anime games, series creator Eiichiro Oda has designed these two characters himself to directly fit into the game’s main plot, that gives me faith in these characters and their abilities to, hopefully, impress audiences. So far we don’t know anything much about these characters, they may be friends or foes, one thing we know for sure is that they are key to the game’s story. Here’s the official page from the magazine showing off the new characters:
Shown in the top right corner is character by the name of Red, whom may or may not be the reason why the game is titled “Unlimited World Red“, we don’t know anything about this character as of yet, the only thing we do know is his voice actor which will be none other than Masachike Ichimura who is famous for voicing Mewtwo in Pokemon: The First Movie as well as Red XIII from the movie Final Fantasy Advent Children. The next is Pat, he’s the raccoon who’s fairly hard to miss. He gives off a fairly “Chopper” vibe but, once again, we don’t know anything about him apart form his voice actress who happens to be TARAKO (Chibi Maruko-chan). The next original character is a girl named Yadoya who you can see is pictured just above Luffy on the page. She will be voiced by Rumi Hiiragi who is most famous for her role as Chihiro in Spirited Away. The game is set to ship around Japan on November the 21st of this year.
The world of Anime and Manga is indeed a strange and scary one, especially when huge series’, much like Attack On Titan, decide to move into merchandising with what seems like no boundaries as to what they want or are willing to do. Well it has just been announced that three different perfumes are to be released, each of which reflect on a certain character from the hit Anime and Manga Attack On Titan. “Finally!” I screamed as I read this news “I can cloud myself in the smell of blood and iron! The ladies will love it!”, I’m sure I wasn’t the only one though. This is absolutely true by the way, the company making it has already said that the fragrances will be based on Eren, Mikasa and the crowd favourite Levi. Each are to have their own individual and unique scents.
Eren, Mikasa and Levi Fragrances. Smell Like a Titan-Killing Soldier.
Eren’s has top notes of bergamot, lemon, lime, and mint, with middle notes of cardamom, nutmeg, and anise. The base notes are cedar, sandalwood, and musk. Apparently these “ingredients” together allow the “smeller” to sense Eren’s straight-forward personality and “resolve to destroy the Titans”, which is a must-have for lads heading out on the town for the night. Mikasa’s fragrance is directed towards the female audience, her perfume has top notes of cassis liqueur, raspberry, and rose hip; middle notes are plum, muguet, and rose, with base notes of cedar, musk, and sweet. It is said to reflect on her mostly calm nature but also shows her strength when fighting for Eren, it is also meant to unveil her hidden femininity. Last but not least is Levi’s fragrance which has top notes are of cleanliness and soap; with floral middle notes of rose, iris, and lotus; and base notes of cedar and musk. It is said to represent his brilliance as a top-class soldier yet also hows his cleanly side.
I need them…NOW!
It looks like I was very much mistaken, here I thought we’d be nabbing a perfume that smelt of war and depression whilst being, pretty much, held captive in giant walls, surrounded by man-eating giants…but instead we got some, what seems like, beautiful smelling fragrances for both men and women alike. If you’re interested at all in purchasing these gems, you can pre-order them from koubutsu-ya, each individual 30ml bottle will set you back 5,775 yen (US$58) and is planned for shipping on the 26th of October of this year. If you’re heading out to kill Titans make sure you’re prepared with, what I’m calling, “Scent of Soldiers – Titan Edition”.
Patlabor: The Mobile Police – The Television Series Collection 2 Studio:Sunrise Publisher:Maiden Japan Format: Blu-Ray Release Date: September 10th, 2013 Price: $69.98 – Available Here
Overview Patlabor as an anime is divided between two timelines between all the different productions. With the Movie Timeline encompassing the original OVA series and all the movies, while the TV Timeline contains the first and second actual television series. The OVA series (review) itself was a pretty solid, and while the Television Series contains all the same characters, that is where the similarities drop off as they happen in two different timelines. So, what does this second collection provide in terms of the series, and all of Patlabor, as a whole? A brand new interpretations of events? Of the characters? Or just context for another shot at spending time with the crew of Special Vehicles Division 2?
