Batman: Arkham Knight’ Screenshots Showcase Sleek Next-Gen Character Models

‘Batman: Arkham Knight’ Screenshots Showcase Sleek Next-Gen Character Models
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The adaptation of popular IPs into video game franchises can be a fickle business.

The adaptation of popular IPs into video game franchises can be a fickle business. Despite this, it’s hard to argue that one of the greatest success stories of the last generation has been Batman’s Arkham series by Rocksteady Studios. Not only have fans embraced its loving recreation of Gotham’s masked avenger, but its core gameplay mechanics have remained incredibly tight, responsive and entertaining. For the series’ final iteration though, Batman will be seeing his biggest change yet with Batman: Arkham Knight’s jump to next-gen consoles.

To date, both Arkham Asylum and Arkham City – even the non-Rocksteady-developed Arkham Origins – have been praised for their attention to detail in regards to the games’ characters and world. With the power of the next generation consoles behind it though, gamers are expecting an even higher degree of fidelity with Arkham Knight . Opening up a city as massive and iconic as Gotham Cityfor players to explore is an impressive feat on its own but with the reveal of a new set of screenshots, it looks as though the character models and designs will also be making the generational leap in an equally-striking fashion.

Whereas previous screenshots have highlighted both the game’s familiar villainsand titular antagonist, this newest set focuses heavily on the character designs of Gotham City’s thugs and grunts, and of course on the new Batmobile. While the city’s riff-raff may not inspire as much attention as the introduction of a new Batsuit, it’s hard to deny how sleek petty crime can look.

The thugs of previous games have predominantly come in distinct flavors to match their respective crime bosses, but in Arkham Knight it looks as though Gotham’s more generic grunts will be getting an upgrade. It’s to be expected that each of the game’s signature villains will have their own entourage, but the grunts that wander the streets are looking to be just as striking and varied. More and more each day, it’s looking like Arkham Knight will be one of the first third-party games to truly showcase what next-gen consoles are capable of.

Another screenshot of note in the above release shows off the Batmobilespeeding through what appears to be Gotham’s sewer system. This gives new meaning to the statement that nothing will be able to stand in its way. This could simply be a way of quickly traveling from one end of the city to the other with fewer obstructions or a means of getting to an entirely new area. While the former seems more likely, it’s no doubt tantalizing to imagine a return trip to Arkham Asylum.

With E3 just around the corner, it’s expected that gamers will soon get an even more in-depth taste of Rocksteady Studios‘ upcoming title as well as some concrete details regarding a release date. As the final installment in the Arkham series, Arkham Knight has a lot to live up to. Judging by the information that has reached the public though, it’s well on its way to giving Batman and his rogue’s gallery of nemeses the fitting send-off they deserve.

With all the talk of how Arkham Knight will push the series forward, do you think it will live up to the hype of next-gen hardware’s capabilities? Which Gotham City landmark are you most excited to explore?

Batman: Arkham Knight is rumored to release on October 14, 2014 for the PC, PS4 and Xbox One.

Follow Andrew on Twitter @ ThatRyanB.

Source: AGB

Zombie Panic in Wonderland Coming to WiiWare

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Already released in both Japan and Europe, Akaoni Studio’s Zombie Panic in Wonderland is coming to Northern America on May 3rd for 1,000 points.

is coming to Northern America on May 3rd for 1,000 points. It’s not your typical Wii family fun game. With access to seven characters carrying machine guns, Zombie Panic is an arcade style shooter reminiscent of Cabal in an infested fantasy world.

In the story mode, you will find yourself playing Momotaro and eventually encounter Dorothy from Wizard of Oz , Snow White and even Little Red Riding Hood as you try to halt the spread of amorous zombies throughout Wonderland. There are a total of nine stages divided into three levels, finally followed by boss battles. Each level has a six minute timer and secondary weapons or ammo to be found. Weapons include flamethrowers, bazookas, and RPGs. To play, the nunchuk moves you left and right while you use the remote’s pointer controls to aim and fire. Shoot at a tree or a wall with nearby zombies to defeat them or use explosive scenery to your advantage. Almost anything can be destroyed to help stay under the time limit.

Once you complete story mode, you can try again at an increased difficulty or play completed stages in the arcade mode. Through repetitive play, more characters can be unlocked, as well as three costumes for each. A multi-player mode is also available, however without online support. Regardless, Zombie Panic is sure to be a good buy with a cheap price tag. Who doesn’t want to see Snow White live through a zombie massacre?

Here’s the Zombie Panic in Wonderland debut trailer:

Sources: Akaoni Studio

Xbox One: Evolve, Fable Legends & Halo 5 Get Beta Dates & New Screenshots

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Microsoft held their Xbox press conference this morning in Cologne, Germany for Gamescom 2014 and came prepared with lots of big news for Xbox One gamers.

gamers. In addition to a few exclusives – including Rise of the Tomb Raider and Space Engineers – and new trailers and Xbox One bundles, they also had some information on betas for some of the console’s hottest late 2014 and 2015 releases.

Below is information on the upcoming Xbox One betas for Turtle Rock Studios’ recently delayed Evolve (which just held a closed alpha), and the exclusive Fable Legends from Lionhead and Halo 5: Guardians from 343 Industries.

Here’s the official which reveals that the multiplayer Fable Legends beta (a co-op game) comes October 16, 2014 . The multiplayer beta for Halo 5 begins December 29, 2014 and runs for three weeks. It will include multiple maps and modes. The open beta for Evolve , the only multi-platform release of the three, begins in January 2015 . Read on for game details and beautiful screenshot galleries for each.

Fable Legends (Lionhead Studios, Microsoft Studios)

“Fable Legends” innovates on the franchise’s well-loved world of magic, humour and high adventure, delivering a unique experience that is new and vibrant, yet feels familiar to longtime fans. Featuring stunning visuals brought to life by Xbox One and Unreal Engine 4, “Fable Legends” lets friends team up and play cooperatively in groups of up to four Heroes, each with their own distinct personalities and play style. Alternatively, players may choose to become the Villain and mastermind battles from on high. Sign up to register interest in the multiplayer beta today at FableLegends.com. The multiplayer beta begins Oct. 16, 2014 and will expand in the coming weeks and months.

Fable Legends Wallpaper

Square Cover Art Full Cover Art

Halo 5: Guardians Multiplayer Beta (343 Industries, Microsoft Studios)

Available from Dec. 29, 2014 through Jan. 18, 2015. Owners of “Halo: The Master Chief Collection” will be among the first to experience a new generation of “Halo” multiplayer in the “Halo 5: Guardians” Multiplayer Beta. Focusing on the arena multiplayer legacy that the franchise is known for, the Beta will feature a multitude of maps, several game types, as well as weapons and armor sets to customize your Spartan, all running on dedicated servers for the best multiplayer experience.  Gear up for the Beta by unlocking exclusive content in “Halo: The Master Chief Collection” and “Halo: Nightfall,” which will carry over into “Halo 5: Guardians” when it launches in 2015.

Evolve (Turtle Rock Studios, 2K)

From Turtle Rock Studios, creators of “Left 4 Dead,” comes “Evolve,” the next generation of multiplayer shooters where four Hunters face off against a single, player-controlled Monster in adrenaline-pumping four-versus-one matches. Play as one of four Hunter classes (Trapper, Support, Assault and Medic) and team up to take down the beast, or choose to play as the Monster and use savage abilities and an animalistic sense to kill your human enemies on the planet Shear, where flora and fauna act as an adversary to human and monster alike. Level up to unlock new Hunter or Monster characters as well as upgrades, skins and perks. Earn your infamy on the leaderboards and become the apex predator. Play the open beta in January 2015, only on Xbox One.

Which of the three titles are you most excited for?

Evolve releases for PC, PS4, Xbox One on February 10, 2014.

Follow Rob on Twitter @ rob_keyes.

Source: Microsoft

Call of Duty: Black Ops to Have Prestige and Hardened Editions?

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Online retailer Buy.com had listed both a Prestige and a Hardened Edition of Call of Duty: Black Ops for pre-order.

for pre-order. The Prestige version reportedly costs $149.99 and the Hardened option is $79.99. No other details were listed regarding these two special editions, and the site has since removed the listings from their website.

To date, Activisionreportedly has refused to confirm their existence.

So were these listings a mistake by Buy.com ? Unlikely, since Modern Warfare 2 also released similar editions, which included artwork, the originalgame, and in the case of the Prestige edition real night vision goggles. The fact that Activision plans to release special editions of its next installment in the popular franchise would not be a huge surprise. Perhaps the Black Ops Prestige edition will feature a riot shield. One can only dream.

With the upcoming releases ofandwe’re likely to see an old fashioned Limited Edition showdown. Hopefully each game provides some unique and properly rare swag for the fans willing to throw down some extra greenbacks. We all know these games are going to sell like crazy, hopefully that doesn’t mean these Limited Editions will be stripped down for maximum profit.

