Weekly News Round-Up, April 6 - 12: PAX East Is Here, And So Was A Super Smash Bros. Nintendo Direct

Written By: Tyler

The Weekly News Round-Up is a weekly (duh?) thing I do where I swipe news from other, better websites and I regurgitate them with about 10% humour and 90% trying too hard to be funny. Regardless, I do cover a lot of the video game news of the past week so why not come back here every Saturday to see what I have to say?

This week is quite a long post because from April 11 - 13 we are going to be knee deep in PAX East. At the bottom of this article is an area designated for all PAX East news that is of interest to me. Unfortunately I'm not actually there to play or see anything so what I post is only what has been posted on other sites.


TAPOUT In EA Sports UFC June 17
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/ea-sports-ufc-coming-june-17/1100-6418803/

You like sweaty men rolling all over each other but feel like pro-wrestling isn't your thing? Welcome to MMA. If you're like me and can't actually fight in real life but take an interest in the sport, you may want to pick up EA Sports UFC on June 17.

If you pre-order it, you get the "father of mixed martial arts," who is apparently Bruce Lee and not someone from the Pankration days. Turns out you can also get it once you complete the career mode.

But don't go away yet, because I have more EA Sports UFC news! Here's the cover:

We can gather a few things from this cover. Jon Jones gives birth to logos and, well, okay... so maybe it wasn't a few things. In related news, here is the cover that they were going to use until they picked this masterpiece:

Guess What? There's Also Going To Be A Demo For EA Sports UFC
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/yes-there-will-be-a-ea-sports-ufc-demo/1100-6418838/

You'll be able to try out the game before you buy it! Thanks EA! I'll probably never say that again.


Here Are The Specs For Middle-Earth: Shadow of Awesome
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/can-your-pc-run-this-fall-s-lord-of-the-rings-game/1100-6418828/

Minimum:

• OS: 64-bit: Vista, Win 7, Win 8
• Processor: Intel Core i5-750, 2.67 GHz | AMD Phenom II X4 965, 3.4 GHz
• Memory: 4 GB RAM
• Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 560 | AMD Radeon HD 6950
• DirectX: Version 11
• Network: Broadband Internet connection
• Hard Drive: 25 GB available space

Recommended:

• OS: 64-bit: Win 7, Win 8
• Processor: Intel Core i7-3770, 3.4 GHz | AMD FX-8350, 4.0 GHz
• Memory: 8 GB RAM
• Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 670 | AMD Radeon HD 7970
• DirectX: Version 11
• Network: Broadband Internet connection
• Hard Drive: 40 GB available space

Can your computer run it? Do you need me to buy you a new one? Let me know in the comments below.


The Future In Controllers?
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/stanford-researchers-create-controller-that-they-say-can-read-your-mind/1100-6418825/

Engineers at Stanford University have made a prototype controller -- a modified Xbox 360 controller -- that reads brain activities. What this means is obviously mind control, but also the potential, eventually, to have a controller that modifies difficulty based on how you're feeling.

The only problem is, nobody who plays games actually thinks. Ba-zing!


Goat Simulator Is About To Get More... Goat Simulatorer
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/world-s-dumbest-game-goat-simulator-gets-a-shrek-mod-splitscreen-mode-and-new-map-on-the-way/1100-6418824/

There's a Shrek mod out there for Goat Simulator, and in May, patch 1.1 is going to be released. The patch includes a new map, more goats and achievements and splitscreen gameplay. This game is going to be the game that keeps on giving.


By The Time You Read This, There Will Be A Lot Of Crappy Xbox One Youtube Videos
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/you-can-upload-xbox-one-gameplay-directly-to-youtube-starting-tomorrow/1100-6418823/

If you want to upload your awesome, or not so awesome, video game footage to Youtube and you own an Xbox One, that is now possible. They have a dedicated Youtube app that will easily put gameplay videos up on that independent, obscure video website.

Thanks Microsoft, now we can see footage of all those games that don't exist on Xbox One.

(I'm just sad that the PS4 doesn't have this yet)


Peter Molyneux Once Again Is Talking
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/xbox-one-s-kinect-is-unnecessary-and-a-joke-molyneux-says/1100-6418839/

Here's something a lot of us can get behind.

"I actually wish Kinect wasn't a requirement. It feels like an unnecessary add-on to me. Maybe it's because we're in England, and it doesn't really use the TV stuff, but it feels more and more like a joke."

First of all:

But also, Peter, jokes are meant to be funny. That's why I don't call the Weekly News Round-Up a joke because no laughs are had.



Not Borderlands 3... Just A Borderlands "Pre-Sequel"
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/rumor-borderlands-pre-sequel-coming-to-xbox-360-ps3-pc/1100-6418809/

When I eat snacks right before I eat supper, I call it "pre-chow." This new Borderlands game that has been announced for PS3, Xbox 360 and PC is something like that. It isn't Borderlands 3, it just comes after Borderlands 2. Check this quote out but keep in mind that regardless of how much specific information is here, it's just a rumor:

"As for the game's rumored story, GamesPointsNow.com says the title will revolve around a younger Handsome Jack and let you play as one of his four lieutenants: Athena The Gladiator, Wilhelm The Enforcer, Nisha The Lawbringer, and Fragtrap--said to be a "militarized Claptrap."

The game is reportedly set on the moon of Elpis and Hyperion's iconic H-shaped base from Borderlands 2. The title is said to offer a "bazillion weapons" to choose from, including a Cryo class of guns which will allow you to freeze and blast your enemies.

The rumored Borderlands title also will feature jetpacks, according to the report, and oxygen is said to play a "huge role" in the game. The oxygen resources will reportedly be lootable and you'll need to manage your O2 levels to survive, the report claims."

UPDATE: OH BUT HERE WE GO BOYS AND GIRLS, BECAUSE I GOT MORE INFO:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QjGgtbTgCXI

That video is an IGN preview, and it will go into more detail about what we know, but I have some of the basics. It has four new character classes (thank God), one of which being Claptrap and low gravity which will allow more aerial combat. It will have more content than Borderlands 1 but less than 2, but this is great. I can't wait to play this in Fall of this year.


