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Developer: Bluepoint Games, From Software Release: November 12, 2020 Platform: PlayStation 5

The Demon's Souls remake launches in less than two months. Players will soon be traveling back in time to the first incarnation of the modern "Souls-like," playing the game that would go on to create an entire subgenre of challenging dark fantasy titles. This time, it's Bluepoint Games' take on From Software's classic – an entry many Souls enthusiasts haven't even played since it is only available on PlayStation 3. In many ways, Demon's Souls was the evolution of concepts and ideas that had been present in From Software's King's Field series for many years. Now, the entire experience is back, exclusively on PlayStation 5.

Despite its release being incredibly soon as a PlayStation 5 launch title, there are many questions surrounding the game. Let's take a look at some of the misshaps and mysteries that could be interesting as we inch ever closer to stepping into the Boletarian Palace again.

What is Fractured Mode and why did they hide it?

During the initial remake reveal, Sony included messaging about a "Fractured Mode" in the text description of the trailer. This messaging was swiftly removed. Does that mean Fractured Mode doesn't exist? Are we to believe this was some ethereal thing meant for some other game? If it's real, what is it and why haven't we heard about it yet? Was it a concept that was going to be in the game and pulled so it could make the PlayStation 5 launch window?

If it is in fact a real thing, I'm guessing that Bluepoint has tapped into the Dark Souls PC community hivemind over the last five years and that the mode is similar in fashion to a mod that randomizes encounters, enemy placements, item placements, and more. That would certainly be a fresh way to experience things even for the most seasoned of Demon's Souls veterans, again and again. Maybe it's just a boss rush mode. Maybe it doesn't exist at all anymore. We shall see.

Is Demon's Souls actually coming to PC?

Well, Sony says no. Of course, that misplaced card stuck at the end of the new trailer says fairly explicitly that it's coming to PC, with the Demon's Souls logo clearly in plain sight [Read more about this here]. Perhaps it was absolutely human error that included the card, but why did the card exist? Is this, in fact, some misplaced templating mistake that simply was overlooked? It's possible. Anything's possible. My own current theory states that these trailers are the subject of such unbelievable scrutiny that such an oversight is generally impossible, except for the fact that work-from-home procedures may have resulted in an errant upload.

Perhaps "Demon's Souls Trailer54" instead of "Demon's Souls Trailer55" was uploaded to some FTP server and the wrong one was grabbed and uploaded. Here's the point of this speculation: I believe that this new version of Demon's Souls is, in fact, going to come to PC somewhere down the line — but if Sony reveals that now, it risks losing sales on the PlayStation 5 version as some fans wait for the PC iteration.

Will we finally get to traverse the sixth Archstone?

Probably not. But some fans say that there's a hint of those vast frozen northern lands in the original reveal trailer, stating that there's no snow in the base game. It's more likely (to me) that the vision of those winterscapes were eventually repurposed and revisioned to give us The Painted World of Ariamis, Frozen Eleum Loyce, Irithyll of the Boreal Valley, and even Cainhurst Castle.

Yes this is Bloodborne read the accompanying text :D

From Software does love snow, and they should, because you can almost feel the biting cold beauty in every one of those levels. There's speculation that perhaps Bluepoint could be giving players these "lost levels" from the original game, and as much as I think that would be incredible, I also think it's incredibly unlikely. Let's hope I'm wrong.

All that said, let's get hype! We haven't seen anything from Elden Ring for ages, so anything Souls is ready for a warm welcome. Let's hope the Bluepoint incarnation of the From Software classic is as amazing as the legacy the original created.

Developer: Microsoft

Big news today on the Bethesda front with the Microsoft acquisition now revealed, but it looks like that wasn't the only thing the studio had to share with fans this fine Monday. Todd Howard got a little mushy when talking about the move to Microsoft while also teasing a completely overhauled engine. 

A change in engine has been teased for years now and many fans have started to lose hope that it would ever happen. While many of the games under Bethesda's umbrella are beyond stellar, the overall look of many of them leaves little to be desired. That's not to say that graphics are the end-all-be-all of an experience, but a more modernized touch couldn't hurt. 

In a recent blog post over on the Bethesda website, Howard talked just a little bit about the cyclic console nature, the growth over this gen, and teased the "largest engine overhaul since Oblivion" for the new generation ahead: 

With each new console cycle, we evolved together. From bringing mods to consoles with Fallout 4, now over a billion downloads, to the latest technologies fueling Xbox Series X/S. These new systems are optimized for the vast worlds we love to create, with generational leaps not just in graphics, but CPU and data streaming as well. It’s led to our largest engine overhaul since Oblivion, with all new technologies powering our first new IP in 25 years, Starfield, as well as The Elder Scrolls VI. 

