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Skyrim Update 1.4 is Live on Xbox, PS3 Later Today – Full List of Changes

Garrett Hartman — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 15:00:39 +0000

FUS RO DAH! The Skyrim1.4 update is live on Xbox Live and expected to hit the PS3 later on today. This is an anticipated update which should fix a few annoying bugs, most importantly the PS3 bug that makes it unplayable after a certain level.

Below is the full list of changes courtesy of the Bethblog.

Bethesda also claims to be putting the final touches on the Creation Kit and Skyrim Workshop and will let everyone know as soon as they’re up.

NEW FEATURES

Skyrim launcher support for Skyrim Workshop (PC)

BUG FIXES

General optimizations for memory and performance
Fixed occasional issue with armor and clothing not displaying properly when placed on mannequins in player’s house (PS3)
Long term play optimizations for memory and performance (PS3)
Improved compiler optimization settings (PC)
Memory optimizations related to scripting
Fixed issue with dangling scripts not properly clearing from memory
Fixed crashes related to pathing and AI
Fixed crash in “Haemar’s Shame” if player had already completed “A Daedra’s Best Friend”
Fixed rare crash with loading saved games
Fixed issue with accented characters not displaying properly at the end of a line
Fixed issue where dragon priest masks would not render correctly
Fixed issue where quests would incorrectly progress after reloading a save
Fixed issues with placing and removing books from bookshelves in the player’s home
Optimized bookshelf script in player-owned houses that would occasionally block other scripts from properly firing off
Fixed issue where weapon racks and plaques would not work correctly in player’s house if player immediately visits their house before purchasing any upgrades
Fixed issue where the player house in Windhelm would not clean up properly
Fixed crash related to giant attacks and absorb spells
Fixed issue with ash piles not cleaning up properly
Fixed occasional issue where overwriting an existing save would fail
Fixed memory crash with container menu
Fixed infinite loop with bookshelves
Fixed issue where transforming back to human from werewolf would occasionally fail
Bows and daggers will display properly when placed on weapon racks
Fixed occasional audio issue that would play sound effects louder than intended
Fixed bug related to hitching between cell boundaries
Master Criminal achievement/trophy unlocks properly in French, German, Spanish and Italian
Fixed issue where traps in Shalidor’s Maze would not work properly in French, German, Spanish and Italian versions

QUEST FIXES

The Unusual Gem that was inside the Thalmor Embassy is now accessible after finishing “Diplomatic Immunity”
In “Breaching Security”, the quest token is no longer required to receive a fortune reading from Olava the Feeble
Fixed issue where Galmar would not complete Joining the Stormcloaks properly if “Season Unending” was an active quest
Fixed issue where starting “Season Unending” after finishing “Joining the Stormcloaks” would prevent “The Jagged Crown” from starting properly
Fixed issue where progressing through “Message to Whiterun” while “Season Unending” was still open would block progression for both quests
In “Arniel’s Endeavor”, fixed issue where a quest journal would trigger multiple times
In “Forbidden Legend”, the amulet fragment can no longer disappear after player leaves a dungeon without taking it
Fixed rare issue in “Forbidden Legend” where killing Mikrul Gauldurson while sneaking would make his corpse unaccessible
In “The White Phial”, the phial can no longer disappear if player leaves dungeon without taking it
“The White Phial” will now start properly if player already has a briar heart in their inventory
Player can no longer get stuck in Misty Grove after completing “A Night to Remember”
Fixed issue where leaving Riften during “A Chance Arrangement” would prevent quest from progressing
In “Darkness Returns”, a door in Twilight Sepulcher will properly open if the player leaves the dungeon for an extended period of time before completing the quest
In “Revealing the Unseen”, if the player leaves the Oculory for an extended period of time after placing the focusing crystal and returns, the quest will proceed correctly
“Onmund’s Request” will now start properly if player has already found Enthir’s staff before receiving this quest
Fixed instance where Tonilia would stop buying stolen items and also would not give Guild Leader Armor
“Repairing the Phial” will start properly if player already has unmelting snow or mammoth tusk in their inventory
Finding Pantea’s Flute before speaking with Pantea no longer prevents her quest from updating
In “The Break of Dawn”, fixed rare instance where a quest object would spawn incorrectly on the Katariah during Hail Sithis
Fixed rare issue in “The Mind of Madness” where player is unable to equip the Wabbajack
Fixed issue in “Pieces of the Past” where Mehrunes Dagon’s Razor will not trigger properly if player leaves the cell for extended period of time before activating it
“Blood’s Honor” will start properly if you visited and completed Driftshade and an extended period of time passes before starting the quest.
Fixed rare issue where “Dampened Spirits” would not start properly
Fixed issue where player would be unable to become Thane of Riften if they purchased a home first
Fixed issue where killing guards in Cidhna Mine would block progression for “No One Escapes Cidhna Mine”
Fixed numerous issues with “Blood on the Ice” not triggering properly
In “Blood on the Ice”, Calixto can now be killed if player owns a house in Windhelm
In “The Cure for Madness”, killing Cicero then resurrecting him no longer impedes quest progress
Fixed rare issue in “To Kill an Empire” where an NPC would fail to die properly
Clearing Knifepoint Ridge before starting “Boethiah’s Champion” no longer prevents quest from starting.

