Akiba’s Trip: Undead & Undressed Invades PlayStation 4’s Today

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Written by Dustin Murphy

Akibas Trip PS4 Box Art

Earlier this year Synthisters (vampires) invaded the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Vita’s earlier this year. This time around, our friends over at XSeed Games and their parent company Marvelous USA, Inc. are excited to let us once more experience this games amazing adventure on the PlaySTation 4 with some brand new features that have never been seen before. What does this entail? A new “Toybox Mode”, which allows for players to experience an all-inclusive game from the get-go. Let alone this mode in the game also comes in with a nex-gen “Visual Editor” that will allow players to change things such as the games appearance, but also livestreaming chat commands to give their viewers a chance to join in on their gameplay and change it on the go.

So what specifically is unique about this games “Toybox Mode” that makes it worth the re-visit into Akiba (Akihabara Strip)? It allows players to begin their adventure with one of every weapon and piece of clothing within the game itself. This also means though, there is a price, and players will be restricted from earning their trophies that they enjoy. Though this mode may just be what some players need to enjoy the game at all. Let alone are trophies restricted, but players are also restricted from unlocking post-game content.

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With the games “Visual Editor” being able to allow for fans to enjoy the games true manga style, they can utilize the newest feature called the “Visual Editor” in order to customize every bit of the games aspect. This includes line thickness, colour, contrast settings, fog, motion blur, and much, much more. What else is included in this new mode? Preset graphical modes for those who want an easier to control and more direct approach to it. Want to have more fun than just that? Livestreamers get a unique twist as they can allow their audience members to share in their fun by changing the game with chat commands. This means that players will need to be prepared for some unexpected events, but also occurrences within every aspect possible.

On top of all these enhancements, Akiba’s Trip: Undead & Undressed has been given a 1080p makeover that allows for a true HD experience with the games newly fleshed out character models, lighting engine, and of course all previously released DLC that landed on both the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Vita. The new release also features Dual Audio support for those who wish to experience the game in either Japanese or English, but also allowing for additional male strip portraits, and of course the classic narrative that players came to enjoy in anime as well as the Japanese culture through anime, games, and even the internet. All this can be obtained for 49.99 USD on the PlayStation 4 through the PlayStation Store as well as 39.99 USD on the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Vita platforms! Please note that the game itself will not feature all the DLC without individual purchases on the PS3 and PSVita.

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More information on the game can be found at www.akibastrip.com. For information on XSEED Games products, please visit www.xseedgames.com. Fans can also follow XSEED Games on Facebook at www.facebook.com/XSEEDGames and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/XSEEDGames. Please stay tuned for our upcoming review.

About the Writer:

Dustin_BATGRDustin is our native console gamer, PlayStation and Nintendo reviewer who has an appetite for anything that crosses the boarders from across the big pond. His interest in JRPG’s, MMO’s, Handheld Gaming, and Pizza is insatiable and can’t be softened by even the biggest names in the gaming industry. His elitist attitude gives him direction, want, and a need for the hardest difficulties in games, which is fun to watch, and hilarity at its finest. To follow Dustin, hit him up on Twitter over at @GamingAnomaly, find him on his Google+. Wanna game with him? You can find him on PSN with RaivynLyken.

Prepare for War with Attila the Hun with Total War: ATTILA in 2015

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ATTILA_SE_ARRAY_US_1416849894

Known as one of the most fierce warriors in history, Attila the Hun seeks to bring in his unique battles onto PC on February 17th of 2015. Known for the strategy game antics, Total War leaves nothing to imagination when it comes to history. For those who want a unique take on the history of the world, Total War is a proper place to go to see what old world skirmishes would be like.

For those seeking to obtain the game through a pre-order can head over to the Sega Store and catch up on a special Pre-Order Bonus; The Viking Forefathers Culture Pack, which will be adding three additional playable factions to the game. You may recognize the names such as The Danes, The Jutes, and even The Geats.

These characters will be among the first of the DLC packs available once the game launches and will allow players to experience combat with the Norse factions. Allowing this to happen will put them among some of the most vicious warriors at the time, which means that players will get to experience Norse battlefields unique to this DLC, but also naval units, missions, cultural and factional traits that will carry on through the game. Will you have what it takes to master the battlefields as they seek to move southwards from the lands of ice in order to raid, pillage, and conquer?

For those who do not pre-order, the DLC will be available as a separate purchase starting February 17th, 2015 for £5.99, €7.49, and $7.99 respectively. Meanwhile, the game will also be getting a bit of a special addition that will leave some players wanting more as the game becomes available.

