I feel like I’m missing some seriously vital information on this one because it seems way too good to be true. XBox Live is currently celebrating its 10th anniversary. If you’ve been a member since the beginning, Microsoft is reportedly sending you a free commemorative edition XBox 360. This special edition of the console has different colored vents – one XBox green, the other bright orange – and a nice logo decal as well. I have no idea what the hard drive or any other variable specs may be, it does come with a matching controller and a year of free Gold membership. I’m probing for more information, but my sources seem to confirm the offer. I’m guessing the actual number of members who’ve maintained a solid tenure with the service since day one must be extremely limited. If any of our readers actually receive this offer, let us know in the comments section. We’d love more details.

Even if you’re not a 10 year veteran of XBL, the 10th Anniversary has something special for other players as well. To celebrate this milestone, XBLA is having a sale. The sale started earlier this week and if you want Wreckateer for free you should pick it up now. That special ends today! The other items in the sale are available at the discounted price through Wednesday. Those items and their sale prices (after 50% discount) are:

• Bastion – 600 MSP
• Battlefield 1943 – 600 MSP
• Castle Crashers – 600 MSP
• Fruit Ninja Kinect – 400 MSP
• Full House Poker – 400 MSP
• Geometry Wars: Retro Evolved² – 400 MSP
• Peggle – 400 MSP

I’ve been a little late to finish Episode 4 of The Walking Dead but I finally did it on Wednesday. Wow! That surprise (half-assed spoiler alert) bit(e) at the end was absolutely shocking. I may have half-expected it, but I thought it wouldn’t come until the final episode. I’m more excited than ever to see how it all ends now. Which is why I’m glad to hear that Episode 5: No Time Left is coming next week. Seems like a solidly disturbing way to spend the big feast day on Thursday. As usual, it’s $4.99 for the single episode – not sure if the season pass is still available for the discount. If you’ve refrained simply because of hard drive space, the retail version is hitting on December 4th for $29.99.

Ubisoft’s film projects seem to have found their mark, in the talent selection at least. It was recently announced that Michael Fassbender would be taking the lead role and production responsibilities for Assassin’s Creed. Capitalizing on that star power, they’ve now locked in Tom Hardy for the role of Sam Fisher in the film adaptation of Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell. They’ve also tapped Eric Singer (The International) to write the script. Still no information on a plot or release date, no surprise, but at least they’ve got a star with some chops. Hardy’s recent successes with The Dark Knight Rises, Lawless, Warrior, and Inception have made him a household name and earned him plenty of Hollywood respect (and Hollywood dollars). His current project is Mad Max: Fury Road, filming now. Everest is up next.

Deus Ex: Human Revolution may not have sold as many copies as a typical Tom Clancy title, and Scott Derrickson (Sinister, The Exorcism of Emily Rose)may not have as much name weight, but it doesn’t make their news any less exciting. Derrickson is now signed on to direct the film adaptation of Deus Ex. He will also be co-writing the screenplay with C. Robert Cargill (Sinister). Casting, release date, and the other vitals are yet to come. This game seems an odd choice for adaptation because of its emphasis on player choice. Then again, film is a different medium.

PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale is coming next week and the biggest criticisms I’ve heard so far are that a few characters from Sony’s history aren’t making an appearance. Sony may have heard some of those complaints, but if the two planned DLC characters are their answer then they’ve missed the point in the worst kind of way. Starhawk‘s Emmett and Gravity Rush‘s Kat will be free additions (for two weeks after their release) at an unspecified future date. So when is Crash Bandicoot coming?

The next DLC package for Borderlands 2 has been confirmed as “Mister Torgue’s Campaign of Carnage.” Other than the confirmation, not much is revealed. The only “source” we have for now is Mister Torgue himself, who has apparently taken over Gearbox’s ECHOcast Twitter, where he obnoxiously uses CAPS Lock, since “LOWER CASE IS FOR PUSSIES.” From what I can gather, he’s basically a “dudebro” that looks a little like Capcom’s Haggar (Saturday Night Slam Masters, Final Fight). It’s apparently slated for November 20th (unconfirmed) and is included with the season pass.

Spike TV announced the nominees for VGA Ten yesterday. This will be the tenth year of Spike broadcasting the Video Game Awards. Samuel L. Jackson is hosting. The event will take place on December 7th and they aren’t being stingy with providing ways to watch. It will obviously air live on Spike TV (check your local listings). But it will also be simulcast on MTV 2, MTV Tr3s, Xbox LIVE, Spike.com and GameTrailers.com. Besides the awards themselves, world premiers are planned for Naughty Dog’s The Last of Us, Epic Games’ Gears of War: Judgment, and Obsidian’s South Park: The Stick of Truth. Tenacious D will be performing at the event for their second time. A few titles (Borderlands 2, Halo 4, Assassin’s Creed III, Mass Effect 3, Journey, Dishonored, and The Walking Dead) really stand out with at least five nominations. Here’s a partial list (full list at VGA.spike.com) of categories and nominees:

• Game of the Year
• Assassin’s Creed III (Ubisoft/Ubisoft Montreal)
• Dishonored (Bethesda Softworks/Arkane Studios)
• Journey (Sony Computer Entertainment/thatgamecompany)
• Mass Effect 3 (Electronic Arts/BioWare)
• The Walking Dead: The Game (Telltale Games)
• Best Action Adventure Game
• Assassin’s Creed III (Ubisoft/Ubisoft Montreal)
• Darksiders II (THQ/Vigil Games)
• Dishonored (Bethesda Softworks/Arkane Studios)
• Sleeping Dogs (Square Enix/United Front Games)
• Best Shooter
• Borderlands 2 (2K Games/Gearbox Software)
• Call of Duty: Black Ops II (Activision/Treyarch)
• Halo 4 (Microsoft Studios/343 Industries)
• Max Payne 3 (Rockstar Games)
• Studio of the Year
• 343 Industries
• Arkane Studios
• Gearbox Software
• Telltale Games
• Most Anticipated Game
• BioShock Infinite (2K Games/Irrational Games)
• Grand Theft Auto V (Rockstar Games)
• South Park: The Stick of Truth (THQ/Obsidian Entertainment)
• The Last of Us (Sony Computer Entertainment/Naughty Dog)
• Tomb Raider (Square Enix/Crystal Dynamics)

I’ve got my own opinions about some of these, and they probably won’t match with actual winners. Mass Effect 3 is probably my personal game of the year. But the controversy with the ending and the director’s cut will probably eliminate it from the running. The Walking Dead is amazing, but I’m not sure it should get top honors (though Telltale definitely deserves Studio of the Year). I’m actually more interested in what our readers think. Who do you think should win? Who do you think will win? Comments below!

