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FIFAe Finals 2024 featuring Rocket League and eFootball to take place in Riyadh from 5-12 December 

  • FIFAe Finals return to Riyadh with partnership between FIFAe and Saudi Esports Federation
  • FIFAe World Cup 2024™ featuring Rocket League to take place from 5 to 8 December
  • Two FIFAe World Cups featuring eFootball™ to take place from 9 to 12 December

The FIFAe Finals 2024 will mark the first time that the event includes multiple esports titles, establishing itself as the ultimate stage for both the FIFAe World Cup™ featuring Rocket League and the FIFAe World Cup featuring eFootball™ on console and mobile respectively.

Hosted at the SEF Arena at BLVD Riyadh City, the event will unfold in two stages. It begins with the FIFAe World Cup featuring Rocket League from 5 to 8 December, followed by two FIFAe World Cup featuring eFootball™ (on console and mobile) that will run from 9 to 12 December.

Boasting a gaming-savvy population, strong participation in FIFAe competitions, and a legacy of world champions, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia has been chosen as host of the FIFAe Finals 2024. With the Saudi Esports Federation (SEF) as a presenting partner, the FIFAe Finals are continuing to expand, engaging local and global communities in this growing ecosystem. All days of the FIFAe Finals 2024 are open for the public on a walk-in basis. In addition, fans can pre-register here for December 7,8 and 12 to secure a seat for the most important days. The detailed schedule and more information are available here.

Ahead of the eagerly anticipated tournaments, Turki Alfawzan, CEO of the Saudi Esports Federation said: “As we continue to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s position as a global leader in esports, hosting the FIFAe Finals 2024 is a proud moment for us. This event not only highlights the Kingdom’s commitment to the esports ecosystem but also provides an unparalleled opportunity for players from across the world to showcase their talent and passion on a global stage. We’re excited to witness the next chapter of esports history unfold right here in Riyadh.”

This prestigious event offers players the opportunity to represent their nations and lift the official FIFAe World Cup Trophy on the biggest stage. With 16 nations competing in Rocket League and up to 18 countries going head-to-head in eFootball™, the tournaments promise to be an exhilarating showcase of the world’s top talent, fueled by intense national pride for the first time in these esports ecosystems. Full details on the competing nations and the tournament format can be found at FIFA.GG.

In line with Rocket League’s third-party regulations, the prize pool for the FIFAe World Cup featuring Rocket League stands at USD 250,000. The prize pool for both eFootball™ competitions (console and mobile) totals USD 100,000 each, bringing the total prize distribution for the FIFAe Finals 2024 to USD 450,000.

“This year’s addition of multiple new titles marks a major expansion for football esports tournaments, offering players from diverse ecosystems the chance to compete on the biggest stage under the FIFAe banner. We’re excited to continue this momentum together with the SEF and look forward to bringing this event to life in December together with our partners and publishers”, added Mattias Grafström, FIFA Secretary General.

The FIFAe Finals 2024 are the second FIFAe event of this year after the inaugural FIFAe Next Gen event in Liverpool, England, which included the first-ever FIFAe World Cup featuring Football Manager, alongside the FIFAe Fame Your Game Cup.

Fans can catch the action live on the FIFAe Twitch channel from 5 to 12 December, with every match available on FIFA.GG, including real-time tournament results.

For more details, fans can follow FIFAe on social media, receive competition updates on FIFA.GG and join the conversation using #FeWCRL, #FeWCeFootball and #FameYourGame.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Splintered Fate Review

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Splintered Fate

Developer: Super Evil Megacorp
Publisher: Super Evil Megacorp
Platforms: Windows (Reviewed), Switch
Release Date: 17 July 2024 (Switch), 7 November 2024 (Windows)
Price: $29.99 USD / $44.99 AUD – Available Here

Overview

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Splintered Fate is a 3D action rogue-like that follows the Hades school of procedurally generated hack n’ slashes. That said, Splintered Fate’s simple gameplay, lack of excessive dialogues, and accessible upgrade system make it an experience more akin to a traditional beat ’em up. Now that you know what you’re getting yourself into, let’s see if this new iteration holds a candle to the storied legacy of brawlers that the Ninja Turtles franchise is famous for.

Story

While training on the rooftops of New York City at night, Leonardo is ambushed by Shredder and his elite Foot Clan soldiers. Heavily outnumbered, Leonardo is defeated but is brought back to the turtle lair through a mysterious portal.

