Snapshot has launched on Steam

Indie developer Retro Affect's puzzle platformer Snapshot is now putting its camera to good use on Steam. The game launched several hours ago on Valve's digital download service, and it's primed and ready for you to explore its various puzzles and colorful worlds.

I had a chance to play Snapshot a few months ago at E3, and I had a great time. The visual style and melodic soundtrack really offered a nice presentation, and the puzzles were increasingly challenging. But fret not, PlayStation 3 and Vita owners, because Snapshot is still en route to Sony's line of gaming platforms.

You can download Retro Affect's puzzle platformer for $8.99 for a limited time, after which it will go up to $9.99. Additionally, you can also snag the game and soundtrack bundle, originally priced at $12.99, for $11.69. Not too shabby!

For a bunch of indie game and burrito talk, follow @thesanchezdavid on Twitter.

Via: Snapshot has launched on Steam

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Hey you guys, Mutant Mudds has landed on PC!

The day has finally arrived, everyone! Mutant Mudds has crash landed on PC for your downloading pleasure! Renegade Kid's colorful and pixelated 2D platformer achieved plenty of success on the eShop, where it quickly became a critically acclaimed title and a favorite among 3DS owners.

Mutant Mudds features all 40 levels from the original release, as well as 20 brand new Grannie levels. In case you're wondering, these new stages are hard. Like, super hard, you guys. But seriously, how is that even remotely a bad thing?

To get a look at the awesomeness of Mutant Mudds, feel free to check out our review of the 3DS version. Also, expect a shiny new review for the updated PC edition.

You can download Mutant Mudds on GOG.com, Desura, Gamersgate, and The Renegade Shop. The game is currently sporting a sexy $7.99 launch price, which will later be changed to the standard $9.99. If you're looking for some retro-inspired platforming action, check out Mutant Mudds without hesitation.

For a bunch of indie game and burrito talk, follow @thesanchezdavid on Twitter.

Via: Hey you guys, Mutant Mudds has landed on PC!

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League of Legends North American Regionals are now underway

Starting today — as you read this — the best League of Legends teams in North America are competing for a chance at their share of a $150,000 prize pool during the Season 2 North American Regionals. Taking place at PAX Prime in Seattle this weekend, the teams will compete Thursday through Sunday. The first matches are already underway and can be viewed below.

The top three teams will represent North America in the League of Legends World Championship in October, with a chance to win their share of $2,000,000 in prize money. They will also receive guaranteed placement in the League of Legends Championship Series.

Recently announced, the League of Legends Championship Series is a pro league that was organized by developer Riot Games as part of their ambitious plans to expand eSports. The league will consist of the top eight teams from both North America and Europe from Season 2, as well as top teams from Asia. They will be offered salaries by Riot Games as they compete in regional and global competitions for bragging rights and tons of prizes.

But to get there, they must first earn a spot and this weekend's Regionals will get them there. So for now, the focus is on the League of Legends Season 2 Regionals which can be enjoyed below.

Live Video app for Facebook by Ustream

Via: League of Legends North American Regionals are now underway

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Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 Content Collection 4 'Final Assault' receives a trailer

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3's fourth and final map pack, Final Assault, received a trailer today.

The new video shows off gameplay footage on the five new multiplayer maps which are set to release next week on Xbox 360. Final Assault wraps concludes the Season of Content for Modern Warfare 3. It is tailored toward "hardcore multiplayer fans."

"Gulch" sends combatants into a forgotten mining town with mine shafts and equipment sheds for cover.  In "Boardwalk," fun in the sun on the Jersey Shore means facing enemies on the beach.  "Offshore" and "Decommission" will test players' sea legs on deadly oceanic oil rigs and among a maze of rotting ocean liners respectively. Rounding out the collection is a trip to the French Quarter in a war-torn New Orleans, where "Parish" pits players against one another amidst the city's rubble.

Following its release on Xbox LIVE, Final Assault will become available for PS3 and PC. As with the previous DLC packages, it will likely be available for Premium Elite members first before everyone else.

Modern Warfare 3's Final Assault can be purchased for 1,200 Microsoft Points, or $14.99.

Via: Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 Content Collection 4 'Final Assault' receives a trailer

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Home comes to Steam this month

The survival horror game Home, which released for PC last month, is now coming to Steam on August 31.

"As you play the game, it changes — subtly, almost imperceptibly — to reflect your perspective," reads the description. "It's a horror game unlike any other, and as you'll discover, its truths are entirely subjective."

Independent developer Benjamin Rivers released the game a couple months after Jasper Byrne's similar title Lone Survivor came to Steam for PC and Mac.

Home will cost $2.99 upon release, with a 15 percent discount in the first week. It will contain a PDF manual similar to the physical book included in the Old-School Collector's Edition, only with more extras. Those who purchased the collector's edition previously will be given a complimentary Steam key, and all customers will receive updates and support alongside those made to the Steam version.