So what does this Special Edition contain? Physically, which will be available exclusively to North America will contain an Attila the Hun Biography, which is written by Nic Fields and published by Osprey Publishing, which is known for their military history and specialization in such fields. The biography will be based upon some of the fields newest research and theories based around Attila’s military and tactical prowess. The biography will also depict maps of the time period, details of the life as a Hun, commissioned artwork, but also the deeds based around one of the most infamous warlords of history. The edition will also come with a reference guide poster for the campaign as well as the previously mentioned DLC pack for the Vikings.

Will you have what it takes to conquer in 395AD where famine, disease, climate change, and an never-ending phase of War sets in across Europe in the middle ages? Find out on February 17th of 2015. Meanwhile, players can also visit the official Total War website for more information over at www.totalwar.com.

About the Writer:

Dustin_BATGRDustin is our native console gamer, PlayStation and Nintendo reviewer who has an appetite for anything that crosses the boarders from across the big pond. His interest in JRPG’s, MMO’s, Handheld Gaming, and Pizza is insatiable and can’t be softened by even the biggest names in the gaming industry. His elitist attitude gives him direction, want, and a need for the hardest difficulties in games, which is fun to watch, and hilarity at its finest. To follow Dustin, hit him up on Twitter over at @GamingAnomaly, find him on his Google+. Wanna game with him? You can find him on PSN with RaivynLyken.

Hyperdimension Neptunia Re;Birth 2: Sisters Generation Gets Dated

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Written by Dustin Murphy

Hyperdimension_Neptunia_RB2_Coverart

Think that your adventure in Gameindustri was quite over? Not yet! Those little shape-shifting ladies are back and they need even more of your help. As of today, our friends over at Idea Factory International, Inc. has announced that we can expect this new PlayStation Vita exclusive on January 27th, 2015 while our neighbors over in Europe can expect the game to get a January 28th release date for the digital front while the physical will be released on January 30th for the physical edition.

Along side the announcement, Idea Factory International has also announced that Hyperdimension Neptunia Re;Birth2: Sisters Generation will be compatible with the PlayStation TV. Along side this news, those who do not know that the title, Hyperdimension Neptunia mk2 that originally released for the PlayStation 3 is being reimagined through this latest title. It will feature a new story, a newly revamped battle system, newly voiced characters, and new playable characters that have never been seen before within the series. This will also be a chance for players familiar and new to the series a new take on the series.

About the Writer:

Dustin_BATGRDustin is our native console gamer, PlayStation and Nintendo reviewer who has an appetite for anything that crosses the boarders from across the big pond. His interest in JRPG’s, MMO’s, Handheld Gaming, and Pizza is insatiable and can’t be softened by even the biggest names in the gaming industry. His elitist attitude gives him direction, want, and a need for the hardest difficulties in games, which is fun to watch, and hilarity at its finest. To follow Dustin, hit him up on Twitter over at @GamingAnomaly, find him on his Google+. Wanna game with him? You can find him on PSN with RaivynLyken.

Criminal Girls: Invite Only Allows Allows Fight to Escape Hell

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Written by Dustin Murphy

Criminal_Girls_Case

Want a reason to host a part that could raise Hell and allow you to rescue seven delinquent girls, who know seven sins, and well only one way out of Hell? This is the theme that Criminal Girls: Invite Only wants you to experience when it launches next February 3rd, 2015 for North America and on the 6th of February, 2015 for Europe. The game will be getting both a physical and digital release exclusively on the PlayStation Vita. The game was initially released on the PlayStation Portable in 2010 in Japan only. This new version is a remastering of the original, which will host a new set of content that has been developed exclusively for the PlayStation Vita. Don’t have a Vita and only a PlayStation TV? Not a problem, the title will launch as a PlayStation TV compatible title when it launches next year.

What’s the exact point of the game? As stated before, players will take a job, which will send them into Hell to save seven delinquents, whom have undoubtedly committed one of the seven deadly sins, and has set you forth to drag their eternally damned souls from Hell. While entrusting these girls in your car, your hirer has given you a chance to listen to these girls who each have a mind of their own – beware, this means that you’ll want to listen to their wants, their needs, and their desires as you take a path of your own to victory in this ever-evolving game of skill, spells, and combat attacks that these devilish ladies want to use.

Though that is not all for this game of Hell and damnation. Instead, players will do what it takes to get through the game by connecting with the girls. This means players will need to use the games front and back touch pads in order to to bring these devilish ladies into the spotlight. These ladies will also hoping for players to fulfill their special requests, which will unlock their history, but also something maybe even suspected to some.