As Leonardo recounts his strange predicament to his brothers, the familiar voice of their esteemed sensei calls out to them from beyond… No, Master Splinter isn’t dead, and I’d see myself out if I didn’t have to finish the review. Bad jokes aside, it turns out our favorite master ninja rat is trapped in the same kind of portal that saved Leonardo at the brink of time.

Despite his ethereal form, Master Splinter informs his disciples that the only way to solve this conundrum and stop whatever Shredder is plotting is obviously through extreme violence. I can’t really argue with Splinter there since this is an action game – and a beat ’em up on top of that.

Throughout their journey, our pizza-loving heroes will encounter friends and foes. The game does a good job fleshing out the characters. Each boss encounter provides fun banter between them and the turtles. Raphael’s grumpy remarks and Michelangelo’s bad jokes keep the dialogues lighthearted and fun.

Gameplay

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Splintered Fate’s levels are structured almost identically to Hades. The four chapters comprise multiple levels where players must defeat a set number of enemies to advance. Enemies include the series’ mainstays, such as the electrifying Mousers, Shredder’s Foot soldiers, and rats – although the Rat King is mysteriously absent. Furthermore, common mobs appear in different sizes and colors – Despite their lack of visual flair, their attacks change enough to make them distinct threats.

The boss selection is rather conservative, although I must admit I don’t remember facing Karai in the old Ninja Turtles beat ’em ups. Karai is a playable character in Tournament Fighters for the SNES, and she’s also selectable in the DLC expansion for Shredder’s Revenge, but that’s all the knowledge I can offer on the matter, currently. 

The four ninja turtles are playable from the start, but there are no additional characters to unlock. The limited pool of playable characters wouldn’t be an issue if the turtles had more distinct basic attributes and attacks. That said, there’s some degree of uniqueness to each turtle since they have exclusive special moves and stats. Regardless, one of the hallmarks of a rogue-lite is the possibility to create numerous and varied builds, so the turtles’ lack of distinction isn’t a deal breaker.

After each level, players are granted a random boon that can be currency, pizza, or upgrades. Rarer turtle powers, however, can heavily modify the turtles’ skills. Other boons may grant completely new tools, replacing the default weaker ones. Upgrades can work great together and setting up the right combination to get synergistic bonuses is satisfying, making runs varied and addictive. 

I personally find it exciting to build my turtle’s skill tree with whatever chance sends my way. Conversely, the inherent randomness of rogue-lites leads to a lot of trial and error, increasing the number of runs necessary to finish the game by a lot. Despite that, there’s some room for players to influence which turtle powers may appear with the use of artifacts acquired through progression. 

Players can tackle the game’s multiple levels solo or with up to three others in local or online multiplayer sessions. Fortunately, online co-op works well even during four-player sessions. To my surprise, it was easy to connect with three other players. The chaos that ensued was one of the highlights of my time with the game.

The controls are responsive. The easily customizable gameplay combined with the addition of functional online co-op will keep players tackling run after run to solve the mystery of the portals, experiment with builds, or just enjoy mindless beat ’em up fun.

Visuals

Visually, the game takes a simple approach typical of indie titles. That said, the characters were modeled and animated with care, and the backgrounds are colorful even if a bit lacking in detail. All in all, the game successfully delivers vibrant graphics. The hand-drawn, comic book-styled art adds personality and life to cutscenes.

Audio

The voice acting is very well done overall. Most characters sound good, and the turtles’ voices fit their personalities perfectly. The soundtrack is decent but could use a few more tracks to avoid excessive repetition. While not groundbreaking, the music fits the game’s action and mood well enough.

Overall

The enjoyment gaming provides nowadays is, in many cases, inversely proportional to modern titles’ inflated budgets. As unfortunate as the gaming industry’s current state may be, players who appreciate a good-old-fashioned video game can still partake in their favorite pastime thanks to smaller and more focused titles like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Splintered Fate.

The game delivers a satisfying blend of rogue-lite mechanics, engaging combat, and online cooperative multiplayer. While it doesn’t revolutionize the genre or the franchise, its solid gameplay loop and nostalgic charm make it a fun experience for fans of the turtles and action enthusiasts alike. 

Capsule Computers review guidelines can be found here.

Wartales Surpasses Million Units Sold, Lays Siege in “The Skelmar Invasion” DLC Dec. 10, 2024

Acclaimed medieval tactics game introduces community requested mechanics and enemies

BORDEAUX, France – Nov. 22, 2024 – Wartales, the medieval open-world tactical RPG from developer Shiro Games, celebrates its 1 million sales milestone on Steam with the bloodiest DLC to date, The Skelmar Invasion, arriving on PC via Steam on Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2024.