Industry insider @Shinobi602 also shared an image of "Skyrim Grandma" Shirley Curry alongside the most recent blog post, with a look at skin shading that honestly is making us drool: 

Bethesda

In addition to the excited look ahead from Todd Howard's perspective, the Bethesda Director also shared a wholesome story about why this acquisition means so much to him on a personal level. 

In the blog post, he mentioned one particular award moment in his career that truly stuck out for a special reason. "When I received the Lifetime Achievement Award at GDC, I joked in my acceptance 'I wonder how many achievement points this one is worth.' At the end of the ceremony, some good friends from Microsoft congratulated me and said they'd find out."

He added, "A few months later I was given a code to a game they had created, named after me and locked to my account. When ran, it unlocks a single achievement - Lifetime - 1000pts. It still sits in my list when I check, and I smile every time." 

With all of the news revealed, it's easy to get lost in speculations and the "would've, could'ves" of a move as big as this, but that little added note is a fun reminder that these people aren't just some nameless suit. They care, they're passionate, and apparently want to release Skyrim a billion and one times. 

That last part was a playful jest, please don't look too much into it. 

To catch up on the news about the Microsoft acquisition of Bethesda, you can learn more with our previous coverage here. 

[Source: Bethesda]

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Publisher: Activision Developer: Treyarch Release: November 13, 2020 Rating: Mature Platform: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC

Now that the alpha is over and done with, it's time for gamers on all platforms to have a chance to dive into Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War. For those that are looking to get some hands-on time early, here is what you need to know about Cold War beta dates for PS4, Xbox One, and PC. 

The Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War beta will be divided between two specific weekends with the first stint being solely for PlayStation players. For your platform of choice, here are the beta dates for Cold War so you don't miss out: 

PlayStation exclusive beta

• PS4 Early Access (pre-orders): October 8-9
• PS4 Open Beta: October 10-12

Crossplay beta

• Xbox + PC Early Access + PS4 Open Beta: October 15-16
• All Platforms: October 17-19

For those that played the alpha, the beta will offer a few more additional features not yet played. In addition to the VIP Escort Mode, beta players will also be able to check out a new mode called Fireteam Dirty Bomb. 

For those that haven't checked out the alpha, the upcoming beta period is a good chance to jump into the highly divisive (Skill-based Match-making) SBMM conversation and thoughts on where the Black Ops franchise is going next. 

Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War makes its PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, and PC debut on November 13. 

Developer: Microsoft

Following the news that Bethesda is being acquired by Microsoft, VP Pete Hines weighed in on why this move was the right one for them to make. Hines also took the opportunity to assuage any fan concerns over Bethesda changing to fit into its new home.

Hines has been with Bethesda for just over 20 years. Since he joined the studio, Bethesda has undergone many changes, including evolutions of in-house leadership, new IPs, and shifting visions. He has also witnessed mind-numbing growth from Bethesda's humble beginnings. 

The news of the acquisition has been wholly seen as a positive within the gaming community, though there have been concerns about Bethesda's future with PlayStation. While a multiplatform release for Bethesda's biggest games are still a real possibility, as seen here with Phil Spencer's recent commentary, some have voiced concern over Bethesda changing too much. 

"The world, our industry, and our company has changed a lot in the 34 years since Bethesda Softworks was first founded," said Hines in a recent blog post. "Today, it changed again. And I know that brings up questions.

"But the key point is we’re still Bethesda. We’re still working on the same games we were yesterday, made by the same studios we’ve worked with for years, and those games will be published by us."

According to Hines, the change coming out of this acquisition is something that was the right move for them to make, "because it allows us to make even better games going forward. Microsoft is an incredible partner and offers access to resources that will make us a better publisher and developer. We believe that means better games for you to play. Simply put - we believe that change is an important part of getting better. We believe in pushing ourselves to be better. To innovate. To grow."

Bethesda also has a long working history with Microsoft and the two companies, according to the VP, share many of the same core values. As Bethesda shifted from a PC-only developer to working with consoles through the years, this acquisition will give the studio even more resources, a bigger team, and more support for continuing on our favorite stories while creating new ones at the same time. 

More details about this acquisition are coming in the next few months, but with Xbox being primarily focused on services for next gen rather than hardware sales, this could be a really good thing for all. The new deal is set to close in the second fiscal year for 2021. 