Phil Spencer Talks, And If He Keeps Talking I'm Going To Have To Give Him His Own Corner Soon
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/gaming-can-revitalize-microsoft-like-music-did-for-apple-new-xbox-boss-says/1100-6418818/

Phil Spencer thinks that gaming can revitalize Microsoft like music did for Apple.


Phil Spencer Was Hurt By the Xbox One DRM Online Controversy
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/xbox-one-drm-online-controversy-hurt-me-personally-says-phil-spencer/1100-6418817/

Ol' Phil was hurt by the controversy because he thinks they build Xboxes for all the right reasons, and he felt that they didn't communicate certain things well enough. Nope, no doublespeak here... just trying to screw consumers originally.

#PhilSpencerHasVerbalDiarrhea


The First ID@Xbox Game Has Arrived
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/xbox-one-ushers-in-a-new-era-as-first-id-xbox-game-arrives/1100-6418842/

Strike Suit Zero: Directors Cut is here! It came out this week and is the first ever game to be released under the ID@Xbox program. So, congrats!



Nintendo Possibly Working On A New IP?
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/nintendo-working-on-an-alien-themed-game/1100-6418815/

Read that headline? Yes? I'll give you a second to digest it because not only did the Undertaker lose at Wrestlemania this week... but Nintendo could possibly have a new IP in the works. They trademarked "Code name: S.T.E.A.M. Strike Team Eliminating The Alien Menace."

But don't get too excited because we know how Nintendo does things. They'll probably tie their classic characters into it somehow. Here are some On the Gamely suggestions:

Speaking of Nintendo... Here's The Best News From The Nintendo Direct Held This Week!

The 3DS Version And The Wii U Version Have Different Release Dates
http://ca.ign.com/articles/2014/04/08/super-smash-bros-3ds-wii-u-release-windows-revealed

The 3DS version of Super Smash Bros. is set for release in Summer of this year. Yes, that's 2014! This is no surprise though because the 3DS actually gets games at a pretty decent pace.

The Wii U version is set for release in Winter of this year. But it'll really come out in 2021.


Here's How The Multiplayer Works
http://ca.ign.com/articles/2014/04/08/how-multiplayer-works-in-super-smash-bros-wii-u-3ds

Both versions have multiplayer. There is a "For Fun" mode which only records wins and has all items to use. The "For Glory" mode records wins and losses while stripping the game of items entirely. The 3DS version also has a mode called "Smash Run" which basically sets players in a level where they rush to get power-ups and then after five minutes they fight each other.

In the local or friend-only multiplayer, you can of course customize as you see fit.

No More Transformations
http://ca.ign.com/articles/2014/04/08/character-transformations-removed-from-smash-bros-wii-u-3ds

Any character that changed in previous games no longer does that. Instead, Sheik and Zero Suit Samus are their own characters with enhanced move sets.


Yoshi Returns
http://ca.ign.com/articles/2014/04/08/yoshi-returns-in-super-smash-bros-wii-u-3ds

Not only that, but he stands upright! The insanity!

Greninja And Charizard Join The Fight
http://ca.ign.com/articles/2014/04/08/two-playable-pokemon-announced-for-super-smash-bros

Yes that's right. You can play as these two Pokemon if you want to. No Pokemon trainer necessary. Good, because he's a knob.

There's Going To Be Some Sort-Of Wii U/3DS Connectivity...

...And a different type of ranking system, and ways to make the online element smooth, friendly and fun for all.


They Talked A Bit About How Characters Would Control

Just watch the whole Direct to get all the details, but they did talk a little bit about changes with some of the characters, and how the new ones would go. Of interest was Little Mac, who is a complete monster when he's on the ground but is terrible anywhere else.


The Nintendo Direct Was So Japan-y!

Yes reader-san, once again the Nintendo Direct had that special Japanese flair to it. They're just so pleasant.

/end Nintendo Direct



More Nintendo -- A New Mario?
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/nintendo-confirms-work-has-begun-on-the-next-core-mario-game-but-won-t-say-if-it-s-for-wii-u-or-3ds/1100-6418850/

In news that is surprising to exactly no one, Nintendo has a new core Mario in the works. Is it for 3DS or Wii U? Only Nintendo knows, but if it's for Wii U it is supposedly going to make more use of the Gamepad, which would make it the first game ever to actually use it.


Notch Is Confused About His Feelings
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/the-simpsons-do-a-minecraft-couch-gag-notch-doesn-t-know-how-to-feel-about-it/1100-6418811/

When Notch went to visit his psychiatrist this week, he heard about how the Simpsons did a Minecraft couch gag. Instead of telling his psychiatrist to his face how he felt, he went to Twitter and then his psychiatrist read it. The tweet said:

I STILL feel a bit like it's just this small game I made at home. It's so weird to have all these things happen. <3

I am aware that this has been used so much on the net, but this is the perfect time to break out this meme so fuck it, I'm going for it.

Microsoft Trademarks "Snap Attack"
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/microsoft-trademarks-a-new-game-called-snap-attack/1100-6418843/

Microsoft trademarked "Snap Attack." If I had to guess, I'd say it's based on Snap Chat.

Or it's an online computer game. Whatever.


Hotline Miami 2 Trailer!
http://www.gamespot.com/videos/hotline-miami-2-wrong-number-dial-tone-trailer/2300-6418192/

In the Hotline Miami 2 trailer (in the link above), there's a lot of blood. I'm talking enough blood that would make the elevator scene in The Shining happy.


Watch Dogs Requires Uplay... Even If You Get It Off Of Steam
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/alongside-its-hefty-system-specs-watch-dogs-on-pc-will-require-uplay/1100-6418836/

It turns out that Watch Dogs will require Uplay, which isn't a surprise. But the fact that it will require it even with Steam is kind of weird. It's not a huge deal, but it seems pointless to me. Or is it? Maybe there's a grand scheme to all of this. Dun dun duuuuun.