Whatever edition you purchase you can expect one hell of a game, because Black Ops is looking betterand better. Are you excited for the next iteration in the Call of Duty series, Ranters? Think you’ll be willing to drop an extra dollar or two for some delicious collectibles?

Call of Duty: Black Ops is set to release on November 9, 2010, for the PC, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 and Wii.

Source: IGN UK

Call of Duty Has Sold Over 20 Million Map Packs

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Today Activision announced via press release that the Call of Duty franchise has officially sold over 20 million map packs.

franchise has officially sold over 20 million map packs. Most recently the Resurgence Packwas let loose upon the war ravaged multiplayer of Modern Warfare 2 for the 360, PS3 and PC.

“[Activision Blizzard] today announced that during the quarter ended June 30, 2010, life-to-date map packs for the Call of Duty® franchise surpassed 20 million units. Call of Duty remains the #1 best-selling first-person action franchise in the U.S. and Europe, according to The NPD Group, Charttrack and GfK, and has consistently raised the bar for the video game industry with its innovative and engaging online multiplayer experiences and downloadable content offerings.”

Despite some rather harsh negative feedback from the gaming community, Activision is still making money by the truck load and they won’t be slowing down any time soon. MW2 has stayed on top of the Xbox LIVE and PSN charts almost every single week since its release back in November of 2009. Along with CoD ‘s online dominance,is priming to be one of the biggest releases of the holiday season, with the possibility of two special edition packagesfor gamers to shell out even more cash on.

What Activision is clearly trying, and succeeding, to get across here is that they have not stopped making money and their franchises are still some of the best selling in the industry. Heck, the only other time you see numbers like this is when they involve Apple products. We are not likely to see a lull in the complete takeover of the FPS by Call of Duty any time soon.

Call of Duty: Black Ops drops on November 9th, 2010 for the PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Wii and PC.

Marcus Fenix in ‘Mortal Kombat’?

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In the lead-up to the release of Mortal Kombat (aka Mortal Kombat 9) the internet was buzzing with questions for Ed Boon.

the internet was buzzing with questions for Ed Boon. Following the reveal of Kratosas the exclusive character for the PS3, everyone wanted to know who and what the Xbox 360players would be getting as an exclusive.

For a while a rumor persisted that Green Lantern would be the exclusive Xbox 360 character, but that myth was later debunked (and the YouTube account associated with the video was subsequently deleted). Further rumors regarding the Xbox 360 versions of the game were revealed closer to the launch of the game and suggested that a unique Pit stage and even Puzzle Kombat would be included. From the rumored listof features, only avatar support for King of the Hill mode made it into the game.

While this was all happening, Boon remained silent regarding NetherRealm Studios‘s plans for the Xbox 360 version of the game. Once MK released, fans began to ask Boon if he would ever reveal the exclusive Xbox 360 character and yesterday on Twitter, Ed Boon, while replying to a fan’s question, finally stated publiclythat if he had a choice in the matter he would have chosen everyone’s favorite COG, Marcus Fenix. What Boon probably wasn’t expecting was a reply from Epic Games‘s Cliff Bleszinski encouraging Boon to get in touch with him about it.

Of course a conversation via Twitter between two industry giants isn’t necessarily indicative of anything. In fact, Boon has already stated that more MK9 DLC could be on the wayand that MK10 is already in development at NetherRealm Studios. So it’s entirely possible that we could see Marcus Fenix come to the Xbox 360 as an exclusive character for this game.

But would we want Marcus Fenix? If NetherRealm Studios can do as good as job with him as they did with Kratos then sure why not? However, as much as this may anger the fanboys (or as I shall now refer to them ‘fanimals’), Kratos just fits MK . Sure he always fights with weapons out, but other than that, he works within the context of the game. You need only switch up Zeus with Raiden and you can put Kratos into the game with minimal shoehorning. Fenix on the other hand is trickier, and could be viewed as redundant given how Jax is already part of the game. Plus, would he fight Lancer out or only bust it out for Fatalities and specials?

Since we don’t have the answer to any of these questions, let us know in the comments below what you think. Go ahead and comment… we’ll keep an eye on Ed and Cliffy’s Twitter feeds and let you know if anything else happens.

Mortal Kombat is currently available for the Xbox 360 and PS3.

Follow me on Twitter @ VivasKaul

Source: Ed Boon’s Tweet, Cliff Bleszinski’s Response

New Call of Duty: Black Ops Details Exposed

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In the Fallout series, Ron Perlman famously said “War.

series, Ron Perlman famously said “War. War never changes.” If only he had heard about the latest details on the upcoming FPS Call of Duty: Black Ops , he may have reconsidered his statement. Developer Treyarch, is looking to keep the Call of Duty franchise fresh by adding new mechanics into the mix, most notably – vehicles.

The new info comes straight from the pages of PC Zone & Official Xbox Magazine, the latter of whom describe the next instalment of Activison‘s behemoth franchise as “unbelievably gorgeous”. Saying that it touts improved smoke and fire effects, increased draw distance, more convincing character animation and “incredible” lighting.

The new details are as follows: As initial reports suggested, Black Ops takes place during the Cold War. Players assume the role of a member of the Studies and Operations Group (SOG), a secret CIA funded group whose methods are somewhat unconventional and actions deniable. Treyarch is looking to inject some much needed variety into the CoD series by setting the action across a number of different locations. Some of those revealed were Vietnam, the frosty Russian Mountains, the London underground. One mission sees the player rappelling out of a helicopter into Hue City to verify that the Russians are setting up shady backroom deals, while another entitled ‘WMD’ takes place in the Ural Mountains and see you repelling down the side of a ridge. Another mission opens with your helicopter crashing into the Huong River, from there you have to dive and swim through the murky waters, using only your knife as a weapon. New weapons include an M202 rocket launcher, an incendiary shotgun and a crossbow. The latter of which can be used for stealth kills but it also can fire explosive tipped arrow for those situations where you need a little bang for your buck. Player controlled vehicles are confirmed, one of which is the SR-71 Blackbird. In one mission you use it to guide troops on the ground past guard patrols. Helicopter-on-helicopter gun fights were seen. As far as multiplayer goes Treyarch is keeping quiet, although they have mentioned that vehicles will be returning albeit “not the way you remember them”. The game will feature a co-op mode with increased character customisation.

While I’m not the biggest fan of the Call of Duty franchise, I really thought Treyarch upped their game with their last effort, the WWII based World At War . What with all the scandal surrounding the series of late it will be interesting to see what Black Ops has in store when it’s drops in November – Viet Cong Zombies, anybody?

Has Black Ops got your attention? What do you think Treyarch can bring to the table this time around?

Call of Duty: Black Op s will be exploding into stores on the 9th November for Xbox 360, PS3, PC & Wii.

Source: CVG

5 Guest Characters that Should Appear in ‘Soul Calibur 6’

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Soul Calibur 5 has finally landed on store shelves this week, and we imagine fans of the franchise are enjoying the series’ latest special guest character Ezio Auditore .

. Themainstay will likely become a fan-favorite amongst newcomers and veterans alike and that has nothing to do with his move set — it’s based purely on the allure of playing as a crossover-based character.

has been a battlefield filled with crossovers ever since Soul Calibur 2 (with the exception of Soul Calibur 3 ). Throughout the years we’ve seen the likes of‘s Link, Todd McFarlane’s Spawn,‘s Heihachi Mishima,‘s Kratos, and even Star Wars ‘ Yoda and Darth Vader appear in various installments and versions of the series. With the special guest character for Soul Calibur 5 already decided upon – we can’t help but dream about which guest character will appear in Soul Calibur 6 .

That’s why we’ve created a list of the five guest characters we would love to see crossover into this treasured fighting franchise, so without any further delay, let’s take a look at who should appear in.

New Call of Duty: Black Ops Screens

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Call of Duty: Black Ops is closing in fast, there’s no doubt about that.

is closing in fast, there’s no doubt about that. It has long been an unspoken rule that you should ‘miss every othertitle’, simply because they haven’t been able to compete with the Infinity Wardofferings. Black Ops looks set to tear that rule to shreds.

Treyarchare going into overdrive, attempting to convince gamers that Black Ops will be worth their hard-earned dollars. Judging by the quality of the trailersand screens, as well as the idea that Black Ops will be “ fresh but familiar“, I think it’s safe to say that Treyarch have achieved their goal.

Some gamers will argue thatwas a bitter disappointment, failing to live up to their monumental expectations after. Me? I thought Modern Warfare 2 was a great game, and I felt that comparing it to another was unnecessary — after all, I’m playing this one now, why should I worry about any others?