[Source: Bethesda]

In a shocking announcement, Microsoft has revealed that they have officially acquired Bethesda and its parent company ZeniMax Media. Bethesda is behind numerous popular franchises including The Elder Scrolls, Doom, Fallout, Wolfenstein, and more. 

In a press statement to Game Informer, Microsoft purchased ZeniMax Media for $7.5 billion, giving them ownership of some of the biggest series in gaming to-date. 

Microsoft also tells us that this move was made with the primary goal in mind for cloud-based services like Xbox Game Pass, which just celebrated another major milestone with over 15 million members. 

“Gaming is the most expansive category in the entertainment industry, as people everywhere turn to gaming to connect, socialize and play with their friends,” said Satya Nadella, CEO, Microsoft. “Quality differentiated content is the engine behind the growth and value of Xbox Game Pass—from Minecraft to Flight Simulator. As a proven game developer and publisher, Bethesda has seen success across every category of games, and together, we will further our ambition to empower the more than three billion gamers worldwide.”

This is only the latest acquisition for Microsoft to make in the name of Xbox with more on the horizon. This also will ensure that future Bethesda titles will be available, for free, on day one thanks to the ever-growing Game Pass subscription. 

“This is an awesome time to be an Xbox fan. In the last 10 days alone, we’ve released details on our two new consoles which go on pre-order tomorrow, launched cloud gaming in Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, and now we’re making another investment in the most critical part of our strategy: the games,” said Phil Spencer, executive vice president, Gaming at Microsoft. “Generations of gamers have been captivated by the renowned franchises in the Bethesda portfolio and will continue to be so for years to come as part of Xbox.”

The transaction is still in progress with closing conditions still ongoing. According to Microsoft, the acquisition should be finalized in the second half of fiscal year 2021. 

Despite what the box and blurbs might tell you, 13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim isn't really a game about piloting giant robots. I mean, sure, you do fight off massive swarms of building-sized creatures hellbent on total destruction in an alternate-universe 1980s Japan at some points. But these seemingly model-kit-ready metal combat suits are just a plot device, a cog in the story. In actuality, 13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim is a character drama: a twisting, turning sci-fi epic jumping through time and dimensions as it follows the lives of its numerous teen protagonists. Missiles, Gatling guns, and armor-crushing metal fistcuffs are merely a side event to the everyday drama of highschoolers who find themselves unwilling pawns in a bigger game with the fate of the world at stake. And you know what? That's great. Once the narrative of 13 Sentinels sinks its hooks into you, you want nothing more than to go along for the ride up until the very climax.

13 Sentinels is a unique, genre-mixing experiment. It takes elements of point-and-click adventure games, visual novels, real-time strategy games, and tower defense games, mixing them together to create an experience that's quite unlike anything else out there. Things get rolling when young Japanese highschooler Juro Kurabe is called upon to fight a horde of alien invaders in 1985, only for the story to flash back to earlier that year, then over to young soldiers in 1945 wartime-era Japan, then to two schoolgirls witnessing a crisis in the year 2025. You immediately meet a huge cast of characters across different eras, learning that there is one constant: the existence of Sentinels, massive human-piloted robot weapons who exist to protect the world from otherworldly monsters.

The game is split into three parts: a Remembrance mode where you uncover the story piece by piece, a Destruction mode where you use giant Sentinel mechs to protect the city from invasion, and an Analysis mode that collects all of the information and story scenes you have discovered through gameplay. Remembrance is presented as an episodic series where you explore and interact with various environments and characters to advance the plot. Destruction, in contrast, is an overhead-view strategy segment where you use the Sentinels to defend a critical underground access point from invading forces.

Continue Reading at GameSpot

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Publisher: CD Projekt Developer: CD Projekt Red Release: November 19, 2020 (PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC), TBA (PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S) Rating: Mature Platform: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC

Everything we've seen so far of Cyberpunk 2077 has been nothing short of stunning but those breathtaking graphics have had many PC players worried that their rigs might not be able to take the heat. Luckily, the entry point for PC gamers is much lower than originally anticipated as CD Projekt RED confirms the Cyberpunk 2077 PC requirements, both minimum and recommended. 

During the studio's most recent Night City Wire showcase, they confirmed the specs that PC players can look forward to: 

The minimum system requirement set with the NVIDIA GTX 790 or the Radeon RX 470 is a surprise, but not an unwelcome one. Obviously players will want to shoot for the recommended settings if possible if they want to experience the highest quality of Cyberpunk, but knowing that the minimum specs are a little more in reach means good things for fans ready to jump in.

With a game this massive, seeing the storage space required is also not surprising. CDPR has mentioned previously that this is a living, breathing city. Night City and its surrounding areas are massive and with completely interactive environments. A game of that scale will always require some hefty storage requirements. 