The Crew Is Going To Have The Microtransactions
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/ubisoft-s-xbox-one-ps4-pc-racing-game-the-crew-launching-this-fall-has-microtransactions-runs-in-1080p/1100-6418853/

Yes The Million Dollar Man is a gag I've used before (just last week!). Get used to it because it'll probably be reoccurring.

Ubisoft is making a racing game called The Crew, and it's going to be out this fall. A lot of us knew of The Crew, but who knew about The Microtransactions? Well, now we do, because if you're a busy gamer you can buy stuff to progress. Ubisoft insists that you can unlock everything in-game though, so don't whine yet.


Microsoft Planning Backwards Compatibility
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/microsoft-is-thinking-through-its-xbox-360-emulator-for-xbox-one/1100-6418806/

It turns out that Microsoft may eventually add backwards compatibility to the Xbox One, meaning you may get to play Xbox 360 games on it. But as of now they're just plans.

"There are [plans], but we’re not done thinking them through yet, unfortunately."

Think it through 'Soft, think it through. You don't want another "Xbone-At-E3" do you?


Here's The Griffin From The Witcher 3
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/the-witcher-3-s-griffin-is-a-menacing-mix-of-ferocious-cat-and-giant-bird/1100-6418875/

Rawr.

The Last Of Us For PS4 Is Officially Confirmed
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/the-last-of-us-remastered-confirmed-for-ps4-by-sony/1100-6418860/

So there's that.

Here's some more info, quoted from Gamespot:

• Runs in 1080p
• Has higher resolution character models, improved shadows and lighting, and upgraded textures
• Has director's commentary featuring creative director Neil Druckmann, as well as voice actors Troy Baker (Joel) and Ashley Johnson (Ellie)
• Includes expansions Left Behind (single-player) and the Abandoned Territories and Reclaimed Territories expansions

 If You Pre-Order The Game:

• 100 Supply Points (XP) for use in Factions mode
• Two special bonus skins for Joel and Ellie which will be unlocked after your complete the single player campaign
• Increased Crafting Speed for use in the Single Player Campaign
• Increased Healing Speed for use in the Single Player Campaign
• 9mm Reload Speed Increase Upgrade for use in the Single Player Campaign
• Rifle Clip Capacity Increase Upgrade for use in the Single Player Campaign

If you preoder a digital copy of The Last of Us for PS4 from the PlayStation Store, you'll receive extra bonuses for the game's multiplayer component.

• Early Access to the Brawler Survival Skill in Factions Mode
• Early Access to additional Loadout Points for use in Factions mode
• Early Access to the Jeep Cap and Surgical Mask for use in Factions mode

So get ready to Last Of Us... Again! By the way, here's a picture of the remastered version, which is in the trailer.

Nah just kidding, here's a real picture:

You Can Now Create Your Own Capture Jobs In GTA 5 Online
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/create-your-own-gta-5-capture-the-flag-mode-this-friday-what-will-you-make/1100-6418866/

If you care about this news you probably already have GTA 5, but yesterday the Creator Tool went live and you can now create your own Capture Jobs. Like you need more reasons to play GTA 5.


Secret Ponchos Also Coming To PC
http://www.destructoid.com/wild-west-ps4-multiplayer-game-secret-ponchos-also-headed-to-pc-273070.phtml

It appears that not only PS4 owners will get a little taste of multiplayer Wild West action, because the PC (yes, on Steam) will be seeing this bad boy as well. Secret Ponchos is an awesome name and the game looks like a lot of fun.


Never Fear, Atlus Is Here!
http://www.polygon.com/2014/4/9/5599032/citizens-of-earth-indie-rpg-eden-industries-atlus

Citizens of Earth failed to reach its goal on Kickstarter, but Atlus swooped in there this week and now the game will be released on time. I had never heard of Citizens Of Earth but any game influenced by Earthbound should see the light of day.


HOLD UP! TRANSISTOR DROPS IN MAY!
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/bastion-developer-s-next-game-transistor-is-coming-to-pc-and-ps4-in-may/1100-6418899/

The new game by the developers of Bastion are releasing a game named Transistor... in May! On PS4 and PC! For $20! For me! For you!


A Wild Watch Dogs Trailer Has Appeared
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/new-watch-dogs-pc-trailer-shows-off-the-open-world-game-at-its-best/1100-6418902/

There's a new trailer for Watch Dogs in the link above that is meant to show off some of the graphics. Mostly, it's just the main character standing still in random parts of the city, emoting all over the place. But it looks cool.


Something I Never Thought I'd See -- Metal Gear Solid 5 Has Fewer Cutscenes
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/metal-gear-solid-5-the-phantom-pain-to-reduce-cutscenes-in-favour-of-pure-game-storytelling/1100-6418805/ 

Well damn. Yes, say damn in Snake's voice.

It appears that they will be telling their story in Metal Gear Solid 5: Phantom Pain with fewer cutscenes. Normally I'd be more than okay with this but I actually love the cutscenes in the series because Kojima is legitimately talented as a director and sets up great, movie-like shots.


Phil Spencer Wants Microsoft To Build Products That Change The World!
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/head-of-xbox-microsoft-wants-to-build-products-that-change-the-world/1100-6418889/


Phil Spencer likes Microsoft. He thinks that they are awesome and can do all kinds of neat stuff. "Fundamentally, [Microsoft] is a company that wants to do things that change the world. And they have the resources and the ambition to do that," he said in a new interview.

Whoa, hold on. Releasing a product that changes the world isn't always great. Case in point:

Making teenagers even more annoying since 2007.