Killzone Re-Release for PS3 Delayed “Indefinitely”

Sam Naylor — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:00:03 +0000

Killzone‘s official Twitter page has said that a re-release of Killzone for PS3 has been delayed until further notice.

It said:

With regards to KZ1 for PS3, not sure what happened but I’ve been informed that it’s been delayed indefinitely.

This news comes despite the fact that Sony has said rumours of a re-release for Killzone 1 were “false“.

It’s a shame, since I think Killzone 1 was actually a rather good game- and I didn’t really like Killzone 2.

New Video Game Releases: Feb. 6 – Feb. 12

Garrett Hartman — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 18:00:28 +0000

Finally, the type of Rock’em Sock’em release week that is fun to write about. While maybe not the Superbowl of release weeks, with so many big and varied releases, it could easily be mistaken for a busy November release week. Let’s take a look at a few of the notable releases of this week.

Kingdoms of Amalur Reckoning is a single-player action role-playing game put together by a dream team including executive designer Ken Rolston (lead designer of The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind and The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion), story writer R.A. Salvatore (celebrated fantasy writer), artist Todd McFarlane (creator of Spawn and famous comic book artist) and Big Huge Game owner Curt Shilling (Hall of Fame MLB pitcher and gaming enthusiast). With a team like this and great early reviews, you’d be fool not to pick it up for PC, PS3 and Xbox 360.

The Darkness II revisits the ongoing saga of possessed mobster Jackie Estacado from 2007′s hit The Darkness. Promising interesting new gameplay tweaks, such as the ability to quad wield and increased use of darklings, this is indeed a promising release to look for on PC, 360 and PS3.

For gamers looking for more Batman there is Gotham City Imposters. While not featuring the Gotham’s Caped Crusader, the game will be played from the perspective of two teams each trying to kill the other: one with people dressed like Batman and the other with people dressed like The Joker. Players will be able to customize their costumes, gadgets and other aspects of the game with 8 player action that takes place with an over-the-top visual style. Gotham City Imposters releases this week on XBLA, PSN and PC.

Shank 2 sees the return of avenging assassin Shank. Once again Shank is forced to go on the offensive as those closest to him come under atteck. Using an arsenal including dual handguns, chainsaws, machetes, plus all-new weapons and a brand new set of moves to protect those close to him, his enemies don’t stand a chance. Shank 2 releases this week on XBLA,PC and PSN.

Pick of the Week: I am a big fan of 2007′s The Darkness. At the time it had breathtaking graphics, an offbeat style and gameplay mechanics to make it both unique and satisfying. At the same time, it would be hard to overlook the pedigree of the team that put together Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning. It’s a close one, but Reckoning by a nose - Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning

Below is the full list of new releases.