Follow @wita on Twitter for tales of superheroes, plumbers in overalls, and literary adventures.

[Polygon]

Via: Home comes to Steam this month

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2K Games to have 'big presence' at PAX with Borderlands 2 and XCOM: Enemy Unknown

2K Games today announced their plans for PAX Prime in Seattle this weekend, promising a "big presence". The heart of this presence will be Borderlands 2 and XCOM: Enemy Unknown.

In addition to the demos that will be playable on the floor, 2K Games will be streaming content from both Borderlands 2 and XCOM: Enemy Unknown live from the 2K Games Twitch channel. The stream will feature developer interviews, a peek at the 2K Games booth, and tons of gameplay footage.

While the Borderlands 2 demo will feature never-before-seen gameplay, there are quite a few special treats for XCOM. First, 2K Games will be showing off the PC interface for the first time. They'll also be showing off the recently-announced head-to-head multiplayer.

Check out the exact details below:

XCOM: Enemy Unknown – Booth #3617:

Borderlands 2 – Booth #3417:

Via: 2K Games to have 'big presence' at PAX with Borderlands 2 and XCOM: Enemy Unknown

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Woot! Check out some gameplay from Mutant Mudds for PC

Mutant Mudds is being prepped for launch on PC download platforms this Thursday, and developer Renegade Kid is being a big tease. Studio co-founder Jools Watsham posted a a nice gameplay video on YouTube, further making me want the PC version of this beloved indie title.

Check out some sweet Grannie gameplay (below). It looks pretty challenging, which is exactly the way we want it, right? There seems to be a lot of precise platforming and tricky shooting, but all of it looks fair. You know what that means: If you die in the game, it's your own darn fault!

Mutant Mudds achieved a lot of success on the 3DS as an eShop download. Now that it's coming to PC with 20 new levels, we can probably expect an equal amount of popularity to surround the newest version of the game.

Watch out for Mutant Mudds on the Renegade Shop, GOG.com, Gamersgate, and Desura on August 30. Only two days away!

For a bunch of indie game and burrito talk, follow @thesanchezdavid on Twitter.

Via: Woot! Check out some gameplay from Mutant Mudds for PC

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MapleStory publisher Nexon America replaces its CEO

Nexon America's chief executive officer Daniel Kim is stepping down after three years with the company, founded in 2005. He will return to Seoul to take on new duties.

Min Kim, currently the senior vice president of live games, will begin his new position as CEO, replacing Daniel Kim effective September 1.

Nexon is the dominant producer of free-to-play online games in South Korea. It was founded in 1994 and has 11 subsidiaries. The American offices helped launch MapleStory in the US.

According to Min Kim, who spoke to Polygon, the decision to change CEOs was Daniel Kim's own: "After more than three years of commuting from Seoul, where his wife and children live, Daniel was ready to relocate back to his home.

"This August marks my ninth year at Nexon," said Min Kim, "and I'm excited to author some of my own chapters to the company's history. I'm committed to our players, our employees, and our shareholders, and I will do my best to deliver for all three."

Follow @wita on Twitter for tales of superheroes, plumbers in overalls, and literary adventures.

Via: MapleStory publisher Nexon America replaces its CEO

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Shank developers working on the browser-based Don't Starve

Klei Entertainment, the studio responsible for Shank and Mark of the Ninja, is developing a new game called Don't Starve.

The browser-based game has entered closed early-access beta. You can try out a free, limited demo of the game, but most features are reserved for beta participants, many of whom helped with previous beta versions.

Of course, you can buy your way into the current beta for $6.99. By doing so, you'll also receive an extra key for a friend. Don't Starve will launch for $15, so this is the better deal if you're already interested.

Don't Starve is a survival-exploration game that follows Wilson, "an intrepid Gentleman Scientist who has been trapped by a demon and transported to a mysterious wilderness world."

Follow @wita on Twitter for tales of superheroes, plumbers in overalls, and literary adventures.

Via: Shank developers working on the browser-based Don't Starve

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Max Payne 3's Disorganized Crime Pack releases today

Rockstar Games has announced the arrival of Max Payne 3's Disorganized Crime Pack. Currently available on Xbox 360, the Disorganized Crime Pack is expected to be available for PSN and PC later today.

The free add-on includes a new Hoboken Rooftops multiplayer map along with several new modifiers for Score Attack in Arcade Mode.

Located on the rooftops surrounding Max's old apartment, Hoboken Rooftops provides enough ground to "warrant the long distance accuracy of a high powered weapon and sufficient close-quarters action to seek the rapid fire of a bullet-hose."