Story
Collection 2 gathers together episodes 13 through 24, where we find Noa, Patlabor Alphonse and the rest of the Special Vehicles Division 2 having plenty more misadventures very akin to the feel of the OVA series. Every episode is faced with a different problem and the same group all fumbling their way through it. Much like the OVA series the vast majority of the episodes are one-offs, simply another interesting development that occurs through their professional lives, but there are still a few episodes building towards a larger plot.
This is somewhat why Patlabor shines, even with a considerable lack of a giant plot arc, the series is still entertaining and engaging. In some ways the OVA series was just a taste of the kinds of things that could happen in the Patlabor universe and the Television series is an expansion of it, focused mainly on the interpersonal relationships between characters than the big mechas facing off. This allows the universe to feel more realistic, even with the mechas and the occasional monster and also explains why Patlabor is still remembered so well today, enough to produce a new production even.
The one-off episodes are generally fun and interesting, taking different approaches and encountering different types of situations, though it is noticeable that there are only really three types of episodes. Those where someone new is learning how to pilot a Labor, those where they combat a terrorist plot, and those where the team gets a better understanding of each other. Thankfully, however even with only three types of episodes the ones shown are vastly different and don’t step on each other’s toes in terms of reusing material.
The most interesting thing about these particular episodes comes of course at the end, which deals with the leaving of one of the major characters, Kanuka. Unfortunately, it is immediately preceded with a clip-show recapping all the characters, but what really can be done? Important characters leaving is always a difficult in terms of how to handle, finding the proper way for their exit and ensuring that everyone remains true to character. Really, this is the strongest part of the series being highlighted, so that it can be appreciated all the more, plus it is always nice when a series that is mainly one-offs actually goes about changing the status quo.
Visuals
With the series having been made in 1990, the Blu-Ray release does a pretty good job of ensuring that the graphics look well enough to stand up to today. There are a few very small moments of corruption, but these are so brief as to not subtract from the experience as a whole and with the time involved pretty much unavoidable. Those that have seen the OVA Series will notice that all the characters and Patlabors look almost the same despite the difference in the timeline, and change in studio, and since they all act the same as well, it’s better this way as a reboot for an expanded exploration of the universe they live in.
Audio
Like the characters visuals, the characters all retain almost the same voice actors for both the Japanese and English dub, which is another boon for those that enjoyed the OVA series. The one difference in voice is in the dub for gentle giant Hiromi, but as he is quiet the majority of the time, this is easily overlooked. With the same voices, it really just feels like getting the original gang back together again to go on even more of their mishap-filled missions. While the voice acting doesn’t wow by any means, they still do a decent enough job to satisfy.
The music of the series is still almost as 80’s as the OVA, but at least the themes this time around are less a love song between Noa and her Patlabor Alphonese and more about the team as a whole. The opening theme “Sono mama no Kimi de ite (Please be as you were)” by Yuko Nitou focuses still on love, but also with using and working towards dreams and helping eachother. The ending theme “Midnight Blue” by Kiss Me Quick focuses on trying to reach someone before they’re gone. So, actually the music is probably exactly as much as 80’s as the OVA, focused more on using nice catchy songs for the themes instead of those particularly related to them.
Extras
This 2 disc release is unfortunately very lacking in the special features department. With no clean opening or ending, even some of the standard features are completely absent. Outside of 2 trailers for other recent releases, there isn’t much to the the extras. But, with an entire series being released across 4 collections, there probably isn’t that many to go around anyway, so being the second collection makes sense for it to primarily be only episodes.
Overall
Fans of Patlabor from when it was first released, or those that enjoyed the episodic style of the OVA should find just what they are looking for here. Patlabor is a great mecha series, with great characters that are for the most part the actual focus of the series. The graphics may not have improved much in the transition to Blu-Ray, but there is almost no degradation either, which is great for those wanting to relive the nostalgia. While there isn’t too much in the way of overarching plot in this collection, the one-off adventures do a fine enough job on their own to serve the series.
Capsule Computers review guidelines can be found here.
Ubisoft has just released a video showing the “unboxing” of the Watch_Dogs DedSec Edition, it’s not really an unboxing though as we don’t get to see someone pull all the stuff from the retail itself. However, the video does give a nice look at and preview of just what each piece of the DedSec Edition provides.
The DedSec Edition does look like the pretty definitive version for those ready to jump on the Watch_Dogs bandwagon and embrace it entirely. With the statue, soundtrack, badges, map, cards, and books included in the version it seems like a fairly sizable bundle, plus what they show of bonus game content looks pretty interesting for those wanting to get all of those special perks in the game.