PlayStation 3

Dance Magic
Fallout: New Vegas – Ultimate Edition
Gotham City Impostors (PSN)
Jak and Daxter Collection
Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning
Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning CE
Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm Generations
Shank 2 (PSN)
The Darkness II
The Darkness II LE
The House of the Dead III (PSN)
The Simpsons Arcade Game (PSN)

Xbox 360

Dance Magic
Fallout: New Vegas – Ultimate Edition
Forza Motorsport 4: February American Le Mans Series Pack (DLC)
Gotham City Impostors (XBLA)
Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning
Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning CE
Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm Generations
Shank 2 (XBLA)
The Darkness II
The Darkness II LE

Wii

NADA

Gotham City Impostors
Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning
Shank 2
The Darkness II
The Darkness II LE

3DS

Balloon Pop 2
Resident Evil: Revelations

Jewel Link Chronicles: Mountains of Madness

PSP

NADA

Sony Takes Scalpel to Twisted Metal in Europe

Michael Futter — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 00:02:59 +0000

Europeans anxiously awaiting the arrival of Sweet Tooth, Dollface and the rest of the gruesome cast of Eat, Sleep, Play’sTwisted Metal got a one-two punch of bad news today.

First, the game has likely been delayed with David Jaffe commenting in a NeoGAF post that he “heard” that the title will be bumped to March. Ruins your Valentine’s Day, right?

Second, there have been some small cuts to the game. A little nip here, tuck there, but nothing that should ruin your fun with it. According to Jaffe, the notes from Sony Computer Entertainment Europe requested a number of minor modifications. None of the changes are on the level of what happened with Twisted Metal: Black, but if you put them side-by-side, you’ll notice a few missing frames from the end of particularly gory cutscenes. The gurney bombs feature live victims in the North American release, but corpses in Europe.

Jaffe assures fans that he was there for all the cuts and that the story in the European version is still as cohesive and compelling as it is in the stateside release.

Twisted Metal arrives on Playstation 3 here in the US on February 14, 2012. Fingers are still crossed for a simultaneous worldwide release. We’ll keep you posted once we know more.

Behold, Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning’s Epic Release Trailer

Garrett Hartman — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 18:30:29 +0000

EA and 38 Studios released a launch trailer for Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning.

With an all-star creative cast including Ken Rolston (lead designer of The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind and The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion) as executive designer, fantasy author R.A. Salvatore as the creative force behind the game’s universe, Todd McFarlane (creator of Spawn and legendary artist) as leading artist, and Hall of Fame pitcher Curt Schilling (owner of 38 Studios), anticipation for this game is at fever pitch.

Enjoy the trailer below.

Kindoms of Amalur: Reckoning releases February 7 on PC, PS3 and Xbox 360.

Skyrim Patch 1.4 Anticipated for PC This Week

Ben Nanke — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 03:30:54 +0000

For many fans of The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, the words “Patch 1.4″ have recently come to represent salvation. The patch’s list of bug fixes is large, and for PS3 gamers especially, many of whom have been stricken with debilitating lag, the promise of a permanent solution has them anxiously awaiting release. Bethesda Studios, the developer of the RPG, has been testing out a few beta releases of the patch via Steam, and the results seem promising.

Bethesda has announced that Patch 1.4 will be released in full sometime this week… at least for PC. It’s also being sent off to Microsoft and Sony for their approval on the consoles. Of course, recalling how long it took for the console manufacturers to approve Patch 1.3 (it took a week), Xbox 360 and PS3 gamers will likely be waiting until early February for the patch.

Along with this announcement comes a statement on the long-awaited Creation Kit, with Bethesda claiming that it “won’t be far behind” patch 1.4. It seems like things are finally falling into place, and soon all Skyrim gamers everywhere can enjoy the game as it was meant to be enjoyed.

New Video Game Releases: Jan. 30 – Feb. 6

Garrett Hartman — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 20:45:57 +0000

Finally, a 2012 release week with notable anticipated releases. With offerings from such storied franchises such as Final Fantasy, SoulCalibur in addition to inspired DLC and a new IP release has January ending on a high note.

It can easily be said that Final Fantasy XIII-2 is the highest profile release of the week. While the series’ image is not quite what it was due to recent disappointments, FFXIII-2 adds a revamped combat system and promises less linear gameplay. Will it be enough? Find out this week as it releases for both Xbox 360 and PS3.

SoulCalibur V picks up 17 years after the events of SoulCalibur IV with new heroes and returning warriors clashing in an epic showdown between good and evil. This latest offering brings new charter customization and combat features including a new gauge that allows characters to execute “Brave Edge” and “Critical Edge” attacks. SoulCalibur V will be available on PS3 and 360.