About the Writer:

Dustin_BATGRDustin is our native console gamer, PlayStation and Nintendo reviewer who has an appetite for anything that crosses the boarders from across the big pond. His interest in JRPG’s, MMO’s, Handheld Gaming, and Pizza is insatiable and can’t be softened by even the biggest names in the gaming industry. His elitist attitude gives him direction, want, and a need for the hardest difficulties in games, which is fun to watch, and hilarity at its finest. To follow Dustin, hit him up on Twitter over at @GamingAnomaly, find him on his Google+. Wanna game with him? You can find him on PSN with RaivynLyken.

Review: Rollers of the Realm – Rogues, Rangers, and Pinballs – Oh my

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Written by Dustin Murphy

RotR_SC_03

Pros:
-Very unique variations between each map and location layout
-Character dialogue plays a major role in the game via story and tips
-Controls transition very well between PlayStation Vita and PlayStation 4
-Cross-save feature is an added bonus

Cons:
-Map layouts are somewhat hard to figure out at times
-Noticeable frame rate drops on PS Vita.
-Inability to skip dialogue

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Pinball. The first thing you think of when you hear the word is flippers and a giant silver ball. In this case, it’s almost the same. Except when you hear the word pinball you have to think characters, special bonuses, and a unique twist on a classic type of game. This is something we were given a unique feel for both pinball as well as RPG games. This means one thing; this game intends on not being a well-established title or even a subtitle game on there. This game is one that is fully original and I am quite sure that the creatures came out confident in what they came out with, and it’s something that works.

The game itself follows the basic rules of pinball and turning it into an RPG element where players will manage across several characters (ball variants that are launched), which leads them into working their attention pulling the best they can and making sure not to lose their specially granted extra pinball’s (falcons for the ranger, dog for the Thief, and more as you unlock the characters). Each piece of this game takes a note on settings based upon the board that players will take on. This means that ball physics were a big must for a game such as this and they are spot on. The tables as stated to variate, but never leave their medieval-fantasy setting-esque world. In the beginning players will become accustomed to the games seemingly-main character called Thief. Her heralding in this game is something well done as she basically brings out a entourage of characters such as the Knight, Ranger, Healer, Monk, and more (some can be unlocked using in-game gold that is unlocked via completing boards and finding treasure as well as defeating enemies). The uniqueness to this game is not that each character seems particularly useful compared to the other, it’s the constant need that the game has for switching between them.

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The prime example is when bumping through each of the layers that some of the maps has that allows the need for the Thief whom can backstab enemies when she hits them from behind, rather her ball, and does an increased amount of damage. This allows for players to quickly grab gold, deal damage, and move on through each of the games stages. However, it’s not as easy as it sounds as enemies will attempt to take out your base flippers, which do have health, and a health bar that can easily degrade if archers focus fire upon the bumpers. This is where the Healer becomes a rather useful character as she will heal the flippers upon gaining mana. Something players will become quite familiar with during boss fights and ambushes that require some tactical uses of each of the characters. However, what’s not to say that switching to the games Knight who seems like a drunken buffoon is never a bad idea? With his ability to smash through barricades such as crates, walls (cover), and even gates, this not-so-agile character becomes a major use as he does quite a bit of damage to enemies up front and allows for players to quickly dispatch enemies as they go. Did we mention that his special ability keeps him from “dying” by blocking the gutter with a shield? This makes him a very useful asset when trying to take on boss-fights, but what’s not to say characters such as the Ranger to call in falcons (multiball incoming, be aware of this) is quite useful when fighting quite a few enemies at once, and is something that players should make themselves quickly accustomed to when fighting their way through the games campaign.

The narrative can be called “mindless banter” by some, but in truth, this is where the game gets most of its story when not managing your characters as well as navigating through the games map designs. Though these are not where the game will send people into a frenzy or becoming a bit frustrated. The micromanaging within the map to unlock treasures, special pick-up’s or even breaking or even falling to reap rewards, can be where this games frustrations can exist. Though this is not something that can necessarily send players into slamming a keyboard or controller. This is redeemed thanks to the games ‘tilt’ feature, which is exposed as using an after touch control that allows guidance either to the left, the right, or backwards (seemingly backwards). This allows for players to change characters by getting to primary bumpers and holding the ball there (they are the ones being depicted by having a health bar), and taking on the tactical vantage needed in order to smash through each of the maps.

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Though there is something tricky to this that players will become quickly acquainted with. A gutter that is active and threatening the life of their characters (only when enemies are around for the most part). This will require players to swap to the healer, gain enough mana to fill up a mana bar, and resurrect the characters needed to assure themselves that a game over is not going to be imminent. Though do not be weary when the stress begins to weigh down as players will be forced to feel the heat when it comes up to the games ‘healer is active’ moments, especially with enemies around. This is where players will feel the heat and will feel obligated to continue their battle to continue on, which is something the game seemingly does on purpose.