The DLC will be accompanied by a free update for the base game, adding a number of highly requested new features. Lead the way to Ormance, a war-scarred land now occupied by the fearsome and battle-tested Skelmar. Organize calculated attacks to liberate thoroughly fortified baronies and recruit local rebel forces. Rebuild settlements ravaged by years of raids and bloodshed to unlock new progression options for everyone in the warband. 

Bolster the resistance with the finest weapons and armor, then lead them into epic siege battles against well-guarded strongholds at the heart of each barony. Beware, warriors will come under deadly fire from new crossbow-wielding enemies in every faction thanks to Wartales’ concurrent free update arriving alongside The Skelmar Invasion.

“It’s a celebratory time for Wartales,celebrating more than 1 million sales on Steam alone,” said Quentin Lapeyre, Game Director at Shiro Games. “The Skelmar Invasion offers thrilling new experiences, and it was our chance to give mercenaries the highly requested siege battles alongside many more long awaited requests.”

The Skelmar Invasion launches Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2024, on PC via Steam and GOG for $19.99/€19.99/£16.99 with a two-week launch discount of 10% off. Additionally, new Wartales players will be able to pick up the base game and The Skelmar Invasion in a specially priced bundle for $33.50.

For more information about Wartales, please visit the official website and follow the game on X/Twitter, Facebook, or Discord

About Shiro Games 

Shiro Games is an independent Bordeaux-based studio founded by video game veterans Sebastien Vidal and Nicolas Cannasse to bring new innovative games to life. Based in Bordeaux, France, the studio released its first project Evoland in 2013 and its acclaimed sequel Evoland 2 in 2015. Shiro Games then launched its popular Viking strategy game Northgard on Steam in 2018, which has gone on to sell more than 3 million units across various platforms as well as Dune: Spice Wars, the spice-infused blend of 4X and RTS gameplay. Wartales is their latest title, with several major DLC additions since its release in April 2023. 

For more information, please visit the official website or our LinkedIn.

WUTHERING WAVES VERSION 2.0 COMING TO PC AND PLAYSTATION 5 ON JANUARY 2

Fresh Off a TGA Nomination for Best Mobile Game, Wuthering Waves Set to Kick Off the New Year With Major Expansion and Console Debut

GUANGZHOU, CHINA – NOVEMBER 22, 2024 – After kicking off the week with a nomination in the Best Mobile Game category at The Game Awards, Kuro Games today announced Wuthering Waves Version 2.0 will launch on January 2, 2025, coinciding with the game’s debut on PlayStation 5. The award-winning, open-world action RPG is getting its biggest update yet, welcoming players to an all-new region, Rinascita.

Wuthering Waves is a free-to-play, cross-platform, open-world action RPG that emphasizes dynamic movement and freedom of exploration on a mysterious, post-cataclysmic, sci-fi planet. Engage in fast-paced PVE combat that focuses on special dodge, parry, and counter mechanics. Wuthering Waves hosts a deep storyline, breathtaking art and atmosphere, and addictive action-RPG combat that is suitable for novice and veteran RPG players alike. Wuthering Waves features plenty of fierce opponents and captivating quests that unfold in the game’s vast world.
 
Version 2.0 will be available on January 2 (PT), January 1 (UTC). Download Wuthering Waves today on the Wuthering Waves official website, on the App Store, Google Play, and PC via The Epic Games Store. Pre-Order the Wuthering Waves Awakening Bundle today on the PlayStation Store.

ABOUT KURO GAMES

Founded in 2014, Kuro Games main focus is to create high quality, original games that push the boundaries. For over a decade Kuro Games has strived to bring more diverse, innovative, and enjoyable services to its players.

Kuro Games independently developed “Punishing: Gray Raven”, which was well received with warm response from players around the world. With over 30 million downloads worldwide, its recently released new open-world ARPG “Wuthering Waves” is receiving the same public reception.

THE SEVEN DEADLY SINS: GRAND CROSS INTRODUCES “GRAND CROSS 5.5TH ANNIVERSARY: SUPERNOVA” GAME UPDATE 

LOS ANGELESNOVEMBER 22, 2024 – Netmarble, a leading developer and publisher of high-quality mobile games, celebrates the 5.5th Year Anniversary of The Seven Deadly Sins: Grand Cross (7DS). The new update titled, “Grand Cross 5.5th Anniversary: Supernova,” introduces a new hero, limited-time events, rewards and more. 

Starting today, players can experience a new UR hero, [Hero’s Bloodline] Young Knight Lancelot. He is the first hero with ‘Ability,’ a new combat system allowing players to deploy extra skill effects that can be used in addition to existing skill cards. 