The Disorganized Crime DLC also introduces seven new modifiers that bring new challenges to Arcade Mode like head-shot requirements and extra-aggressive enemies. Some modifiers are simply for cosmetic purposes, like Noir Mode which turns your game into black and white.

Below are the seven new Arcade Mode modifiers

Look out for the Disorganized Crime Pack on consoles and PC today.

Via: Max Payne 3's Disorganized Crime Pack releases today

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The Walking Dead: Episode 3 is coming 'very soon', says Telltale

The wait for Episode 3: Long Road Ahead for Telltale Games' episode The Walking Dead games won't be much longer. The highly anticipated episode is "upon us very soon", according to the developer who released a new screenshot exclusively on Twitter.

So how close is "very soon"? According to a Telltale rep, who spoke with IGN, Long Road Ahead is in submission with Telltale's first party partners and "we are anxiously awaiting a release date to be confirmed."

"We anticipate that this could be as soon as next week, and as soon as we have a confirmation on all platforms, we'll be letting everyone know as soon as it happens."

While we wait for Episode 3, check out our review for The Walking Dead Episode 2: Starved for Help. For you PS3 owners who haven't yet played the game, you can get the first two episodes for free if you are a PlayStation Plus subscriber.

Via: The Walking Dead: Episode 3 is coming 'very soon', says Telltale

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Curse and Dignitas disqualified from MLG Raleigh for Collusion

After an intense weekend of competition, fans around the world and in Raleigh, NC crowded around the League of Legends finals expecting to see a professionally played game full of those moments of tension and excitement that only finals can bring. What they got instead was Curse and Dignitas conducted an All Random All Mid game, in which everyone picks random characters and goes to slug it out in the middle lane. Which was... odd to say the least. Though humorous to watch the commentators try to make sense of what was happening, this was an extremely unprofessional start to the finals.

This, of course, led MLG to start questioning people as to what was going on. It turns out that it was a widely known fact that Curse and Dignitas had collaborated before hand and decided that no matter who won (which explains why they even bothered with the ARAM), they would just split the prize money since it did not change their position on Riot's Season 2 Championship Leaderboard. So, as a result of this, MLG and Riot have agreed that no 1st or 2nd place prizes will be awarded, and the same with the Circuit points for Riot's system. Rather, the $40,000 for first place will be split between the 3rd-6th place teams.

Personally, I think that was in extremely bad taste for the teams to even consider doing and gives eSports (especially League of Legends eSports) a bad name. Especially with all the effort Riot is putting in to make their game a legitimate way to make a living, this is just a slap in the face. For shame Curse and Dignitas. For shame.

This echoes earlier scandals that have happened in the eSports world when StarCraft: Brood War matches were fixed in Korea, and started that game's slow decent into inner league turmoil that plagued its existance for the last two years before StarCraft II was released.

Both teams have issued apologies for the All Random All Mid in game one of the finals, however, both parties involved are awfully quiet about the collusion (aka Match Fixing)  issue. Hopefully both teams are adequately embarrassed of their own behavior, and will think twice next time before conductiing themselves in such a manor. I applaud MLG and Riot for making a decision like this on the spot and not deliberating for too long, despite needing to conduct a thorough investigation.

Dustin Steiner is GameZone's eSports Correspondent! Follow him on Twitter @VGHC_Deitis and check out Video Gaming Hard Corps, where he is a local tournament organizer for the S. FL. Fighting Game Community.

Via: Curse and Dignitas disqualified from MLG Raleigh for Collusion

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Psychonauts arrives on PSN next week

The PS2 version of Psychonauts is headed to PlayStation Network on Tuesday.

Double Fine Productions' first game released for the PlayStation 2 in 2005, the same year it came to Xbox and PC. Later on, it was ported to Mac and Linux operating systems on distribution services like Steam.

The developer recently ran a Kickstarter for the point-and-click Double Fine Adventure, which became one of the most successful crowdfunding campaigns on the platform, raising $3.3 million. The Ouya project more than doubled that achievement with $8.6 million raised.

The post on the PlayStation Blog didn't mention price.

Follow @wita on Twitter for tales of superheroes, plumbers in overalls, and literary adventures.

Via: Psychonauts arrives on PSN next week

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Stained shattering glass on PC this September, demo out now

Indie studio RealAxis Software has announced that its upcoming puzzle platformer Stained will hit the PC this September. Specifically, you'll be able to download it through Impulse and Desura starting September 14. Additionally, a Steam version will be submitted through Greenlight once that platform is up and running.

You can check out a bit of Stained for yourself, as RealAxis has also launched a public demo for the game. You can download the demo straight from the official website.

I had the chance to play an early build of Stained last month, and it looks like RealAxis is really trying to deliver a 2D platforming experience that's high on challenge (in the good way). Check out GameZone's preview of the upcoming indie title and be sure to play the demo to get a closer look at Stained.