Though when stepping aside, the game does have a few quirks, some that make this games mechanics smart, creative, and very uniquely done. This is something that players could truly enjoy while trying to blend through the games narrative, which is, as stated, almost mindless banter even though it tells the tale that many would hope to expect. Though there is something that Rollers of the Realm does need; that RPG element. As much as I could say that the game itself is unique in how it works, which it is, the RPG side of it does not feel as forced as one would hope. Instead I found myself equipping items in order to find my characters having more health or more armor, but nothing quite along the lines of what I would’ve hoped. This is where I found the game a bit daunting as I had hoped for a robust balance of RPG versus pinball, but then again, that may just been the RPG fanatic inside of me screaming for more when there isn’t all that much more that could be done without causing a collision of issues to arise. Though there was something that caused a bit of a head scratcher. After meeting each of the characters, the want for a dialogue skip will become apparent and highly wanted for many players. This will lead to players , which is their only option at this time, to smash through their controller buttons or even keyboards (PC) in order to replay a stage if they had to restart. This is something that gets repetitive after a fourth or sixth try on a board if players aren’t used to such games.

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This is something that hopefully PHANTOM COMPASS troubleshoots in a future update for this rather well done and enigmatic title that will leave players flapping their flippers for hours. The game itself is rather straight forward game that will follow every bit of the enjoyment out of players as it can, and even manages to weave a rather enjoyable relationship between both our drunken Knight and our quiet and seemingly kind Rogue. Though there are a few moments that players will find themselves a bit daunted at some sketch (at times) voice acting, which was most noticeably done with the Ranger when he is first introduced, but also a few other scenes where he seems a bit flat on his emotional range. With such things put aside though, publisher Atlus U.S.A., inc and developer PHANTOM COMPASS have a lot to look forward to within the game and can find plenty of success in the upcoming days as the game catches on (something that should), and will easily catch any pinball-agnostic players hammering away at their controllers and keyboards in such amusement.
When it comes to pinball games and even RPG’s it’s hard to find a title that can balance multiple genres as this title has done. We can only hope that pinball and RPG enthusiasts can catch onto such a unique title and help it flourish in time.

So what does Rollers of the Realm earn itself? A solid 7 out of 10 possible.

Reviewers Note: Our review is based on a review copy that was given to us by the publisher prior to the games release and is the final release candidate version. Our review is based upon the PlayStation Vita as well as PlayStation 4 versions.

About the Writer:

Dustin_BATGRDustin is our native console gamer, PlayStation and Nintendo reviewer who has an appetite for anything that crosses the boarders from across the big pond. His interest in JRPG’s, MMO’s, Handheld Gaming, and Pizza is insatiable and can’t be softened by even the biggest names in the gaming industry. His elitist attitude gives him direction, want, and a need for the hardest difficulties in games, which is fun to watch, and hilarity at its finest. To follow Dustin, hit him up on Twitter over at @GamingAnomaly, find him on his Google+. Wanna game with him? You can find him on PSN with RaivynLyken.

TERA Online Gets First Expansion Soon and Limited Time In-Game Bonus

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Written by Dustin Murphy

TERA_FoA_03

As an action MMORPG on PC, it is no surprise that it has been successful thanks to its fast paced combat, which puts it at a higher pace than most of the MMO’s that have become as well known as Guild Wars 2 and even World of Warcraft. As of this week, the player driven publisher En Masse Entertainment, has announced that TERA will be getting it’s first expansion called Tera: Fate of Arun this winter. The expansion will be delivered as a free update through TERA Online’s Official Website and Steam.

This first expansion will be allowing players to access the games new continent of Northern Arun, a new enemy threat known as the Archdevan Imperial Army, a level cap increase to level 65, but also new skills as well as new gameplay mechanics as well as crafting improvements for the crafting system. More of these can be located at the newly launched website over at Fate of Arun, and see an in-depth trailer that will show players what is coming soon.

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The expansion will also feature a more simplified enchanting system, but also the ability to fuse unused crystals to create new and more powerful ones. For those who want to take on the games new storyline can enjoy a new quest interface that will streamline the questing from 60-65 that will allow players to teleport to teleport right to their quest zones, find groups to join, or just simply turn in their quests from where they finished them.