We'll be able to see exactly how this game performs when Cyberpunk 2077 launches on November 19, 2020 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Google Stadia.

Publisher: Bandai Namco Developer: CyberConnect2 Release: January 17, 2020 Platform: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC

Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot has new DLC coming out here soon and with it comes Golden Frieza. Golden Frieza is this character's most powerful form and we've got a sneak peek at this OP evolution thanks to the latest issue of V-Jump. 

A scan of the most recent of V-Jump magazine not only shows off Golden Frieza, but also the return of Ginyu Force and the Super Saiyan Blue forms for Vegeta and Goku. 

DBZ: KAKAROT - Proper & Full V Jump Scans! pic.twitter.com/OYahgDTugX

— Dragon Ball Hype. (@DbsHype) September 17, 2020

Golden Frieza, according to the scans above, comes with the second part of the game's first DLC: New Power Awakens. The first part made its debut back in April of this year and focused heavily on the Dragon Ball film Battle of Gods. The second part of the DLC will touch on Dragon Ball Z: Ressurrection F, which explains Golden Frieza's appearance in Kakarot. 

DBZ: Kakarot V Jump Leaks. SSB Vegeta and Goku, new skills!
(Thanks to: @DB_KR0914) pic.twitter.com/uBCZBH4B9Z

— Dragon Ball Hype. (@DbsHype) August 19, 2020

The same account that shared the first screen also showed off another image of the latest issue, this time showing off the previously confirmed Super Saiyan Blue Vegeta and Goku forms. 

We don't have a release date for when the second part of the Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot DLC arrives, but we do know that is slated for sometime later this year. 

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Publisher: Capcom Developer: Capcom Release: March 26, 2021 Platform: Switch

Monster Hunter had an awesome news week with both Monster Hunter: Rise and Monster Hunter Stories 2 being revealed. Nintendo is making that news even sweeter with the reveal of three new Amiibo coming at the beginning of next year, including an adorable little Palico! 

Nintendo revealed the three new Amiibo figures that are going to be coming out March 26, 2021. The three latest additions include a Palamute figure, a Magnamalo, and a smiling Palico: 

Each figure will unlock a special armor set in Monster Hunter: Rise. No word on if these will also impact Monster Hunter Stories 2 at this time, but even if it's just for Rise, that Palico one is too cute to pass up! 

Amiibo first crashed onto the scene back in 2014 and there was a whirlwind period where they were so hard to get, so exclusive, that it was a madhouse just to try to land that coveted figure. Since that period, however, Nintendo has been much more on top of supply and demand, making collecting these little cuties back on hobby level and not frustrated obsession. 

The Monster Hunter Amiibo line debuts March 26, 2021. Are you planning on scooping one up? All three? Sound off in the comment section below! 

The first time I beat the final boss in Hades, I felt an enormous sense of relief. I'd been fighting to see this ending for hours (months, technically, if you count my time in early access), and in roguelikes, it feels better than usual to see an ending. But while I was definitely a little too proud of putting together a set of abilities and perks that shredded the boss after they wrecked me just a few tries ago, that wasn't why I felt tears welling up. I'd gotten so caught up in the story of my character, Zagreus, and the heroes, villains, and gods that had helped him here that I was elated to have finally gotten him to the end of his journey. What sets Hades apart isn't just that it's a great roguelike with the kind of repeatable depth that makes it engrossing to play for hours, but also how it uses its structure to tell an ongoing story about family, secrets, and resolution.

That Hades' narrative is so entwined with its combat is nothing new for the developers at Supergiant Games, who've established themselves as masters of putting your actions in sync with the stories they tell. In a roguelike such as Hades, it means playing as Zagreus, a god of rebirth. Tired of living under his father Hades' thumb and seeking answers about where he comes from, he sets out to escape to the world of the living, battling various undead monsters, living creatures, and mythological figures on his way out.

Hades captured on Nintendo Switch

Your godliness justifies the endless runs through the depths of the underworld, since dying and coming back to life is par for the course in Greek myth. One of the best parts of Hades, in fact, is returning to the House of Hades time and again after you die. It's not just a pit stop on the way to the next run--it's the centerpiece Hades hinges on. There, figures such as Achilles, Hypnos, and Nyx console you after your deaths, praise you for making progress, and confide in you about one another. You chat with them, undertake side quests, and exchange gifts to deepen your relationships. Eventually, they become vital allies on your quest, even if they're not in the thick of combat with you.

Continue Reading at GameSpot

In Spelunky 2, the turkey's fate is in your hands.