As part of the “Grand Cross 5.5th Anniversary: Supernova” update, players can experience various events through December 26 and receive special rewards including: 

  • Grand Cross 5.5th Anniversary Grand Festival Poll Draw: Offers the opportunity to obtain the newly added UR [Hero’s Bloodline] Young Knight Lancelot, or one of the four festival heroes who were voted as fan favorites in a recent poll, guaranteed at 900 mileages. 
  • 5.5th Anniversary Special Thank You Draw: Players can have up to 220 chances to draw a hero through playing in-game activities. Various heroes at UR 90 level, including [Waves of the Earth] Queen Diane who is upgradable to LR level, can be acquired through this draw. 
  • 5.5th Anniversary Jump Supernova Box: Earn the ‘5.5th Anniversary Jump Supernova Ticket’ by playing the game, which can be used to earn all seven members of [The Seven Deadly Sins] including [Waves of the Earth] Queen Diane, [Immortal’s Return] Purgatory Ban, [Cursed Shackles] Purgatory Meliodas and more. 
  • 5.5th Anniversary Event Boss Parade: Challenge the Event Boss – Gloom, Malek, or Kimara – and earn various rewards for defeating them. The 5.5th Anniversary Jump Supernova Box Part 1 Ticket, 5.5th Anniversary Grand Festival Card Pack IV, 5.5th Anniversary Lucky Bag Ticket, SSR Evolution Pendant, and more will be provided as Event Boss Parade rewards. 

In addition, the 5.5th Anniversary Percival’s Lucky Card Event will run through December 5. Players will use a Roc Birds Feather to select a card and receive a reward, such as 5.5th Anniversary Grand Festival Card Pack II, Super Awakening Coins, and more. Other content updates add a new story chapter and an expansion of player rank to 130.

The Seven Deadly Sins: Grand Cross translates the storytelling and adventures of [The Seven Deadly Sins] into a highly engaging and entertaining mobile gaming experience. The game features stunning, high-resolution 3D graphics, more than 100 dramatic cutscenes, and is brought to life with the cast of the original Japanese voice actors reprising their characters.

The Seven Deadly Sins: Grand Cross is now available for download on the App Store and Google Play. For more information, please visit the game’s official website and Facebook.

Based on the manga “The Seven Deadly Sins” by Nakaba Suzuki originally serialized in the weekly SHONEN MAGAZINE published by Kodansha Ltd.

©Nakaba Suzuki, KODANSHA/The Seven Deadly Sins: Revival of the Commandments Project,MBS. All Rights Reserved.
©Nakaba Suzuki, KODANSHA/The Seven Deadly Sins: Dragon’s Judgement Production Committee, TX 
©Nakaba Suzuki, KODANSHA/The Seven Deadly Sins: Four Knights of the Apocalypse Production Committee.
©Netmarble Corp. & Netmarble F&C Inc. All Rights Reserved.

About Netmarble Corporation

Established in Korea in 2000, Netmarble Corporation is a leading developer and publisher of top-grossing mobile games worldwide. Through powerful franchises and collaborations with acclaimed IP holders, Netmarble strives to elevate the gaming experience and entertain audiences globally. As a parent company of Kabam and SpinX Games, and a major shareholder of Jam City and HYBE (formerly Big Hit Entertainment), Netmarble’s diverse portfolio includes Solo Leveling: ARISE, Seven Knights Idle Adventure, Tower of God: New World, Lineage 2: Revolution, MARVEL Future Fight, Ni no Kuni: Cross Worlds and The Seven Deadly Sins: Grand Cross. More information can be found at http://company.netmarble.com.

Just Four Days Remain – The Highly-Anticipated RPG New Arc Line is Launching into Early Access on November 26

The New World awaits!

Prague, Czech Republic – November 22, 2024 – No matter what your stance on the battle between Arcane Magic and the Steampunk Revolution may be, we have excellent news – the highly-anticipated launch of New Arc Line is just around the corner!

Indeed, just four days remain – as New Arc Line will be launching into Early Access on November 26, when it will be available on SteamEpic Games Store and GOG. And for our press friends, we are delighted to let you know that review codes are now available upon request on the link below this press release. Please note that this form is for press only.

Set in a world teetering on the precipice of change, New Arc Line is a story-rich RPG that invites players to explore the abundant yet troubled realm where magic and technology collide. 

The New World awaits, and with it, the last beacon of hope for a potential cure for a global plague that threatens your loved ones as well. But all is not as it seems – tensions simmer beneath the gilded surface of New Arc. Arcane magic clashes with steampunk ingenuity, the wealthy exploit the impoverished, and prejudice festers between humans and other races. As a stranger in this volatile land, you are thrust into the heart of the conflict. Your choices will not only shape your own fate, but also the future of this fractured world.