Surprisingly, since its initial announcementback in April 2010, Black Ops has been attracting a lot of positive buzz, perhaps most notably because of its apparent shift into a more modern era. Looking at the images below, it’s refreshing to see a landscape other than a war-torn World War 2-era America/Russia/Japan. I know I’m in the minority when I say that I actually enjoy playing through the Call of Duty campaigns, and the apparent amount of variety is incredibly exciting.

Check out the screens below.

I’m sure we can all agree that they look pretty amazing. However, if that’s not enough for you, be sure to head over the to next page, where we have even more Call of Duty: Black Ops screens for you to enjoy.

Hardened Edition of Call of Duty: Black Ops Includes Zombie Maps Pack [Update]

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As of right now the zombie maps pack is only be touted for the game’s Hardened Edition but with the Prestige Edition completely dwarfing Hardened in awesomeness it is hard to believe the pack wont be included in both.

You wanted your zombies and now you are going to get them. In Best Buy’s rundown of the content included with the Hardened edition of, they list:

“… four zombie maps pack made famous from.”

completely dwarfing Hardened in awesomeness it is hard to believe the pack wont be included in both. If the pack is only just that, a set of multiplayer mapsinspired by the Zombie mode, and not more arenas to test out Black Ops ’ new zombie mode, I can assure you at least one gamer will be upset. Yes, the new multiplayeris poised to deliver another winner, but zombies are what we expect out of Treyarch.

When the schism that currently exists in thefranchise first started, it was based on the premise of delivering two perspectives of war’s past. Then, original developer Infinity Wardmade a giant leap forward with Call of Duty: Modern Warfare , blasting the series into a contemporary setting and giving the players one of the most visceral FPS experiences to date. Most gamers figured that the new schism between Treyarch and Infinity Ward’s approaches would be between the modern and the senescent, but with Black Ops , Treyarch is planning on slowly creeping up to Infinity Ward. It seems that in no time the differentiation between the two will be the fact that Treyarch’s includes zombies.

Sure, killing off zombies is fun, and this play choice has inspired other games like Red Dead Redemption to follow suit, but any type of zombie play mode should remain ancillary to an already amazing game. My faith is completely in Treyarch to up Infinity Ward’s ante with Black Ops and solidify themselves as a suitable counterpoint and a worthy bearer of the Call of Duty franchise.

How do you feel about the Zombie Mode in Treyarch’s Call of Duty games? Would you prefer they follow a little closer to Infinity Ward’s lead or do you enjoy that they want to establish themselves as an equally viable developer?

Call of Duty: Black Ops is scheduled for a November 9 threlease date on the Xbox 360, PS3, PC, and Wii, with a separate version planned for the Nintendo DS.

Source: CVG

[Update: Treyarch Community Manager Josh Olin has confirmed that we’ll be seeing zombies in Black Ops :

“All 4 existing CoDWaW Zombies maps will be included in Hardened & Prestige editions of CODBlackOps as callback co-op levels!” ]

PC Version of Call of Duty: Black Ops Will Have Modification Tools Available

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A big part of most PC gaming has to do with the ability to create your own maps via tools made available to you by the developer.

A big part of most PC gaming has to do with the ability to create your own maps via tools made available to you by the developer. Treyarch wants to reassure their PC community that Call of Duty: Black Ops will indeed be receiving them. Treyarch insists that these tools will be available to users on launch day. Whether or not they will be on board with the game or available through a separate download is still in question. A dev console will be also be accessible for users with the game, so minor tweaking will certainly be allowed launch day.

With a lot of features now present in this incarnation of the Call of Duty franchise like an online co-op campaign, Treyarch will be trying to distance themselves from their older Call of Duty titles and use Black Ops to really secure their reputation as the Call of Duty game developer. Certainly a hard task, but the developer definitely seems to be hard at work and wants to prove themselves worthy of carrying the torch.

It’s hard to not be skeptical, even in the most minute kind of way, of Treyarch‘s ability to create a Call of Duty game that will rival the existing Modern Warfare titles. I’m all for them being successful any kind of venture they want to undertake, especially if they’re wanting to fill in the shoes left behind by the now-defunct studioof Infinity Ward. I truly hope that Treyarch will be able to deliver a top-notch game with Black Ops , especially with “Zombie Mode” returning, and their Nazi-less location of Vietnam.

Call of Duty: Black Ops will be reliving the slightly more interesting parts of war history on November 9, 2010 for Xbox 360, PS3, PC, Wii, and DS.

Source: Kotaku

Black Ops:’ Biggest Midnight Launch in GameStop’s History

‘Black Ops:’ Biggest Midnight Launch in GameStop’s History
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It was a foregone conclusion that one of the most successful videogame franchises in the world would have a big opening day, but now it seems that it will have one of the biggest opening nights as well.

GameStophas announced that 4,400 of the company’s 6,500 stores will be hosting midnight launch events for the release of Call of Duty: Black Ops this Tuesday. In what may be the just the first of many records broken with the release of Activisionand Treyarch‘s newest FPS, Black Ops will give GameStop the largest midnight launch in the Texas-based company’s history.

If the Call of Duty franchise will be remembered for one thing, it is breaking records. The series has reached a level of public awarenessthat few games have ever achieved, and seems to set a new definition of ‘blockbuster’ with every new title. Since millions are lining up to hand over their cash to get the game as soon as possible, it only follows that more and more retailerswill see a midnight launch as a necessity more than a promotion.

With Gamestop’s popularity among the gaming community, the company seems to recognize that the launch of Black Ops doesn’t just have to be a monumental day for Activision. GameStop had sales of over $9 billion last year, but Senior VP of Merchandising Bob McKenzie doesn’t see why the retailer should pass up an event like this:

“We anticipate Call of Duty: Black Ops will not only be the biggest video game event of the year, but the biggest launch in GameStop’s history,”

It seems like years ago that the overwhelming sentiment for Black Ops was skepticism, and doubts that Treyarch would be able to produce a title equal to Infinity Ward‘s Modern Warfare 2 . Treyarch stood behind their work, and with every new detail the game showed more and more promise. It remains to be seen if Black Ops will have the legs to outsell MW2’s 15 million copies. It may be difficult, but given the accomplishments of the series it’s far from impossible.

GameStop locations across the United States will begin the festivites at 9:30 pm on Monday, inviting fans to catch an early look at the game, enjoy some camouflage face-painting for the kids, and CoD trivia for the die-hards. Be sure to inquire at your local store about special events, since a Call of Duty launch party is as good a reason as any to spend a Monday night out.

If waiting in line, then rushing home to join your similarly sleep-deprived friends in one of the many multiplayer modesisn’t for you, there are alternatives. You could also download a copy digitally, but where is the fun in that?

In the cold or on the couch, we’ll all get a chance to see what Treyarch has in store for us when Call of Duty: Black Ops launches for the PC, Xbox 360, PS3 and Wii this Tuesday, November 9, 2010.

Source: Gamasutra

Call of Duty: Black Ops’ Record Breaking First Day Sales Total 5.6 Million

‘Call of Duty: Black Ops’ Record Breaking First Day Sales Total 5.6 Million
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There was no doubt that Treyarch and Activision’s latest entry into the Call of Duty series was going to sell incredibly well.

series was going to sell incredibly well. The game had high pre-order numbersand a huge amount of hype, but not very many people expected the game to be bigger than Modern Warfare 2‘s 4.7 million first day sales last year. It turns out they wrong by about a million copies. Earlier today Activision revealed that Tuesday’s launch ofsaw 5.6 million copies of the game sold, which generated a staggering $360 million in sales.

To put those numbers into perspective the number one movie in America over the weekend, Megamind , only made $46 million. A movie ticket isn’t $60, but it still gives an idea of just how successful the launch of this game was. Activision Blizzard CEO Bobby Kotick was quick to brag about how huge this series is and what it means for Activision:

“There has never been another entertainment franchise that has set opening day records for two consecutive years and we are on track to outperform last year’s five-day global sales record of$550 million. The game’s success underscores the pop culture appeal of the brand. Call of Duty: Black Ops is the finest game that Treyarch has ever made and raises the bar for online gameplay by delivering the deepest and most intense Call of Duty experience yet. The Call of Duty franchise has over 25 million players around the world that are engaged in billions of hours of online gameplay, and we are committed to supporting them with new content and features on a more frequent and regular basis.”

The last line of that quote from Kotick shows that Activision isn’t done making money of this game after it leaves the retail store. “New content and features on a more frequent and regular basis” could only mean we will be seeing a flood of DLC for this game over the next year as was promised. The game will continue to sell well through the holidays and into next year, add to that some DLC map packs, and Activision appears likely to bank a good amount off of Call of Duty: Black Ops just like they did with Modern Warfare 2 .

So readers, how many of you were one of the 5.6 million that bought the game on launch day? How has the game been treating you so far? Be on the look out from Game Rant’s review which should be up sometime soon.

