Ubisoft & Binge Announces New Live-Action Driver Series On The Way

Although the realm of video games continues to expand with Ubisoft being one of the most prominent publisher across the globe, the firm is looking to other mediums to expand its original IPs. Namely, Netflix is a big beneficiary for this initiative so far. With that comes a slew of projects on the way including Watch Dogs, Assassin’s Creed, Beyond Good & Evil, and Rayman just to name a few. Elsewhere more recently did Ubisoft elaborate on its latest plans with the streaming platform. In that, both Splinter Cell alongside Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon are receiving anime adaptations for Netflix. Details on release for both productions are still left uncertain at the time of writing. However, Ubisoft is also looking to work with Binge as well for the same pursuit for entertainment. It was on Tuesday that Ubisoft revealed a live-action Driver television series is to commence for Binge. Ubisoft Film & Television’s Jason Altman, Danielle Kreinik, and Genevieve Jones are to be executive producers for the series alongside Binge’s Allan Ungar and Vincent Talenti. Our mission at Ubisoft is to bring our games to life in new and exciting ways and create content set in the world, culture, and community of gaming. Working with Binge will allow us to bring a Driver series directly to the audience who is most passionate about seeing this franchise come to life. Danielle Kreinik, Ubisoft Film & Television Head of Television Development “As longtime fans of the franchise, we’re excited to deliver an original, premium, and rich storytelling experience that will take fans and newcomers on a thrilling ride,” Binge’s Ungar expressed in the announcement post. This is not the only forecasted project still underway with Ubisoft’s billboard IPs either. Previously, Ubisoft pressed that it will be expanding more on the upcoming The Division film starring Jake Gyllenhaal and Jessica Chastain. Yet another Netflix production, it was mapped out for the series alongside a new mobile project, novel, and spin-off experience titled ‘Heartland’ coming sometime next year. Earlier on, a report from VG24/7 revealed that the Driver series did not just evaporate into thin air after 2011’s Driver: San Francisco. It was told that the next project for the franchise was experimenting with new mechanics that led to the focus shifting to what is now Watch Dogs. You can read the full report by heading here. Are you excited to see Driver return as a television series? Driver is to arrive to Binge later on in 2022. Source: Ubisoft

Watch Dogs Was Originally A Driver Follow-up Before The Project Refocused Into The Hacker Action Experience

So far, Watch Dogs in its more than half a decade of existing has established two mainline installments alongside a spin-off that is currently the newest entry. In that, Watch Dogs: Legion branches from the near-future approach of technology grasping on society as government oligarchs and big tech control everyday life with the dystopia settings of modern London. Additionally, the game comes with a nice goodie for fans of the original game. With those that purchase the Gold Edition or higher for Watch Dogs: Legion will find that 2014’s Watch Dogs will be provided at no additional cost. While information on when that is to come is still unknown, it is suggested to coincide with the ‘Complete Edition’ listed for next-generation consoles previously. Altogether, the original game is now perceived as a legacy release enough so to bundle it in the premium options for Watch Dogs: Legion. However, the series was not originally aimed to be a hacker action-shooter experience. Initially, Watch Dogs was planned to be a Driver sequel to 2011’s Driver: San Francisco. Speaking with sources at Ubisoft, VG24/7 discovers that the project evolved from a sequel to an entirely new IP. The game that was released as Watch Dogs started life as a sequel in the Driver franchise, but was always largely what you see in the final product. It was always modern day, it had on foot, parkour, combat as well as driving, all set in a large open-world city, and the main hook was always modern technology and hacking. After a while trying to make this concept fit into the Driver franchise, the decision was made to turn it into its own, new IP. Back in 2013, Ubisoft North American president Laurent Detoc told that the Driver project was ultimately cancelled as pieces from the initial work later formed the foundation for Watch Dogs. But, the sources at Ubisoft goes on to explain that it was the end of the series with the refocus. Then, it was put to be a Grand Theft Auto alternative from Ubisoft before the identity Watch Dogs has now. “They just did their own thing and convinced Yves [Guillemot, Ubisoft CEO] he could have ‘his own GTA’ instead of the low selling Driver.” Furthermore it was told that the plans when shifted was fueled by developer experimentation with the potential new series. “Devs love working on new mechanics and new settings without limitations. Business loves the safety of making sequels and expanding a franchise with a loyal player base. “Now and then a team push the bounds of a franchise too far, and if they can persuade business to get behind their concept, a new franchise is born.” The situation can closely be considered an ongoing trend at Ubisoft. Similarly, the firm when initially working on an Prince of Persia sequel later found to be crafting Assassin’s Creed which later released in 2007. Even more now, both IPs crossed over in a new DLC for Watch Dogs: Legion recently which you can read more by heading here. Are you surprised with the outcome of Watch Dogs initially sprouting from a Driver project? Source: VG24/7