Will you side with the established powers or champion the downtrodden? Will you embrace the arcane arts or harness the power of technology? In this RPG, every choice carries weight, leading to many branching storylines and impactful consequences. 

To find out more about the world of New Arc Line, check out the latest update straight from the developer, going into the legend of Mick Mortinsen, the first companion to join your party in the game.

New Arc Line will launch in Early Access for $19.99/€19.99 on PC via Steam, Epic Games Store, and GoG on November 26. Review codes are available to press upon request.

About Fulqrum Publishing

Fulqrum Publishing is a global games publisher with a diverse portfolio of titles, including in-house and independent productions. Fulqrum Publishing released over a hundred games, including the critically acclaimed titles like Men of War, King’s Bounty, Space Rangers, Fell Seal, Forgive Me Father and many others.

About Dreamate Games

Dreamate Games is a Ukrainian game development studio founded by industry veterans from some of the biggest Ukrainian development studios: Wargaming, GSC Game World, 4A Games, and Frogwares. As long-time video game geeks and tabletop RPGs fans, they strive to create action-packed stories with strong narratives that intensify player experience. Even the war wasn’t able to stop the studio from developing the project we love.

Constructing the Music behind DIG VR, Making of Episode Out Now

Made with a little bit of Rock and Roll

Watford, UK – 22nd November, 2024: Video Games Music Label Black Razor Records in collaboration with award winning Publisher, Wired Productions, and award winning Developer, Just Add Water, have today launched the third episode of ‘Making DIG VR’ titled ‘Sound of the Broken Ground’. 

The final episode of the three part series digs deep into the creative journey and story behind DIG VR’s Official soundtrack which features six independent radio stations. Brought together by a host of well revered artists, composers and producers, part three is told through the lens of Leo Zullo, Matt Jackson, Sam Clay, Kieron Pepper, Pascal Magdinier, Max Blomfield and Tim Debney. 

Watch the Making of DIG VR ‘Sound of the Broken Ground’

About the DIG VR Soundtrack: 

DIG VR features six independent radio stations which consist of originally created music, all tailored with a variety of genres that evoke emotion through all musical tastes. Each station is designed to accompany players throughout DIG VR as they grow their business in the charming town of Diglington.

Radio Stations in DIG VR: 

  • DIG FM – The ultimate destination for commercial music that digs deep into the hits from every decade and subgenre, taking you on a musical journey that captures energy, spirit, and the evolution of pop music throughout the years. Also available in an instrumental only version!  
  • Drumstep Revolution – Tune in for a high-energy music experience, where the beats are fast, the bass is heavy, and the vibes are electrifying.  
  • Sonata Serenade – Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty and emotional depth of classical music, in a station that brings you the finest compositions, showcasing the complexity and expressive power that define this rich tradition.  
  • CHYME –  Escape into tranquility with soothing ASMR music and calming sounds. CHYME blends gentle melodies, soft tones and ambient whispers to create a deeply relaxing experience.  
  • Harvest Hits –  Your go-to station for farming music which blends country, folk, and traditional tunes that celebrate rural life.  
  • Lo-Fi Haven – Your sanctuary for laid-back, nostalgic sounds. Celebrating the soothing imperfections of lo-fi music, blending mellow melodies, gentle rhythms, and warm, vintage vibes.

DIG VR is now available for Meta Quest priced at £14.99 / $19.99 / €19.99. Sign up for more information via DigVRgame.com, tune in to DIG FM and choose your preferred streaming platform here

About Black Razor Records 

Black Razor Records launched in 2022 and is a wholly owned label of Wired Productions. Its mission is to bridge the gap between the video game and music worlds and to provide music creators a platform to showcase and commercialize their talent. All music originates from video games, whether in-game or for promotional purposes. By collaborating with great writers and producers, the loadout is complete. Music is in the DNA.  

About Wired Productions 

Wired Productions is a true Indie Publisher proudly presenting a diverse range of specially curated games from some of the greatest storytellers and independent developers. Named as “Indie Publisher of the Year” at the MCV / Develop Awards, Wired is home to an award-winning collection of titles including: Bulwark: Falconeer Chronicles, Arcade Paradise VR, Tin Hearts, Martha Is Dead, The Falconeer, The Last Worker, and Deliver Us The Moon. Upcoming titles include Gori: Cuddly Carnage, Hotel Architect, DIG VR and KARMA: The Dark World.