Call of Duty: Black Ops is now available for the Xbox 360, PS3, and PC

Pachter Predicts ‘Black Ops 2’ Sold 8.5m Units; Slightly Below ‘Modern Warfare 3’

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Wedbush Morgan’s Michael Pachter is mostly known for stirring the pot with his bold predictions and proclamations, but when he’s not busy dooming the Wii U or outing a Grand Theft Auto 5 release date, his company is analyzing and compiling raw data.

release date, his company is analyzing and compiling raw data. And since we have no official numbers from Activisionyet — a fact that is surprising considering their proclivity for boasting — Wedbush has delivered some expected sales numbers for Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 for the month of November.

Although the highly anticipated follow-up to Treyarch‘s most successful Call of Duty entry released on November 13th, it reportedly moved some 8.5 million units during its first few weeks of release. This number is, however, slightly below the opening month tally for Modern Warfare 3 , Infinity Ward’s 2011 COD effort.

Cowen & Company’s Doug Creutz, on the other hand, expects sales for Black Ops 2 to come in at around 7.9 million units sold, an 11 percent drop from MW3 . Either way, both analysts are suggesting Black Ops 2 sales are lower, by comparison, to Modern Warfare 3 .

Unlike Pachter, however, Creutz does mention that Modern Warfare 3 , which released on November 8th of last year, had an extra week during which to generate sales — making the comparison a little uneven.

In addition to Black Ops 2 , Creutz projects that Halo 4 sales will be 2.9 million units over the month of November, and Assassin’s Creed 3 will have moved about 2.6 million. Both games received proper releases in October, but November — Black Friday, especially — is when nearly all Fall releases receive a significant bump in sales.

Beyond game sales, Wedbush and fellow analyst firm EEDAR also weighed in on console sales numbers, delivering similar projections to what has already been reported for the Wii U(450,000), PS3 (700,000), and Xbox 360 (1.4 million).  More interesting than that, though, Pachter predicts a Wii U software attach rate of about 3 gamers per console, which should make NoA President Reggie Fils-Aime very happy. As we reported early last week, Fils-Aime revealed that all it takes is one game sale for a Wii U to become profitable.

Did you pick up a copy of Black Ops 2 or a Wii U during November? Were you expecting higher sales numbers for Activision’s flagship franchise?

Source: CVG

Call of Duty Surpasses $3 Billion in Revenue

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In a recent press release from Activision Blizzard, the Call of Duty franchise was touted as having earned more than $3 billion in retail sales worldwide.

franchise was touted as having earned more than $3 billion in retail sales worldwide. This milestone was made recently possible by the huge success of Modern Warfare 2 which brought in $550 million in the first five days. This just beat out the previous record holder Grand Theft Auto IV’s 5-day $500 million record.  The Call of Duty franchise as a whole has sold more than 55 million copies of its various titles worldwide.

Bobby Kotick, CEO of Activision Blizzard, acknowledged the success of the franchise saying:

“Call Of Duty has become one of the greatest entertainment franchises of all time. If you consider the number of hours our audiences are engaged in playing Call of Duty games, it is likely to be one of the most viewed of all entertainment experiences in modern history.”

Of all time . Now I’m sure Call of Duty is establishing itself as one of the greatest franchises, but I don’t think its recent success brings it up to the level of franchises like The Legend of Zelda or Final Fantasy just yet. Nevermind the success of Activision Blizzard’s own Blizzard franchises: Warcraft, Starcraft, and Diablo. That being said, with new DLC possibly coming out soon, the MW2 train isn’t going to be stopping anytime soon and we’ll continue to see new franchise installments on an annual basis.

How have you been enjoying the game so far, and do you think Bobby’s right about Call of Duty being one of the greatest?

Expect Call of Duty: World at War 2 next Fall.

Source: Activision

Modern Warfare 3’ Crosses $1 Billion Sales in 16 Days

‘Modern Warfare 3’ Crosses $1 Billion Sales in 16 Days
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If there were any lingering doubts that despite the massive influx in top-quality games and shooters these days, Call of Duty still holds a unique spot atop the pile, this should be the last reassurance anyone needs.

still holds a unique spot atop the pile, this should be the last reassurance anyone needs. After the release of Modern Warfare 3 in early November broke several opening day records, Activisionis now claiming that the game managed to break the $1 billion mark in just over 2 weeks. That makes it the fastest entertainment property to ever do so, finally cementing Modern Warfare 3 as the financial peak of the Call of Duty franchise to date.

In a press release issued this morning, Activision revealed the staggering sales numbers that currently place the game’s sales well above even that lofty mark, since the game is surely continuing to sell into the holiday season. While some might disagree with MW3 being considered the Avatar of video games, the James Cameron-helmed 3D feature took 17 days to rake in $1 billion, a whole 24 hours longer than Infinity Ward‘s latest gun-toting thrill-ride.

Modern Warfare 3 had long since surpassed the previous release, Black Ops , after shattering its 5-day sales numbers, but the seemingly unstoppable momentum of the latest game is truly impressive. What the numbers show – and what Activision is happy to point out – is that not only are fans getting more and more eager to play the game immediately upon release, but that more players are joining the community every year. Whether you’re included in that group or not, it’s no longer possible to ignore the rise from game to cultural phenomenon that the Call of Duty series has become.

Now boasting a community of over 30 million players – seriously, almost the population of Canada – the devoted online fans have helped even years-old games beat Battlefield 3 , making the previously gutsy claims of Electronic Arts seem somewhat futile in hindsight. With advertising campaigns featuring bigger stars than ever, and another title on the way from Sledgehammer, the series has yet to show any signs of slowing.

In addition to the staggering sales of the game itself, Activision is also expanding upon the previously released Call of Duty Elite subscription numbers. Over 6 million players have signed up for the service, with 1 million willing to pay up for the premium subscription. With the launch issues now confined to the past, that means that 1 in 5 CoD players is enjoying the extra features available with Elite: an impressive launch to say the least.

But as impressive as those numbers are, it may defy many expectations that were posed when rumors of a paid subscription servicefirst surfaced. Industry analysts claimedthat the rabid, dedicated, map-pack-devouring fans of the series would line up and turn out their pockets if they could get even a bit more content from the franchise or its developers. With that opportunity now given, to see just over 3% pay for a premium service paints a very different picture.

Perhaps it’s only the fiercely loyal fans (and yes, ‘fanboys’) that are constructing an image of a community as ‘hardcore’ and militant in their support as the game’s soldiers themselves. But with the sales growing every year, it’s getting harder to ignore the fact that it’s far more likely that more casual gamers are being folded into the CoD mix. If that is the case – with 80% of the game’s buyers not signed up for the Elite service at all – then the momentum and potential for the next Call of Duty to outperform this release is even greater.

What’s your take on the sales record smashed by Modern Warfare 3 ? Think movies and games can ever be equated in terms of dollars, or the discrepancy makes any comparisons misleading?

Modern Warfare 3 is available now for the Xbox 360, PS3 and PC.

Black Ops 2: ‘Nuketown 2025’ Map Details

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The world of online multiplayer has provided hours of shooter entertainment for decades at this point, and raised a few settings and levels to the status of gaming’s most hallowed.

The world of online multiplayer has provided hours of shooter entertainment for decades at this point, and raised a few settings and levels to the status of gaming’s most hallowed. ‘De_dust2,’ ‘Bloodgulch,’ ‘Wake Island’ and others brought level design and personality together to make maps as brilliantly built as they were memorable.

With, the 1960’s era ‘Nuketown’ map worked its way into the hearts and minds of thecommunity, and there’s no going back. With Black Ops 2 set to bring a re-imagined version of the map as a pre-order bonus, the developers have answered a few questions regarding the package, and hint at what kind of personality ‘Nuketown 2025’ will exhibit.

While the campaign ofwill largely take place in the year 2025, the multiplayer map apparently won’t be built around the same technology or approach to warfare as the game’s new quadrotors and war machines. ‘Nuketown 2025’ won’t be an updated version of the compact carnage seen in the previous nuclear testing grounds, but apparently a version of a ‘model future neighborhood’ as it would have been imagined in the 1960’s.

Instead of keeping committed to the real-world inspirationsfor the game’s singleplayer campaign, the decision means that Treyarchhas plenty of room to bring a truly unique and absurd multiplayer setting. The original was chock full of easter eggs and sense of humor, so hopefully there will be hover-cars and silver jumpsuits aplenty for ‘Nuketown 2025.’

The developers have also answered a few questions that fans may be asking, especially those who have already pre-ordered a copy of Black Ops 2 prior to the map being announced. Despite the exclusivity deal the series currently shares with Microsoft, the map will be available on launch day for all pre-orders, on all platforms. “Most major retailers worldwide” are participating, as well as PC pre-orders purchased through Steam.