You could hop on the bird's back, making use of its double jump and Yoshi-like glide to flap your way through your run. For a solid payout, you could return it and the other birds scattered throughout a stage to the turkey farmer who oversees their pen. You could whip it unconscious, throw a bomb next to its body, and eat the resulting Thanksgiving platter for one heart--or you could do that last one in the farmer's line of sight, prompting him to take up arms against you, "you monster."

This is the mode that Spelunky 2 constantly operates in. There are always risk-reward choices to make, and death is nearly instantaneous if you choose poorly. Like its acclaimed predecessor, Spelunky 2 is the rare platformer that demands to be played as much like a tactics game as it does like a Mario game. As you learn (or relearn) how to survive, success requires a willingness to think three moves ahead. Some tiles are booby-trapped to shoot arrows as you leap through their line of sight. Some vases summon a relentless ghost when smashed. Some pottery hides snakes and tarantulas. Some spiders hang from the cavern ceilings, hoping you pass by unaware. You really shouldn't even move from your initial spawn point without pausing for a moment to pore over every treacherous inch of the screen. That is, unless you spawn near a bat, which will swoop down at you--hope you're quick with your whip.

Continue Reading at GameSpot

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Developer: Microsoft

Sony's pre-order rollout for the PlayStation 5 was a little confusing, to put it lightly, but it looks like pre-ordering the Xbox Series S/X will be a lot easier. In the name of transparency, Microsoft detailed exactly when gamers can pre-order next gen Xbox systems. Here's what you need to know in order to pre-order an Xbox Series X and Series S. 

When can you pre-order an Xbox Series console? 

Pre-orders for the Xbox Series X and Series S kicks off on September 22 at 11 AM ET / 8 AM PT. For those interested in nabbing a system day one, the new consoles will be available at all major retailers including GameStop, Best Buy, Target, Walmart, Amazon, Newegg, and more. 

The Xbox Series X will retail at $499 with the Series S coming in at $299. Pre-orders for the PlayStation 5 are already up, though they went live a day early on September 16, which caused a fluster of confusion and frustration for many that were looking to get their pre-order in the moment that option became available. 

Both systems look incredible and with services and hardware alike making next gen look incredibly appealing, it's easy to see why hype is so high. 

Which system appeals to you more as your first purchase for next gen, or are you putting down the cash for both at the same time? Sound off with your thoughts in the comment section below! 

Disclaimer: GameStop is the parent company of Game Informer

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Developer: Sony Interactive Entertainment

Sony recently revealed the PlayStation Plus Collection, an excellent service that brings essential PS4 experiences to the PlayStation 5. While there are many similarities to Microsoft's Xbox Game Pass, there are a few differences to note. While both services offer something different, both are huge wins for gamers, especially going into next gen. 

The Xbox Game Pass, something that Sony previously competed with thanks to its PlayStation Now service, has been seen as a massive success for Microsoft. While that service has been seen as a little more dated, the newly revealed PlayStation Plus Collection offers something very similar to that of the Game Pass, but don't expect it to be a carbon copy. 

Key differences between Xbox Game Pass and PlayStation Plus Collection

So what are the key differences between the two services? One feature that fans love about the Xbox Game Pass is that the service not only includes previously released games, but also day one additions to the library for first-party exclusives. While Microsoft does not have as many first-party exclusives as Sony does at the moment, the company continues to acquire more studios with the goal of a stronger lineup in the future. 

The PlayStation Plus Collection will not be offering the same service in terms of day one first-party additions to the Collection library, but that doesn't mean it's not still a good deal. Through the PlayStation Plus Collection, PlayStation 5 players can still enjoy some of the most incredible gaming experiences from the PlayStation 4 era in addition to the backwards compatibility that will include up to 90% percent of the current generation's games. 

There are a lot of titles, such as God of War, The Last of Us, and Bloodborne, that PS5 gamers can enjoy if they subscribe to the PlayStation Plus Collection service. This is also a great way for Sony to dip its toes further into an expanding network of services, much like Microsoft has been doing for the past two years. 

Currently, the PlayStation Plus Collection service will offer just under 20 titles at launch. Much like the Xbox Game Pass, more games will be added throughout the course of next gen. 

Why this is a good move

Again, like the Xbox Game Pass, this gives players that are jumping right into purchasing the PlayStation 5 a chance to play some of the best games to come out during the PS4's reign. Improved framerates, better loading times, and optimized resolutions all can be seen when taking advantage of the PlayStation Plus Collection. 