Oh Yeah, It's PAX East

I Can't Be There To Play It, But Y2K Sounds And Looks Awesome
http://operationrainfall.com/pax-east-y2k/

I can't seem to find any videos or whatnot of the game in action, but the new game from AckkStudios -- Y2k -- looks incredibly interesting. You may ask yourself, why has Tyler chosen this one random indie game over the others? Why is he not talking about Below (which by the way, sounds awesome)?

Because I have been bought.

No, not really, but AckkStudios has shown me some love and I am returning the favour. I legitimately enjoyed Two Brothers, and from what I can tell, this is completely different and it looks awesome. They showed it off at PAX and people seem to be digging it.

Snow news?

Blizzard Announced 4 New Heroes In Heroes Of The Storm
http://ca.ign.com/articles/2014/04/11/pax-east-blizzard-announces-4-new-heroes-of-the-storm-characters

From IGN:

• LiLi - "Lili is a new support hero with an ability set that helps her to very effectively aid her teammates throughout the game."

• Brightwing - "Brightwing is a versatile support hero capable of teleporting from ally to ally, healing them and providing them with the help they need to succeed in battle."

• Zagara - "Zagara has map-wide components to her design; she can drop Creep Tumors to spread Zerg Creep, which helps speed up her movement speed, as well as the speed of her summons."

• Murky - "Murky is going to die A LOT, but he’s a hero who eventually overwhelms enemies across multiple battles. He doesn’t need to win every fight; he just needs to win once."

Hearthstone Gets A Single-Player Mode
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/hearthstone-single-player-adventure-curse-of-naxxramas-announced-and-you-can-play-without-spending-a-penny/1100-6418919/

I know absolutely nothing about Hearthstone outside of the fact there are cards and that everyone wants me to play it, so I'll just let quotations from Gamespot handle this one:

The Curse of Naxxramas expansion is scheduled for release sometime this summer, and finally introduces a single-player mode to Hearthstone. Players will need to play through five different sections or “wings” in the dungeon, with one wing to be released each week. The first wing to be released will be the Arachnid Quarter, and each wing will feature new bosses to defeat and new cards to earn. Only the first wing will be free--players will have to buy access to the others using in-game gold or real world money.

Wildstar Launches June 3
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/pc-mmo-wildstar-from-former-blizzard-devs-goes-gold-launches-in-full-june-3/1100-6418925/

Hungry for an MMORPG? Want a game with a name that makes you wonder how a star can be wild? Boy I got some news for you. Wildstar -- developed by former Blizzard designers so HA, I can still include this in the Blizzard News kinda -- is coming out June 3 of this year.

The bad news is that it's yet another MMO with a monthly subscription fee, but you get 30 days free if you buy the standard edition. If you buy the deluxe version you get a few extra things obviously, including a limited edition Eldan dye set!


The Behemoth Is Making A New Game... Called Game 4
http://ca.ign.com/articles/2014/04/11/the-behemoth-is-working-on-its-next-game-for-xbox-one

Indie developer The Behemoth is making a new game for Xbox One. It will be playable later this year at a PAX and that's all we know about it. Except this:

Mom??

Harmonix Is Going To Bring Back Rock Band And Dance Central
http://ca.ign.com/articles/2014/04/11/pax-east-harmonix-has-grand-plans-for-rock-band-dance-central

In news that is great for people like me who can't play guitar, dance or seemingly do anything well, Harmonix announced that they have "grand plans" to bring Rock Band And Dance Central back. Get prepared to ROCK!

At some point...


This Free-To-Play Game Costs $150 If You Want To Play The Alpha
http://www.gameinformer.com/games/orcs_must_die_unchained/b/pc/archive/2014/04/11/the-orcs-must-die-moba-is-fun-but-150-for-early-access-is-steep.aspx

Do you like Orcs Must Die! Well, this third one is going to be free-to-play but if you want to play the Alpha you can buy The Master Founder's Pack for $150 dollars. You get a bunch of stuff but it hardly seems worth it considering it's more than twice the price of a regular game. Even the Million Dollar Man can't justify this.


Sid Meier's Civilization: Beyond Earth Was Announced
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/2k-announces-new-sid-meier-s-civilization-game-beyond-earth-channels-alpha-centauri/1100-6418936/

Since his name is always in the title of games, I feel like I should plaster his face on my blog.

The next Civilization is going to the stars. In a completely unbelievable plot, mankind has made great advances in technology but also ruined the world, and now they have to get out of Earth and colonize another poor planet.

I love this idea, and I can't wait until it releases in Fall.


PAX South Is Coming
http://www.destructoid.com/penny-arcade-announces-pax-south-273188.phtml

The Overlords of Penny Arcade have announced PAX South, which will be held in San Antonio, Texas. The first event will take place on January 2015.



Well, that's it for another week of news. I hope you come back next week because I require validation like Elf needs food (badly, they might say), but until then, I will see you later!

P.S. Tweet me your harassment on Twitter @ArtBathednCrime

Weekly News Round-Up, March 23 - 29: Facebook Buys Oculus Rift! Oh The Horror!

Written By: Tyler

We have seen a lot happen this week. EA happened some more, Minecraft did stuff, and games were played. I know you're busy because you have a life, so I have taken it upon myself to update you with all the most -- or at least some of it -- interesting video game news of the past week.

This week I've decided to make it a Dean Ambrose/Jon Moxley theme, because that guy is weird and I love him. His facial expressions and reactions are great for everything.

Let's Start This Week Off Right -- EA CEO Talks Getting Things "A Little Bit" Wrong
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/ea-ceo-when-we-get-it-a-little-bit-wrong-we-do-our-best-to-fix-it/1100-6418484/

I'll start this bad boy off with a direct quote that's in that link above:

“For whatever reason, whether it was because they were pushing the boundaries of innovation and they pushed a little hard and things didn't go so well," Wilson told Fortune, referring the SimCity offline debacle, endless Battlefield 4 issues, and problems with NBA Live 14. "We won't always get everything right, but my hope is that we're seen as a company that tries to do amazing things. When we get it a little bit wrong, we do our best to fix it."