Watch the DedSec Edition unboxing for yourself embedded below to get a better look at all the different pieces. Watch_Dogs is set to release at the end of November for Xbox 360, PS3, Wii U, Xbox One, PS4, and PC.
Now that Wargame AirLand Battle is on PC, Mac, and Linux it seems like the prefect time for Focus Home Interactive and ESL to team up for Go4Wargame tournament series. Players will be able to compete against each other for one of two cash prizes weekly, one for the US and one for the rest of the world.
Beginning September 29th, registered players will be able to go at it in 2v2 matches in the new Wargame Airland Battle gametype Conquest Mode. Then monthly finals will pit the 8 best teams from that month for an even bigger prize. These weekly and monthly competitions will continue for 3 months straight.
Those interested in taking part in the tournament can head over the the ESL Go4Wargame webpage right now to register and get prepared for the games to start on September 29th. But, don’t feel the need to wait to play as practice makes perfect, so be sure to load up your copy of Wargame AirLand Battle for PC, Mac, or Linux.
Even though Obscure has been renamedFinal Exam, the game is looking just as wild and crazy as ever with the different things players will be bale to do when fighting the undead. Just how much players have to pick from is evidenced by the new overview trailer that developer Mighty Rocket Studio and publisher Focus Home Interactive have released.
Final Exam features four different characters to pick from to the upgrades players want to choose for them as they play and re-play levels combating the hordes of zombies, there is plenty of things to do, especially with up to 4 person coop, with 2 player local. With weapons as simple as a baseball bat, to advanced as a Mighty Rocket Launcher, players will have plenty to wield as their characters level up and get new skills in the 2.5 D sidescroller.
Those wanting to check out what they can expect in Final Exam can watch the trailer for themselves embedded below. Those interested in playing the game will get their chance when it releases November 8th, 2013 for XBLA, PSN, and PC.
To win simply leave a comment below answering the following question related to tsuritama and we’ll pick a lucky winner for each title:
Saving the world one fish at a time! Which fish would you start with?
We’ll pick 2 lucky winners on the 18th of September. Make sure you use a valid email when you register/post your comment so we can email you if you are one of our winners. Also let us know your preference (BLU-RAY or DVD)
MOGA Pocket Controller Review Manufacturer:PowerA Compatibility: Bluetooth enabled Android 2.3+ smartphones and tablets Price: $59.00 AUD (Available here)
Mobile gaming has become a force to be reckoned with. For those who may disagree, check out the millions of downloads in the app store, or how many speculate the failure of the PS Vita due to the rise of mobile gaming. If not, just look at that aunty you hate who thinks video games are a waste of time yet still sends you all those annoying Candy Crush requests on Facebook. Mobile gaming is bigger than ever and the hardcore gamers and continuously trying to find new ways to take it to the next level. Hell I recall back in 2011 plugging my iPhone into into my car while playing Dead Space just so I could use the speakers as a lame attempt at surround sound. So you can imagine how rewarding it felt while holding the MOGA Pocket Controller in my hands. Although I have heard that the MOGA Pro Controller is slightly more comfortable than the MOGA Pocket, I haven’t had the pleasure on getting my hands on it, so as it stands the MOGA Pocket Controller is the most engaging mobile gaming experience I’ve had to date. In many cases gameplay is improved quite considerably and with the convenience of it being ‘pocket sized’ the MOGA Pocket Controller is an easy recommend to all hardcore mobile gamers.
The main selling point of the MOGA Pocket Controller over the Pro is of coarse the size and it doesn’t disappoint. The controller is about the same size of an Android phone, so when they say pocket size – they really mean it. As for the design it has a very similar layout to an Xbox 360 controller, except with only two triggers as opposed to four and the start & select buttons replacing the d-pad. The controller connects via Bluetooth, and as a result there are two different ways the player can take control. The typical way is to flip up the centre piece upwards which the phone clips in place like a Nintendo DS. It seems to hold the phone quite firmly and with the grooves in the back of the controller there shouldn’t be any problems with anything falling out or slipping. Alternatively players can also choose to rest the phone somewhere else (up against a wall, down on a table, etc) and just play without the controller connected which is fine too. Gameplay is for the most part responsive, with generally little to no delay. Sometimes there can be a few issues on the odd occasion, but restarting the device generally fixes any issues. Batteries (two AAA) fit into the back of the grips which can be pulled apart which is convenient too. Ultimately the controller feels like a home console controller which is exactly what MOGA is about – bridging the gap between mobile and console gaming.