The game’s official site emphasizes the fact that this day one DLC is not locked on the disc, but entirely downloaded content, and that those who have already pre-ordered a copy are promised the ability to gain access to the content as well. Exactly how the difference is going to be detected at midnight on launch day isn’t clear, but for now it seems that everyone and their brother has pre-ordered a copy, so that’s not much of an issue.

The decision to release true DLC on release day across every platform is certainly going to gain Treyarch some credit from gamers not playing on the Xbox 360. The inclusion of dedicated servers for PCdid the same, so perhaps the studio really is starting to fine-tune their community and support as competition mounts industry-wide.

Fans can see just what visions of the future the developers have found the most ripe for multiplayer, and how ‘Nuketown 2025’ measures up to its predecessor when the game releases.

Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 releases on November 13 for the PS3, Xbox 360 and PC.

Follow me on Twitter @ andrew_dyce.

Source: CallofDuty.com

Examining ‘Black Ops 2’s’ Branching Storylines & Player Choice

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When Call of Duty: Black Ops II unloaded its rapid firing of trailers and game previews this week, gamers were acquainted with the 1980’s Cold War segment of the campaign and its 2025 Cold War follow up.

and game previews this week, gamers were acquainted with the 1980’s Cold War segment of the campaign and its 2025 Cold War follow up. The 80’s portion will not only tie up loose ends from the first— returning to Alex Mason for a final clarification on his nebulous state of mind — but it will also groom antagonist Raul Melendez for his role as the technology hijacker in a war-torn future.

fans are no strangers to plots of global destruction and total warfare.set the bar about as high as it could go when it laid waste to New York City, London, Paris, Prague, and Hamburg, with the threat of nuclear annihilation in the background. Where Treyarchtruly hopes to deviate its campaign from the ways of the past is by opening up the gameplay to unique player choices, and allowing those choices to fundamentally impact the underlying plot.

Activision’s Dan Amrich dissected much of the declassifiedinformation on hisblog yesterday and explained just how it could all work:

“The playable level I saw – an escort mission protecting the President through a semi-destroyed downtown Los Angeles in 2025 – began with a choice: Snipe or Rappel? You’ll be able to pick paths during levels that better suit your play style or sense of adventure.”

The concept isn’t revolutionary. For ages, shooters (and we’re just naming a few) likeandhave supplemented action with player choice: kill this enemy or let him go? Snipe from the high ground or slush through the trenches? It will, however, be intriguing to see the impact of variating a mission approach in a game so predicated on its blockbuster setpieces and linear roller coaster-pace. There’s the potential that we no longer think about Call of Duty as having “That Sniping Mission” or “That Tank Mission.” They could be one and the same.

If such a setup is devised, players will no doubt be rewarded for taking multiple stabs at the campaign, but Amrich hinted that a more profound vision was responsible for the integration of player choice: each decision made can branch the story out in multiple directions and be responsible for the life or death of a character; the success or failure of a mission.

“What’s more – and this might come as a real surprise – you can fail missions in Black Ops II, and that will divert the main story. In some cases, people will live or die based on your success or failure on a mission, and that will affect the story’s outcome.”

Instinctively, comparisons of the idea will be made towards theseries, and with the EA-vs- Call of Duty rivalryrearing its head once again today, it’s quite possible that Treyarch felt no shame in pulling some inspiration from the Shepard files. But unlike BioWare’s challenges in writing Mass Effect 3 , Treyarch won’t be burdened with accommodating decisions from the last Black Ops — everyone got the same half-ending. At the same time, that wouldn’t necessarily stop the studio from starting now. There’s always the persistent rumor that Call of Duty may someday send gamers and their weapons into the final frontier of space, and it’s no longer irrational to think our actions in 2025 couldn’t germinate a USA-China space race in the future future.

That said, it’s more likely that the branching story designates Black Ops II as the last installment in the Black Ops canon. Assuming Treyarch doesn’t want the monumental challenge of binding narratives for what is first and foremost an FPS, the developer could just be pulling out all the stops in a final send-off — narrated by the dying rasps of Frank Woods. Regardless, the news does indicate a — yes — creative and innovative aptitude from a developer, and a brand, that aren’t associated with those terms too often. There’s reason once more to be excited about Call of Duty .

Ranters, how do think Black Ops II’s story — its player choice and branching narratives – will impact your enjoyment/experience of the game? Do you want to see the model used extensively, and in future Call of Duty’s to come?

Call of Duty: Black Ops II releases November 13, 2012, for the Xbox 360, PS3, and PC.

Follow me @ Brian_Sipple.

Source: One of Swords

Call of Duty: Black Ops 2’ Title & Release Date Confirmed

‘Call of Duty: Black Ops 2’ Title & Release Date Confirmed
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We all know a new Call of Duty title is coming this year, but for the longest time the game’s title was left to speculation.

title is coming this year, but for the longest time the game’s title was left to speculation. Until now that is, as we can finally confirm (re-confirm?) that the game will be titled Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 . The title comes as no surprise and the images which confirm the information match up with the previously leaked box art containing the orange-colored “II” after “Black Ops.” The November 13 (Eclipse) release date also lines up with what we predictednearly two months ago.

The official title was revealed by IGNthrough photos taken by one of their readers. The images depict pre-order cards from US retailer Target. Clearly printed in big font on each card is “Call of Duty: Black Ops 2,” so it’s safe to say the game is titledand not Eclipse .

The cards also outed the game’s release date, which is November 13th, 2012. Keep in mind that the game will be officially unveiled on May 1stduring the NBA playoffs and that’s where we should get our first look at gameplay and a teases of its story.

This information coincides with Eclipse tease, which had many believe that the next Call of Duty would launch on a solar eclipse. The next solar eclipse is slated for November 13th, 2012, hence the codename. The pre-order cards also appear to be only for the PS3 and Xbox 360 versions of the game. We assume a PC version is in development as well, as Activision probably doesn’t want to enrage that community. But what about other platforms?

The Wii U is supposed to launch this year, and with a more competent online network, perhaps Treyarch will be able to capitalize on the system’s capabilities. However, Nintendo confirmed that although they’ll be unveiling the Wii U at E3, they will not be sharing its release date or price, meaning no pre-orders will be available on third party games until they do. There’s also a Call of Duty game in development for the Vita.

Now that formalities are out of the way, we can move on to what really matters: gameplay. What new features, modes and weapons will Black Ops 2 include and will it address the growing concerns of the community about lack of innovation?

Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 will release November 13th, 2012 for the PS3, Xbox 360 and most likely PC as well.

Follow me on Twitter @ AnthonyMole.

Source: IGN

Call of Duty: Black Ops 2’ Title & Release Date Confirmed

‘Call of Duty: Black Ops 2’ Title & Release Date Confirmed
271
We all know a new Call of Duty title is coming this year, but for the longest time the game’s title was left to speculation.

title is coming this year, but for the longest time the game’s title was left to speculation. Until now that is, as we can finally confirm (re-confirm?) that the game will be titled Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 . The title comes as no surprise and the images which confirm the information match up with the previously leaked box art containing the orange-colored “II” after “Black Ops.” The November 13 (Eclipse) release date also lines up with what we predictednearly two months ago.

The official title was revealed by IGNthrough photos taken by one of their readers. The images depict pre-order cards from US retailer Target. Clearly printed in big font on each card is “Call of Duty: Black Ops 2,” so it’s safe to say the game is titledand not Eclipse .

The cards also outed the game’s release date, which is November 13th, 2012. Keep in mind that the game will be officially unveiled on May 1stduring the NBA playoffs and that’s where we should get our first look at gameplay and a teases of its story.

This information coincides with Eclipse tease, which had many believe that the next Call of Duty would launch on a solar eclipse. The next solar eclipse is slated for November 13th, 2012, hence the codename. The pre-order cards also appear to be only for the PS3 and Xbox 360 versions of the game. We assume a PC version is in development as well, as Activision probably doesn’t want to enrage that community. But what about other platforms?

The Wii U is supposed to launch this year, and with a more competent online network, perhaps Treyarch will be able to capitalize on the system’s capabilities. However, Nintendo confirmed that although they’ll be unveiling the Wii U at E3, they will not be sharing its release date or price, meaning no pre-orders will be available on third party games until they do. There’s also a Call of Duty game in development for the Vita.

Now that formalities are out of the way, we can move on to what really matters: gameplay. What new features, modes and weapons will Black Ops 2 include and will it address the growing concerns of the community about lack of innovation?

Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 will release November 13th, 2012 for the PS3, Xbox 360 and most likely PC as well.

Follow me on Twitter @ AnthonyMole.

Source: IGN

Live Streaming and League Play Coming to ‘Black Ops 2’

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Along with being the first Call of Duty iteration to take the franchise into the future, Black Ops 2 will be featuring a few clever little touches on its multiplayer side in order to help it stand out from the pack.

will be featuring a few clever little touches on its multiplayer side in order to help it stand out from the pack. Obviously, with an annual franchise like Call of Duty it’s going to be hard to set itself too far from past entries in the series, but developer Treyarchis giving it a shot.