The internet does not like you, EA.
EA Voted Worst Company In America AGAIN


Speaking Of EA Being A Crappy Company -- They Won't Win "Worst Company In America" A Third Time
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/ea-won-t-be-named-worst-company-in-america-this-year/1100-6418513/

Time Warner Cable narrowly edged out EA so EA won't be able to complete the hat trick.

Denied!

 I haven't trusted Time Warner since they sold World Championship Wrestling anyway.


EA Delays Battlefield 4 DLC Until Whenever Because Of A "Hiccup"
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/battlefield-4-naval-strike-dlc-hiccup-causes-pc-delay/1100-6418518/

Battlefield 4: Naval Strike won't not be released for a bit as they hammer out a problem with the PC version. It still has shown up on consoles, but you're trying to tell me that the PC version of Battlefield 4 has problems?

At this point I'm so glad that the computer I was using before my new one couldn't run Battlefield 4.


EA Planning To Make The Star Wars Games Like The Batman: Arkham Games
http://ca.ign.com/articles/2014/03/25/ea-plans-to-model-star-wars-games-on-batman-arkham-series

EA is taking influence from the Batman: Arkham series in the sense that the Star Wars games aren't going to be tied to any existing Star Wars movies. Taking ideas from other companies concerning their own games? I thought they were too busy innovating.


Origin Isn't Going To Sell Physical Copy Of Games Starting April 4
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/ea-s-origin-service-will-stop-selling-disc-based-games-next-week/1100-6418630/

That's right! Nobody likes Origin but here's a story for you all. It will be a digital-only service come April 4th.


But Wait, You Can Get Dead Space For Free On Origin Now
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/dead-space-free-on-origin-as-the-first-title-in-ea-s-on-the-house-promotion/1100-6418601/

You can now get Dead Space for free on Origin as part of their "On The House" program. Why is EA doing this? Because they feel bad for screwing with gamers all these years Because they are gamers too, stating, "We appreciate you making Origin your gaming home...and besides, who doesn't like free stuff?"

No I'm not making fun of homeless people.

Saint's Row Developer Was Making A Post-Apocalyptic Western Open-World Game
http://www.destructoid.com/volition-was-making-a-post-apocalyptic-western-272402.phtml

And now they aren't because it would have taken too long. Dammit! I feel screwed.


Escape Goat 2 Has Arrived... But Check Out This Awesome Trailer
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/double-fine-introduces-escape-goat-2-with-second-funniest-trailer-of-the-year-so-far/1100-6418515/

In the link above there is a trailer to the new game Escape Goat 2, which you can now buy. Admittedly, the trailer doesn't show a lot of gameplay (but there are other trailers available) and is entertaining because it's just funny.

Escape Goat 2 comes out this year, and then there is Goat Simulator. Could it be that including goats in games is the new trend and making open-world games is out? Only time will tell.

Pick up Escape Goat 2 NOW! I made it! No I didn't...


Marc Whitten May Be Leaving Microsoft, But He Praises The Xbox One Future
http://ca.ign.com/articles/2014/03/25/marc-whitten-promises-xbox-one-is-just-beginning

Even though he's peacing out of Microsoft, he has said that Microsoft is on their way to reaching what they want the Xbox One to be.

Yeah.

The New Mario Kart Still Has The Same Release Date, Even Though There Was Some Confusion
http://ca.ign.com/articles/2014/03/25/nintendo-refutes-mario-kart-8as-early-release-date

Nintendo cleared that stuff up like it was acne. The game is still coming out May 30, not a couple weeks before.


Here's When You Can Start Ignoring Your Family
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/elder-scrolls-online-announces-exact-launch-times/1100-6418485/

You want to know when Elder Scrolls Online officially launches? So does everyone else. Here are the times for the launch:

• North America (East): 7:00 PM EDT, Thursday, April 3
• UK/IE: 12:00 AM WEST, Thursday, April 4
• Central Europe: 1:00 AM CEST, Thursday, April 4
• Sydney, Australia: 10:00 AM AEDT, Thursday, April 4
• Singapore: 7:00 AM SGT, Thursday, April 4

Also in that link are the times for the three day early access and five day early access. Somewhere also in that link is a link that takes you to a page made by the uncle of your best friend's mother that tells you the secret of the Universe.


Minecraft On The PS3 And 360 Get A Big Update 
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/minecraft-ps3-xbox-360-versions-getting-major-update/1100-6418483/

Not sick of playing Minecraft on last-gen consoles? Well, they got your back. A big update is rolling out that offers new terrain generation options, new potions, blocks, and even a carrot on a stick special item that allows you to ride pigs.

Yes, this is happening. By the way, that's a carrot on a stick in case you can't tell.

TITANFALL Gets A Balancing Update
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/titanfall-update-fixes-bugs-adjusts-balancing-makes-the-smart-pistol-less-lethal/1100-6418482/

In the link above (god I love just being able to link things... it makes my work so much easier) there is a huge list of the balancing updates that have hit indie game TITANFALL. Most noticeably, the Smart Pistol has been nerfed which makes me go:

Luftrausers Took 2 And A Half Years To Develop, Already Makes A Profit
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/indie-game-luftrausers-took-2-5-years-to-make-becomes-profitable-in-72-hours/1100-6418508/

Luftrausers only took 72 hours to make a profit, which is great news for the indie developers. Take that Minecraft, you gigantic money making bastard!


Nintendo And Sony Not Going To PAX East
http://www.destructoid.com/microsoft-will-be-at-pax-east-sony-and-nintendo-won-t-272409.phtml

Don't worry, Microsoft will be at PAX East, but Nintendo and Sony won't. In the link above there is a list of the people/companies/groups that will be attending. Some other companies that won't be showing up are "Nintendo, Sony, EA Games, Capcom, Sega, Warner Bros Interactive, Twisted Pixel and Deep Silver." (I'm a real journalist and I stole that from Destructoid so I quote it... how professional)

Those are some big names not showing up. I'm too much of a wrestling fan to not be skeptical though, and I think this is a work. I think they're just plotting something behind the scenes and what we're seeing is the 2014 game version of the:

Or if you wanna be more topical and not stuck in the 90s... the companies are working a CM Punk angle.