Another reason why this is a good deal, just like the Xbox Game Pass is for Series X/S owners, is that the price of many games will be inflating to be $69.99. As those prices hike, services like this will ensure that gamers will have plenty of options to choose from when looking to sit down for a good gaming session without totally breaking the bank. 

With many younger gamers also being introduced to console gaming with the PlayStation 5, this service also gives them a chance to experience first-hand some of the incredible adventures many of us have already enjoyed. Taking to Uncharted for the first time as Nathan Drake, slaying foul beasts with a massive machete in Bloodborne, and even seeing what all the hype is about with the revamped God of War franchise; it's an inclusive way to go into a new generation without leaving the previous one in the dust.

Why no first-party day one launches?

Sony Interactive Entertainment CEO Jim Ryan previously told GameIndustry.biz that while Sony respects what Microsoft is doing, the company isn’t looking to exactly replicate its process. He told the site, Sony is "not going to go down the road of putting new release titles into a subscription model" because in the long run, they do not see that model as "sustainable."

Given the massive amount of success the Xbox Game Pass has seen with this model, it's entirely possible Sony may change its tune in the future. For now, however, the two mega companies have wildly different strategies for the future of games. That's not a bad thing. In fact, we broke down the two differening marketing strategies right here for those interested in learning more. 

To learn more about the PlayStation Plus Collection, you can check out our previous coverage here as well as the reveal trailer at the top of the article. 

Publisher: Ember Lab Developer: Ember Lab Release: 2021 Platform: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, PC

One of the most striking elements of Kena: Bridge of Spirits is its soundtrack, which features the music of traditional Balinese musicians in new compositions. It’s the result of a collaboration between composer Jason Gallaty and the ensemble group Gamelan Çudamani. We talked to Jason, as well as Gamelan Çudamani founding director Dewa Putu Berata and associate director Emiko Saraswati to learn how this musical partnership came to be. 

Gallaty says that he was listening to Çudamani’s music for inspiration, so he decided to see if they would be interested in working together on Kena’s soundtrack. “I felt like with something that the music comes originally from Bali and Indonesia and all these instruments come from Bali and Indonesia, I wanted to approach it respectfully and asked to work with them.” He sent them an email, and hoped for the best.

“I’ll be totally honest, I told the guys this, but my first reaction was like, ‘No,’” Saraswati recalls. “No Gamelan in video games. Dewa and I are traditional artists, right, so this gets into more complex problems, but sometimes there’s a sense from traditional artists that things like video games are things that we’re working against all the time.” She says that Gallaty’s email was persuasive, however, so she agreed to talk to him on the phone and hear him out. 

“I was like, ‘Oh wait, this kind of sounds cool.’ I very, very quickly realized that I had my own prejudice that I was working with, and that I needed to allow this team to explain what they were doing,” Saraswati says. “The themes are so beautiful and so resonant with our culture and our values and philosophy. And you know, it’s exciting to see that.”

After a fruitful recording session in California, Gallaty and Ember Lab’s chief creative officer Mike Grier went to Bali for a more in-depth series of sessions. The bamboo instruments are too large to easily transport internationally, and that’s where the bulk of the musicians are located, so it made sense to make the trip. “It was my inspiration, but I wanted to make sure that people were aware that this was cultural music at its heart that I was being inspired by, and I wanted that platform to be shared,” Gallaty says. “Things developed from there.” 

Berata was able to create original compositions based on footage of the game in action or from descriptions of the moments or feelings that Gallaty wanted conveyed musically. After his musicians created new songs, Gallaty would then take those and use them for his own compositions. Working closely with the traditional musicians allowed the team at Ember Lab to avoid pitfalls that other game developers have fallen into, such as when The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time inadvertently incorporated Islamic prayers into one of its songs. 

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“Jason had samples of beautiful music that was sacred music, and we were like, ‘Uh, we can’t use that piece,’ so then Dewa would make a piece that had the same feeling to it but it wasn’t the sacred piece that would be really inappropriate for a video game,” Saraswati says. “It was really cool to see that kind of thing happen, where it’s actually something that’s very new that was composed last year, but it has that same sense of spiritual power and mystery.”

“It’s a pretty common thing in Western music, where they go in and think, ‘Oh, this is a really cool sound from this culture,’ but to them it’s just a sound,” Gallaty adds. “I’ve learned so much from this collaboration. It’s really not just a sound at all. It’s instrumental to the spiritual nature of the Gamelan music. The way that Gamelan is treated, these instruments are treated like people. They’re respected like people; you do not step over an instrument. It’s like if you were having a play date with another parent and you stepped over their child. You wouldn’t do that. You would never step over a child. That’s the way the instruments are treated.”