One of the most exciting new additions to the franchise’s multiplayerwill be not only the ability to live stream multiplayer matches, but support for up to two outside players to act as shoutcasters (or CODcasters as they’re cleverly referred to) for the match. In addition to live streaming, players will also be able to add their own commentary to matches after they’ve been played through the game’s theater mode. And there’s even support for those CODcasters to record video of themselves, in an effort to turninto a legitimate eSport.

And then when those epic matches have been completed and shoutcasted, the player can then post them online for other gamers to check out either at the Call of Duty website, or through a mobile device ( Call of Duty Elite 2.0?).

It might not be a feature that many gamers will use, but the ability to live stream matches is sure to catch the attention of many die-hard Call of Duty fans out there. There are plenty of fans that currently broadcast and record their matches for all to see, but putting together all the pieces of said production (mainly combining the audio and the video) requires a tiny bit of know how. This live streaming and shoutcasting takes out the middleman, and brings the experience right to the gamer.

In addition to a new form of eSports broadcasting, Black Ops 2 will also be accommodating a feature common in the eSports world: league play. Gamers who so choose will be able to rank themselves along with other players and be matched accordingly.

There’s a certain amount of that contained within the ranking system— and that will still be included — but now certain players can join divisions and compete in “seasons” for ultimate bragging rights. Activisionwill wipe the slate clean between seasons, allowing players to try and hone their skills without feeling constantly at a disadvantage.

It’s a pretty clever concept, as is the idea of shoutcasting, but only time will tell whether the eSports community begins to recognize something like Black Ops 2 as a worthy contender.

What do you think of the idea of adding live streaming to Black Ops 2 ? Will that and league play help increase the legitimacy of Call of Duty matches? Would you like to see some of the Game Rant crew live stream their matches with some CODcasting for good measure?

Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 releases November 13, 2012 for the PS3, Xbox 360, and PC.

Source: Joystiq

Black Ops 2’ Achievements List Outed; Videos and Screens Leak New Maps

‘Black Ops 2’ Achievements List Outed; Videos and Screens Leak New Maps
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It’s not inconceivable to think that, heading in to 2012, Activision and Treyarch weren’t prepared to make many detailed, content-heavy announcements concerning Call of Duty: Black Ops II .

. Much of what we know about the game – and in regards to multiplayer we could probably say most – stems from leaksthrough internal or external sources, and it seems just as effective to let the word spread virally as it does to, say, hype a world premiere trailerduring the NBA Playoffs with a week-long website puzzle game/countdown timer.

Today provided two such examples: The list of achievements for Black Ops II has leaked online offering up insights – occasionally spoilerific – on its gameplay features and storyline. A new set of trailers and screenshots has also emerged out of a private preview event, administering a first look at three Black Ops II multiplayer maps.

Let’s start with the maps.

Last week the unofficial total of Black Ops II multiplayer maps was brought to 14 when a comprehensive list of detailswas leaked online, updating an earlier comprehensive list of map details that leaked… online. The unsubstantiated nature of the whole process will of course leave room for edits, but three of maps listed – Hijacked, Express, and Overflow – are the setting for the concrete videos and screens appearing today.

Thanks reveals regarding Black Ops II’s weapons, loadouts, and killstreak and perk systems, there’s not much more on gameplay we can derive from the footage. We can, however, digest what likely constitutes a final build of the game ( Black Ops II releases on November 13), as well as form a picture of the three new maps. Hijacked, in the first video, takes place on a luxury super yacht where frenetic close quarters engagement steers the action; Overflow, in the second, transpires in cluttered urban streets of Peshwar, Pakistan; and Express, viewable in the first screen below, offers up long- to medium-range engagements in a Los Angeles bullet train station.

But, as hotly anticipated as multiplayer is in Black Ops II – for the purpose of playing it and panning it, annual traditions both – it’s only one facet of a game also looking to provide substantial new content across a single player campaignand the returning Zombies mode. And each is encompassed by achievements.

[ Now might be an appropriate time for the spoiler-weary to turn away. ]

The full list that surfaced on Xbox 360 Acheivements – in all likelihood it pertains to PlayStation trophies, as well – contains 50 achievements worth the required 1000 Gamerscore points. Many of the resolutions to each campaign mission are laid out quite plainly, including the capturing and interrogation of main villain Raul Menendezand a previously unknown quest to hunt down Manuel Noriega– a real-life Panamanian dictator and warlord whom the United States brought to justice in 1989. Buried in the list are also hints about a new deadly device, the “Karma weapon;” time traveling fromto the 1980s, perhaps to retrieve the weapon; and new gameplay strategies designed for the Zombies mode.

Have a look below, and also be sure check out the trailer for Black Ops II’s Zombies mode, which was released last week . No Man Left Behind (20) – Rescue Woods. Gathering Storm (20) – Investigate the jungle facility. Shifting Sands (20) – Gather intel on Raul Menendez from Mullah Rahmaan. Driven by Rage (20) – Take down Menendez and his operation. Waterlogged (20) – Gather information on Raul Menendez’ suspected terrorist plot. What Happens in Colossus… (20) – Find the Karma weapon. False Profit (20) – Capture Manuel Noriega and bring him to justice. Deep Cover (20) – Capture Menendez. Sinking Star (20) Interrogate Menendez. Late for the Prom(20) – Escort the president to the secure location in downtown LA. Death from Above (50) – Stop Menendez once and for all. Old Fashioned (50) – Complete “Pyrrhic Victory”, “Old Wounds”, “Time And Fate”, and “Suffer With Me” in Veteran. Futurist (50) – Complete all future levels in veteran. Giant Accomplishment (50) Complete all challenges in Black Ops II. Mission Complete (10) – Complete all challenges in a level. Just Gettin’ Started (10) – Complete 1 challenge in any level. Singapore Sling (15) – Successfully neutralize the SDC freighter at Keppel Terminal. Desert Storm (15) – Successfully escort the VIPs to safety. Defender (15) – Successfully defend FOB Spectre from incursion. Black Ops II Master (15) – Complete the campaign on Hardened or Veteran difficulty. Art of War (25) – Successfully assassinate SDC Chairman Tian Zhao. Blind Date (15) – Successfully rescue HVI. Family Reunion (10) – There are two futures. Hey Good Looking (10) – Plastic surgery avoided Showdown (15) – A duel between rivals. Dirty Business (15) – Listen and think before you shoot. Ship Shape (10) – Reinforcements on the way. Dead or Alive (15) – Jailor or executioner. Ultimate Sacrifice (15) – Only one can survive. Good Karma (20) – Crack the celerium worm. High IQ (20) – Collect all intel. Back in Time (10) Use a future weapon in the past. Man of the People (15) – Stop the brutality inflicted by the PDF. Gun Nut (10) – Complete a level with customized loadout. Ten K (15) – Minimum score 10k in every mission. Welcome to the Club (10) – Reach Sergeant (Level 10) in multiplayer Public Match. Welcome to the Penthouse (50) – Prestige once in multiplayer Public Match. Big Leagues (20) – Win 5 multiplayer League Play games after being placed in a division. Trained Up (10) – Win 10 multiplayer games while playing in Combat Training playlists. Party Animal (10) – Win 10 multiplayer games while playing in Party Games playlists. Tower of Babble (75) – In TranZit, obey the voices. Don’t Fire Until You See (30) – In TranZit, have all doors opened without being set on fire. The Lights Of Their Eyes (5) – In Green Run, pacify at least 10 zombies with 1 EMP. Undead Man’s Party Bus(15) – In TranZit, complete all additions to the bus in 1 game. Dance On My Grave (5) – In Green Run, acquire your Tombstone. Standard Equipment May Vary (25) – In TranZit, acquire 4 different equippable items in 1 game. You Have No Power Over Me (15) – You Have No Power Over Me I Don’t Think They Exist (10) – In TranZit, kill one of the denizens of the forest while it is latched onto you. Fuel Efficient (10) – In TranZit, use an alternative mode of transportation. Happy Hour (10) – In TranZit, buy 2 different perks before turning on the power.

Ranters, which multiplayer maps are you looking forward to playing in Black Ops II ? What do you think of the new details revealed in the Xbox 360 Achievements list?

Black Ops II releases on November 13, 2012 for the PS3, Xbox 360, and PC. The Wii U version is due as a launch titlefor the console on November 18.

Follow me on Twitter @ Brian_Sipple.

Sources: CVG, Xbox 360 Achievements[via CVG]

Call of Duty Elite Boasts 2 Million Premium Subscribers

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Some may have scoffed at the notion of a subscription-based service tied to Call of Duty , but here we are one year later, and Call of Duty Elite is a runaway success.

is a runaway success. While a decrease in marketing and a launch plagued with technical issues could have sunk lesser services, a recent Activisionfinancial report shows that the Elitenumbers just keep on growing.

After the first week of Modern Warfare 3 being on the market with the Elite service, the numbers showed the skeptics that underestimating the gaming community’s love of CoD was never a wise move. With 4 million total subscribers, and 1 million of those paying the $50 for a premium account, it was impossible to tell how high the profits might climb.

According to the publisher’s most recent financial statements, the momentum has yet to cease. Elite subscriptions now number 10 million, with 2 million total premium subscribers. A quick dose of math means that to date, Activision has taken in $100 million for the Elite subscriptions alone. And that’s not even considering the amount of money that is guaranteed for every dose of MW3 DLC produced by Infinity Ward.

We had our suspicions that Elite was designed to eliminate risk of an under-performing CoD installment, but it was impossible to predict just how much the player base would continue to flock to the online service. Now that the experiment has proven to be a potentially game-changing business model, the only question remaining is what can be expected when Elite 2.0 launches alongside Black Ops 2 . Will the service receive even more subscribers who favor the different setting, or has Elite drawn in all of the players that it conceivably could have at this point?

At this point we’ve learned not to bet against the amount of money CoD fans are willing to pump into their favorite franchise, and just recently Activision again committed to justifying subscription feeswith worthwhile content. There’s no telling what Black Ops 2 will do to Elite subscription numbers, but it’s becoming harder to imagine what took Activision so long in implementing such a successful service.

Regardless of your personal feelings on the Call of Duty franchise, do you think numbers like these will convince other publishers to offer online services to their fans beyond simple matchmaking? Or is Call of Duty Elite a service that could only succeed in the most successful video game franchise in history?

Follow me on Twitter @ andrew_dyce.

Source: MCV

Just Cause 3 Launch Trailer Features an Explosion Rap

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Publisher Square Enix releases the launch trailer for the upcoming Just Cause 3 , featuring a heavy emphasis on the game’s love of ubiquitous explosions.

Just Cause 3 already loudly announced what the game is about when an incredibly destructive developer videoreleased earlier this year, but the new launch trailer ramps up the action even more. The launch trailer is a fan contribution that won a trailer competition that featured over 1200 entries, and the winning video pays homage to one of the defining elements of Just Cause 3 : explosions, explosions everywhere.

The rap that accompanies the gameplay footage, although unlikely to challenge for any music awards, is as entertaining as it is unapologetic about its single-minded focus on the various fiery ends enemies can meet in-game. The video itself is even more over-the-top, as one might expect from a game whose publisher has offered its players the chance to win a real-life island by pre-ordering Just Cause 3 , featuring main character Rico Rodriguez setting anything he can get his hands on ablaze.

The engaging launch trailer isn’t a big surprise considering Square Enix featured heavily on Game Rant’s 10 Best E3 Trailers listearlier this year, and Just Cause 3 is exactly the kind of eye candy that gamers love to watch and produce themselves. However, enjoyable and nerdy raps aside, Just Cause 3 will have to answer some criticisms from gamers before it can truly be embraced by the community upon its release. Fans were disappointed when it was announced that Just Cause 3 won’t have multiplayer, and there have been concerns over the game’s framerate performance during gameplay already.

Beyond the title’s content, game director Roland Lesterlin also confirmed that Just Cause 3 will run at different resolutions on the PS4 and Xbox One. Lesterlin suggested that, because of the incredible explosions and variety of open-world gameplay decisions featured in the launch trailer, Square Enix and Avalanche Studios had limited hardware options on each console and had to make decisions regarding resolution based on those restrictions.

Regardless of what comes next for Just Cause 3 , however, Square Enix has managed to generate some very real interest in one of their flagship series by embracing its unique blend of revolutionary narrative and goofy love affair with action sequences straight out of an old spy movie. The launch trailer shows just how much the community loves that winning formula, and hopefully Just Cause 3 ends up a worthy successor to an already beloved series.

Did you enter the launch trailer contest? Are you disappointed Square Enix couldn’t afford a second island to give away the to the winner of this competition as well? Let us know in the comments.

Just Cause 3 releases on December 1, 2015 for PS4, Xbox One, and PC.

Source: YouTube

Call of Duty: Black Ops’ Rezurrection Map Pack Trailer & Details

‘Call of Duty: Black Ops’ Rezurrection Map Pack Trailer & Details
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Treyarch has released an all new trailer for the fourth Black Ops DLC pack, Rezurrection .

. Rezurrection is an all Zombies map containing the fourmaps, which were previously available exclusively to Prestige and Hardened edition owners, as well as a brand new zombie map, “Moon.”

In the trailer, Zombies audio director Brian Tuey describes Rezurrection as their “season finale.” While previous Zombie maps have all brought something new to table, Treyarch feels that “Moon” really ups the ante. The location of the map brings with it a huge change to the Zombies formula as player can no longer rely on the tactics they have used before – given the lower gravity.

The decreased gravity makes it more difficult to maim zombies as players will sometimes find themselves floating around and past their targets. As well, the vacuum of space will bring with it many changes to the audio, meaning that players can no longer rely on the familiar sounds from previous maps to gauge where a zombie may be.

As mentioned earlier, the four Zombie maps from World at War will also be included in the Rezurrection pack. The maps feature enhanced visuals as well as weapons found in. The latter changes the formula significantly – as players are no longer forced to rely on the stock weapons from World at War and offers a variety to the gameplay found in the original Zombies mode:

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-AcxPvSLHYA

Rezurrection will also come with a small bonus for those who pick it up. Players can look forward to a “Moon” theme and three previously unreleased Zombies songs. Early on in the trailer, Treyarch studio head Mark Liama was quick to reiterate that the Rezurrection map pack will be free to those who purchased the Hardened or Prestige Edition of Black Ops . Those who do not already have access to the DLC can will have to pay the normal entry fee of 1200 Microsoft Points/$14.99.

If you haven’t yet seen our thoughts on the prior Black Ops map packs, you can find them below:

While the 1200 Microsoft Point price pointis still pretty steep, the decision to offer Rezurrection for free to Hardened/Prestige Edition owners is a smart move on Activision’s part. Will you be picking up Rezurrection when it lands later this month?

Call of Duty: Black Ops is currently available for the PS3, Xbox 360 and PC, and Rezurrection will land August 23rd for on Xbox Live, with the DLC presumably hitting the PS3 and PC a month later just like other Call of Duty map packs.

Here’s a Closer Look at Just Cause 3’s Challenge Modes

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Open world games are a lot of fun because of the hours of exploration and adventuring they offer, but they can become a bit dull after the game’s core story is complete.

Open world games are a lot of fun because of the hours of exploration and adventuring they offer, but they can become a bit dull after the game’s core story is complete. While games like Skyrim have mini-questsand repeatable side missions to beef up a game’s replay value, others add in minigames to keep gamers interested.

Just Cause 3 is adding in a new mode that consists of a wide variety of mini-games for gamers to test their skills and try to achieve a high score. In a video released by IGN, game director Roland Lesterlin shows off what the Challenge Modes inhave to offer.

The video, seen above, shows off two of the Challenge Modes that attendees of Gamescomgot to experience hands-on. One of them is a wingsuit racemini-game, which task the player with carefully aligning their character so they sail through on-screen rings. Scores increase depending on the accuracy and offer the player rewards for gliding through the small center rings, or for opting to go through the more dangerous lower rings.

Another challenge mode, called Destruction Frenzy, is unlocked after liberating a base in the game’s main campaign. The player is essentially allowed to go back to the base and demolish it with various weapons and equipment, like rocket launchers and helicopters with miniguns. Scores increase based on how many buildings are destroyed, and how quickly in succession they’re destroyed, as the player can build chain bonuses up to at least 8x.

Scores are recorded both in total points as well as gears, which record the player’s performance up to the highest level of five gears. Scores can be uploaded to leaderboards, and gamers will be able to see how they rank amongst their friends and strangers alike.

Just Cause 3 looks well-polished and visually pristine, and the addition of the Challenge Mode should help to increase the amount of play time the series is already well-known for. Unfortunately, the Challenge Modes won’t be available to play with friends online or in-person. The game won’t have a multiplayer mode at launch, but Avalanche Studios has hinted that a multiplayer mode will be added to Just Cause 3 later on. Whether or not this extends to the Challenge Mode is unknown, but in the meantime, the ability to challenge fellow gamers’ scores through the leaderboard system should help to make up for it.

Just Cause 3 looks like it’ll be a ton of fun to play, and the Challenge Mode will probably keep gamers busy for many hours after completing Just Cause’s 3 main story. If you find yourself bored with open-world games once the main campaign is over, the Challenge Mode might help to make Just Cause 3 feel more substantial.