Assassin’s Creed Valhalla Discovery Mode Arrives On October 19th

In terms of how the latest Assassins Creed title is standing so far, developer Ubisoft Montreal back in August delivered the ‘Siege of Paris’ DLC for Assassin’s Creed Valhalla. But, the firm is not entirely done with the 2020 release. In that, Ubisoft told its extended plans for post-launch content for Assassin’s Creed Valhalla is to expand into a second year of add-ons. With the series not finding a new addition for at least a year, this is perfectly fine for the Viking Age game. At the time of the announcement earlier this summer, Ubisoft included a heads up on one expected addition – Discovery Mode. While little on the project was spared, Ubisoft did proceed to disclose that the feature introduced from Assassin’s Creed Origins is set to arrive later in the fall. In a new announcement this week, we now know when to expect the newest iteration of Discovery Mode. On Tuesday, Ubisoft shared that ‘Assassin’s Creed Discovery Tour: Viking Age’ is set to release next month in October. In addition to the newest version, Discovery Tour will also be arriving as a standalone version sometime next year as well. Continuing in the footsteps of previous Discovery Tours, the new experience was designed with input from historians and archaeologists, and will transform the game’s world into a nonviolent, educational experience that players can freely explore to learn more about the places, people, and cultures of ninth-century England and Norway. However, Discovery Tour: Viking Age takes a new approach to how players explore history: instead of embarking on guided tours, they will assume the roles of different characters and take on quests, which aim to bring them closer to the material by putting them at the center of it. While following the narrative and completing the quests’ objectives, Discovery Tour: Viking Age players will have the opportunity to interact with Discovery Sites that each focus on an element of the culture and traditions of Vikings and Anglo-Saxons in the Viking Age. Those Discovery Sites feature images of items from the collections of Discovery Tour’s museum partners, which include the UK’s Hampshire Cultural Trust, Preston Park Museum & Grounds, York Archaeological Trust, and The British Library; France’s Réunion des Musées Nationaux; and the National Museum of Denmark. Moreover on the standalone version for Assassin’s Creed Discovery Tour: Viking Age, it will arrive first to PC as a separate purchase for those that do not own the game. For console and streaming platforms, expect more on the addition to respective storefronts later on, of course. Previously, Ubisoft officially announced that Assassin’s Creed is to expect a new take on the franchise with an online-growing experience underway, Assassin’s Creed Infinity. You can read the full report by heading here. Are you planning to revisit Assassin’s Creed Valhalla for Assassin’s Creed Discovery Tour: Viking Age? Assassin’s Creed Discovery Tour: Viking Age arrives on October 19, 2021 for Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, PC, Stadia, and Luna. Source: Ubisoft

PlayStation Announces Midnight Black Pulse 3D Wireless Headset, Shipping Next Month