NeverDead is a third-person action game set in a fantasy and horror-influenced universe where supernatural battles between humans and extraordinary creatures blanket a vast city landscape. The main character has immortalic regenerative powers re-assembling his own body to evade death. In the battle against demons he stands as humanities’ best hope because he is never dead. NeverDead creeps into retail on the PS3 and Xbox 360.

Dead Island fans will no doubt relish the return to the fateful Island with Ryder White DLC. The DLC will a offer a different perspective on antagonist Ryder White, enabling gamers to understand his motives by stepping into his shoes. It releases on the PC, 360 and PS3.

OOOOOH YEEEAAH! Some of the most beloved WWE superstars of yesteryear return to the Legends and SuperStars Pack DLC for WWE’12. With great wrestlers like Mick Folley and Randy Savage on the roster, it would be madness not to get this for the PS3 or Xbox 360.

Pick of the Week: I’m definitely interested in SoulCalibur V, with all the extra features and fighters. But I want to give Final Fantasy XIII-2 a chance. I still have found memories of FF games of generations past which weren’t completely tarnished by the crapfest of XIII. Square-Enix, this is your last chance – Final Fantasy XIII-2

Check out the full list of new releases below:

PlayStation 3

Dead Island: Ryder White (DLC)
Final Fantasy XIII-2
Final Fantasy XIII-2
WWE ’12: Legends & Superstars Pack ( DLC)
NeverDead
SoulCalibur V
SoulCalibur V CE

Xbox 360

Dead Island: Ryder White (DLC)
Final Fantasy XIII-2
Final Fantasy XIII-2 CE
Happy Action Theater (XBLA)
WWE ’12: Legends & Superstars Pack ( DLC)
NeverDead
SoulCalibur V
SoulCalibur V CE

Wii

Country Dance: Special Edition

Age of Enigma: The Secret of the Sixth Ghost
Command Ops: Highway to the Reich
Dead Island: Ryder White

3DS

Pro Evolution Soccer 2012 3D

Kids Learn 2Think: A+ Edition

PSP

Hot Shots Golf: Open Tee & Hot Shots Tennis – Get a Grip Dual Pack (PSN)
Motorstorm: Arctic Edge & Twisted Metal: Head-On – Dual Pack

Trine 2 PS3 European Release Delayed Yet Again

Catherine Cai — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 22:00:28 +0000

European players looking forward to getting Trine 2 via PSN, ATLUS and Frozenbyte sends their apologies. Trine 2 for the PS3 will be delayed, again.

In their announcement, ATLUS and Frozenbyte didn’t give a reason for the delay nor an expected date for release. I can only assume that they’re continuing to have problems with Sony’s Quality Assurance process.

We regret to announce that the European release of Trine 2 for PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system will be delayed a short while longer.

We sincerely apologize for the frustration this ongoing delay has caused our European fans, as it is a frustration we (ATLUS and Frozenbyte) also share. We assure the community that everything within our influence is being done to release Trine 2 for PAL PS3 system users as soon as possible, and we humbly ask for our fans’ continued patience and understanding.

StarHawk Beta Begins Today for PS Plus Members – Checkout New Gameplay Trailer

Garrett Hartman — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 17:31:59 +0000

The Starhawk Beta begins today for PS Plus members and Sony has sent out a Welcome trailer that shows gameplay and explains what you can expect from the public beta.

Some of the features mentioned in the trailer include: Classic Arcade Flight-Mode, Host Migration, Language Support, Skills, PSN Friend Integration. As the video makes clear this is a true Beta and Lightbox will take all feedback into account in making the best game they can. The beta will also include continued updates and bug fixes.

For the full beta schedule check here. Check out the trailer below.

StarHawk is scheduled to hit retailers on May 8th.

New Video Game Releases: Jan. 16 – Jan. 22

Garrett Hartman — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 17:00:17 +0000

The desolate winter season of new releases continues with such a sparse release week that if I were to not include DLC, would only have a total of three measly releases.

The big release this week is ScaryGirl on XBLA. Based on Nathan Jurevicius’ Scarygirl graphic novel, Scarygirl presents a wondrous adventure into a distinctive and beautifully bizarre world. Main character Scarygirl is an abandoned child with a tentacle arm who dresses like a pirate. Joining with friends such as Blister the giant octopus and Bunniguru the mystical, kung-fu rabbit she sets out on an off-beat adventure.