For a bunch of indie game and burrito talk, follow @thesanchezdavid on Twitter.

Via: Stained shattering glass on PC this September, demo out now

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The Raven is King ART's next adventure game

Developer King ART successfully delivered a legitimately entertaining and pleasantly comical adventure gaming experience with The Book of Unwritten Tales. The game, which had been available in Europe for some time, recently launched in North America, and it was met with wide critical acclaim.Now, King ART is working on its next project, which was announced at this year's Gamescom.

The Raven takes place in 1960s Europe and follows the tale of the titular bandit. You'll have to keep a close eye for The Raven's signature black feather clues and seize him and the stolen Eye of the Spinx.

Check out the trailer below for a glimpse of The Raven. Unlike The Book of Unwritten Tales, it doesn't seem like this will be a lighthearted tale rife with hilarious characters. Instead, The Raven takes a more serious approach at its storytelling, and it'll be interesting seeing King ART deliver something fairly different from its latest success.

Watch out for The Raven sometime in 2013. The game is scheduled to land on PC, Mac, and consoles.

For a bunch of indie game and burrito talk, follow @thesanchezdavid on Twitter.

Via: The Raven is King ART's next adventure game

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Demo for indie adventure game Captain Disaster out now

I'm really digging this adventure game revival we've seen take place over the last couple of years. A lot of developers are working hard to make games that are fun to play, and they throw in some generally compelling stories and characters into these games, making them even more entertaining.

Indie developer Team Disaster is currently toiling away on Captain Disaster in Death Has a Million Stomping Boots. The game will feature point-and-click gameplay and a dopey protagonist, and it could be another title in a long line of hilarious adventure games.

If you're a fan of the genre, you should definitely check out the freshly launched demo of Captain Disaster. I just downloaded it myself, so you can expect some impressions right here on GameZone in the near future. In the meantime, why not check the demo out for yourself?

For a bunch of indie game and burrito talk, follow @thesanchezdavid on Twitter.

Via: Demo for indie adventure game Captain Disaster out now

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Release date set for The Testament of Sherlock Holmes

Developer Frogwares and publisher Focus Home Interactive are releasing The Testament of Sherlock Holmes on September 25.

The adventure game is coming to PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and PC. Players are put in the thick of an investigation against the great Sherlock Holmes himself!

Frogwares have developed previous Sherlock Holmes titles, including Sherlock Holmes versus Jack the Ripper.

The Testament of Sherlock Holmes will cost $49.99.

Follow @wita on Twitter for tales of superheroes, plumbers in overalls, and literary adventures.

[Joystiq]

Via: Release date set for The Testament of Sherlock Holmes

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Star Wars 1313 'Descent to the Underworld' video documentary goes below the surface of Coruscant

A video documentary released for upcoming third-person action-adventure game Star Wars 1313 gives players a look at the crime-filled underworld of Coruscant.

Described as the most dangerous place in the galaxy, Star Wars 1313 takes you below the surface to level 1313. It is where the criminal underworld in the Star Wars galaxy live.

Star Wars 1313 turned some heads when it made its official debut with stunning visuals and intense gameplay. But aside from the brief gameplay and trailers, we really don't know much about the game. We keep hearing about about this mysterious place below the surface of Coruscant, but we really don't know much about it. All we really know is that it's dirty and dangerous.

"In every city you've got the bad part of town, well this is a city that's made up of the bad part of town, described LucasArts lead artist Dave Smith. "It's old. It's got a lot of history. It's just not somewhere that you want to be caught on an alley on a Friday night."

You won't learn much that you don't already know, but it's nice to hear the thoughts of the Star Wars 1313 team as they describe this new, mysterious location. There are some new concept art images that are shown, but it really doesn't reveal too much. Either way, level 1313 is definitely an intriguing setting, and one that's not been explored in any Star Wars game prior to this. I'm excited to see what Star Wars 1313 has to offer.

"With the amount of detail that's gone into making this world, we really have only just scratched the surface," concluded creative director Dominic Robilliard, "and there's going to be a lot more to hear about it in the future."

Via: Star Wars 1313 'Descent to the Underworld' video documentary goes below the surface of Coruscant

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Fresh batch of Dead Space 3 screenshots released

Visceral Games and Electronic Arts have released a batch of screenshots for upcoming survival-horror (or action-horror depending on who you ask) Dead Space 3 and, surprise, they look gorgeous.

Regardless of how you classify Dead Space 3, there's one thing that can't be denied: these screenshots leave an icy chill.

The new images show off a variety of gameplay experiences like Necromorphs, flying through space, weapon crafting, Isaac's new suit and, of course, co-op gameplay.