Unfortunately the support for MOGA is hit and miss at the moment as some titles are clearly better than others. The best cases like AVP Evolution the swipe commands are translated into actions on the controller. However in other games like Dead Trigger some of these touch screen commands are ignored, and the player will still need to occasionally touch the screen like it of a 3DS title. This could perhaps be a conscious effort, but it’s something that should be noted. But like all ports it all comes down to the developer. That being said, the controller actually improves some titles. First-person shooters are easily the best example, as holding a controller makes the action feel more engaging and responsive. Furthermore you don’t have your hands covering half the screen so you’ve got even more of a fighting chance against hordes of enemies. Playing retro titles like Sonic the Hedgehog and Pacman with the MOGA controller really helps tap into that retro feel, with the light-weight controller keeping the gameplay feeling nostalgic. After playing various titles I couldn’t help but find my mind racing with excitement over what other awesome titles would benefit from MOGA. Personally, my fingers are crossed forStreet Fighter IV Volt!
In order to get the most out of your MOGA Pocket Controller it’s recommended to download the free MOGA Pivot app. This handy little app greatly assists in connecting the device as well as navigating through all the apps on your phone which are compatible. It even goes as far as also showing off other titles available on the app store compatible with MOGA as well, with the option to purchase them. This way gamers know all their options of MOGA enabled game and let me tell you most of these are pretty tempting! With even more and more titles becoming MOGA enabled the library is only getting bigger, which is very exciting for hardcore mobile gamers.
If you’re the type of gamer who’s eagerly waiting for the day mobile games rival console titles, the MOGA Pocket Controller is a must-have. Mobile gaming has never seen a controller like this before, balancing both comfortable and responsive controls with it’s convenient size that fits right into your pocket. The pivot app takes it all a step further, making the library of titles more accessible and the option of having the phone connected or disconnected to the controller is also a nice touch. If that’s not good enough – it’s only $29.95 and it’s totally worth it. Admittedly it’s not perfect – the plastic looks like it could suffer from prolonged wear and tear and there are seldom connectivity issues may appear, but the positives greatly drown out these minor setbacks. The MOGA Pocket Controller is easy to recommend and personally I’m looking forward to more products from PowerA in the future.
Be sure to check out video review below
Capsule Computers review guidelines can be found here.
Director, Producer and screenwriter Andrew Adamson, Lead actress Xzannjah. Author of Mister Pip Lloyd Jones and Tim Finn, Original Music and Songs.
Just last night, Mr.Pip had its worldwide premiere in director, producer and screenwriter Andrew Adamson’s native land of Auckland, New Zealand (picture to the right from the red carpet).
Click here for the Australian trailer for the film. Mr. Pip is due for release in Australia on November 6th courtesy of Paramount Pictures.
The final film poster for the movie can be seen below the following official synopsis:
Directed, written and produced by Academy Award nominated Director Andrew Adamson, Mr. Pip is based on Lloyd Jones’ seminal novel which won the Commonwealth Writers’ Prize and was shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize. The film was shot on location in Bougainville, Papua New Guinea and New Zealand.
Set against the backdrop of civil war in Bougainville, Mr. Pip stars Hugh Laurie (House) as the enigmatic teacher Mr. Watts who reads to his pupils from Charles Dickens’ “Great Expectations”. Matilda, a 14-year-old student played by newcomer Xzannjah, is transported by her imagination and the world of Dickens, becoming transfixed by the characters and Mr. Watts’ interpretation of the story. The film also stars Healsville Joel, Eka Darville and Kerry Fox.
Mr. Pip is a wonderful tale of the imaginative power of story and reveals that on an island at war, fiction can have dangerous consequences.
The main selling point of the MOGA Pocket Controller over the Pro is of coarse the size and it doesn’t disappoint. The controller is about the same size of an Android phone, so when they say pocket size – they really mean it. As for the design it has a very similar layout to an 