The other full game releases include Jungle Speed for the Wii and What’s Your Type? for the DS. Jungle speed is a twitchy, fast-paced card game while What’s Your Type? is an interesting game that helps you predict you and your friends’ personalities, using a combination of proven scientific methodologies.

This week we get DLC for major games like Gears of War 3, Saints Row The Third and Gran Turismo 5. Gears of War 3 gets the Fenix Rising Map Pack. Gran Turismo 5 gets two new DLC packs with the Car Pack 3 and the Spped Test Pack. Saints Row fans can go Genki crazy with the Genki Bowl VIII or go cheap with the free CheapyD Pack.

Pick of the Week: An Easy Pick actually. ScaryGirl wins almost simply by default. It’s off-beat style and interesting story should captivate gamers more so than anything else this week – ScaryGirl

PlayStation 3

Gran Turismo 5 Car Pack 3 (DLC)
Gran Turismo 5 Speed Test Pack (DLC)
Saints Row: The Third – Genki Bowl VII (DLC)
Saints Row: The Third – CheapyD Pack (DLC)

Xbox 360

Gears of War 3: Fenix Rising Map Pack (DLC)
Saints Row: The Third – Genki Bowl VII (DLC)
ScaryGirl (XBLA)

Wii

Jungle Speed

Saints Row: The Third – Genki Bowl VII (DLC)
Saints Row: The Third – CheapyD Pack (DLC)

3DS

NADA

What’s Your Type?

PSP

NADA

New SSX Gameplay Trailer Announces GeoTags and Shows Gameplay Modes

Garrett Hartman — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 15:59:57 +0000

EA has released a new trailer which shows off gameplay modes, the exclusive reveal of GeoTags and snow ripping action for their upcoming extreme snowboarding title, SSX.

SSX becomes available at retail February 28 for the Xbox 360 and PS3. Enjoy the trailer below.

Sony is Porting Killzone to the PSN. Sorry, No HD

Catherine Cai — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 22:00:34 +0000

For those of you who have never experienced the original Killzone, Guerilla Games and Sony games is giving you another chance by porting it to the PSN. Do note that this isn’t a HD remaster or a remake, just a straight port, so you’ll be stuck with the same old standard-def PS2 graphics.

The port is slated for a January 24th release, to be priced at $9.99 for US players. Sorry, European gamers. You’re going to have to wait until Guerilla or Sony confirms that it’ll also be available in Europe.

[Via Eurogamer]

New RE: Operation Raccoon City CG Trailer is a Welcome Return to the Series’ Roots

Garrett Hartman — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 18:48:42 +0000

Ah, the thrills of Resident Evil games of years past. A time before zombies had tentacles, Umbrella made for the ultimate evil corporation and gamers winched in fear with the site of an unstoppable Tyrant. Which is not to say that we all didn’t love the unique adventure of Resident Evil 4, but RE5 and many recent titles had taken the series away from its’ style and survival horror roots.

Capcom had promised to go back to the basics with Resident Evil Operation Raccoon City and this new trailer shows they intend to deliver. While you won’t see any actual gameplay in this fully CG trailer, it teases the possibilities of the unique squad-based survial gameplay and versus capabilities. What we do see is hordes of mindless zombies, Lickers, unique squad abilities, and a Tyrant.

Look for Resident Evil Operation Raccoon City on March 20 in the US for the PS3 and 360. Check out the trailer below.

New Video Game Releases: Jan. 9 – Jan.15

Garrett Hartman — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 20:55:09 +0000

Now that we’re past the holiday season, we can start to look for an increase in both the quantity and quality of new releases. While the end of January no doubt holds promise, we are unfortunately saddled with a mediocre release week.

Arguably the biggest mutliplat release this week is Choplifter HD. An update of the successful 80′s Sega arcade and Master System hit. Choplifter HD distinguishes itself from other games in the genre as the focus is more directed at rescuing. Choplifter HD will be available on XBL, PSN, and PC.

Another title to look for is Amy, an innovative survival horror title from the original creator of the 90′s classic Flashback. Amy takes place in an apocalyptic future populated by zombies, demons and other unsavory types. The cooperative gameplay featured in Amy is a deep and unique system that requires players to strategize in order to protect Amy and keep both characters alive. Amy releases this week on both PSN and XBL.