About Just Add Water

Just Add Water was founded in 2006 by Stewart Gilray and after his death has continued to grow as an experienced games development studio. The company has partnered with a variety of the industry’s most high-profile publishers and developers, on well-loved and award-winning franchises. Their 25+ staff have worked on Sniper Elite VR, Sniper Elite VR Winter Warrior for Rebellion Developments, as well as BPM: Bullets Per Minute (for PS4, Xbox One and Nintendo Switch) for Playtonic and AWE Interactive. Other clients have included Bethesda, Oddworld Inhabitants (Oddworld: Stranger’s Wrath & Oddworld: New & Tasty), Bossa Studios (I Am Bread), FuturLab (Powerwash Simulator), Bithell Games (Volume & Volume: Coda), and Liquid Swords.

Face The Ultimate Challenge in MapleStory’s The Dark Ride Update

Exclusive Global MapleStory content Ride or Die Has Arrived alongside Aran and Shade Remaster, Hyper Burning, Tera Blink, Item Burning and More 

LOS ANGELES – November 22, 2024 – Nexon’s popular side-scrolling 2D MMORPG MapleStory has launched The Dark Ride, the first part of a two – part winter update. This update introduces Ride or Die, a Global MapleStory exclusive. 

Ride or Die 

Players assist Althea, an all-new character, and her secret task force of inspectors responsible for protecting the separation of alternate dimensions of Maple World. Equipped with the powerful Mapae tool, the team traverses these dimensions and harness Mapae’s power to remain in them for a limited amount of time to carry out their mission.

Althea ventures deep underground into a Maple World that has long been free of the Black Mage. There, she encounters Kazax who has been resurrected and is controlling six MapleStory bosses – Vellum, Horntail, Papulatus, Darknell, Zakum, and Guardian Angel Slime – and it is up to players to defeat these formidable foes and stop Kazak’s nefarious scheme. In addition, players can earn a variety of rewards when they defeat these foes. 

Players at level 200+ can participate in a 12-week boss rush event. Each week, they can choose from three difficulty levels and select the number of additional challenges to undertake for extra bonuses as they face one of the six randomly chosen bosses and up to 20 different challenges. Points earned from defeating bosses and remaining death counts contribute to their weekly scores, with higher difficulties providing better rewards. 

Aran and Shade Return with New Skills 

Aran the Polearm Master and Shade the Forgotten Hero have both been remastered, bringing players new skills, animations, abilities and voiceovers. Newly created Aran and Shade characters can obtain gear upgrades, experience and power boosts, and level up support, while existing Aran and Shade characters can receive special event outfits and chairs through the “Blossoming by Moonshade” event. 

In addition to one Hyper Burning character in The Dark Ride update, players can also choose to Hyper Burn either Aran or Shade, enabling quick gameplay immersion and access to their remastered skills. This event supports rapid leveling and engagement with these newly revamped characters, enriching the overall game experience during the event period​. 

Prepare for the Return of Hyper Burning and Tera Blink and the All-New Item Burning 

Happening now through February 11, 2025, Hyper Burning makes its return, allowing a character to gain two bonus levels each time they level up until they reach level 260. Tera Blink is also back to teach players the basics of MapleStory for their Hyper Burning character, providing them with plenty of EXP to help them reach level 200 in the blink of an eye. Additionally, with the new Item Burning event, the stats of a Hyper Burning character’s equipment will level up as players complete boss challenges after reaching level 200, giving new and returning players an easy way to undertake bossing. 

Earn a Wealth of Rewards during the Page of Memories Event 

Themed around the Librarian and memories of Maple World’s past, the Page of Memories event runs through January 14, offering players access to untold stories of the Black Mage’s Commanders. Players can encounter a variety of scenarios and earn a wealth of rewards, including daily and weekly attendance bonuses, stat buffs throughout the event, and coin and meso shops stocked with growth and cosmetic items. 

Enjoy Various Quality-of-Life Improvements 

The Dark Ride brings MapleStory players various quality-of-life improvements and rebalanced skills for classes. Details are available here.  

The Dark Ride Continues 

December 17, 2024 

The next part of The Dark Ride goes live on December 17, featuring the exclusive event Dark Maplemas, that offers players four events and two minigames. High-level players can expect to challenge new boss Limbo in a previously unseen dynamic boss battle. In addition, Hexa Stat II will be available and players can continue on their journey of strengthening their characters. 

January 15, 2025 

Kicking off the new year, MapleStory players can participate in the New Name Auction where they can sell and bid for sought after in-game names (IGNs). They can also tackle the epic dungeon Angler Company, explore the event Extradimensional Visitors, and experience Champion Burning, where as a lead character levels up, two champion characters level up alongside them. 