While PlayStation 5 already left a lasting impact and still continues to with its scarce release nearly a year ago now, the platform also echoes the same advancement with its supported accessories as well. In that, the feature for 3D audio is a namely staple for the PlayStation 5 that most platforms cannot meet when delivering the ultimate experience. To compliment that is the Pulse 3D Wireless Headset marketed for the new console. Additionally, the DualSense controller also projects the next move for video games with its adaptive features, rumbling, and gyro motion configuration. Even more is when Sony Interactive Entertainment unveiled the ‘Midnight Black’ and ‘Crimson Red’ DualSense options as well later on. Now, a new iteration of the aforementioned headset is underway. In a new announcement made on Wednesday, the PlayStation company is planning to release a new ‘Midnight Black’ variation of the Pulse 3D Wireless Headset. You can watch the reveal trailer in the video below: “This new look for the Pulse 3D headset will match the same color scheme as the DualSense Midnight Black wireless controller – with two subtly different shades of black. The Pulse 3D headset in Midnight Black will begin rolling out globally at participating retailers next month,” explains Sony Interactive Entertainment PlayStation VR, eSports, Peripherals Marketing and Licensing Senior Director Isabelle Tomatis. “While all PS5-compatible headsets can be used to experience 3D Audio with PS5 games, the Pulse 3D headset is specifically designed to take full advantage of the console’s Tempest 3D AudioTech, with a fine-tuned frequency response to help players more precisely place sounds in exact locations to match on-screen gameplay.” Noted, the recent PlayStation 5 update this week implemented 3D audio for speakers & surround systems to expand the experience to the living room. Previously, Microsoft announced its next iteration for its in-house built headsets. Unveiling the Xbox Stereo Headset, it is a similar iteration of the Xbox Wireless Headset, but, it is wire bound for a cheaper $59.99. You can read the full report by heading here. Do you have interest in getting the Midnight Black Pulse 3D Wireless Headset? The Midnight Black Pulse 3D Wireless Headset arrives sometime in October. Source: PlayStation Blog

Card-based Mobile Racer WipEout Rush Announced For Android & iOS, Arriving Sometime in 2022

As familiar as many people are with Sony Interactive Entertainment’s stance on the console space, the PlayStation company continues to overtake the market with record-high sales and commercial performance against its competition. But, the firm is not covering all boundaries. So far, the Sony gaming division is buying its way into other platforms outside of the home console space it appears. Previously, it was revealed that Nixxes Software is being bought up by Sony Interactive Entertainment to work on first-party projects for PC. More recently it was pressed that the purchase is already commencing on work for the PlayStation firm. Additionally, the funding behind PlayStation is also buying up prevalent virtual reality real estate as well with Firespite Games just this past month as well. Interesting enough is if mobile could potentially be expecting some DNA from PlayStation now. In a new announcement from Rogue Games, WipEout Rush is set to release for Android & iOS coming sometime next year. You can watch the announcement trailer in the video below: Unlike prior entries, Rush is framed to be a card-based experience that is best suited for the mobile platform. Explained by Rogue Games CEO Matt Casamassina to IGN, he elaborates on the differences of its ambition for the game for the platform. “If I want that visceral, immersive, intense racing experience, I’ll find it waiting on PlayStation. But at the same time, we’re delighted that we could rethink wipEout for mobile with some fun new play mechanics and gorgeous visuals. “We hope fans will come to it with an open mind because—although different—we’re proud to bring the wipEout franchise back into focus with a fresh take on the formula,” he continued. “And we’ve poured a lot of love into the presentation, which includes loads of iconic ships and tracks, a new comic book-inspired narrative, a fitting electronica soundtrack, and gorgeous visuals that run at 60 frames per second on modern hardware.” Are you interested to try out WipEout Rush? WipEout Rush ships sometime in 2022 for Android & iOS. Source: IGN

Speculation Surfaces Nintendo 64 Virtual Library For Nintendo Switch Online, FCC Filing Furthers Possibility