On the other hand, some gamers may find mini-games like these to just be additional fluff that’s unnecessary. How do you feel about it? Let us know in the comments.

Just Cause 3 launches on December 1 for PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One.

Source: IGN

Black Ops: Zombie Labs Rezurrection Trailer & Moon Gameplay!

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Modern Warfare 3 is only three short months away but that hasn’t stopped Treyarch from keeping their latest blockbuster Call of Duty installment, Black Ops , in the headlines – through a steady string of DLC packs.

, in the headlines – through a steady string of DLC packs. As we previously reported, the next (and potentially final) map pack, titled “Rezurrection,” is an all-zombie modeoffering that brings back four classic zombie maps and adds one new (low gravity) playground for zombie killing.

In honor of Rezurrection, and the “Moon” map, Treyarch has released a brand new “Zombie Labs” trailer for Black Ops featuring a mix of lunar live-action footage and gameplay.

So far the Black Ops map packs have been somewhat of a mixed bag, producing an overarching sense of “sameyness” as each subsequent map pack debuted. In our “First Strike” review, we praised Treyarch for delivering some especially entertaining multiplayer killing fields but by the time we reviewed “Annihiliation,” the standard, but high, $15.00 cost of entry began to undercut the value of the mostly cookie-cutter DLC. That said, an all-zombie packthat features a map with crazy physics might be just enough to shake-up the formula and deliver one of the best add-on packs yet.

Check out the Black Ops : Zombie Labs Rezurrection Trailer below:

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YBGgBsx-vy0

The live-action portion of the trailer is entertaining enough but, unsurprisingly, the real star of the show is the footage from the new Black Ops “Moon” map – specifically watching astronauts floating around and popping zombie head shots. The footage is reminiscent of pre-jet pack custommaps, where floaty physics allowed players to pull off some hilarious aerial kills.

Of course, Moon is only one of the five maps featured in the Rezurrection pack – as the four classic World at War maps also return: Nacht Der Untoten, Verruckt, Shi No Numa, and Der Riese. As mentioned in the trailer, Rezurrection will also include a “Moon” theme and three previously unreleased Zombies soundtrack tracks. Players who already received the World at War maps, via a purchase of the Hardened or Prestige edition of Black Ops , will receive the extra “Moon” map and other Rezurrection content for free.

Follow me on Twitter @ benkendrick.

Call of Duty: Black Ops is currently available for the PS3, Xbox 360 and PC, and Rezurrection will land August 23rd on Xbox Live for 1200 Microsoft points, with the DLC presumably hitting the PS3 and PC a month later just like other Call of Duty map packs.

Black Ops – First Strike’ Trailer Features Zombie Map ‘Ascension’

‘Black Ops – First Strike’ Trailer Features Zombie Map ‘Ascension’
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Gamers are only a mere week from the release of the First Strike Map Pack for Call of Duty: Black Ops , and so Treyarch and Activision thought it apropos to release a new, more cinematic trailer.

thought it apropos to release a new, more cinematic trailer. While the first trailerfor First Strike was more about introducing the multiplayer maps, this trailer is all about showing how each one, including the new Zombie map Ascension, works within the confines of the game.

Set in what appears to be some sort of NASA facility in the dead of night, Ascension has a look similar to the multiplayer map Launch, but with a few tweaks here and there. One notable addition is a rocket-propelled platform that allows the player to hover in the air and pick off what appear to be ape-like zombiesfrom high ground. Ascension is a great addition to the already awesome Zombie maps, but what most gamers are looking for are more multiplayer maps.

For those who don’t know, the four multiplayer maps included with First Strike are titled Kowloon, Discovery, Berlin Wall, and Stadium. Each brings something new to the table, with Kowloon and Berlin Wall being the biggest standouts.

Sick and tired of all the Rolling Stonestie-ins with Black Ops ? Too bad. Here’s the new trailer:

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OMEeqWBWjv8&feature=player_embedded

With only one map (Hanoi) that takes place at night, Kowloon will allow gamers that prefer to stick to the shadows with their suppressed weapon and ghost perkto have a new favorite stomping ground. On top of that, Kowloon’s use of zip-lines is a welcome addition, and one that opens up Call of Duty’s multiplayerto a world of possible game interaction — just look at the turrets in Berlin Wall.

No word has come down as to how these maps will integrate with the multiplayer in Black Ops — whether they will be added into the rotation of any gamer who owns them, or if gamers can play just the four new maps over and over again. After one of the more recent patchesincreased the randomness of maps, and made it so gamers can only play the same map twice in a row, the potential for gamers playing some of these new maps right from download could be very slim. Let’s hope that Treyarchfinds a way to get these new maps integrated without them each becoming the next Nuketown.

Which of the four maps do you think adds the most variety to Black Ops ? What do you think of Ascension, the Zombie map set in a zombie-infested NASA facility?

The Call of Duty: Black Ops – First Strike Map Pack releases February 1, 2011, for the Xbox 360.

Black Ops – Annihilation’ Trailer Highlights Zombie Map ‘Shangri-La’

‘Black Ops – Annihilation’ Trailer Highlights Zombie Map ‘Shangri-La’
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In preparation for the release of Call of Duty: Black Ops ’ next map pack, Annihilation, Activision has unveiled a trailer focused solely on the pack’s zombie map entitled Shangri-La.

has unveiled a trailer focused solely on the pack’s zombie map entitled Shangri-La. Though this long since abandoned temple-esque setting might seem like the perfect venue for an adventure, dozens upon dozens of zombies have a different idea in store for players: survival.

Featuring ways in which the team of four can slide, drive, and launch themselves around the map, Shangri-La looks to be bringing a decent amount of new tricks to’ Zombie mode, but still keeps the core gameplay in tact. It might not have enough A-list actor talent to rival Call of the Dead, but it certainly should do well enough to compete for your affections.

Not only does Shangri-La sport some clever location-specific traps and escape routes, but it also gives players access to a few new weapons. Highlighted in the trailer are things like a claymore with bamboo shoots attached to its face and a bomb that is disguised as a monkey clapping two cymbals together. Little touches like these help remind the player that this is the Zombie modeand, as such, should carry a little bit of humor with it.

[bitsontherun up5I9W0y]

Whether or not the blend of the silly with the recently deceased will be enough to keep players coming back to Shangri-La like they did with the other zombie mapsis yet to be determined, but it’s always hard to overlook a change of scenery.

Of course, for the hardcore Black Ops fan, Annihilation also offers four new multiplayer maps that take them from a suburban drive-in to an Area 51 style hangar. For a better look at those particular maps, you can check out a behind-the-scenes trailer here.

Like before, this map pack is sure to hit big — first on the Xbox 360 and then on the remaining platforms — so if you’re looking to get in on the action better strike will the iron is still hot.

What do you think of Shangri-La? Does it bring enough new features to the Zombie mode to warrant a purchase of Annihilation?

Call of Duty: Black Ops ’ Annihilation map pack releases June 28, 2011 for the Xbox 360.

Call of Duty Elite Beta Starts For PS3

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When you think about playing a game on a console you probably don’t think about paying a subscription fee for any specific title, especially an FPS.

When you think about playing a game on a console you probably don’t think about paying a subscription fee for any specific title, especially an FPS. When you’re already paying for something like Xbox Live – on top of paying for the internet, the game, the console, etc. – the extra money seems like a scam. When Activision first announcedtheir plans to launch a pay to use service that would be used to enhance your experience with Call of Duty, a lot of gamers (myself included) were angry.

Thankfully, Activision did announce that the new service, Call of Duty Elite, would offer a free version for gamers not willing to fork over the extra cash, while the hardcore get to enjoy Call of Duty Elite “Premium” and all of its benefits. While the free version of Call of Duty Elitewill not have quite as many features as the “Premium” version, it still offers some pretty interesting innovations to online gaming. The service certainly is gearing up to change the way we play competitive online games and now PS3 players can see what it’s all about.

Even though Call of Duty Elite Beta started for the Xboxback in July, Activision finally announced today that Call of Duty Elite Beta , to be used with C all of Duty: Black Ops, will start rolling out  invites to PS3 users. The beta program will start off in stages, first with limited invitations going out to PS3 users starting today. The beta is aiming to test certain features like stat tracking, custom player groups, competitive events, and video sharing. A giant upgrade that will enable all of the service’s features will go live when it is officially launched on November 8th along with

If you are a premium member of Call of Duty Elite you will receive all the DLC for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 during the 9 month DLC season. The DLC is said to be 20 pieces of new in-game content. As for players who don’t sign up right away, theywill not be punished for taking the time to decide and jumping in late. The DLC will be available to them as well “a la carte.”

If you would like to register for the beta you can do so at the official Call of Duty website. You can also get updates and additional information on the Call of Duty Elite facebook page or follow them on Twitter @ CallofDutyElite.

Call of Duty Elite will be available to everyone November 8th.