Don't worry, they'll be there. They're going to invade PAX East brothers.


Sony Gets Rid Of "Numerous" Employees In Guerilla Cambridge, SCE London And Evolution
http://ca.ign.com/articles/2014/03/25/sony-layoffs-hit-evolution-guerilla-and-sce-london

I never make fun of layoffs in the Weekly News Round-Up because this is always sad to hear.


Microsoft Is Implementing The Major League Gaming App For The Xbox 360
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/mlg-app-comes-to-xbox-360-lets-you-watch-live-broadcasts/1100-6418498/

If you have Xbox Live Gold, then you'll also be able to watch Major League Gaming on your 360. Major League Gaming isn't to be confused with Major League Baseball -- if you're like me and you originally just skimmed through the article and thought it said MLB -- because I wouldn't want anybody to confuse a fake sport with a real sport.

Just kidding eSports, you know I love you.


Don't Expect Toki Tori 3
http://www.destructoid.com/don-t-expect-toki-tori-3-anytime-soon-272419.phtml

Apparently there isn't an audience for it, so fans of the series shouldn't expect a third entry any time soon. Don't worry I won't!

Toki Tori is actually a series I've meant to play but haven't yet. So it's my fault guys, sorry.


Remember The Ouya?
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/all-of-ouya-s-games-have-free-trials-but-that-s-going-to-change/1100-6418500/

Yeah, me neither.

The Ouya is going to have slightly different policies. From what I can understand, originally developers had to create a demo for the console which cut into actually making the game. But now, instead of forcing developers to do that, they can now choose to have a free-to-try or paid model. So now, Ouya is getting rid of demos and implementing a system where Ouya will have demos.


Ubisoft Vice President Of Creative Lionel Raynaud Makes A Statement... Gets Bluff Called
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/virtual-reality-devices-need-to-sell-1-million-units-before-ubisoft-gets-interested-update/1100-6418392/

Lionel Raynaud is excited about Virtual Reality systems like Project Morpheus, Oculus Rift or actually going outside and experiencing life... but said that they would need major numbers sold in order for Ubisoft to use the new technology. He said VR would need to sell a million units.

Then, someone else from Ubisoft came out and was basically like, "nah, 1 million isn't actually what it would take dudez." That's a direct quote, obviously.


Blizzard Says Diablo 3 Is In Development For Xbox One
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/diablo-3-in-development-for-xbox-one-but-blizzard-not-sure-if-it-will-ever-launch/1100-6418494/

...but says they don't know if it'll be released, due to contracts and whatnot.

So they're developing a game that they know may not be released?

In unrelated news, I traveled to the future and in a year Blizzard lays off employees.


Rich And Don't Know What To Do With Yourself?
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/white-xbox-ones-appear-on-ebay-can-be-yours-for-1500-and-up/1100-6418493/

The way I see it is that if you're rich you have two options.  You can either send me money or you can buy this white Xbox One for $1500 and up.

Super Mario Bros. 3 Hits The Wii U And 3DS Virtual Console April 17th
http://www.destructoid.com/super-mario-bros-3-is-finally-hitting-the-virtual-console-on-april-17th-272465.phtml

In a shocking turn of events, Nintendo is finally putting a Mario game on one of their systems!

If you want to play arguably the greatest Mario of all time, make sure to pick it up. There are other games coming soon too like Metroid Fusion, Golden Sun and more.


Ubisoft Going Hard On PAX East
http://ca.ign.com/articles/2014/03/26/ubisoft-to-demo-watch-dogs-trials-fusion-and-more-at-pax-east

Ubisoft is going to demo Trials Fusion, Child of Light, Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon Phantoms, and The Mighty Quest For Epic Loot... along with Watch Dogs. Sounds great, but who's going to watch, uh, play, play the... Watch the Watch Dogs? I give up. This was messed from the beginning. I'm sorry.


Lorne Lanning Has Anger Issues
http://ca.ign.com/articles/2014/03/26/oddworld-creator-lashes-ea-talks-abeas-oddysee-remake 

Lorne Lanning in his Black Metal band.

The Oddworld creator had a little bit to say about EA and Oddworld:

On Oddworld: New 'n' Tasty

“We still see press calling it an HD remake, and it’s not a f--king HD remake."

On EA
“F--k that business. I don’t want to play with that business, because it was a losing business. I just don’t want to go back and play the old [publisher] game. I’d rather not make games than go f--king be a slave for public companies who care more about their shareholders than they do about their customers."

“Why did Battlefield 4 ship? You know that team was crying. You know that team knew that game wasn’t ready to go. You know that team f--king spent a lot of sleepless nights building that s--t out to look as good and play as good, when it was able to be experienced, being played as they were intending it to be played. Someone made a decision that the shareholders are more important than the customer. And we see a lot of that. How do you blow that? How do you take that f--king jewel and ship it with dirt all over it?”

I like this guy. He should write the Weekly News Round-Up.


Guild Wars 2 Is Going To Be Prettier In The April Patch
http://ca.ign.com/articles/2014/03/26/guild-wars-2-features-getting-revamped-and-enhanced-in-april

Guild Wars 2 is going to have a patch, but it's mostly just to enhance the game, rather than add new story.


Peter Molyneux Is Still Jaw Jackin'... Verbally
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/molyneux-the-indie-golden-age-won-t-last/1100-6418524/
 
Peter Molyneux recently said to enjoy this whole indie game thing while it lasts because it goes in cycles. He cited the music business, saying punk is popular for five years, then we get everything being manufactured.

Peter, we've had the same mainstream crap in North America for like 15 years. Or more.



Stop The Presses - Facebook Buys The Oculus Rift
http://kotaku.com/facebook-buys-oculus-rift-for-2-billion-1551487939 

This will probably be the biggest news of the week. Facebook bought the Oculus Rift for 2 billion dollars.