Although Nintendo is responsible for shaping the video game industry since the fallout of the market since the Nintendo Entertainment System in the late 1980s, the Japanese firm has not been the most prevalent in supporting its hardware as the generations continued onward. While native backwards compatibility is not an option, the company does provide Nintendo Switch Online which delivers virtual libraries for legacy releases. So far, fans are accustomed to both Nintendo Entertainment System and Super Nintendo Entertainment System virtual libraries. However, the firm has not made any additions to the number of platforms for nearly two years now. In one report from Eurogamer, it is said that the service is to welcome both Game Boy and Game Boy Color in a later announcement this month. Coming from known leaker NateDrake on his latest discussion on YouTube, he elaborates further on his initial statement from the episode prior. In that, he expands on his comments for the service to welcome Game Boy titles which Eurogamer corroborated in a following report. Now, he adds that the service is to welcome Nintendo 64 as well. In our last episode, we discussed how Nintendo Switch Online will be expanding with brand new platforms which will include the Game Boy and Game Boy Color, but unfortunately not the Game Boy Advanced. And immediately after our video was published, several outlets came out to corroborate the information we discussed and Eurogamer went on step further having noted that additional platforms will also be added to Nintendo Switch Online in the future. And today I would like to add to that, yes – that information is accurate and one of the platforms that will be coming to the Nintendo Switch Online in the future is the revolutionary Nintendo 64. Now, this is a platform that we touched on briefly in the previous episode and how they’re going to bring it to Nintendo Switch Online is certainly a matter of discussion. The YouTube video goes on to elaborate further in the alleged plans which involve Nintendo increasing the price tag for the Nintendo Switch Online service that includes more platforms for its virtual libraries. “The topic in relation to Nintendo 64 is more so not about whether or not Nintendo it can be brought, we they can do N64 games […] it’s more about the financial reality of bringing N64 to Nintendo Switch Online and how Nintendo could do this. He continues by injecting, “What I’m going to propose, is that when Nintendo 64 does come with the introduction to Nintendo Switch Online it is going to come with a higher-priced tier – a premium version of Nintendo Switch Online, if you will.” NateDrake goes on to speculate that perhaps this approach will bring the service closer to $30 or potentially $35 if implemented. Elsewhere, Vooks reports that Nintendo has filed a new ‘Radio Test Report’ with the FCC for a new product codenamed HAC-043. In contrast to the previous HAC-042, it was the prior Super Nintendo Entertainment System wireless controller for Nintendo Switch. With the timing of the discovery, it is suggested to be a similar aim for the Nintendo 64 this time around. What are your thoughts on the Nintendo 64 coming to Nintendo Switch Online? Source: Vooks

Review: PowerA Spectra Controller (Nintendo Switch)

This review is for the Power A Spectra Controller for the Nintendo Switch. This wired controller features 8-Color LEDS, 2 Extra Mappable Buttons, and anti-friction rings for smoother joystick motion, and headset input. Included in the package is a 10-foot braided MicroUSB cable that is used to connect the controller to the Switch. The connection to the controller is very sturdy with a recessed connection that requires squeezing both sides of the cable to connect and disconnect the controller. It also has a break away attachment so you don’t have to worry about accidentally moving the Switch console while plugged in. The controller has LED lights built into most of the edges of the controller. These lights can be changed to any of the 8 colors or a smooth transition cycle between all the colors on its own. You can also turn the LEDs off if you prefer. The joysticks have a beveled texture around the thumbpad that gives a great surface for your thumb to grip and the anti-friction ring around the joystick provides extremely smooth motion when moving the joystick. Texturally, the Spectra is very smooth to hold. There are no jagged edges or different texture on the controller that can cause irritation to the palms or thumbs. The buttons are very responsive and have a great tension. While using the Spectra, I actually preferred the tension of the face buttons and triggers compared other controllers such as the Switch Pro Controller. This was pretty surprising considering the cost different of the two controllers. The programmable buttons on the backside of the grips are comfortably positioned where your middle finger rests while holding the controller. These buttons can be mapped to provide extra customization options. Dimensionally, the Spectra is almost identical to the Switch Pro Controller but seems just a tiny bit heavier in weight but I’m not sure it would be noticeable if you weren’t holding them together. Overall, for the price of the Spectra compared to other controllers, it is an excellent option for a wired controller and the LED lights add a nice aesthetic to your gaming setup. If you don’t mind using a wired controller over a wireless option, I would definitely recommend using the Spectra by Power A.