Pick of the Week: The original Choplifter serves as one of those 80′s arcade classics that is still playable today and this HD modern update looks to be both entertaining and addicting. Meanwhile, Amy has more than a few features that make it unique and a pedigree you can’t deny – Amy

Check out the full list of this week’s releases below:

PlayStation 3

Amy (PSN)
Choplifter HD (PSN)
Deadliest Warrior: Ancient Combat
National Geographic Challenge!

Xbox 360

Amy (XBLA)
Choplifter HD (XBLA)
Deadliest Warrior: Ancient Combat

Wii

Carmen Sandiego Adventures in Math: The Case of the Crumbling Cathedral (WiiWare)

Choplifter HD

3DS

Crush 3D
My Pet Puppy 3D

What’s Your Type?

PSP

NADA

Final Fantasy X for PS3 and Vita Will Be a “Remake”

Catherine Cai — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 21:00:31 +0000

According to Yoshinori Kitase, a producer for the original Final Fantasy X, Final Fantasy X for the PS3 and the Vita won’t just be a HD remaster, but a complete remake. Rejoice, Final Fantasy X fans, in knowing that you won’t be paying good money for something that looks and plays the exact same way with some upgraded shaders… although now there’s the possibility that Final Fantasy X the remake could be something you absolutely hate.

Despite the remake being announced at the Tokyo Game Show back in September 2011, the project is still in its early stages and Kitase’s role in the project is still unclear. However, he assures fans that the remake will match the quality of the original.

I really hope so, Mr. Kitase. I really hope so. I’d really hate for a new generation of Final Fantasy X fans to play the remake, dislike it, and think that that’s all Final Fantasy X is. But, then again, it could do just the opposite. I have my hopes and I’m quite interested to see what if the remake will keep Final Fantasy X‘s original leveling system intact, or if Square Enix will opt for something different. Will the Final Fantasy X remake keep to the old turn-based RPG combat system that the old Final Fantasies were known for, or something a little more active?

Via [VG247]

Tony Hawk Pro Skater HD will Cost $15, Robomodo Developing

Jon Christensen — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 14:10:23 +0000

During the Video Game Awards show on Saturday, Activision unveiled a trailer for Tony Hawk Pro Skater HD. The company promises it will include levels from the award-winning first two installments of the franchise. A little while after the show, we got word that the remastered version will only be available as a download only.

Today, we get even more news for the extreme sports title. The publisher has confirmed we should expect the title to cost “about $15,” when it’s released virtually in the early part of next year. Sadly, Activision has yet to confirm which platforms we should expect to see on, but they hinted it will be coded on ‘leading consoles.’ So it’s safe to say it’ll be available on Xbox Live and the PlayStation Network, and possibly the Wii U, whenever that thing is released.

Robomodo, the team behind the dreadful Tony Hawk: Ride and Shred installments are helming the project. Though, I wouldn’t be too worried with that particular news because they’re just updating an older game, and probably don’t have a lot of creative control over the title … at least I hope so.

New Video Game Releases: Dec. 12 – Dec. 18

Garrett Hartman — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 21:41:51 +0000

Welcome to another sleepy week of December releases. One that, unless you like Gears 3 or interested in playing a real life guitar, there is little to see here.

The biggest (and only) multiplatform release this week is Rocksmith which becomes available for PC gamers. Meanwhile, Rocksmith (The Complete Real Guitar Kit) releases for the PS3 and Xbox 360.

Gears of War fans get a nice little early present as the Gears of War 3: Raam’s Shadow DLC becomes available for the Xbox 360 this week. Included in this DLC is six new multiplayer characters, a new weapon set named “Chocolate”, new achievements, and over 3 hours of singleplayer gameplay. The story takes place before the first Gears of War, with gamers playing as the infamous Locust General Raam.

Pick of the Week: If I wanted to learn how to play the guitar, (or had the time and patience to learn) I’d probably be interested in the Rocksmith Real Guitar Kit. As it is I’m a big fan of Gears of War and I can’t wait to get my hands on the Gears of War 3: Raam’s Shadow DLC.