Mark Suckerberg (Oh I'm so edgy) says:

"Now Facebook runs the entire world. We bought the Oculus Rift, we're about to buy North America, and the surely we will conquer everything. We're so popular that God constantly updates his status."

Or he actually said:
"Mobile is the platform of today, and now we're also getting ready for the platforms of tomorrow," Oculus has the chance to create the most social platform ever, and change the way we work, play and communicate."

I'm sure the gaming aspect of the Oculus Rift will not be tampered with, and I'm looking forward to being able to hang out with the people I don't want to talk to in real life in a virtual world.


Oculus Rift Will Eventually Be Redesigned With Facebook Logo And Inferface
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/oculus-rift-will-eventually-be-redesigned-with-facebook-branding-report/1100-6418548/

Geez. Facebook has to slap their logo on everything. Luckily this blog will never see that.

In related news, the Kickstarter backers of the Oculus Rift are pissed. I can't possibly understand why.

Update: Facebook says (because it's a physical person now) it won't redesign shit.


Palmer Luckey Shoots Off About The Oculus Rift And Facebook
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/oculus-rift-creator-we-promise-we-won-t-change-following-facebook-buyout/1100-6418562/

Palmer Luckey did what anybody would do when having to answer questions -- he went to Reddit. In the link above he talks about a bunch of different things concerning the acquisition of the Oculus Rift by the tyrant Facebook. But I'm not posting it here because that will take up a lot of space. What? You actually expected me to? What is this, Communism?

In short though: Things will get better, indie development will increase, it will be more open, they'll have more money for new hardware and better people, and you won't have to log-in to Facebook and see all the annoying posts everyone makes (including myself) in order to use the Rift.


The Deal Only Took 72 Hours! 
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/some-deals-take-months-but-facebook-completed-its-purchase-of-oculus-vr-in-72-hours/1100-6418566/

Facebook moves fast, and sure enough they moved fast again. It only took 72 hours to make the Oculus deal. That's pretty impressive.

In related news, Mark Zuckerberg is actually Sonic.

Michael Abrash Leaves Valve, Joins Oculus
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/oculus-vr-hires-another-valve-virtual-reality-veteran/1100-6418627/

Michael left Valve, and had this to say: "Facebook's acquisition of Oculus means that VR is going to happen in all its glory. The resources and long-term commitment that Facebook brings gives Oculus the runway it needs to solve the hard problems of VR--and some of them are hard indeed. I now fully expect to spend the rest of my career pushing VR as far ahead as I can."

My, what a brash man. Get it? GET IT? Please accept me.

Dat Facebook money.

Oh Yeah, This Is Happening -- Goat Simulator Dead Island Trailer


Do you remember the Dead Island trailer that was so emotional it made the entire universe cry? It was one of the best video game trailers of all time and it made Dead Island look like it was going to hit you right in the heart.

Well the creators of Goat Simulator paid homage/parodied it with this. You should have watched it before you read what I had to say about it, but if you haven't, clicky-clicky that video above because it is so worth it.


Bioshock: Infinite's Final DLC Hit This Week
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/say-goodbye-to-bioshock-infinite-as-its-final-dlc-is-out-today/1100-6418526/

Burial At Sea - Episode 2 hit the week, so if you're a fan of Bioshock: Infinite, make sure to pick up the DLC. And if you understand the ending of the original game, contact me and explain it to me. Thanks!


Microsoft Believes Now Is The Time For Something That Should Have Been There From The Original Plans
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/microsoft-on-loaning-and-gifting-digital-xbox-one-games-we-totally-believe-in-that-future/1100-6418534/

If you're a gamer you probably remember Microsoft at E3. I shouldn't even have to tell you which one. They came out, said a bunch of things that annoyed everyone and now have reversed their policies. Well, now, they're fine with a loaning and gifting digital game service.


Did You Cheat In TITANFALL? Welcome To Alcatraz
http://www.destructoid.com/titanfall-cheaters-can-only-play-with-other-cheaters-now-272499.phtml

If you cheated in TITANFALL and got banned, you can still plan... but only with other cheaters.

TITANFALL New Modes Will Be Free... DLC Will Be 10 Bucks
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/new-titanfall-modes-won-t-be-locked-behind-a-paygate/1100-6418551/

You won't have to pay for the new modes in TITANFALL, but there is DLC in the works that you will have to pay for.


Sony Can't Keep Employees

The Driveclub director has left to be indie.
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/sony-s-ps4-racing-game-driveclub-loses-its-director/1100-6418552/

Don't you know it works in cycles! Molyneux said so! Get out of there Col Rodgers!

But Driveclub is still making good progress and a release date is coming soon.
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/ps4-racing-game-driveclub-making-spectacular-progress-release-date-coming-soon/1100-6418567/

Seth Killian has also left the God Of War developer to do his own thing.
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/yet-another-playstation-designer-leaves-sony/1100-6418554/

 I'm sure whatever he chooses to do, he's going to kill it. Get it?

Torchlight Co-Founders Peace Out And Start A New Studio
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/torchlight-co-founders-leave-runic-games-to-start-new-studio/1100-6418577/

Travis Baldree and Erich Schaefer left Runic Games and are now starting up their own studio named Double Damage Games. I for one trust any company named Double Damage.


You Want The Last Of Us On PS4? Nah. Well, Maybe
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/report-the-last-of-us-coming-to-ps4-as-physical-and-digital-release/1100-6418573/

A Sony representative from Turkey (yum) has said that the Ellen Page game The Last of Us may be coming to PS4. But nobody knows if it's true or not at this point, and since The Last of Us is going to be a Playstation Now (not now, but later) game... it seems a little wonky. 


Here We Go Again -- Video Games Make Kids Violent
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/study-violent-video-games-could-be-linked-to-aggressive-behavior/1100-6418556/

I had hoped that we were past this point, but I guess in my heart I knew that a new study would pop up eventually, just like a new villain will inevitably pop up in Gotham.