Fan Finds Neat RGB Feature For Xbox Elite 2 Controller

For the things that is offered from Xbox controllers, it is fairly primitive on the functions it provides in comparison to prior gamepads. While there is little improvements on the newest iteration, it stands fairly identical to the Xbox One paddle. However, it is apparent that the Xbox team wants to follow the example made by PlayStation with the DualSense. Recently, Xbox lead Phil Spencer spoke on tapping into the possibilities to advance in that direction. What Microsoft does that Sony Interactive Entertainment has not established is a frequent line of variety for its controllers. Just recently, Microsoft delivered the Aqua Shift Special Edition gamepad in late August. Of course, there is also the Xbox Design Lab now available for the Xbox Series controllers as well. Coming November will deliver the Forza Horizon 5 Special Edition controller as well which reintroduces the transparent shell for the latest generation. But on Twitter, one fan found a cool characteristic for the 2019 Xbox Elite 2 Controller. In that, user @XboxJuan4K in a thread shares that the advanced gamepad also offers an RGB feature in the glowing Xbox logo on the top of the controller. You can view the tweet below: While it is not a direct function over on Xbox consoles, the discovery is made over on Steam. When linking your controller to the Valve-owned portal, you simply enter your settings and navigate until you find ‘Xbox Configure Support’ and ‘Xbox Extended Feature Support’. Then, the system will reset to recognize an Xbox Elite 2 Controller. Following that, you will need to re-navigate until you find ‘Preferences’ is when the real magic happens. With that, you will be able to choose any color on the RGB slider which will be radiated through the top button. Of course, there is also the option to make the logo pulse all colors as well which the user revealed in the original clip. Additionally, it is also shared that the preset color you choose for the controller on PC is not unique to the platform. After saving your preferences and reconnecting to an Xbox system is where you will find that is still there when playing console once more. A niché, unknown feature that Microsoft appears not to indicate initially is now public knowledge. Although the Xbox Elite 2 Controller is nearly two years old, the gamepad is not irrelevant. Most recently at Gamescom is where Microsoft brought attention to the paddle once more. In that, an Halo Infinite Special Edition is on the way for release this November. You can read the full report by heading here. Are you going to try this new feature if you own a Xbox Elite 2 Controller?  

Review: Lost Judgment

Developer – Ryu Ga Gotoku Studios Publisher – Sega Platforms – PlayStation 4|5, , Xbox One, Xbox Series S|X Rating – R18+ Judgment was a spinoff of the Yakuza series, from critically the acclaimed Ryu Ga Gotoku Studios team. Knowing their stellar history is important in many ways. Judgment was the culmination of all of their previous games, ideas, and concepts combined into one stellar title. Lost Judgment looks to pick up where the previous game left off, while evolving the series in a multitude of ways. On the surface many people would classify Lost Judgement as an action RPG. It’s so much more than that once you dig a bit deeper under the surface. It’s one part action, one part narrative adventure game and one part the detective game everybody didn’t know they wanted. You once again play as Takayumi Nagami, defense attorney turned private investigator who has gone back to solving petty crimes and cases after the sprawling investigation that happened in the previous game. Of course, it doesn’t take long before he is thrust into a world absolutely drenched with murder, mystery and corruption at all levels. Similarly to Like a Dragon, Kamurocho is slightly featured, but the vast majority of Lost Judgment It takes place in Yokohama. Everything from the games visual style, the expressions on peoples faces and even the music help sell the feel the series is known for. People are shady, always with more beyond the surface, and various elements are always at play. From local police, the judicial system down to the Yakuza themselves. The world and the inhabitants are layered and darker than in any previous RGG title by quite a bit. Right in the midst of this city are the elements of the Yakuza crime syndicates, but the spotlight is far larger on elements of corruption within the local police and courts this time around. Lost Judgment delves deep into a different, darker side of the criminal world proper. After the game’s grisly opening, elements of sexual assault, torture and more kick off an explosive and heavy story to take in. It’s absolutely the most mature story they have created. It’s especially jarring after Like a Dragon and how light it now seems in comparison. Lost Judgment features callbacks a more grounded, real version of the crime, even down to courtroom drama and hearings. You will once again find journals and have discussions where the other side of the criminal element are represented in multiple facets. From court hearings, plea bargains, and Yagami’s opening statement. “In Japan,99.9 percent of criminal trials end with a guilty verdict.” Without giving away too much, the grim opening murder scene is quickly blamed on a man named Akihiro, but he is also under investigation for assaulting woman in public at nearly the same time. It’s up to Yagami to investigate whether or not the sexual assault was a cover up for a more heinous deed, and either defend or prosecute everybody responsible. As you can imagine, the themes carry a much heavier weight than before. elements of bullying, suicide, molestation and murder are core to the game’s plot and even some sub stories, which makes the traditional balance between goofy side quests and heavy hitting drama tenuous. Previous titles could deftly weave between the whimsical and the drama, but with themes that are this troubling, investigating the games themes such as bullying and then saying screw it to hit the skate park feels and looks odd, even in the context of this franchise and RGG’s history. However, the story keeps up the suspense and hits many high notes through out, Yagami’s supporting cast, many whom return from the previous installment are just as awesome as always. As part of the investigation, Yagami has to infiltrate a high school, and this seemingly small step in a case is easily Lost Judgment’s best addition. The high school has it’s own itinerary of activities and a slew of characters. One in particular is essentially your high school sidekick, and she is fantastic. I don’t want to give much more away, but high school Yagami is a treat and the depth found in this whole part of the game can be explored and developed even after credits roll on the core story. The core gameplay is back with the most amount of additions in quite a while. Unlike Like a Dragon, Lost Judgment returns the real time and fast paced brawler action the Yakuza series was known for. It’s nice to have it back, and although I loved the turn based nature of Ichiban’s adventure, having Yagami pick up the real time combat slack is a perfect balance and differentiator between the two branching series. The combat system is RGG’s most advanced and refined. Equipped with a multitude of fighting styles, Yagami can adapt and switch up to tackle any and every situation he encounters. Skateboarding allows a quicker way to navigate the two different locations. Various mini-games are back, and essentially unchanged from previous games. Batting cages, arcade classics, all of that and more return. If you weren’t a fan of them before, nothing in Lost Judgment will change your mind on the subject. That same sentiment can be said about the whole package. If previous games were never your cup of tea, nothing here will convert those fans, but for those who are into it, Lost Judgment has tons to offer veteran players. The English dub is fantastic, with RGG’s first global release pulling it off in a massive way. The game also looks stunning and it shines on next generation platforms. Load times are minimal, and the frame rate never dipped regardless of how many school desks I slammed into some rowdy kids. New parkour and stealth elements are nice additions, albeit a bit shallow. Detective work however, has been ramped up considerably. In the main case and investigation, player agency is still quite limited by the general plot the game wants you to

Toby Fox Announces Scheduled Release For Deltarune Chapter 2 For PC Coming September 17

While the notorious Toby Fox is most notable for the cult-classic story adventure Undertale, he is also conjuring another similar tale currently as well, Deltarune. Back in 2019 was when fans were told that a new experience is on the way for Nintendo Switch, PC, and PlayStation 4 accordingly. However, details on more additions were scarce at the time. It is presumed since we only received ‘Chapter One’ at the time of release. Despite the lacking context for more content for Deltarune, fans grow excited for when the next addition of the game come. In an update post in 2020, Fox explained that work on Chapter 2 has been slowed after swapping then returning to the proprietary engine for the series. But, the team has added more staffing alongside mapped out as far as Chapter Four for the game. On Wednesday, Fox’s team on the official Undertale Twitter account posted a brief video which announces Deltarune Chapter Two is set to arrive this Friday. You can watch the clip in the imbedded tweet below: Over on the official Deltarune website, Chapter Two appears to be another free experience for users to install. However, unlike the debut of Deltarune, the second increment for the game is to only release for PC for the time being. It is suggested with other supported platforms for Chapter One that we will receive more context on ports for Chapter Two at a later date. Other surprising news from Fox previously surfaces over on Xbox Game Pass. While the game only received support for PlayStation 4 & Nintendo Switch when coming to console, the team in an announcement earlier this year shared that Undertale will hit the service alongside Xbox for the first time ever. You can read the full report by heading here. What are you most interested to see take place in Deltarune Chapter Two? Deltarune Chapter Two arrives to PC on September 17, 2021.