We’re back with another early edition of this week’s gaming news.

Personally, I’m not much of a music ‘bot. I like what I like but can’t usually explain why. I have a fairly eclectic taste, but I can’t really say I have a deep appreciation for any of it. When it comes to games, I only tend to notice the music when it’s really bad, becomes part of the gameplay, or just kicks too much ass to ignore. The first and third are pretty few and far between for me. But, I know there are tons of people with a serious love for game music, and this first one is just for them. If you’re one of those people, you probably already own an album called “The Greatest Video Game Music.” Well, like all things video games, successful ventures get sequels. The Greatest Video Game Music 2 is on its way and is currently available for preorder on iTunes. This second volume will feature 17 tracks from popular games recorded by the London Philharmonic Orchestra. For a limited time you can actually download a free track from the album, Halo‘s Never Forget / Peril. You can snag the free track here. The full album will be released on November 6th. Here’s the full tracklist:

1. Assassin’s Creed: Revelations – Main Theme
2. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim – Far Horizons
3. The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker – Dragon Roost Island
4. Final Fantasy VII – One-Winged Angel
5. Mass Effect 3 – A Future for the Krogan/An End Once And For All
6. Halo – Never Forget/Peril
7. Sonic the Hedgehog – A Symphonic Suite
8. Chrono Trigger – Main Theme
9. Luigi’s Mansion – Main Theme
10. Kingdom Hearts – Fate of the Unknown
11. Super Metroid – A Symphonic Poem
12. Diablo III – Overture
13. Batman: Arkham City – Main Theme
14. Deus Ex: Human Revolution – Icarus Main Theme
15. Fez – Adventure
16. Portal – Still Alive
17. Little Big Planet – Orb Of Dreamers (The Cosmic Imagisphere)

In a presentation at the first Edmonton Comics & Entertainment Expo, Bioware has revealed that Dragon Age III: Inquisitions was in pre-production longer than both of its franchise predecessors and Mass Effect. Jon Perry, Cinematic Designer, also bragged that “one level in Dragon Age III is as big as all of the levels in Dragon Age II.” That’s a pretty massive scope. Beyond that, there was a hint that the player will be able to control their own castle, and a few pieces of concept art. No release window has been set, but it’s possible this picture of castle could be one you control in the game:

Zombietron’s certainly made no secret of his excitement for BioShock Infinite. Are you just as excited for February 26, 2013? Then you will want to get started on unlocking in-game content through BioShock Infinite: Industrial Revolution, a puzzle game available to those who preorder any of the three upcoming editions. That link will let you order from several mass retailers or direct from Irrational’s store. I may be crazy, but I think I might be more interested in the preorder bonus than the actual game.

Quite some time ago I reported in VGQH that Michael Fassbender was getting involved with the possible Assassin’s Creed movie. News has been pretty stale on that project ever since, but new activity has roused the story. Ubisoft Motion Pictures announced yesterday that they have teamed up with New Regency to develop in “close collaboration.” While the screenplay is currently a work in progress, production is being “fast tracked” as “the creative pieces come together.” Ubisoft will reportedly retain creative control over “key elements.” New Regency apparently became interested in the partnership after recently working with Fassbender on Twelve Years a Slave (2013; with Brad Pitt and Benedict Cumberbatch; directed by Steve McQueen). Release windows were not discussed, but more details will likely be developing soon.

You’ll likely notice today that the PlayStation Store update you were expecting didn’t happen (assuming you’re North American). The switch has already taken place in Australia, New Zealand, and several European countries, but it has had some technical hiccups. While most of the issues have been address, SCEA has decided to postpone the American launch until they can insure it will run smoothly. The “old” store is completely functional and will continue to be the interface until further notice. A revised release date has not been revealed, but you’ll read about it in VGQH when we know more.

On a somewhat related note, PS3 System Software 4.30 will be launching today. For trophy hunters, you will now see your trophy list un PlayStation Network on the XMB. Additionally, your current level and progress to the next level will also be visible in your list. At long last, your Vita trophies will now be visible in your PS3 list as well. Don’t care about trophies? There is one other big change. Beginning in November, Sony is retiring the Life With PlayStation services on PS3. New users will unable to obtain the application with the new firmware. Among the services being discontinued is Folding@home, “a distributed computing project aimed at understanding protein folding, misfolding and studying the causes of a variety of diseases such as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s as well as various cancers.” Since the introduction of the PS3, over 15 million users (myself included) have contributed over 100 million hours of processing time to the Stanford University project. An explanation for ending this service was not provided, but Vijay Pande of Folding@home did provide a little information about what we’ve accomplished with it over the years:

The PS3 system was a game changer for Folding@home, as it opened the door for new methods and new processors, eventually also leading to the use of GPUs. We have had numerous successes in recent years. Specifically, in a paper just published in the Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, we report on tests of predictions from earlier Folding@home simulations, and how these predictions have led to a new strategy to fight Alzheimer’s disease. The next steps, now underway at Stanford, are to take this lead compound and help push it towards a viable drug. It’s too early to report on our preliminary results there, but I’m very excited that the directions set out in this paper do appear to be bearing fruit in terms of a viable drug (not just a drug candidate).

Sony isn’t the only one with an interface update. The new dashboard for XBox 360 is rolling out worldwide, bringing with it the SmartGlass application which will go live this Friday. According to Microsoft’s Major Nelson, “When the Xbox SmartGlass app launches on tablets, PCs and smartphones, it will include key foundational experiences for interacting with your Xbox 360, such as dashboard and app navigation and Internet Explorer control, like text input, scrolling and pinch and zoom.” This new app is basically Microsoft beating Nintendo to the punch on the WiiU. In addition to announcing its imminent release, Nelson also provided a list of what games and apps will see immediate use of the function:

• Ascend
• Dance Central 3
• Forza Horizon
• Halo Waypoint
• Home Run Stars
• Karaoke
• Kinect Sesame Street TV
• Prima Games
• ESPN
• NBA Game Time
• UFC
• Elections 2012
• HBO GO
• MSN
• NBC News
• NOW TV
• Slacker Radio
• TODAY
• Univision

Do you remember the XBox Hardware with Subscription model Microsoft was talking about several months ago. It has been released in Microsoft stores for a while now and it is being deemed not just a success, but “absolutely pivotal” to the Microsoft business model. Having already expanded the pilot program to Best Buy and select GameStops, the strategy will be moved to all GameStops, Wal-Mart, and Toys ‘R’ Us in the next few months. The strategy is similar to a cell phone contract, where you can get your XBox 360 and a Kinect for the introductory price of $99, provided you sign a two year contract for a Gold Live membership at $14.99 a month. It has been so successful that Microsoft’s general manager for interactive entertainment marketing, Matt Barlow, apparently told The Wall Street Journal that they already plan to include it on future hardware. Read that how you like, but it seems pretty obvious that Microsoft’s mythical next-gen console will use this structure. While I initially loathed the concept, I am slowly warming to it. A Gold membership wouldn’t mean much to someone like me, who primarily plays offline, but a similar set up from Sony with a two year PS+ membership seems right up my alley, assuming Sony doesn’t turn to a pay to play online strategy like Microsoft’s with the PS4.