There's been a recent study that basically stated that kids who play a lot of video games are more violent than kids that don't. Of course, like any study, there was controversy and someone else basically said that it's a stupid study.

Well said.

But Hey, Gamers Aren't Loners Either
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/gamers-are-not-anti-social-basement-dwellers-study-finds/1100-6418624/

A new study has said that gamers aren't the anti-social dickholes that pop culture makes them out to be. In fact, according to this study, loners in the gaming community are the exception to the rule and not the norm. Gamers are actually incredibly social. Unless you're me... in which case you just sit at home by yourself, playing your MMORPGs with just your older brother because you don't want to deal with other people. But I'm not anti-social.


Notch Comes Through The Door Blastin' On Cliffy B
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/minecraft-creator-responds-to-cliff-bleszinski-calling-him-a-pouty-kid/1100-6418609/

Cliffy B called Notch (the maker of Minecraft in case you've been living under a rock or you know, don't give a crap about Minecraft) a "pouty kid" when Notch announced that he was cancelling development for the Oculus Rift once it was acquired by Facebook.

Notch replied by saying, "I'm a man driven by principles, not capitalism, so I guess I'll just have to get used to the occasional name calling." Of course, this was all said on Twitter because real life what?

Am I the only one who finds a beef between two game developers funny? We're not exactly known for being tough guys... but hey, I don't have a study to back that up.

PS4 Getting Over 100 Games In 2014, There's A List Of Them In That Link Below
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/ps4-getting-over-100-games-in-2014-here-s-the-full-list/1100-6418569/

Do you want games? We all do! PS4 is supposedly going to have over 100 by the time 2014 ends. And I'm going to play every single one of them.

 

Microsoft Won't Allow PC And Xbox One Crass Platform Play... Well, Maybe A Little
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/microsoft-won-t-allow-xbox-one-pc-cross-platform-play-says-war-thunder-dev/1100-6418587/ 

Microsoft said it won't completely allow cross platform play, however, they will work closely with developers when they have to or need it. But they actually will allow it sometimes, so god damn it, this isn't news at all.


But Microsoft Thinks That There Will Be "An Army Of Huge Franchises" Coming To E3

Phil Spencer says, "If you look at attach rate on the consoles right now, people investing in the great new AAA IP, it's great. I think at this year's E3 between us and EA and Activision, Sony, and Nintendo, you're going to see another army of huge franchises coming."

Well I hope so since E3 is the biggest gaming event of the year.
 

Microsoft Is Releasing Halo: Spartan Assault On Steam April 4th...
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/microsoft-has-no-plans-to-release-more-halo-games-on-steam/1100-6418613/

...But doesn't have plans for any real Halo games to show up on Steam. So I guess, pick it up or whatever.


Phil Spencer Also Talks About Japan
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/console-gaming-not-dead-in-japan-microsoft-says/1100-6418629/

Oh hey, it's just Phil Spencer talking again. Soon I'm going to have to give him and Peter Molyneux their own "EA Corner" type thing. This time he said, "It's critical for us in the industry that we continue to invest [in Japan] and see great games come out," as he doesn't think that the gaming population has gone down in Japan.




Justin Richmond Says Bye To Naughty Dog, Joins Riot
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/uncharted-4-director-leaves-naughty-dog-for-riot/1100-6418600/

Justin Richmond, the Uncharted 4 director, has left Naughty Dog in order to join the company that we can blame for League of Legends. There are no hard feelings, and Uncharted 4 will not be impacted at all, except for the fact it now takes place in space and involves Nathan Drake mating with aliens. No major changes though.

And seriously, Riot? There's no money in League of Legends.

...


3D Realms Is Still Fighting Gearbox
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/the-gearbox-3d-realms-legal-battle-over-duke-nukem-is-heating-up/1100-6418586/

3D Realms says that they have the rights to make a new Duke Nukem game, and they also own the trademark still.

Well, that's settled.

Warface Beta Is Open Now For Xbox Live Gold Subscribers On the Xbox 360
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/crysis-developer-s-warface-hits-open-beta-on-xbox-360/1100-6418585/

If you want to torture yourself with a mediocre game, feel free to get in on the Warface beta if you're an owner of the Xbox 360. But I recommend not.


Devil's Third Has A New Logo
http://www.gamespot.com/articles/ninja-gaiden-dev-s-action-game-devil-s-third-gets-a-new-logo-2014-reveal-teased/1100-6418583/

Tomonobu Itagaki's new action game has a new logo, and it's new, so check it out while it's new.

Third what?

Is The Newest Deus Ex Game Called Mankind Divided?
http://www.destructoid.com/square-enix-trademarks-deus-ex-mankind-divided-272600.phtml

According to this article it is. Apparently Square Enix trademarked "Deus Ex: Mankind Divided" in the UK so that could possibly be the title of the next Deus Ex.

They could call it Deus Ex: On The Gamely Sucks Hard and I wouldn't even care... I just want another Deus Ex. In fact, do that. Right now.


Wanna Be A Chef In A Post-Apocalyptic World? DayZ's Got You Covered
http://ca.ign.com/articles/2014/03/28/day-z-survival-update-adds-cooking-weapons

When "the moment [they] are confident [they] have a suitable build to release" a new update for DayZ will appear. This will include an improved AKM weapons model, new locations and... cooking! That's right, you can get your Master Chef on in this game whenever the update comes out, because really that's why we go to a game like DayZ to begin with.

"Boy, I hope they're making roast beef in there."

"Hey, got any roast beef in there?"

"Sir I don't see any roast beef anywhere."

I hope you enjoyed this edition of the Weekly News Round-Up. Hate me and my news? Tell me on Twitter @ArtBathednCrime.

Make sure to tune in again next Saturday, and every day because you never know when I'm going to post an article, and I'll leave you with one final Dean Ambrose gif: