Meta Quest 3 releases October 10, 2023
Meta had its showcase today for its upcoming mixed reality headset, Meta Quest 3 revealing its release date and official prices of the two versions. The Meta Quest 3 will hit store shelves on October 10 with the 128GB headset starting at $499.99 and the 512GB headset being $649.99 USD providing a large storage capacity. “With double the graphic processing power of Meta Quest 2,** Meta Quest 3 is the world’s first device to feature the new Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 platform we helped develop in collaboration with Qualcomm Technologies. Load times are lightning fast, and incredibly crisp details in immersive games defy expectation—whether you’re solving puzzles on the far reaches of space in Red Matter 2 or traveling through the walker-infested streets of NOLA in The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners.” There will be over 100 new and upgraded titles coming to Meta Quest 3 by the end of 2023. The new Meta Quest headset is backwards-compatible with Meta Quest 2 giving you access to over 500 games day one. You can pre-order the Meta Quest 3 now on Amazon. Read more about the new Meta Quest headset here.
PlayStation Boss Jim Ryan To Officially Exit From Sony Interactive Entertainment
Jim Ryan, the president & CEO of Sony Interactive Entertainment, is to officially be stepping down from his role at the PlayStation firm come March 2024. Ryan has been part of the Sony group for more than two decades since 1994 with his latest position as president & CEO appointed to him in January 2018. Ryan confirms he is to retire from the role rather than stepping down to other operations. Instead, Ryan once he is gone from the role is to be replaced by current CFO & COO Hiroki Totoki. Next month in October 2023, Totoki will be appointed chairman for Sony Interactive Entertainment as he fulfills the remaining time as his current position. Additionally, Sony Group CEO Kenichiro Yoshida is to work with Totoki in structuring “the next chapter of PlayStation’s future.” You can read the full statement from Jim Ryan below: After 30 years, I have made the decision to retire from SIE in March 2024. I’ve relished the opportunity to have a job I love in a very special company, working with great people and incredible partners. But I’ve found it increasingly difficult to reconcile living in Europe and working in North America. I will leave having been privileged to work on products that have touched millions of lives across the world; PlayStation will always be part of my life, and I feel more optimistic than ever about the future of SIE. I want to thank Yoshida-san for placing so much trust in me and being an incredibly sensitive and supportive leader. “I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Jim Ryan for his outstanding achievements and contributions over his 30-year career at Sony, including the great success of launching the PlayStation 5. The PlayStation business managed by SIE is an essential part of Sony Group’s entire business portfolio,” Totoki shares in a comment on ryan’s retirement. “I will work with Jim and the senior management team closely to ensure our continued success and further growth. I am also looking forward to creating the exciting future of PlayStation and the game industry together with everyone at SIE and its business partners.” The decision comes at a surprising time especially the height of the Activision Blizzard deal handled by Microsoft. Recently, it appears that the Xbox firm could be nearing the finish line of the $70 billion acquisition. Previously, it was confirmed the lawsuit against Microsoft from the FTC ended in Xbox’s favor. Now, it is surely to be a sight how Sony Interactive Entertainment approaches the deal post-transaction with new leadership as well. You can read the initial report by heading here. What is your opinion on Ryan’s officially departure from PlayStation? Source: Sony Interactive Entertainment
Electronic Arts Pulls Previous FIFA Titles From Storefronts Ahead Of EA Sports FC 24 Launch
For more than a decade now, Electronic Arts & FIFA have worked hand-in-hand on shipping a new annual release for the titular EA Sports games. However, 2023 was to change the formula as FIFA would move on from Electronic Arts. Instead, the series would now be recognized as EA Sports FC moving forward. But, that is not to say this limits the games that fans across the globe know the series for. In fact, there is more than what FIFA originally had to offer. For the first time, the new futbol simulator offers integrated matches as users can now have unisex games from different leagues come together. Additionally, it also marks the first for Electronic Arts to feature full-on cross-platform play between all supported platforms too. However, it appears that Electronic Arts is undoing its previous work ahead of the release for EA Sports FC 24 – at least, that is what’s speculated. Currently, there is no word on why the publisher decided to delist its titles online which leaves players to conjure up their own conspiracies. Even for titles like FIFA 23, the Steam version reads: “At the request of the publisher, EA SPORTS™ FIFA 23 is unlisted on the Steam store and will not appear in search.” It is also reported this affects titles dating back to FIFA 14. Noted, the last two entries – FIFA 22 & FIFA 23 – are still available to access for EA Play/Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers. Although outlets such as Kotaku has reached out to contact Electronic Arts on the matter, the firm has not responded for comment. Of course, this does not subtract the game from existence entirely. Users that own these games digitally can still reinstall said titles. And those with a physical copy are still in a good position. Even more, you can purchase a hard copy online or at most retailers for select releases as well. It is left unclear if this decision will be permanent or only a temporary change. What is your take on the recent decision from EA?
Counter-Strike 2 Officially Drops On Steam Today
Rewinding the clock back to March earlier this year, there were claims a Counter-Strike 2 was underway. And although the game has been due for a complete overhaul being more than a decade old, it was fairly hard to believe. That was – until Valve officially announced Counter-Strike 2 is actually launching later this year. One of the biggest differences is the visuals. Not only does it revamp weapons, characters, maps, and UI, it also reworks how items are animated; especially smoke. The biggest showcase is the realistic smoke as it reacts to the area of effect responsively as it fills areas and bends around objects proportionately. But, players were left unaware as to when Counter-Strike 2 will actually drop. Well, Valve decided to just drop the game today, September 27th. Even more, it replaces Counter-Strike: Global Offensive on Steam entirely. You can watch the launch trailer in the video below: “For over two decades, Counter-Strike has offered an elite competitive experience, one shaped by millions of players from across the globe. And now the next chapter in the CS story is about to begin. This is Counter-Strike 2,” the description on Steam reads for the new game. Even more, Valve confirms 100 percent of in-game items will carry over to the new client. “A free upgrade to CS:GO, Counter-Strike 2 marks the largest technical leap in Counter-Strike’s history. Built on the Source 2 engine, Counter-Strike 2 is modernized with realistic physically-based rendering, state of the art networking, and upgraded Community Workshop tools.” What has you most excited for Counter-Strike 2 being out now? Counter-Strike 2 is available for PC via Steam.
Review: Hidden Through Time 2: Myths & Magic
Developer – RogueSide Publisher – RogueSide Platforms – PlayStation 4/5, Nintendo Switch, , Xbox One, PC (Reviewed) Review copy given by Developer Hidden Through Time 2: Myths & Magic is a delightful 2D hidden object game that takes players on an enchanting journey through time and imagination. With its playful tone, cozy vibes, and endless fun, it’s a game that’s sure to captivate players of all ages. Hidden Through Time 2: Myths & Magic offers an engaging single-player campaign that takes you on a journey through four magical eras. Each era’s storyline and hidden objects reveal secrets that keep you immersed in the game’s enchanting narrative. The attention to detail in the hand-drawn worlds is simply stunning and adds to the overall charm of the game. One of the standout features of this game is the Reality Shift mechanic, which adds an exciting dimension to the hidden object experience. Shifting between Day and Night, Summer and Winter, and exploring maps in multiple states truly enhances the gameplay. The clever integration of this feature challenges players to be vigilant, as some objects are only present in one state or the other. This innovation breathes new life into the genre and keeps you engaged as you explore the beautiful hand-drawn worlds. What truly sets this game apart is the Create Your Own Architect 2.0 mode. This feature allows players to unleash their creativity and build their dreamworlds with ease. Whether you want to craft custom structures, populate your maps with characters, or mold the terrain to your liking, Architect 2.0 empowers you to do so effortlessly. The improved visuals and increased customization options make it a breeze to create unique experiences and share them with others. It’s a testament to the game’s versatility and the developers’ commitment to providing players with endless opportunities for creativity. Hidden Through Time 2: Myths & Magic invites you to embark on an enchanted journey through time, and it does not disappoint. With its charming visuals, engaging gameplay, and the innovative Reality Shift and Architect 2.0 modes, this game offers endless hours of fun and imagination.
Netflix Shares First Trailer For Tomb Raider: The Legend Of Lara Croft Anime
While developer Crystal Dynamics has finished its current Tomb Raider trilogy with Shadow of the Tomb Raider just over five years ago now, the game studio is already working away on the next entry with Unreal Engine 5 as its building blocks. But what else is to come for the IP? Well, developer Aspyr confirmed Tomb Raider I – III Remastered is on the way for release coming later this February for all major platforms. Additionally, the series is getting a major deal through Amazon. In that, it is confirmed a television show & movie is in the works from the partnership. Looking elsewhere, Netflix was previously reported to be collaborating towards a new anime series starring protagonist Lara Croft. But, the initial report was active back in February 2021 followed by radio silence ever since. At the Netflix 10 Drop this week, the first full trailer for the upcoming Netflix anime series ‘Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft’ has been revealed. You can watch the new trailer in the video below: “Follows heroine Lara Croft as she explores new territory,” the IMDB description shares. Casting for Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft lists Hayley Atwell (Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Mission Impossible: Dead Reckoning Part One) as the titular heroine, Earl Baylon (Starfield, Tomb Raider (2013)) as Jonah Maiava, and Allen Maldonado (Straight Outta Compton, Black-ish) as Zip. On the production side of things, The Witcher: Blood Origin’s Tasha Huo is to pen the story and be an executive producer. Another party of Netflix, Powerhouse Animation (Castlevania) is to also work on the show alongside Lionsgate. What has you most excited for Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft?
Netflix Shares First Teaser For Upcoming Devil May Cry Anime Series
It is no secret the close ties Capcom has maintained with Netflix these past few years. In fact, the pair just shared another collaboration with an upcoming Onimusha animated series coming later this fall. But one many fans have been awaiting to deliver is the long-awaited Devil May Cry anime series. The show was originally revealed with Castelvania producer Adi Shankar to be spearheading the new TV show. Although the announcement was made back in fall 2018, little has been shared on the project. Maybe some of that is to blame on the upcoming Captain Laserhawk: A Blood Dragon Remix anime show coming later this fall. Previously, it was reported that the Devil May Cry animated show would feature at least eight episodes for its multi-season plan with Netflix; potentially in scale to how Castlevania was structured during its height on the service. From this week’s Netflix Drop 01, Netflix revealed the first glimpse at the upcoming Devil May Cry anime. It also confirms that Studio Mir is to be involved in the creation of the show. You can watch the teaser trailer in the video below: “In this animated adaptation of the popular Capcom game, sinister forces are at play to open the portal between the human and demon realms In the middle of it all is Dante, an orphaned demon-hunter-for-hire, unaware that the fate of both worlds hangs around his neck,” the official description reads. As noted already, Studio Mir (Avatar: The Last Airbender, The Legend of Korra) is to helm production. Additionally, Alex Larsen (Yusuke, Captain Laserhawk: A Blood Dragon Remix) is to pen the story. Larsen continues his collaborative work with Shakar as the two have already partnered together on the upcoming Far Cry anime series. What has you most excited for the Devil May Cry TV show?