Interested in accessing the God of War: Ascension multiplayer beta? Of course you are. Sony has revealed that there will be two paths to the beta. First and obvious, join PlayStation Plus. All members will get the beta. Second, play the Rise of the Warrior social game. This “graphic-novel style story” will see you “embark on a quest for redemption that leads you toward becoming the next Champion of the Gods.” During the game you will be choosing a faction, Spartan or Trojan. By competing in challenges you will be able to earn a week’s beta access for your faction. Learn more at the official website. The game is coming March 12, 2013. Actual launch date for the beta is not yet announced.

POSSIBLE SPOILERS AHEAD:
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Steve Masters, Lead Designer for Assassin’s Creed III, may have exposed a clue to what we’ll be seeing in next week’s game. He recently told the Official XBox Magazine that what they’re “trying to do is bring some finality to Desmond’s story… to actually wrap up what you’ve opened and experienced with him. So we’re trying to make it a little bit more direct with the storyline, but at the same time there are still going to be plenty of little mysterious bits for you to dig into, especially in the side stuff.” There will apparently “be a big leap forward in the story.” That seems pretty final for Desmond, in one way or another. However, Masters went on to say that they want “you to feel a good sense of progress in what’s going on in the story.” Progress is not an ending. I expect that we will finally be able to see resolution on the horizon, but I’d expect that Ubisoft has plans to make an Assassin’s Creed III trilogy for Connor, much as they did for Ezio. Does that mean we wouldn’t see Desmond’s story end until Connor’s third trip? Or would we somehow see Connor’s tale be completed by a new, modern assassin. It seems odd that they would end their star’s tale in what would essentially be a side game, like Brotherhood or Revelations, instead of a numbered title. We’ll all know in shortly over a week, as ACIII releases on October 30th.

Also a possible spoiler is the PlayStation Blog‘s coverage of the PS3-exclusive missions for Assassin’s Creed III involving Benedict Arnold. All you’re getting from me is that link though. If you want to know what they have to say about it, you’ll have to read it from them. I don’t want to be spoiled any further.
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That wraps it up for this edition. What I was expecting to be a short one today turned out pretty robust. Will we have another big installment on Friday?

Three more characters have been revealed for the roster of Injustice: Gods Among Us this week. With a new television series starting, it should come as no surprise that Green Arrow will be a featured fighter. For those who prefer ranged combatants in fighting games, Oliver Queen should be just what you need. I don’t know how many trick arrow shots Netherrealm can include, but it better be a lot. The other two, Joker and Geen Lantern, have been revealed via cover art. All three should have been obvious from the moment the game was announced. Release is set for April 2013. [More pictures and video of Green Arrow’s reveal here.]

I know I’m not the only one out there still playing Mass Effect 3‘s multiplayer because I have no problem getting into full matches. In case you’ve missed it this week, the free Retaliation DLC has gone live along with a new challenge system. The add-on doesn’t just include new maps, but also hazards for the existing levels we’ve been playing. Oh yeah, and Volus characters. Ha. The challenge system gives you certain in-game goals, like killing x number of enemies with biotic detonations, or promoting x number of characters. Completing challenges gives you instant unlock awards, like banners and titles. These challenges are replacing the weekend Operation events Bioware has been hosting since the game’s release. I liked the thematic challenges the developers through at us for the weekends, but they had to stop eventually. These continung, pervasive challenges will still keep me around a while longer. Well, that and the fact that this is the only online multiplayer I’ve actually had any fun playing. [You can now manage your banners, view your created characters’ profiles, track challenge status, etc. at the newly launched N7 HQ. Kind of a cool, if not original, feature.]

On the heels of the Retaliation DLC, Bioware has also dated and priced the add-on for the single-player campaign. Mass Effect 3’s Omega DLC has been scheduled for November 27th for 1200 MSP. This expansion is promised to be the largest DLC in the franchise’s history, at least doubling the size of any prior add-on. It is a timed XBox 360 exclusive, so PS3ers will need to wait. No word on how long, but you’ll read about it here when it’s announced.

Square Enix has announced more pre-order incentives for the Tomb Raider reboot. GameStop will include the Challenge Tomb, an “exclusive tomb for Lara to raid! In this new location, Lara will encounter all new environment puzzles that will test [her] brains and brawn.” Best Buy will give you the origin of Lara’s trip on the Endurance via graphic novel, “The Beginnings.” They’ll also include the “aviatrix” outift. Previously announced was Amazon‘s package which includes an art book, “hunter” skin, and the “Final Hours” complete documentary on Kindle Fire. You can pre-order now for the March 5, 2013 release.

You may have noticed that the Mechromancer DLC for Borderlands 2 came with something a little extra. Not everyone notices these things, but if you check your trophy/achievement list after installing you’ll see a few new rewards have been added. These aren’t actually related to Gaige, but they do drop a hint about some upcoming DLC. Since this discovery, Gearbox has officially unveiled “Captain Scarlett and her Pirate’s Booty.” The DLC is largely location-based, focusing on the town of Oasis and some outlying areas. The add-on will be available next week for $10, or free with your season pass.

Look for your PSN Storefront to have a new appearance soon. Sony has revealed a few images of the new structure and it looks pretty sharp. But does it perform any better? The eye-aching blue of the store has always annoyed me, and the format seemed very unintuitive. The new look appears to more clear about what you’re seeing and navigating. The search function is reportedly improved as well. I wouldn’t notice because I’ve never actually used their search. I have had to sift through thousands of items in my download history though. Does the new design allow me to sort that yet? I guess I’ll find out on October 20th when the new storefront comes to North America.