About MapleStory 

MapleStory is a beloved, 2D side-scrolling online MMORPG known for its distinctive gameplay and unique art style. This iconic game’s popularity has fueled its expansion to the far corners of the globe with several services of MapleStory available to players around the world. In 2005, the Global version of MapleStory launched and has continued to grow and evolve alongside its passionate community of millions of fans.

About Nexon America Inc. 

Founded in 2005, Nexon America Inc. delivers outstanding popular, online game expertise and live game support, taking the strengths of NEXON Co., Ltd. (“Nexon”) and applying them to uniquely Western audiences. For decades, Nexon America has consistently sustained iconic franchises such as MapleStory, a beloved, 2D side-scrolling online MMORPG known for its distinctive gameplay and unique art style and Mabinogi, the world’s most expressive MMORPG, where you create a unique character and live your fantasy life. Both games have gone on to break records and captivate players. With exciting projects on the horizon, Nexon America maintains the pioneering and innovative spirit of its parent company, employing its player-first approach, while designing the best possible gameplay experiences for the Western market. 

KOEI TECMO LAUNCHES DIGITAL PRE-ORDERS AND FREE DEMO FOR DYNASTY WARRIORS: ORIGINS

Fight Lu Bu in the Battle of Sishui Gate as the Three Kingdoms descends into chaos!

Hertfordshire, 22nd November 2024 – Today, KOEI TECMO Europe and developer Omega Force announced that their tactical action game, DYNASTY WARRIORS: ORIGINS, is now available to pre-order digitally before its launch on 17th January 2025 on PlayStation®5, Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC via Steam®. A free demo featuring the “Battle of Sishui Gate” is also available to download on all platforms, enabling players to experience the most intense combat in DYNASTY WARRIORS franchise history. Furthermore, DYNASTY WARRIORS: ORIGINS and the demo will be PS5 Pro enhanced.

From the “Yellow Turban Rebellion” to the climax of the “Battle of Chibi”, the story of DYNASTY WARRIORS: ORIGINS will transport players to the heart of an ancient China in turmoil. Through the eyes of a nameless hero, players will have to make choices to restore peace and shape history to their own experience, battling enormous enemy armies whilst navigating the chaos of the Three Kingdoms era.

In the game’s free demo, players can experience the thrill of DYNASTY WARRIORS: ORIGINS’ massive armies with the “Battle of Sishui Gate”, where forces led by Dong Zhuo have seized power and now face coalition forces led by Yuan Shao. Alongside legendary figures from the Three Kingdoms such as Cao Cao, Sun Jian, and Liu Bei, players will slash through massive enemy forces and battle powerful generals in the immersive battlefield. Throughout the demo, players will be able to use four of the nine types of weapons available in the game – the Sword, the Guandao, the Pudao, and the Wheels – and will be able to customize Battle Arts, gems and accessories.

In addition to the pre-orders and demo, KOEI TECMO Europe also unveiled new details about the game’s original story. As the protagonist, a martial artist with amnesia, journeys through the world of the Three Kingdoms, he’s accompanied by a travelling boy named Yuanhua, who seeks to help the protagonist recover his memories. Two mysterious figures related to the protagonist’s past will also appear to play an important role throughout the story. Players, taking the role of the protagonist, will gradually immerse themselves into the world of the Three Kingdoms, interacting with characters that will guide them on their journey. During their epic quest, fans will forge bonds with the heroes rising in this chaotic era, sometimes clashing swords, and, through various choices and struggles, advance to the legendary “Battle of Chibi”; a key moment in the first half of the Three Kingdoms story.

Players can now digitally pre-order DYNASTY WARRIORS: ORIGINS as a standard and Digital Deluxe Edition, which includes the base game, digital artbook and soundtrack, useful in-game items and an early access of 72 hours before the game releases.

Everyone who digitally pre-orders the game before 16th January 2025 will receive the “Nameless Warrior Garb” costume for the protagonist, in collaboration with Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty.

In addition to the standard edition, fans can now pre-order the “DYNASTY WARRIORS: ORIGINS TREASUREBOX”, which includes the base game, a Special Cloth Poster (B3), the Original Soundtrack, and an Original Book.

Everyone who purchase a physical or digital edition before 30th January 2025 will receive the Soundtrack collection as a bonus, which includes tracks from the early titles of the series.

DYNASTY WARRIORS: ORIGINS is set to be released on 17th January 2025 on PlayStation®5, Xbox Series X|S, and Windows PC via Steam®. For more information, visit the official website.