The Callisto Protocol, Weird West, Farming Simulator 22 For PlayStation Plus October 2023 Free Games
September has shaped up to be yet another big month for PlayStation Plus. The free titles for the service this month included Saints Row, Black Desert – Traveler Edition, and Generation Zero. However, there has been some push back elsewhere. In that, the service also approached its users with a major price increase – at least for the 12-month plans. In that, the Essential year plan is now $79.99, Extra is $134.99, and Premium is priced at $159.99. Additionally, the service also brought an influx of new titles for its game catalog during the half way point for this month. The featured lineup included Nier Replicant, Civilization VI, and Unpacking just to name a few from the announcement. On Wednesday, Sony Interactive Entertainment has shared the new trio of free titles coming to all version of PlayStation Plus. The lineup includes The Callisto Protocol, Weird West, Farming Simulator 22. Even more, all titles will be supported for both PlayStation 4 & PlayStation 5 respectively come October next month. Read up on our review for The Callisto Protocol. “The Callisto Protocol also ventures into its territory despite the overt Dead Space inspiration, and they have created a stunning and horrific sci-fi worth getting scared over,” we wrote in the piece. Furthermore on PlayStation Plus, the service and its forthcoming approach for live-service is shaping to be a major ambition on behalf of Sony Interactive Entertainment. In a recent report, it is revealed that roughly 10 percent of annual spending for PlayStation will be put towards the initiative being platformed by the Japanese firm. You can read the full report by heading here. What title has you most excited for next month? The Callisto Protocol, Weird West, Farming Simulator 22 arrives to PlayStation Plus from October 3, 2023 to November 6, 2023. Source: PlayStation Blog
A PAYDAY 3 Offline Mode might be in the works
Starbreeze Studio and Deep Silver released PAYDAY 3 on September 21, 2023, and since that time the game has been off to a tough start. Many players have been experiencing issues trying to get into an online lobby and because of that, the game has been a frustrating experience thus far. Recently, Starbreeze CEO Tobias Sjögren responded to a fan on Twitter saying they are looking at adding an offline mode to PAYDAY 3. “Jokes aside, been communicated by Andreas for example that team is looking at possibility to add some sort of offline mode.” Before its release, it was confirmed that PAYDAY 3 would require an online connection even if you are playing solo. Make sure to follow the official PAYDAY account for updates.
Horizon Forbidden West comes to PC in Early 2024
Sony officially announced Horizon Forbidden West: Complete Edition and that it will come to PlayStation 5 on October 6, 2023. The Complete Edition of the latest Horizon game will cost $59.99 USD and it will come with the Burning Shores DLC for PS5, Digital soundtrack, Digital art book, and many in-game items. Along with this announcement, it was revealed that Horizon Forbidden West: Complete Edition will also come to PC via Steam and Epic Games Store in 2024. An exact release date was not shared yet. “PC gamers: you won’t have to wait long. In partnership with Nixxes Software, Horizon Forbidden West: Complete Edition is coming to Steam and Epic Games in early 2024.” Here is what the Complete Edition comes with: Sony officially announced Horizon Forbidden West: Complete Edition and that it will come to PlayStation 5 on October 6, 2023. The Complete Edition of the latest Horizon game will cost $59.99 USD and it will come with the Burning Shores DLC for PS5, Digital soundtrack, Digital art book, and many in-game items. Along with this announcement, it was revealed that Horizon Forbidden West: Complete Edition will also come to PC via Steam and Epic Games Store in 2024. An exact release date was not shared yet. “PC gamers: you won’t have to wait long. In partnership with Nixxes Software, Horizon Forbidden West: Complete Edition is coming to Steam and Epic Games in early 2024.” Here is what the Complete Edition comes with: Horizon Forbidden West for PS5 Burning Shores DLC for PS5 Digital soundtrack Digital art book Horizon Zero Dawn Vol. 1: The Sunhawk digital comic book* In-game items: Extras in Photo Mode (special pose and face paint) In-game items unlocked via story progression: Carja Behemoth Elite outfit ·Carja Behemoth Short Bow Nora Thunder Elite outfit Nora Thunder Sling Apex Clawstrider Machine Strike piece Resources pack Source: PlayStation