To welcome players to the new expansion, En Masse Entertainment also invites players to receive a limited time Northern Initiative Pack for Free. This bonus will allow players to receive new rare potions, stamina restoring campfires, charms, Fate, and an exclusive HP-restoring white tiger mount. How long do you have to claim this pack? Till the expansion launches on December 16th, 2014. So hurry up, login, and prepare for an entire new experience coming soon!

About the Writer:

Dustin_BATGRDustin is our native console gamer, PlayStation and Nintendo reviewer who has an appetite for anything that crosses the boarders from across the big pond. His interest in JRPG’s, MMO’s, Handheld Gaming, and Pizza is insatiable and can’t be softened by even the biggest names in the gaming industry. His elitist attitude gives him direction, want, and a need for the hardest difficulties in games, which is fun to watch, and hilarity at its finest. To follow Dustin, hit him up on Twitter over at @GamingAnomaly, find him on his Google+. Wanna game with him? You can find him on PSN with RaivynLyken.

Fractured Space Heads to Steam Early Access

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Written by Dustin Murphy

Fractured_Space_SC03

When it comes to games in outer space titles; Edge Case Games seeks to join that category. With games such as Strike Suit Zero (PS4/PC), EVE Online (PC), StarConflict (PC), and even Dust 514 (PS3 – EVE Online sister-game); Fractured Space now has the right to join that list thanks to developer Edge Case Games (VStrike Suit Zero veteran developers based team) now that it has landed on Steam Early Access. Set within a unknown time period within the future, Fractured Space allows players to take on tactical battles from within their insanely large capital ships within online battles. These conflicts will be occur within large team-based conflicts, and will allow players to have a new look at space combat scenarios.

Those scenarios can now be enjoyed by those that join the games Early Access for a not-so-expensive 9.99 USD for the Forerunner pack and 19.99 USD for the games Forerunner Fleet Pack. So what do these packs offer? The Forerunner Fleet pack will provide players with four game keys so that they can recruit a team of friends to join the game in a tactical space combat grouping while the 9.99 USD Forerunner pack is a single key for one person. The Founders Packs, which both of these are, will offer a range of perks such as exclusive ships, boosters, crew(s), and ranks. All of these, however, will be introduced at a later unspecified date.

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“Our open development journey for Fractured Space started with our first playable build and it’s exciting to welcome new players into the game as we launch on Steam Early Access,” said James Brooksby, CEO of Edge Case Games. “Every player can participate in exciting tactical space battles while also getting a chance to become new contributors to Fractured Space’s ongoing development.”

“We have huge ambition for what Fractured Space can become and bringing it to Early Access is the next stage of our journey. Even at this early stage we feel the quality of our vision shines through. The team, hand in hand with the community, are building a game that takes space combat in a completely new and exciting direction.”

With those statements, it is understandable why a title such as this one is heavily funded, supported, and has a chance to remain successful from both fans and the developer.

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Fractured Space is powered by the Unreal Engine 4 and is scheduled for a full release in 2015.

Edge Case has been vocal in committing to an open development ethic for Fractured Space and has held regular private playtest sessions and shared sprint plans, prototypes, concept art and capital ship renders with the continuously growing community.

About the Writer:

Dustin_BATGRDustin is our native console gamer, PlayStation and Nintendo reviewer who has an appetite for anything that crosses the boarders from across the big pond. His interest in JRPG’s, MMO’s, Handheld Gaming, and Pizza is insatiable and can’t be softened by even the biggest names in the gaming industry. His elitist attitude gives him direction, want, and a need for the hardest difficulties in games, which is fun to watch, and hilarity at its finest. To follow Dustin, hit him up on Twitter over at @GamingAnomaly, find him on his Google+. Wanna game with him? You can find him on PSN with RaivynLyken.

Ashen Rift Goes to Kickstarter and Offers Quite the Goodies for Backers

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Written by Dustin Murphy

Ashen_Rift_Logo

The world when it comes to an end is something terrifying to think about. Terrifying enough that the Hero (you) are accompanied by your four legged American Staffordshire Terrier companion named Bounder. Even with the loyalty, love, and obsession that Bounder has for the Hero, the world isn’t as beautiful as one would think. The world has been devastated by a mysterious occurrence called ‘The Rift’. This anomaly was not caused by science, testing by the military, or even some magic gone wrong; it just happened.

The effects of the Rift are not limited in Earth’s distraught appearance, but instead, humanity itself has taken a twisted turn by mutating into horrific creatures called ‘Feeders’. Through the perilous journey across the wasteland that was once a very populated Earth, players must use their cunning, wits, survival instincts, and even their ability to explore the world to survive. With the world constantly changing around you, the threat for surviva going all, but wrong – one question remains; what the Hell do you do with yourself? Survive with your canine companion Bounder and attempt to close the Rift to save what may or may not be left of the world around you. To save those men, women, and even children that haven’t changed into always hungering Feeders.