Gallaty says the experience of collaborating with Berata and the rest of the musicians was incredibly rewarding. Even though she wasn’t initially hot on the idea, Saraswati ended up being just as passionate and happy with the results. “So many things in the media or culture that we see today have so little to do with what our own family values are or what our cultural values are or what our parents have taught us,” she says. “It was exciting to see a project, and to be honest, we didn’t realize that it was going to be this big. Now my kids are super excited, and everyone in Çudamani is really excited.”

“It was really a life-changing experience,” Grier says, reflecting on the collaboration. “I don’t want to just throw that around, but I think it was for me. It really opened my eyes to how other people around the world are doing stuff that’s similar to what we’re trying to do, in their own way.”

Publisher: Riot Games Developer: Riot Games Platform: iOS, Android

Riot Games is teaming up with Spin Master Corp, a company that is a leading name in the children's entertainment industry, to offer some exciting new products for League of Legends fans. 

From toys to role play items, even some detailed action figures – the new lineup will be debuting in the Fall of 2021. The newest collaboration will span over the next few years and will offer a variety of items for fans to collect to take their love for the popular PC MOBA even further. 

With the Fall 2021 launch date for a global retail release, the new line of League of Legends merch will arrive just in time for next year's holiday season. 

“Spin Master is excited to collaborate with Riot Games to bring innovation and meticulous attention to detail to the rich characters and unique worlds in League of Legends,” John Blaney, Spin Master’s Senior Vice President of Licensing, told us in a recent statement. “Our League of Legends line up will appeal to fans of all ages, delivering high-quality products on the cutting edge. We look forward to delivering enhanced collectability and unique play experiences for the massive global League of Legends fan base both on and offline.”

“Spin Master is the perfect partner for the League of Legends franchise and together we have the opportunity to enhance our champions and their stories giving players the opportunity to go even deeper into the League of Legends universe,” added Christian Bayley, Director, Brand Management for consumer products at Riot Games.

We don't have a look at what the actual merchandise will entail yet, though a full reveal is on the way. 

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Publisher: Xbox Game Studios Developer: Moon Studios Release: March 11, 2020 (Xbox One, PC), 2020 (Xbox Series X), September 17, 2020 (Switch) Rating: Everyone Platform: Xbox Series X, Xbox One, Switch, PC

Surprise! Ori and the Will of the Wisps is not only coming to Nintendo Switch today as a digital download, as confirmed by a new Mini, but a beautiful new collector's edition has also been revealed! 

Ori and the Will of the Wisps is the sequel to the stunning and award-winning Ori and the Blind Forest game, and it's just as heartbreaking and beautiful as its predecessor. Previously only available on Xbox and Windows 10, the breathtaking continuation of Ori's adventure is now in the palm of our hands thanks to the Nintendo Switch starting today. 

Even more exciting than the Switch version being announced is the beautiful collector's edition also revealed, thanks to the team over at iam8bit. The collector's edition, which can be seen in full in the video at the top of the article, includes physical versions of both Blind Forest and Will of the Wisps. 

Also included in the new collector's edition: 

• Beautiful "transforming" display box with a glow-in-the-dark finish
• Stained glass-esque artwork
• The Flora & Fauna of Ori field guide
• A Sketchbook featuring never-before-seen concept art
• Collectible cards
• Glow-in-the-dark pin
• Digital sountracks for both games
• Physical versions of both games, including reversible cover art

To pre-order the sweet Ori collector's edition for yourself, you can grab this limited-time loot right here ahead of its December release. 

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Publisher: Capcom Developer: Capcom Platform: Switch

Nintendo is bringing that Monster Hunter realness, because shortly after revealing the upcoming Monster Hunter: Rise game they also shared that a continuation of the Stories iteration is also on the way. Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin is coming Summer 2021. 

During the Big N's most recent Direct Mini, the company revealed our first look at Monster Hunter Stories 2. In the stunning style that we've come to expect with fierce battles also on the horizon, the first half of 2021 is shaping up to be a good one for fans of this iconic franchise. 

In the trailer seen at the top of the article, Nintendo showed off some of the characters that we will be getting acquainted with, including a few familiar faces. With its beautiful art style that will appeal to fans of games like Breath of the Wild and an expansive world to explore, Wings of Ruin is the latest adventure to make the Nintendo Switch library all the better. 

No exact release date yet for Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin outside of a Summer launch window, but we're pretty excited about what we've seen so far! What did you think about the trailer? Sound off with your thoughts in the comment section below! 