About DYNASTY WARRIORS

DYNASTY WARRIORS is a tactical action series of games that spans over 20 years and has shipped over 21 million units worldwide. Traditionally, players take on the role of officers from the Romance of the Three Kingdoms while battling through hordes of soldiers in 1 vs. 1,000 gameplay. With the latest title, DYNASTY WARRIORS: ORIGINS, developer Omega Force returns to these roots and delivers what the series has aimed for since its inception: the overwhelming sense of realism of a battlefield where large armies of opposing sides meet, the exhilarating feeling of advancing with your allies and pushing up the battle line, and the thrill of striking down countless enemies.


ABOUT KOEI TECMO EUROPE LTD.

KOEI TECMO EUROPE LTD. is a publisher of interactive entertainment software for current generation consoles, handhelds and digital download content based in Letchworth, Hertfordshire, UK. The company is a wholly owned subsidiary of KOEI TECMO HOLDINGS CO., LTD., headquartered in Yokohama, Japan. KOEI TECMO’s best known for their signature ‘one versus thousands’ Warriors series, the fan-favourite NINJA GAIDEN and fighting entertainment title DEAD OR ALIVE. Through collaboration with strong existing franchises, such as A.O.T. Wings of Freedom (Attack on Titan), has brought fan-favourite shows to life in video game form. The company’s desire for innovation and diversity has seen the creation of the critically acclaimed dark-samurai action title Nioh, which takes on new and unique gameplay styles. The company’s acquisition of Gust, developer of a variety of heart-warming titles, has seen their flagship Atelier series span generations of consoles and fans alike. More information about KOEI TECMO EUROPE LTD and its products can be found at www.koeitecmoeurope.com

©KOEI TECMO GAMES CO., LTD. All rights reserved. Omega Force is a trademark of KOEI TECMO GAMES CO., LTD. The KT logo is a trademark of KOEI TECMO HOLDINGS CO., LTD.

©2024 Valve Corporation. Steam and the Steam logo are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of Valve Corporation in the U.S. and/or other countries.

©2024 Sony Interactive Entertainment LLC. “PlayStation Family Mark”, “PlayStation”, “PS5 logo”, “PS5”, “PlayStation Shapes Logo” and “Play Has No Limits” are registered trademarks or trademarks of Sony Interactive Entertainment Inc. Microsoft, the Xbox Sphere mark, the Series X logo, Series S logo, Series X|S logo, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, and Xbox Series X|S are trademarks of the Microsoft group of companies.

Honkai: Star Rail’s Version 2.7 Update

Honkai: Star Rail Version 2.7 “A New Venture on the Eighth Dawn” Launches December 4, 2024

SHANGHAI – HoYoverse is excited to announce the release of Honkai: Star Rail Version 2.7, launching December 4, 2024. This milestone update concludes the Penacony arc and sets the stage for the Astral Express’s journey to Amphoreus, the Eternal Land, as revealed in the “A New Venture on the Eighth Dawn” Special Program Livestream on November 22.

Bid Farewell to Penacony, and Embark on New Adventures

In this final chapter aboard the Express in Penacony, Trailblazers will reunite with beloved companions, forging unforgettable memories before charting a course for the mysterious realm of Amphoreus. As one story ends, another begins with the introduction of two new five-star playable characters:

  • Sunday: A Radiant-type wielder specializing in wide-range support abilities.
  • Fugue: A Void-type attacker known for dynamic, rhythm-based combat techniques.

Additionally, Version 2.7 brings back two rerun five-star characters, Jing Yuan and Firefly, offering players another opportunity to strengthen their roster with these iconic heroes.

New Features Aboard the Astral Express

  • The Party Car: A luxurious and interactive space for players to host events and connect with the Crew in a social, festive atmosphere.
  • Trailblazer’s Room: A customizable personal haven blending nostalgia with elegant design, allowing players to decorate and relax after thrilling journeys.

Claim the “Gift of the Express”

From Version 2.7 through the end of Version 3.2, Trailblazers can claim the “Gift of the Express”, an exclusive opportunity to select one regular five-star character of their choice to join their team. This limited-time offer celebrates the culmination of the Penacony arc and the start of new adventures in Amphoreus.

About Honkai: Star Rail

Honkai: Star Rail is a turn-based strategy RPG by HoYoverse, set in a vast, story-rich universe. With stunning visuals, compelling characters, and an engaging narrative, it invites players aboard the Astral Express to explore the stars and unravel interstellar mysteries.

For more information, visit: https://hsr.hoyoverse.com/en-us/