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Even with Feeders around the corner, there’s something special for people who decide to back the game. A copy of the game as well as other goodies to come forth. So what can you expect? With even the minimal amount ($15 CAD), players can expect the first episode of the game, but the more you donate – the more you get. The fortunate side is for many, the game will be launching across several places; Steam, The Humble Store, and PlayStation Network. The nice part? Backers can choose the platform of their choice; this also means Early Access. With the game being a work in progress, the team over at Pyroclastic Games the game will release with three to four releases through the games cycle of development. This means that you, the backers, will get to push through the game and stress test the majority of it as the game moves towards the final release version.

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What does this mean? Almost no spoilers, which leaves Early Access users something they can look forwards to without having had it ruined for them. This also means that the game will have what you can consider private testing, which means the game will get more updates than it would if it were bought through Steam’s Early Access system. This also mean that the game will have nothing held back from the private testers and will allow them to find every bug, every hiccup, and even suggest changes to be made for ease of access. This also means those that do private test and Early Access get to experience the games amazing soundtrack that comprises of industrial tracks to the beautiful orchestral tracks we would expect out of same games, clear down to power, emotional, and compelling acoustic pieces that are witnessed in the games trailer (below); all in mp3 format. Let alone will you get to have the music on hand, but backers can also sport the Ashen Rift patch on their favorite hoodie, coat, beanie, hat, and or even their favorite coat and have it to match their Ashen Rift t-shirt (sizes range from XS to XXL in both men or women’s fit).

What else is there? The Art of the Ashen Rift Book. This book will be comprised of the best conceptual pieces for the game that range from 2D, 3D, photographic, environmental, and even graphic art form. All these pieces are from the games development, but also gives an idea of how the team came up with the world that gamers will visit. The artbook will be in both digital and physical format depending on the amount that players actually back to the game itself. So what can you do to back this game? Head over to the Ashen Rift Kickstarter page started by developer Barry Collins and throw down a few backs to help this title reach its goals and head for launch.

With Kickstarter coming a huge place for games, books, movies, and other platforms; do you think this is something games should turn to for indie developers and small teams who do not have the funding from big name publishers? What’s your thoughts on this matter? Let us know what you think about games going to Kickstarter or Ashen Rift itself!

Copyright Notice: Please note that the pictures and the video used are copyrighted and owned by Pyroclastic Games.

About the Writer:

Dustin_BATGRDustin is our native console gamer, PlayStation and Nintendo reviewer who has an appetite for anything that crosses the boarders from across the big pond. His interest in JRPG’s, MMO’s, Handheld Gaming, and Pizza is insatiable and can’t be softened by even the biggest names in the gaming industry. His elitist attitude gives him direction, want, and a need for the hardest difficulties in games, which is fun to watch, and hilarity at its finest. To follow Dustin, hit him up on Twitter over at @GamingAnomaly, find him on his Google+. Wanna game with him? You can find him on PSN with RaivynLyken.

Review: Turtle Beach Elite 800 – Goes One Step Forward But Misses The Second Step at the Dance

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Written by Devon Day

Copyrighted by Turtle Beach 2015

Another year, another chance to showcase to the world what you can do. For Turtle Beach, their wireless offerings, sans their PX4, have proven to be effective audio systems, like their licensed Ghosts Phantom headset. However, always improving, Turtle Beach decided to introduce a new type of audio in DTS X: 7.1; an archetype of the newly issued DTS Neo X technology and pin hopes that this new tech. can win over buyers. So far, the 500p seems to be doing that, but as one final push, Turtle Beach threw every type of bell and whistle in the Elite 800; Turtle Beach’s new creme de la creme offering. However, at $300, is this really Turtle Beach’s latest offering? In addition, how does it stack up to the A50 from Astro or H Wireless from SteelSeries? Read on, fellow gamers to unlock the answer.

Turtle Beach made sure this headset is its prized jewel. Magnetic charging stand, durable TOSlink cable, premium appearance and usage of premium memory foam are all present here. That being said, all contents are expected of such a high offering, and it is comforting to see that Turtle Beach nailed the hammer on the head. Of course, its colored look was specifically designed for the PS4, but in practice, these can be used with mobile and other devices without making you look weird. In addition, the headset feels well built, even with plastic usage. However, comparing this to the A50 isn’t a contest. Astro Gaming continues to offer some of the best packaging around, and even though packing isn’t that important anymore, it is nice to see when a company takes pride in their products. That is nor a dock on the 800, but it shows just how different these companies are. For the H wireless comparison, same story. The H is packing some serious flare with its arrangement, and while the color palette on the two is very similar, SteelSeries decided to increase value with magnetic boxes housing each of the components; different from Turtle Beach’s use of thin cardboard one. All in all, it seems that the Elite 800 gets the basics down, but doesn’t stand up quite like it’s rivals.