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Publisher: Capcom Developer: Capcom Release: March 26, 2021 Platform: Switch

After several rumors 'arose' earlier this week, Nintendo has confirmed during a recent Direct Mini that Monster Hunter: Rise is indeed coming to Nintendo Switch in March of next year. Even better? You can pet the dog! 

With the expected setting of Japan for the upcoming game, Nintendo has confirmed that monsters such as Tetranadon, Great Izuchi, Magnamalo, and Aknosom are set to return. Players can even ride a dog, and, of course, pet the goodest of good boys too. 

The upcoming Monster Hunter: Rise title is poised to launch on March 26, 2021 for Nintendo Switch fans, giving yet another incredible Monster Hunter experience for fans to dive into. With the incredible success of Monster Hunter: World and the ease of travel that is allowed thanks to the hybrid console's very nature, this is a big win for both longtime fans of this series and newcomers that are interested in joining the fight. 

Monster Hunter: Rise arrives on March 26, 2021. Thoughts on the latest reveal? Sound off with what you thought of the latest reveal in the comment section below! 

Developer: Sony Interactive Entertainment

Sony confirmed the price of both the standard and all-digital versions of the PlayStation 5 and now we know exactly how much the DualSense will retail for as well. PS5 DualSense controllers will run $69.99. 

Sony Interactive Entertainment CEO Jim Ryan recently took to the PlayStation Blog to outline some useful information for those interested in the next generation of gaming. Among the console prices and which PS5 games will still be available on the PlayStation 4, Ryan also revealed a few key price points for vital peripherals. 

In addition to the $69.99 price for the PS5 DualSense controller, Ryan also confirmed prices for key headsets, HD Cameras, DualSense Charging Stations, and more: 

• DualSense™ Wireless Controller (standalone) – US$69.99/¥6,980/€69.99 (RRP)
• PULSE 3D™ wireless headset – with 3D audio support and dual noise-cancelling microphones US$99.99/¥9,980/€99.99 (RRP)
• HD Camera – with dual 1080p lenses for gamers to broadcast themselves along with their epic gameplay moments US$59.99/¥5,980/€59.99 (RRP)
• Media Remote – to navigate movies and streaming services with ease US$29.99/¥2,980/€29.99 (RRP)
• DualSense™ Charging Station – to conveniently charge two DualSense Wireless Controllers US$29.99/¥2,980/€29.99 (RRP)

Need a little help catching up on all of the latest in PlayStation 5 news? Be sure to check out our Hub here for all of the newest info dropped thanks to the recent PS5 showcase. 

[Source: PlayStation Blog]

Publisher: PlayStation Studios Developer: Sumo Digital Release: November 12, 2020 Platform: PlayStation 5

Now that we know the price and release date for the next generation of PlayStation, many are ready to make the leap into the future of consoles. For those not quite ready to make the leap but still want to enjoy the new titles coming out, here is a list of the PlayStation 5 exclusives that will be made available on PlayStation 4. 

In a post over on the official PlayStation Blog, Sony Interactive Entertainment President Jim Ryan gave those not ready to part with PS4 some good news. He began by saying, "We know that the PS4 community will transition to PS5 at different times, and we're happy to announce PS4 versions of some of our exclusives." 

While not all future exclusives will make their way onto the current generation library due to technological restraints, PS4 players can at least look forward to the below adventures without having to spend the extra cash for a generational upgrade: 

• Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales
• Sackboy: A Big Adventure
• Horizon Forbidden West

Ryan added, "While these three games were designed to take advantage of PS5 and its unique next-gen features like the ultra-high-speed SSD and DualSense controller, PS4 owners will also be able to enjoy these experiences when they launch. The PS4 digital versions of launch games include a free upgrade on both PS5 consoles, while the PS4 disc versions of these games include a free upgrade on the PS5 with Ultra HD Blu-Ray disc drive."

Horizon Forbidden West is the sequel to the acclaimed PS4 exclusive Horizon Zero Dawn. This game featured Aloy, a fiery protagonist that took players on the adventure of a lifetime, an experience that was met with rave reviews. Since many enjoyed the first game on the PS4, it is nice to see that its continuation will also be available on the same system for those that can't, or won't, upgrade to a PS5 anytime soon. 

Miles Morales' spotlight in the Marvel's Spider-Man game from Insomniac is also a huge get for those staying in this gen a little longer, though it's unclear exactly how different the experiences will be on the older system. 

As for the PlayStation 5, the standard edition of the console will be available on November 12 and will retail at $499. The all-digital version will launch at the same time and will retail at $399. 

 [Source: PlayStation Blog]