Needless to say, they look amazing, but that's never been the question surrounding Dead Space 3. We all knew it would look great, but the big concern seems to be on the apparent shift in gameplay. Although Visceral and EA have repeatedly say the game will still be scary, many are worried that the focus has shifted towards more of an action-horror game, especially with the addition of co-op gameplay.

Via: Fresh batch of Dead Space 3 screenshots released

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I Am Alive is coming to PC this fall

I Am Alive, Ubisoft's survival horror game that previously released for PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, is arriving on PC on September 13.

The game hit XBLA in March and PSN one month later. It holds a score of 75 on Metacritic. Let's see how how the PC version will do.

In November of last year, creative director Stanislas Mettra expressed concerns about the game coming to the PC platform.

"We've heard loud and clear that PC gamers are bitching about there being no version for them," the developer told IncGamers. "But are these people just making noise just because there's no version or because it's a game they actually want to play? Would they buy it if we made it?"

Afterward, Mettra contacted IncGamers and said he was "misunderstood." His email is no longer available to read on the website, so make of it what you will.

The game is scheduled for PC now, so whether or not Mettra was quoted in earnest, there's now an audience for I Am Alive on PC.

Follow @wita on Twitter for tales of superheroes, plumbers in overalls, and literary adventures.

[Eurogamer]

Via: I Am Alive is coming to PC this fall

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Get ready to jam to Borderlands 2's original soundtrack

Borderlands 2 is one of the hottest games so naturally it has to have one of the hottest soundtracks. Sumthing Else Music Works today announced the Borderlands 2 Original Soundtrack, revealing the 23 original tracks present.

Set to release on September 18, the soundtrack offers a "colorful and dynamic music score" that is true to Borderlands 2's fast-paced combat and diverse environments on Pandora. Each individual song lends itself to Borderlands 2's multi-faceted personality.

Below is the full listing for the Borderlands 2 Original Soundtrack:

The soundtrack will be available at retail outlets worldwide through Sumthing Else Music Works and for digital download at Amazon MP3, iTunes, and other digital music sites. You can currently pre-order it at Amazon.

Via: Get ready to jam to Borderlands 2's original soundtrack

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'Inside Assassin's Creed 3' gives a behind-the-scenes look at the development of AC3

Ubisoft has released the the first episode of "Inside Assassin's Creed 3", a new mini-series based around the development of Assassin's Creed 3. The four-part series will give gamers an inside look at the making of Assassin's Creed 3 and what it takes to "redesign one of gaming's most iconic franchises from the ground up". The series will go behind-the-scenes with the creative team — the designers, writers, artists, and animators — who helped bring the game to life as well as some of the historians who helped bring historical accuracy to the game.

Part one of the series addresses some of Assassin's Creed 3's key pillars including the American Revolution and Colonial America setting, the new protagonist Connor, and the innovative AnvilNext game engine.

A lot of the video addresses topics we've already heard about, but it does go into much more depth as the developers and outside experts shed light on the amount of work that went into creating Assassin's Creed 3.

As I mentioned, this is a four-part series so the next episode will take a look at the combat, weapons, and tactics in Assassin's Creed 3.

Via: 'Inside Assassin's Creed 3' gives a behind-the-scenes look at the development of AC3

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Peter Molyneux's Curiosity game on hold until September

Pondering the contents of Fable creator Peter Molyneux's Curiosity cube? You'll have to wait a little longer: The social experiment is now delayed until next month.

Today was the intended release date for the game, but a new trailer revealed the extension.

Curiosity is a project of Molyneux's studio, 22Cans. In July, he called it "a test about the psychology of monetization" — one that'll cost you $77,400 for one of the best tools in the game, the diamond chisel.

"This is not a money-making exercise," assures Molyneux.

The game is expected to release for PC, iOS, and Android.

Follow @wita on Twitter for tales of superheroes, plumbers in overalls, and literary adventures.

[Eurogamer]

Via: Peter Molyneux's Curiosity game on hold until September

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Indie game Jellyova is a tribute to Ecco the Dolphin

Indie developer Sergey Obolonkov is currently working on finishing up Jellyova, his upcoming underwater action-adventure game. The indie title is said to feature Metroidvania gameplay elements, and it is a tribute to Ecco the Dolphin.

After checking out the trailer for Jellyova (below), the game reminded me a lot of Ikachan. For those of you who may be unaware, that was one of Cave Story developer Studio Pixel's earlier works, and it was absolutely incredible.

I'm digging the marine adventure vibe of Jellyova, and the colorful visuals certainly add a nice aesthetic flair to the game. Curently, the project is about 90 percent finished. Still no word on when Jellyova will launch or what platforms it will be available on, but we should be getting news on those details soon considering the game is pretty far along in its development.

[IndieGames]

For a bunch of indie game and burrito talk, follow @thesanchezdavid on Twitter.