Now, I always criticized Turtle Beach for not taking any thought into build. However, this was never a problem with their wireless models (sans the Tango in my experiences), and I am happy to report that the Elite 800 continues this tradition in the wireless models. Light tosses on the coffee table and flooring were no match for the Elite 800. Odd considering their is more plastic than other materials, but I’d imagine this plastic is much sturdier this time around. Even so, Astro’s A50 wins out yet again. Metal and plastic infused components will ensure a longevity that will not be less than a year. However, for the H Wireless comparison, both seemed to be equal. Both offer sturdy builds and never caused problems for me in testing, but that is to be expected for something that costs as much as Nintendo’s own Wii U. Again, Turtle Beach swings….. and misses. It tied with the H, but could not strike out the A50. Well, going for 0-1-1, Turtle Beach hasn’t impressed so far, but can it get any worse?

Turtle Beach has had a great history of a semi cloud feeling towards your noggin. From their X12, to their XP500, they have always found a way to hit the mark with the right amount of clamping force and excellent choice of materials in neoprene. However, the 800 ditches this material for protein leather; solid breathing room with great comfort thanks in part to the deep ear pads and generous amount of memory foam. Sadly, that is the good news. Clamping force on these are just not that good, and very disappointing as well. Prepare to feel the pinch, as these headphones are going to let you know that they are there. Well, that being said, I am not going to even compare this to either the H Wireless or the A50. If you haven’t already guessed it, those two beat this one soundly, especially in different ways; the A50 giving clamping force a punch to the face as a non-issue, and the H Wireless beating Turtle Beach at its own game with more deeper ear cups and more generous padding. Turtle Beach’s Elite 800 is not living up to its name…. so far. Things are about to take a turn for the better…. Albeit – slightly.

Charging stand? Check. Numerous Preset options? Check. Bluetooth compatibility? Check. Dual wireless signals for better connection? Check Did I miss anything? Yes. The Elite 800, as stated in the intro, uses a new type of sound called DTS X: 7.1. To not overwhelm anyone, think about it like this. Previous headsets allows you to hear in 5 or 7 different directions. Now, you can hear above the front and hear to the sides in a more wider, broader perspective. This enables a more 3D field of hearing. How it performs will be discussed later. For those yummy comparisons, it seems Astro’s mighty wire free warrior has finally met its match, although I still give it the wireless frequency nod for using Kleernet; essentially turbo charged wireless connectivty for those of you who do not understand. The H Wireless has dual Lithium ion batteries, so expect continued play, even though SteelSeries can thank Triton Technogies for that. Minus that though, neither have a clear cut advantage in terms of features to match what the 800 has, and it is something few other companies can compete directly against. That being said, a win finally goes into the Elite 800 stat column, bringing it to 1-1-1. Can it win a second straight? Well…

… Using DTS X: 7.1 for the first time was a treat. Bass was deep, with excellent decay, definition and clarity, while taking a hit on the separation side. Mids did not disappoint either, as hearing commentators on various sports programs or the exquisite dialogue between Ellie and Joel felt vibrant, but again, controlled so that the voicing isn’t too bright. However, the definition of clarity is a bit off for the 800. Yes, Ellie’s voice did sound natural, but it was a bit too amped in the pitching of her voice. Even so, this still was great for the 800. Highs?…. Well.. Excellent in some aspects but off on others. Even with DTS X: 7.1 used, for me, it depends on which game you are playing. For the Last of Us, gunshots had great depth, cluuarity and definition, but other games like Dynasty Warriors Xtreme Legends falls a bit short. Sword clashes sounded a bit tinny and abrasive for me, and the serperation of sounds heard in the treble region felt like Turtle Beach wanted to artificially enhance the definition of treble, but at the cost of losing some fidelity in the process. It isnt something that is new, because every company has to compromise, but it seems that with issues with the definition and lack of seperation, it seems that the 800 is dependant on the game you are playing rather than the whole sound experience, and that just doesn’t cut it within the price range, and yes, I am aware of the presets available. Sure, they are nice to use, but they only mitigate certain issues and create others. For example, Treble Boost provides more power towards the mids and highs, but bass definition and clarity suffer. Essentially, the presets are preferences, but it can be interpreted in the form of “Pick your Poison,” as there are trade offs to consider, and will only work in a specified area. As in the case for mobile usage, it does well. Taking calls provided little to no issues. Comparisons cannot be made for its competition, so it wins by default. However, for a gaming headset to be great, it should not excel in certain areas, but all of them, much like a game should play to its strengths and add additions for the player. To compare though, I would say that the A50 and Elite 800 are deadlocked. Voicing is the key here, and even though it is nice not to have a mic. next to your cheek, the A50 provided superior clarity, seperation, and defintion, whereas the 800 has the tonal balance down pact. This doesn’t go for the same on the audio side of things however. Tonal balance, definition, and separation are given to the A50, but clarity, impact and sound stage to to the 800, but not by much for either. Tonal balance and sound stage wise against the H Wireless? H Wireless takes it, along with clarity, but defintion and separation go to Turtle Beach. So at the end of the comparisons, it gets a win by default, but again ties with the other two, even though it had a superior sound scape at that. Ultimately, its final records are 2-1-2.

All that said, what are my final thoughts on the Elite 800? Well, Turtle Beach almost had a winner, but a clamping force that is just too obnoxious to ignore, and some oddities within its performance keel it out of of the race. If anything, I think Turtle Beach may have relied a but too much on its DTS X: 7.1 tech. to overcome many of these shortcomings. Even so, the Elite 800 is still a good buy if you are willing to tough it out against some headpains. Otherwise, look for other wireless options, like Astro’s A50 or SteelSeries H. That being said, what are we giving the Elite 800 headset? A well earned 9 out of 10.

What are your thoughts in Turtle Beach products? What are your thoughts on gaming headsets as a whole? What is your favorite one? Sound off in the comments below. As always, on behalf of the entire BATGR Staff, thank you for reading! Until next time, this is Devon Day; Checking Out.

Copyright Notice: The image(s) used are owned and protected by Turtle Beach. We do not own nor claim to have taken the picture(s).

About the Author:

Devon_Day_BATGRA man growing up between the gaming boundaries on the 5th generation Nintendo 64, but admiring the 3rd gen. Nintendo Entertainment System and 4th generation Sega Genesis for their contributions, Devon Day always has something on his mind regarding video games and the accessories they contain. His first was a microphone for the Nintendo 64 for the “Hey You, Pikachu!” video game, but expanded towards the next line up of gaming peripherals including the Astro A40, MadCatz MLG Pro Circiut Controller, MadCatz STRIKE 7, and many other gaming gadgets. Now loving gaming tech more than ever, he sees this generation crucial to bring the full circle of social connectivity that the 7th. generation of video game consoles started.

Square Enix Brings Back Final Fantasy XIII-2 With a PC Release

/ Dustin Murphy / Leave a comment

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Written by Devon Day

FFXII-2_PC_SC01

Final Fantasy XII-2 left a lot of impressions to say the least. Be it good or bad, it still is part of a long running trilogy within the Final Fantasy universe. However, some games in the series have not been ported to PC and therefore have forced some PC gamers to litigate themselves to play on a specific platform, such as Final Fantasy XII. However, Square Enix has made good strides in recent years, starting with one of their most critically acclaimed in Final Fantasy VII to the steam service. Others such as II and III would also arrive later on the PC. Now, Final Fantasy gamers can experience the second half of XIII in XIII-2. Boasting the usual Full HD 60 FPS prerequisite, the PC variation will also include DLC from the original, so your wallets can breathe easier. All in all, if you have a PC only and want to continue the story of XIII, Final Fantasy XIII-2 goes all out on December 11

With all that said, what is your favorite Final Fantasy game? How does it stack up to XIII? Should Square Enix create one Final Fantasy with all the main protagonists to take down the greatest primordial evil? Sound off feelings and thoughts below!

As always, on behalf of the entire BATGR staff. Thank you for reading. If you like this article, please inform us on what you want us to write about. Until then, this is Devon Day; Checking Out.

About the Author:

Devon_Day_BATGRA man growing up between the gaming boundaries on the 5th generation Nintendo 64, but admiring the 3rd gen. Nintendo Entertainment System and 4th generation Sega Genesis for their contributions, Devon Day always has something on his mind regarding video games and the accessories they contain. His first was a microphone for the Nintendo 64 for the “Hey You, Pikachu!” video game, but expanded towards the next line up of gaming peripherals including the Astro A40, MadCatz MLG Pro Circiut Controller, MadCatz STRIKE 7, and many other gaming gadgets. Now loving gaming tech more than ever, he sees this generation crucial to bring the full circle of social connectivity that the 7th. generation of video game consoles started.