Check out the full list of this week’s releases below:

Xbox 360

Gears of War 3: Raam’s Shadow DLC
Joe Danger: Special Edition (XBLA)
Marvel Pinball: Vengeance and Virtue
Rocksmith (The Complete Real Guitar Kit)

PlayStation 3

Rocksmith (The Complete Real Guitar Kit)

Wii

NADA

Aqua Mania
Rocksmith
X3: Albion Prelude

3DS

Doctor Lautrec and the Forgotten Knights

I ♥ Geeks!
Kids Learn Spelling and Grammar: A+ Edition

PSP

NADA

Latest Battlefield 3 “Back to Karkand” Trailer Goes Back To Wake Island

Dave Oshry — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 00:30:31 +0000

The Back to Karkand map pack is already available for you lucky PS3 owners, but in one week the rest of the world will get to go… wait for it… Back to Karkand!!

One of the most anticipated maps in this pack is Wake Island. One of the all time favorite Battlefield maps that is being brought back once again.

However, It’s been given quite the update thanks to DICE and the Frostbite 2 engine:

I believe The Notorious BIG said it best: I’m going going, back back, to Karkand Karkand. Yeah, something like that.

See you on Wake Island next week!!

New Video Game Releases: Dec. 5 – Dec. 11

Garrett Hartman — Sun, 04 Dec 2011 20:51:12 +0000

Another pre-Christmas December week means another quiet and sparse week of releases. If not for the release featuring a true video game icon, this week would be considered a complete wash. Let’s look at the highlights, or lack thereof, for this week.

Yep you’ve guessed it, the most high profile release this week is the anticipated Mario Kart 7 for the 3DS. Although it releases today (not technically in my covered release week), I left it off last week and it is definitely worth a mention.

If you are into the whole dance game phenomena then you have certainly heard of the Just Dance series. Just Dance 3 continues where it’s predecessors left off with new songs and this time allowing a quartet of dancers. While it released in November for the Wii and Xbox 360, this week at long last includes the release for the PS3.

Released to critical acclaim for the SNES in 1994, Final Fantasy VI was a landmark title for the role-playing genre and is now considered to be one of the greatest video games of all time. In 1999, Sony’s PlayStation was the lucky recipient of a slightly modified port. Now, via PSN, Final Fantasy VI is available for both the PS3 and PSP.

Pick of the Week: There are quite a few things to consider this week. For one thing, my girlfriend is a big fan of the Just Dance series and consequently, I am definitely a fan of the results. Let’s face it, pretty much anything that helps girls to tone up deserves praise, but you will never find me playing it.

Final Fantasy VI is a great game and deserves the praise heaped upon it through the years. Unfortunately, it may seem a little dated to many gamers.

Although I don’t have a 3DS and will probably never purchase another portable system, I can’t deny that I put in more hours of play into Mario Kart Wii than I did in any other game for Nintendo’s motion control system - Mario Kart 7.

Check out the full list of this week’s releases below:

PlayStation 3

4-in-1 Action Pack
Final Fantasy VI (PSN)
Just Dance 3
The Adventures of Tintin: The Game

Xbox 360

Defense Grid: Your Monster
The Adventures of Tintin: The Game

Wii

Drawsome Tablet
Fortune Street
Oregon Trail
The Adventures of Tintin: The Game

Defense Grid: Your Monster
Field of Glory: Decline and Fall
The Adventures of Tintin: The Game

3DS

F1 2011
Mario Kart 7
Nano Assault
Oregon Trail
Outdoor Unleashed Africa 3D
Outdoor Unleashed Alaska 3D
The Adventures of Tintin: The Game

7 Wonders: Treasures of Seven
Face Racers: Photo Finish

PSP

Final Fantasy VI (PSN)

Is Crackdown Developer Ruffian Games Working on a New Game?

Justin Carter — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 16:15:17 +0000

Since the release of Crackdown 2 last year, not a lot’s been heard from developer Ruffian Games. In fact, the last anyone really heard from them was for a new DLC pack for Crackdown 2, and that was months ago. However the Scottish developer is now rumored to be working on a new multi-platform game.

Job listings at the Ruffian Games website are asking for an art director and environmental artists. The game they’re working on isn’t revealed, but they’re said to be in a “major contract with one of the biggest publishers in the industry,” so that’s potentially got the list whittled down to EA, Bethesda, Activision, Ubisoft, or Square Enix, since all of them put out multiplatform games.

Via [Joystiq]