Via: Indie game Jellyova is a tribute to Ecco the Dolphin

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Counter-Strike: Global Offensive launches today

Valve's highly-anticipated first-person shooter, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, officially launches today. Over the course of today and tomorrow, CS:GO will become available on PC and consoles.

As of right now it is available via Steam, with the North American PSN launch and worldwide Xbox 360 release set for later tonight and tomorrow morning.

As one of Valve's most popular franchises, CS:GO expands on the classic team-based action gameplay presented in Counter-Strike. Counter-Strike: Global Offensive features over 45 weapons, new game modes, new visuals, leaderboards, and over 165 Steam Achievements.

To celebrate the hard work everybody, including fans, put into CS:GO, Valve has released an infograph detailing the game's beta details.

Via: Counter-Strike: Global Offensive launches today

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Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon: Future Soldier 'Raven Strike' DLC announced

Ubisoft announced the second DLC pack for Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon: Future Soldier. Dubbed "Raven Strike", the new expansion is a throwback to traditional Ghost Recon gameplay.

Raven Strike features larger maps, complex missions, and an increased difficulty level. There are three campaign missions and a new Guerilla Mode map, each playable with up to four players.

3 new missions in Campaign Mode

1 new map in Guerrilla Mode

Raven Strike will be available on September 11 for the Xbox 360 (1200 Microsoft Points) and PS3 ($14.99). It can be pre-ordered at GameStop or Best Buy. A PC version will be available at a later date.

The DLC won't stop here, however. Ubisoft also confirmed development on further DLC for Ghost Recon: Future Soldier which is planned for release later this fall.

Via: Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon: Future Soldier 'Raven Strike' DLC announced

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Looking for those Diablo 3 1.04 Patch Notes? Look No Further

So, 1.04 is just around the corner, and not a moment too soon, as many players have been moving on from Diablo 3 in search of greener pastures. No, that wasn't a Whimseyshire joke. Okay, maybe a little... At any rate, we have the patch notes here for your perusal. Check em out!

GENERAL
 

There's also a number of Auction House changes, most importantly with the ability to search for more than 4 stats on an item!

Via: Looking for those Diablo 3 1.04 Patch Notes? Look No Further

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Introducing MARI 1.5, the 3D texturing tool behind Star Wars 1313

You know those impressive visuals we've seen in the latest Star Wars 1313 trailers and screenshots? A lot of that has something to do with MARI 1.5, a new version of The Foundry's 3D digital paint tool.

Just released, LucasArts has already been harnessing the power of the MARI 1.5 with production on their latest game Star Wars 1313. The highly-anticipated game has looked so impressive, visually, that it has begun to draw speculation that it could release on next-gen consoles.

“Integrating MARI at LucasArts for Star Wars 1313 helped us work a lot more efficiently and contributed to making the game visually stunning," said LucasArts visual effects supervisor Kim Libreri.

So what exactly does MARI 1.5 do? In short, it allows artists to "spend more time being creative and less time managing technical issues". For the more complex features, it includes Overlapping UV support, Maya texture export, shadow support, DDS Cubemap support, among the many other additions.

"MARI allows us to create more realistic assets using techniques similar to those we use at ILM for our movies," Libreri added. "It’s also been a real benefit that the texture artists are able to preview assets in real-time so they can interact with them and see exactly how they are going to look in-game.”

Via: Introducing MARI 1.5, the 3D texturing tool behind Star Wars 1313

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Weekly wrap-up 8/17/2012

It's been a good week for gaming. We've got some new releases, and thus we've written up some major reviews. If you missed anything, though, you'll be glad to know that all of the week's latest content is right here for your reading and viewing pleasure. Check it all out in this week's wrap-up!

Reviews

Manos: The Hands of Fate review (iOS)

The low-budget cult film Manos: The Hands of Fate may not have been all that great, but the iOS game of the same name most certainly is.

The Campaign review (Movies)

Don't let its awesome trailer fool you. This comedy flick isn't all that funny, and it's definitely not that good.

Dust: An Elysian Tail review (Xbox 360)

This gorgeous downloadable title offers such compelling beat 'em up gameplay that you'll find yourself returning to it over and over again.

Symphony review (PC)

A few visual quirks notwithstanding, this downloadable rhythm shmup is a must-play for gamers who want to put their music collection to the test.

Sleeping Dogs review (Xbox 360, PS3, PC)

Though it may be a bit derivative of open world crime games like the GTA series, Sleeping Dogs is still one hell of a ride.

Darksiders II review (Xbox 360, PS3, PC)

Darksiders II expands on the great gameplay of its predecessor and delivers yet another incredible fantasy action-adventure experience.

The Book of Unwritten Tales review (PC)

Great visuals, puzzles, and humor make this latest PC adventure game a must-play for fans of the genre.

The Expendables 2 review (Movies)

Without a doubt, this action comedy flick blows its predecessor away and presents a great experience for moviegoers.

Retro/Grade review (PS3)

An engaging level of challenge and addictive rhythm shooter gameplay make Retro/Grade a must for PlayStation 3 owners.

Previews

Dead Space 3 hands-on preview

The upcoming Dead Space 3 looks to provide exactly the type of experience that fans have come to know and love over the years.

Forge preview

This MMO may be coming from a small studio, but it has a lot of potential to be a big hit for fans of the genre.

FIFA 13 hands-on preview (Wii U)

EA Sports is putting some great care into its upcoming game of footie for Nintendo's next home console, and it all starts with this version's exclusive features.

Mass Effect 3: Leviathan preview

Want more Mass Effect 3? If so, definitely watch out for this DLC expansion.

Battlefield 3: Armored Kill preview

Battlefield 3 fans are going to want to get in on its upcoming add-on content as it looks to add a great deal of fun to the overall package.

Madden NFL 13 preview (Wii U)

Are Nintendo fans getting a football game to call their own? We take a look at the Wii U version of Madden NFL 13.

GZ Originals

Games of Summer: Lords of Thunder

We revisit a great 16-bit shmup as the summer season continues and invite you to check out this retro title for yourself.

Interview with Super Amazing Wagon Adventure dev Sparsevector

We get the inside scoop on Super Amazing Wagon Adventure straight from the developer.

Why not releasing game-fixing patches is a bigger problem than you might think

Because games need to be in good working order when they launch, damn it!

Analyzing the Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 multiplayer reveal trailer

GameZone discusses the good and the bad in the recent Black Ops 2 trailer.

Top five video game inspired events that we wish were real and ready for the 2016 Olympics

Because gamers can dream, too, ya know.

Talking Epic Skater with Andy Gentile and the team

GameZone gets the skinny on the upcoming mobile title from some the folks behind Guitar Hero and Tony Hawk.

Meet the fighters of Dead or Alive 5

We run down the list of brawlers in Tecmo Koei and Team Ninja's upcoming 3D fighter.

Guides

Persona 4 Arena walkthrough | Kanji Tatsumi Arcade Mode (Battles 1-3)

Persona 4 Arena walkthrough | Kanji Tatsumi Arcade Mode (Battles 4-6)

Persona 4 Arena walkthrough | Kanji Tatsumi Arcade Mode (Battles 7-9)

Persona 4 Arena walkthrough | Kanji Tatsumi Arcade Mode ending

Persona 4 Arena walkthrough | Naoto Shirogane Arcade Mode combo video (Battles 1-3)

Persona 4 Arena walkthrough | Naoto Shirogane Arcade Mode combo video (Battles 4-6)

Persona 4 Arena walkthrough | Naoto Shirogane Arcade Mode combo video (Battles 7-9)

Persona 4 Arena walkthrough | Naoto Shirogane Arcade Mode Ending

NCAA 13 Heisman Challenge Tips: Desmond Howard

Darksiders II video walkthough | Chapter 01: The Veil

Darksiders II 'Let's Play' walkthough | Part 02: Road to the Cauldron

Darksiders II complete walkthrough

Videos

Top 10 luckiest kills in shooters

For a bunch of indie game and burrito talk, follow @thesanchezdavid on Twitter.

Via: Weekly wrap-up 8/17/2012

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Freeware shmup Nanosmiles now available on Playism

Indie shoot 'em up Nanosmiles was released on Playism today. The game is a retro-looking shooter that plays a bit different than most. Rather than having access to guns yourself, you have to go around collecting smaller ships. These small carriers protect your larger ship, and they're your primary source of offense.

Nanosmiles is interesting in that you're not the one shooting things. Instead, you can lock on to enemies, and by holding down the lock on button, the helper drones you've collected along the way will swarm the baddies and blast them to smithereens. It's a unique take on the shooter genre, and after spending a few minutes playing the initial stages, I found it to pretty challenging and entertaining.

You can download Nanosmiles for free on Playism, and by paying over a dollar, you'll have access to new levels. It's certainly worth checking out, so I'd recommend giving the free stages a go to see what you think of the game.

[Playism]

For a bunch of indie game and burrito talk, follow @thesanchezdavid on Twitter.

Via: Freeware shmup Nanosmiles now available on Playism

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Edmund McMillen dishes out new details on The Basement Collection

Last month, Edmund McMillen announced that he would be releasing The Basement Collection, a compilation of some of his greatest early indie hits. The set will include Time Fcuk, Aether, Meat Boy, Spewer, Grey Matter, Triachnid, and Coil. To sweeten the deal even more, McMIllen revealed that he would also throw in a super secret unloackable game.

Now the developer has released even more info that's sure to make fans get stupidly giddy with excitement. I know I did. First, all of the games in The Basement Collection will feature achievements that are tracked within the compilation. Beating the games will unlock different rewards, as will achieving 100 percent on each title.

Regarding Time Fcuk (one of my favorite indie games of all time), a brand new chapter is going to be added to that game. This new collection of 33 levels will be high in challenge and feature its own story. I tell ya, I'm stupidly giddy as I write this.

Some other enhancements are being made, as well, such as a brand new soundtrack by Danny B for Aether and improved controls for both Triachnid and Meat Boy. Yay! McMillen also announced that The Basement Collection will feature over 10 minutes of unused footage from Indie Game: The Movie where he talks about Aether, Coil, Triachnid, and one of his secret games.

Watch out for The Basement Collection on Steam. It'll be priced at $4, which is, like, crazy awesome, you guys. Still no official release date yet, but we can expect that "shortly."

[EdmundM]

For a bunch of indie game and burrito talk, follow @thesanchezdavid on Twitter.

Via: Edmund McMillen dishes out new details on The Basement Collection

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Build your own co-op test chamber in Portal 2 for PC

You can now create co-op test chambers in Portal 2, thanks to a new update Valve released for PC.

The chambers can be built using the game's puzzle maker. The update also implements a Quick Play feature that reveals the best user-made maps in different categories.

Valve is also giving current users a 75 percent-off discount on Portal 2, so you can invite someone new to play with you.

Since the Steam Workshop launched in May, over 170,000 single-player chambers have been made with the game's internal editor, the Perpetual Testing Intiative.

Follow @wita on Twitter for tales of superheroes, plumbers in overalls, and literary adventures.

[Eurogamer]

Via: Build your own co-op test chamber in Portal 2 for PC

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A Valley Without Wind getting graphical redesign

Despite the fact that I actually thought the graphics in A Valley Without Wind were pretty interesting, not a lot of people felt the same way. As a matter of fact, the majority of gamers weren't too fond of the game's art style. Even people who haven't played A Valley Without Wind seem to be turned off by the game's visuals, which is a shame because this is a pretty damn good game.

According to developer Arcen Games founder Chris Park, Heavy Cat will be doing a lot of the visual reworking for A Valley Without Wind, which means the rest of the studio can focus on other projects. There's still plenty of work to be put into the graphical overhaul, but gamers can expect A Valley Without Wind to get a fresh coat of paint this November.

While the art style isn't final, Park showed off a screen of how the visuals are currently looking, and I have to say, it's really nice. Sure, I liked the graphics in A Valley Without Wind the first time around, but admittedly, this new style is definitely a lot cleaner, and I can most certainly dig it.

[Games By Design]

For a bunch of indie game and burrito talk, follow @thesanchezdavid on Twitter.

Via: A Valley Without Wind getting graphical redesign

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Next Corpse Party game takes place in a hospital

Team GrisGris — now called Grindhouse — is preparing a new Corpse Party game for PC in Japan.

Corpse Party 2: Dead Patient is the direct follow-up to Corpse Party, which Xseed localized for PSP late last year. The sequel moves the setting from the series mainstay Heavenly Host Elementary to a hospital locale.

The game will release in Japan this winter.

Previously, we heard that Team GrisGris (as it was known then) was developing a comedic spin-off named Corpse Party: The Anthology. Publisher 5pb. seems to have released the game early this month.

The visual novel genre isn't too popular in the US, even with more successful titles like 999: 9 Hours, 9 Person, 9 Doors for the Nintendo DS. Did you play Corpse Party for PSP? Would you play another?

Follow @wita on Twitter for tales of superheroes, plumbers in overalls, and literary adventures.

[Siliconera]

Via: Next Corpse Party game takes place in a hospital

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Capcom wants to make Remember Me 'a major franchise'

This week at Gamescom, Capcom introduced Remember Me, a new action-adventure game coming for PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and PC from Dontnod Entertainment. Capcom senior producer Mat Hart said the publisher wants multiple games from Dontnod — a whole franchise, actually.

"We're looking to build a long-lasting relationship with them as a developer, and build this into a major franchise," Hart told Joystiq.

Capcom is looking at a May 2013 release window. "The thing is," said Hart, "if you leave it too late into next year, then you are starting to straddle that line where you're starting to move into the next-generation consoles. And what we want to do is make sure we launch this on the current generation of consoles, to really sell it in and establish it as a new IP. And then build the franchise out in line with the new consoles coming out."

Do you think Capcom is making a prudent decision releasing the game earlier rather than later?

Follow @wita on Twitter for tales of superheroes, plumbers in overalls, and literary adventures.

Via: Capcom wants to make Remember Me 'a major franchise'

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