Sony has also revealed the Collector’s Edition and pre-order incentives for God of War: Ascension. For an extra $20, the Collector’s Edition will come with a steelbook case, exclusive Kratos statue, game soundtrack, Double XP unlock for multiplayer, a DLC pass, dynamic theme, and PSN avatars. I’d expect these to sell out, so get your pre-order in soon. Regardless of which SKU you get, pre-orders will all get the Mythological Heroes Multiplayer Pack. This will include four playable Greek heroes: Perseus, Orion, Achilles, and Odysseus. If you can’t wait until March 12, 2013, you can get your hands on an early demo for Kratos’ newest adventure on December 18th by picking up Total Recall on blu-ray. Sony’s promising another big reveal next week, so be sure to check back on Tuesday.

Maybe not a lot of news, but what we’ve got is about some pretty big games. Can we top it next week?

Despite a rough start (mostly Episode Two), Telltale is clearly done wasting time with The Walking Dead. Episode Four – Around Every Corner will be available for $4.99, or as part of your $20 season pass, on today’s PlayStation Store update. It will be coming to XBox Marketplace, and PC (via the Telltale Games Store, Steam, Origin, Amazon PC Downloads, GameStop, and GameFly) tomorrow. The full season will be collected on disc in November. The penultimate episode will see Lee, Clementine, and what remains of your party reach Savannah. But what will they find?

Speaking of downloadables, Sony’s intriguing indie charmer, The Unfinished Swan, has also been given an imminent release date. PS Plus subscribers will have early access next Tuesday. Regular subscribers will need to wait until October 23rd. No PS Plus discount was mentioned, so we can all expect to pay $15.

PS3 Shmup fans have a Japanese release to look forward to next month. Under Defeat HD: Deluxe Edition will include digital art book, soundtrack CD, and all of the DLC. Retail on this one will run about $30 and it’s set for physical and downloadable release. Presumably the PSN version will have a downloadable soundtrack instead of the disc. I’m inclined to think the press release was poorly worded and the retail version also won’t have a physical music disc.

This one is just screaming for an Op-Ed piece, but I just don’t have the misplaced presumption or gall to get worked up about it. Activision has temporarily removed the Favela map from Modern Warfare 2‘s multiplayer mode. Apparently, after three years of playing the game, someone has finally noticed some grafitti on a bathroom wall, “Allah is beautiful and He loves beauty.” Apparently quoting Muhammed on a bathroom wall is offensive to Muslims. Activision is now working on a title update that will remove the texture from the map, at which time it will be re-released for play.

The on-disc DLC argument has been reignited again with Resident Evil 6. Much like the Muhammed quote, I’m not going to touch the Op-Ed piece here, but it automatically includes DLC news so it is appropriate to this column. Modders have discovered a “No Hope Left Difficulty” which is expected to be harder than the current “Pro” mode. Extra taunts, costumes, and melee attacks were also discovered. In response to the find, Capcom has clarified what’s been seen. According to a Capcom spokesperson, “We still have unannounced DLC for RE6 that will be revealed in the coming months and while virtually all such content will not be on the disc there will be one piece of content, that for technical reasons, requires the use of a combination of newly downloaded data and data that is included on the retail game disc.” That makes a sort of sense. It’s not unreasonable, or unusual, to have code installed for a game to accept DLC. And, if you know what you’re planning, why not include whatever finished code you have to limit the download size later?

Warner Bros. and Monolith have announced a release date for Guardians of Middle Earth, their Lord of the Rings-themed MOBA. They’ve also got a unique way of providing players multiple options to purchase. When the game releases on December 4th you’ll have the option of downloading it from your console’s store for $15 or buying a retail copy for $30. If you happen to love physical copies (or don’t have a credit card), you aren’t actually being charged double. The game will include the ever-popular season pass for DLC. Digital purchase of the pass will be $15, but it’s included in the retail version. I like the idea of providing these types of options to gamers. Some are okay with buying digital only copies. Others still enjoy the interaction at their retailer.

This is definitely rumor, but worth mentioning anyhow. Recent beta testers of Windows 8 XBox Video Store have reported seeing actual dollar amounts in the purchase price. Because of Microsoft’s commitment to a unified marketplace, this leads to speculation that the MS Points system may be converting to dollars. Earlier betas retained the points system, and prior reports have cited Points being included in the unannounced next-gen console. It will be interesting to see how this pans. Windows 8 is launching October 26th. The Windows 8 addition to the XBox 360 dashboard is expected around the same time.

Capcom’s Devil May Cry reboot is coming January 15, 2013.You may have already pre-ordered, and the bonuses probably aren’t significant enough to change your reservation. But, if you’re still shopping around, three incentives have been announced. Amazon‘s Bone Weapons pack turns your weapons into bones and the Orb Collector perk lets you earn more red orbs for upgrades. GameStop’s Samurai pack puts a Japanese flair on your gear and comes with some free upgrade points immediately. Best Buy is giving you a little James Bond, and a little Indiana Jones. The Golden pack coats your weapons in the precious element, while the Item finder perk aids you in tracking down hidden goodies.

Harmonix, the developers behind Rock Band and Dance Central, have filed a new trademark for a game being called Chroma. No details about the game are included in the filing, but the speculation is that this is their rumored fighting game. Supposedly leaked from a source inside Harmonix, rumors are that they are developing some type of combat game for next-gen systems. This type of filing, from a developer as well-respected as Harmonix, leads me to believe we’ll see the next-gen console announcements relatively soon. It’s not likely to happen before Christmas, but early 2013 is extremely likely. Getting all of their trademarks lined up now puts Harmonix in a position to be a featured developer when the announcements come, with their game in one of the starring roles. Dance Central was great for Kinect at launch. Could Chroma be the equivalent for the neXtBox?

Assassin’s Creed III and its Vita counterpart, Liberation, are on the way at the end of this month. As revealed this week on the PlayStation Store, there will be at least $30 worth of downloadable content for the game. Three separate packages were listed on PSN. The standalone PS3 version is available for preorder at the regular $59.99. Also available is the Gold Edition ($89.99), which includes the Season Pass for DLC. The third option includes the Gold Edition and Liberation $119.99. The Season Pass is reportedly a 25% discount versus buying whatever’s included separately, and gets you access to the first add-on one week early. Ubisoft has said they plan five DLC packages, four multiplayer add-ons and a single player story pack, “The Tyranny of King Washington.” This will let you play an alternate history sequence of events that could have occurred if Washington had succumbed to the power of leadership and become our nation’s first king. If you want the Gold Edition and Liberation, you’re insane not to buy it this way. PSN is also running the promotion to give you $20 in PSN credit if you spend $100 or more this month. Easy math: ACIII+Season Pass+Liberation=$60+30+40=$130. The bundle is $120, saving you $10 instantly, plus another $20 next month. Effective price=$100. Total savings=$30. Yeah, that’s practically a free copy of a retail Vita game anyway. In case you’ve forgotten, both games release October 30th.

Crystal Dynamics’ Tomb Raider reboot has an Amazon-exclusive special edition on the way. The “Final Hours Edition” gas no extra cost, and comes automatically when you preorder through Wonder Woman’s online store. This version includes a 32 page art book, an in-game skin for Lara, and “The Final Hours of Tomb Raider: Director’s Cut” for the Kindle Fire. The documentary has already been released in two parts elsewhere. This seems more like an “Expanded but Not Very Special” edition. The developer has promised other preorder incentives will also be forthcoming. You may want to wait for a more attractive deal. The game is available March 5, 2013.

Hot on the heels of Muzyka and Zeschuk’s departure from Bioware comes the news of Cliff “CliffyB” Bleszinski leaving Epic Games after 20 years. Plans for his future haven’t been announced, nor has Epic made any mention of how his design director will be filled. CliffyB has been a luminary in the business for two decades and was integral to the evolution. But, all things change, and it will be interesting to see how the industry evolves without him – or with him in a different role. In a goodbye on their Cliff had this to say:

“I’ve been doing this since I was a teenager, and outside of my sabbatical last year, I have been going non-stop. I literally grew up in this business, as Mike [Capps] likes to say. And now that I’m grown up, it’s time for a much needed break.

I will miss the projects, the playtests, the debates, and most importantly, the people. Epic only hires the best of the best, and it has been a joy working with each and every one of you on a daily basis, whether you were hired weeks ago or decades ago. I have been fortunate enough to collaborate with a variety of disciplines, from code to art to marketing and PR – it’s been one big, rewarding learning experience. I’m confident that each project that is being built, whether at Epic, Chair, PCF, or Impossible will be top notch and will please gamers and critics alike.”

We know that Omega is on its way, so it’s not a secret that Bioware isn’t finished with Mass Effect 3. But it’s been recently announced that another huge chunk of multiplayer DLC is also on its way. “Retaliation” brings back Mass Effect 2‘s lead villains, the Collectors. This will be the biggest multiplayer add-on yet, with six new maps, sixteen characters, and more. New gear will include the Collector’s assault rifle and other equippable items. A new Challenge feature will be incorporated which rewards completing objectives with “challenge points” you can spend on banners and titles (bragging rights). “Hazards” like sandstorms and acid baths will also make their way into the existing maps, just to make your battles a little more taxing. And, like the multiplayer DLC before it, it’s free!

If you haven’t already seen it, check out the ultimate in gag (literally) marketing for Resident Evil 6. I actually kind of wish this were somewhere near me.

Welcome to October. The Fall season is officially upon us, along with baseball playoffs, cooler temperatures, great games, and planning in earnest for your Halloween costume. I’ve got mine designed, it’s just time to start coalescing the parts into a whole costume. I need one more element, a championship belt, to complete the costume. It’s only an accessory, not required, but it will save me from explanations to the non-geek crowd. Anway, let’s talk video games. Assassin’s Creed III is only four weeks away after all.

Just Add Water has finally confirmed a remake we’ve been expecting for some time. But, it won’t just be called OddWorld: Abe’s Odysee. A contest was held to rename the title, and it will now be known as New ‘n’ Tasty. We still have a while to wait yet, as release is scheduled for late next year on XBLA and PSN (for PS3 and Vita).

Konami fans now have two special editions to preorder. The limited edition version of Zone of the Enders HD Collection will include both games (Zone of the Enders and the European special edition of Zone of the Enders: The 2nd Runner), a Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance demo, remix soundtrack, and a 100 page art book from Yoji Shinkawa. It all comes in a metallic gold package and will be available at the end of this month, October 30th.

Speaking of that demo, that’s Konami’s other special edition announcement. The limited Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance bundle comes with the game official soundtrack, two-sided steelbook, and an “exclusive high-frequency katana blade plasma lamp.” What?!? It comes with a lamp? That is awesome. This one’s coming February 19, 2013.

If you recall, there are two games coming in the refreshed XCOM franchise. XCOM: Enemy Unknown is the strategy title coming very soon and it’s been previewed extensively enough that we can rest assured it will be a good game if you enjoy the genre. Less is known about the upcoming first-person shooter, simply called XCOM. In fact, if a recent survey from 2K is any indication, it may not even be a first-person title. 2K is not commenting on the marketing survey, other than the standard “We have not made any new announcements regarding the XCOM title currently in development at 2K Marin, and it is our policy not to comment on rumors or speculation.” However, if reports of this survey are correct, it may now be a squad-based third-person shooter. And it also may be shifting from a full priced disc at retail, to a high-end downloadable game ($30 range). I’m not sold, though this wouldn’t be the first time a game shifted focus and scope in the middle of development. My own theory is that the franchise has plenty of legs and can fit in many different categories. Could it be that the FPS is still coming, but a third game is also in development?

Remember that Mass Effect Trilogy package I mentioned on Friday? Apparently there will be some console-specific DLC included. The PS3 content hasn’t been revealed, but XBox 360’s has. It will come with the Cerberus Network for ME2 (Normandy Crash Site, Zaeed – The Price of Revenge, Cerberus Weapon and Armor, Arc Projector, and Firewalker Pack), and the online pass for ME3‘s multiplayer. None of the DLC for the first game will be included. Nor will you find Lair of the Shadow Broker, Overlord and Kasumi for ME2; and ME3’s Leviathan, and Omega. All of the unincluded content will presumably still be available for purchase. The bundle is coming November 6th, just in tmie for N7 Day.

In the news without the news category today we have some unearthed “cover art” for a new game apparently coming to XBLA. The Star Wars First Assault name was trademarked in August, but we’ve heard literally nothing about the game. We have no release date, no concept art, not even a genre. But, apparently we do have a cover. Frankly, when it comes to Star Wars and video games, that’s enough to get me excited. As long as I choose to forget about Star Wars Kinect anyway.

Halo 4 is definitely one of the biggest releases on the immediate horizon, and Microsoft is promoting the hell out of it. These promotions come along with partners at Mountain Dew, Doritos, and… the presidential election? I don’t comment on promotions too much, but that last one is weird enough I’ll cover all three. For the food promos, first register at DEWXP and/or DORITOSXP. Then, pick specially marked packages of Mountain Dew and Doritos. These items will come with special codes that let you push double XP matches to your gamertag. Eat and drink enough of these stereotypical gamer foods and you’ll be levelling through the game with your friends at a record pace. For the presidential promotion, simply watch at least 30 minutes each of three of the four presidential debates via Xbox Live’s Election 2012 channel. Your reward for doing this simple, civic duty? A Halo 4 Warrior avatar. The debates are October 3rd, 11th, 16th, and 22nd at 9PM Eastern, 6PM Pacific. The U.S. general election will be November 6th.

Financials make for boring news, but Sony has some significant reports that actually look a little interesting. According to Jack Buser, SCEA’s senior director of PlayStation digital platforms, says “membership sales in PS Plus almost doubled” during the week of E3. The suits are crediting the announcement of the Instant Game Collection with the boost. I would guess it’s more related to the free month of membership they gave away to the press conference attendees. I would be more curious to know how many of those new subscribers are still around. That’s not to denigrate their achievement. They’re obviously doing well, as April-June was their best quarter yet for “transactional sales” on PlayStation Store. And how do you keep the numbers moving? Offer a promotion $20 credit in November if you spend $100 in October, of course. Yeah, that’s happening. Buy $100 worth of PSN content, which won’t be hard with multiple day one releases dropping this month, and you’ll get $20 store credit back next month.

But the boon isn’t just in the digital space. The recent release of the Super Slim PS3 has helped their numbers in the physical space as well; the newly designed console boosted PS3 sales by 138% last week. The new version was 37% of those sales, though it was only available for two of the seven days.

All of which has given the Sony UK managing director, Fergal Gara, an idea. He’s bouncing around the idea of PS3+Vita bundle, possibly in time for this Christmas. His proposition would be both systems, with titles that utilize the cross-buy or cross-play features, and a PS+ subscription to provide bonus content for both devices. Price is important for a package like that; it needs to be cheap enough to attract someone with no current Sony platforms, yet priced to insure a profit margin for the company. I can see this happening more on the retail level. I can see Wal-Mart offering $50 PSN card and a $50 Wal-Mart gift card with the purchase of a new PS3 Super Slim and PS Vita. I also wouldn’t mind seeing a games and PS+ package without the hardware, for players who have the devices but aren’t using them efficiently.

What do you think of these potential packages? Do you have Sony platforms already? Would you still buy a package to update your machines? Have you been wanting to get in on Sony gaming and like the idea? Or do you simply not care? Let us know. There’s that comments section thingy below.

The Summer drought is coming to a close. Which means the tidal wave of Fall and holiday games is finally upon us. Gearbox kicked off the season a little early with Borderlands 2. Which is great, because that one has plenty of content to hold you over if you aren’t interested in the first wave this season. As usual, there are probably too many titles coming in 2012’s final quarter for you to play all of them right away. We’ll be looking at about one title per week as “must-haves” and where to buy them for the best preorder incentives. That does mean I’ll be skipping over a few that are definitely worthy of your attention. But most of those are probably worth waiting. It will give you more quality time with your top shelf games, and you can probably find some great deals on price drops in early 2013. Remember, all of this information is subject to change and it’s not my fault if it does.

In most cases Amazon tends to have the clout for the best offers, but Best Buy has a pretty great deal on most of the biggest upcoming games. Preorder from them and you’ll get $20 in Reward certificates for each title. This is on top of any other incentives they offer, and you can pick up in store instead of waiting on shipping. From Best Buy’s deals page, “To be eligible, you must be a Reward Zone program Gamers Club Unlocked member and meet minimum age requirements of purchased game at time of pickup or shipment.”

Let’s get started.

October 2, 2012:
Resident Evil 6
You know what? Just click that link. It’ll take you to Amazon where they’ve got (arguably) the best deal going: It’s one dollar cheaper than everywhere else, you get a $10 Amazon credit, shipping is free, and you get their exclusive Mercenaries stage (The High Seas Fortress). If you’re GameStop or Best Buy loyal, you’ll also get an exclusive Mercenaries stage (The Catacombs and The Rail Yard, respectively). This is one of the games with Reward Zone deal at Best Buy, so they top Amazon if you’re a member.

If you’re a hard-core RE fan, you’ll probably want to jump up to the Archives (360) or Anthology (PS3) editions for an extra $30. The PS3 Anthology will include Resident Evil Director’s Cut, Resident Evil 2, Resident Evil 3: Nemesis, Resident Evil 4 HD, and Resident Evil 5 Gold Edition. Archives on 360 drops the frist three games, but does include Resident Evil Code Veronica X and the feature film, Resident Evil Degeneration.

October 9, 2012:
Dishonored
I was intrigued by this one when I first heard the concept. What’s not to love about a steampunk, open-solution game that blends Hitman and Assassins’ Creed? Except, I don’t do well in first-person. Then I read about Dagobot’s hands-on with the game at PAX Prime. If he’s got the same problems with the perspective that I do, and it worked for him, maybe I can give it a shot. I’d hate to pass up something that looks so fun just because I’m afraid the viewpoint will bother me. When you order, you’ll get the Backstreet Butcher Pack from Amazon, exclusive tarot cards and Arcane Assassin Pack from GameStop, and USB oil lamp (plus $20 Reward Zone certificates) from Best Buy. I suppose if you really need a USB lamp or some tarot cards….

XCOM: Enemy Unknown is a good honorable mention this week. But if you didn’t play the original strategy game you probably don’t know how cool the franchise can be. If you’re still leery about the first-person elements in Dishonored, give this one a go.

October 16, 2012:
I can’t honestly claim to be a big fan of 007 games or movies. But this franchise is well-loved by the BSR! crew (as you’ll soon see). Also, the alternatives this week, Doom 3 BFG Edition and Dance Central 3, are even less appelaing to me. Preordering 007 Legends is typical: Nemesis Pack at Amazon, and 007 Pack at GameStop. Both are skins for multiplayer.

October 21, 2012:
Skylanders Giants
I’m glad I never got into this game the first time around. I think Zombietron had an addiction and this one’s coming the week of my anniversary. I wouldn’t want it to be the week of my divorce as well. I don’t see any incentives for preordering anywhere, so you may just as well save the three cents at Amazon. It will come in two flavors. The Starter Pack ($74.99) for n00bs includes the portal of power, three figures, character poster, three sticker sheets with codes, and three trading cards. If you’ve already got a portal from the first game, the Portal Owners Pack ($59.99) drops you down to one figure, one sticker sheet, and one trading card.

October 30, 2012:
Assassin’s Creed III
Assassins Creed III Liberation
You knew right where I was going this week. The series has its flaws, but it’s quickly become one of my all-time favorite franchises. Getting two games for it in one day? Ubisoft wants me to be broke. Oddly, the bigger chunk of my green will be going to Sony, because it looks like this will be the day I jump on the Vita bandwagon with the bundle. But, since there are no incentives for the Vita game, let’s look at where to buy the console release. Amazon wants to give you the Boarding Axe weapon and the Captain of the Aquila character. Their description says the character is for single player, but I don’t see how that would work. I’m happy to be wrong, but I think this is actually a mutliplayer add-on. Best Buy has a metal case for the game, but their real draw is that $20 Reward Certificate for members. The Lost Mayan Ruins single player mission and the Sawtooth Sword weapon come from GameStop, along with an extra $10 off a replica Ezio Auditore gauntlet just in time for Halloween.

I know where my focus will be as October ends, but there are a few honorable mentions if colonial assassinations aren’t your thing. You can never go wrong with LEGO, and Tolien’s saga is getting brickitized in LEGO Lord of the Rings. Because this is BSR!, I also have to mention Marvel Avengers: Battle For Earth on Kinect. Frankly, it looks terrible. But it’s The Avengers so I still kind of want to play it.

November 6, 2012:
Halo 4
Sure, it’s a whole new developer with new ideas. But it’s also Halo. And all of those new ideas have looked awesome in their media releases. I’ve already mentioned that I’m not personally a fan of the first-person perspective. This one might actually be worth the motion sickness. GameStop has Forest Armor skin, which is alright. Similarly, Amazon is offering the Web Armor skin, but they’ll also give you a $10 Amazon video credit. Still not much , but better than a kick in the pants. Best Buy is trying to up the ante again with their own Raptor Armor skin and Deadeye Helmet, plus a free poster and the aforementioned $20 Reward Certificates.

Microsoft may have the top release this week, but I’d be remiss not to mention Sony’s own exclusive, LittleBigPlanet Karting. It’s got all the cuteness and play.create.share of Media Molecule’s Sackboy franchise, combined with fantastic kart racing of UFG’s ModNation Racers.

November 18, 2012:
Nintendo Wii U Console
Yes, I skipped a week. But does anyone really care about yet another Call of Duty (Black Ops II)? The first shot in the “next generation” of consoles is far more important. But, as you’d expect from a new console, they’re pretty well sold out everywhere. If you were on the ball and already preordered yours, here are the games you need for it:

• New Super Mario Bros. U
• Scribblenauts Unlimited
• ZombiU

November 20, 2012:
Hitman: Absolution
Finally, the return to Agent 47’s world of violence. I’ve been itching for this one since it was first announced. How you play will probably determine your source on this one. GameStop has the Agency Kazo TRG Sniper Rifle if you like to hit your targets from afar. Teh Bartoli Custom Pistol and High Tech Suit from Amazon will still let you keep your distance, but it also gives you 50% more armor if things go badly. Best Buy’s Public Enemy Suit and Bronson 1928M Submachine Gun may not affect your strategy, but it will make you into a badass, retro killer so you look cool doing it.

Honorable mention:PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale is a must for hard-core Sony fans. Well, except for me. I’ve played the beta and it’s just as much of a button-mashing hair-puller as I expected. but, if you like Smash Bros. or other completely out of control fighters, have fun with it. As a bonus, this looks like one of the cross-buy games, so go ahead and get the PS3 version for the free Vita copy as well.

November 23, 2012:
BLACK FRIDAY
Nothing’s actually coming on November 27th, probably because of this day. The beginning of October is obviously too early to know what deals you’ll be finding, but watch your ads closely. If I have the time, I’m planning to write up quick guide to help you maximize your game savings this year. Last year had Batman: Arkham City and Assassin’s Creed: Revelations, both new releases, at half price. Hopefully we’ll get some similar deals this year. Not that they’ll do me a lot of good. I’ll be off hunting elk.

December 4, 2012:
The Walking Dead.
You really should have been playing this episodically for the last few months. But, we don’t always do the things we should. Don’t compound your mistake by holding out any longer. You own’t find preorder bonuses anywhere, but don’t let that stop you. Maybe it’s not a AAA release, but this one is probably making my 2012 Top Ten.

That pretty well wraps up the big releases for December, the quarter, and the year. I do have a bunch listed for December 31st, but that’s just typical retailer code for “announced but not scheduled.” If I skipped one that you’re really anticipating, please add it to the comments. I’ll be happy to check my sources for preorder incentives to help other shoppers.

The news has warmed up a little in this last week of September. The dam has already started to leak on the Fall/holiday flood of games, and the news is starting to reach out to tease Spring games. Let’s get right to it.

We now know that there will be a full season retail release of Telltale’s The Walking Dead in December. It was an odd announcement because the last two episodes aren’t even available yet. Good news, Telltale has announced that Episode 4: Around Every Corner “will be launching very soon this October.” Episode 5 is still scheduled for later this year, probably early November. Of course, not all of the episodes have released on time to date. Here’s hoping that the retail release means they’re back on a firm schedule.

Harmonix must have liked the results of their recent sale on Rock Band tracks. They’ve now announced a similar promotion for Dance Central. Good timing. Dance Central 3 is set for release on October 16th. The list is extensive, so read it on their site. Suffice to say, it looks like damn near everything is 25-50% off.

One of the most anticipated titles for geeks is the upcoming Injustice: Gods Among Us. Knowing us the way they do, NetherRealm and Warner Bros. aren’t content to just build a super hero fighting game that they know we all want. Nope, they had to make a Collector’s Edition. Actually, two of them. Both versions will have downloadable skins for Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman based on their New 52 costumes. Both will also include special editions of two new DC comics. And both will include a statue. The US version will include a digital download of the animated Justice League: Doom. The UK version skips the film, but gets a steelbook case for the game instead. Possibly the biggest difference is actually in the statue. I say possibly because the UK version has only been shown in a drawing, while the US version actually looks to be a prototype model. It’s possible they’ll all be the US version in the final builds, but the UK’s promo materials make that one look better. The US version has a ridiculously large-breasted Wonder Woman preparing to slam Kal-El’s intergalactic stroller (rocket) down on Batman’s head, which is also tangled in her lasso of truth. The UK version of the statue still has a Wonder Woman in need of a breast reduction, but they aren’t quite as absurd. The fight looks a little less ridiculous as well, as Batman is throttling Diana while her lasso is tangled around his arm, preventing the batarang he’s holding from bashing her skull. Also worth noting, the cover of that special edition comic has a Martian Manhunter logo. He hasn’t been confirmed for the game, but this gives me hope. I love Martian Manhunter. I also can’t confirm pricing, but it looks like it should be about $100. The Collector’s Edition will obviously be available with the basic retail release in April 2013.

In a market where series collections are all the new rage, it shouldn’t surprise anyone that a Mass Effect Trilogy package is headed to retail. What is surprising is that the bundle will be available on XBox 360 and PS3. Yes, Mass Effect 1 is finally coming to PS3! If you’re a Sony gamer and already have the second and third games, you don’t even have to buy the full $60 bundle to get the one that started it all. The first game in the trilogy will also be available as a standalone download on PSN. Release is scheduled for November 6th to coincide with “N7 Day” on November 7th. Bioware has apparently set aside that date for “a worldwide celebration of the Mass Effect franchise.” Look for events happening in-game, live, and online to celebrate the date. I’m currently in my third run of Mass Effect 3 and I can’t wait for my chance to actually play the first game instead of playing choose your own adventure with an interactive comic. But, does this mean they’ll also patch the PS3 version of ME2 to allow a character import?

Another great collection headed for retail, and another bonus for Sony players, is the Assassin’s Creed Ezio Trilogy. If you’re late to the franchise, this is the perfect place to start. The first game was good, but very repetitive. You could find a cheap, used copy if you’d like. but you might as well just skip Altair’s story and jump right in with Ezio. All three titles featuring the Renaissance Italian will be included (ACII, Brotherhood, and Revelations) for only $40. The announcement doesn’t mention any DLC, but I would presume all of it will be included. It’s coming on November 13th, and it’s exclusive to PS3. If you hold out for this one and complete all three games first, you’ll probably be just in time to see a price drop on ACIII, which is coming on October 30th.

Starbreeze Studios may not be the most well known developer, but their list of recent titles (Syndicate, two Chronicles of Riddick titles, and The Darkness) have earned them a loyal following. Yesterday saw the reveal of their newest project, Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons. Being published by 505 Games in Spring 2013, the game sees two brothers on a quest for “The Water of Life” to cure their dying father. The PR blurb seems to emphasize the artistic side: “One must be strong where the other is weak, brave where the other is fearful, they must be… Brothers.” Filmmaker Josef Fares is apparently the master of the creative end, and his thoughts seem a little a more assuring: “When I first visualized Brothers – A Tale of Two Sons I knew I wanted to combine the deep, engrossing storyline of a film with the physical experience of a video game, allowing players to emotionally connect with the characters as they trek across sweeping, interactive environments such as peaceful vistas, foreboding forests and dangerous mountainsides.” I’m more than a little curious. I also like that it will be downloadable for PS3 and XBox 360 (and possibly WiiU if I’m reading it correctly), instead of a full retail release.

I’m not sure if this is Microsoft’s answer to PS+, or just a rewarding promotion for their loyal customers, but the new XBox Live Rewards system is pretty awesome. If you game on PS3 and 360, this might be the extra incentive you need to get multi-platform titles strictly on your 360. Depending on your Gamerscore, you can actually earn MSP credit. There are three tiers to earning your rewards, starting at just 3,000 Gamerscore. At the Contender stage you’ll get a free gift, worth 15 MSP, during your birthday month. Not much, but free is free. The next level, Champion, falls in the 10-25,000 range. At this level you’ll get your birthday gift and a 1% rebate each month on your Marketplace purchases. If your score is above 25,000 you’ll become a Legend. Legendary status bumps your monthly rebate up to 2%. Frankly, this isn’t much unless you’re spending a lot of cash each month (not even enough to cover your annual subscription); if you are spending that much, it’s still not a lot in comparison. But, as I’ve already mentioned, free is free. To take advantage you will need a Gold membership and you’ll need to activate the Rewards program.

That’s it for the week, and the month. As we look forward to October and beyond, what are you playing right now in anticipation? Did you start the season early with Borderlands 2? Are you still playing something older (yeah, I’m still on Mass Effect 3) as you save up for that one game that excites you most? Which upcoming game(s) are you just itching to draw your wallet and play? Are you ignoring all games as you wait for the WiiU? Let us know in the comments!

My apologies, it’s a bit of a slow news week. At least we have a few stories worth mentioning.

I tried to be one of those guys that didn’t pay The Walking Dead until the entire season was released on a disc. Then Sony went and gave me the first two episodes for free with PlayStation Plus. After that I bought the third straightaway and I’m now twitching in anticipation of the fourth. If you’ve held better than I did, your patience will be rewarded this Christmas. That is, if someone loves you enough to buy you the full season for PS3 or 360 on December 4th. Price is not announced but I’d be shocked if it’s higher than the piecemeal price of $25. I’m guessing it will actually be the season pass price of $20. More importantly, this also tells us that the final two episodes will surely be released well before the disc version. Also, calling it season one provides a hint that we could well see another season. Here’s hoping.

In a similar fashion, but far less exciting, THQ and Volition will be releasing a “Full Package” version of Saints’Row: The Third. The title here says it all, as the combo pack will include all three of the main DLC packs (Genkibowl VII, Gangstas in Space, and The Trouble With Clones), plus 30 more smaller releases. They literally mean ALL of the DLC. The game itself is about as over the top and looney as they come, but it’s rare to see one with such extensive DLC coverage. I’d assume that the release of the “Full Package” signals the end of that DLC support. Get your package on November 6th.

Does anyone care about a return of Ecco the Dolphin? I mean, it was fun back in the day, and I didn’t hate replaying it on the Ultimate Genesis Collection disc. But does it really need a revival? The series creator, Ed Annunziata, seems to think so. According to Twitter, he’s “putting the band back together,” starting with original composer Spencer Nielsen. So far, that’s all he seems to have. Well, that and some whiteboard designing levels. Ooh look, a dolphin and some water, this looks like something worth a few million dollars in development money. More on this if and when it becomes a credible story.

The first expansion for Darksiders II is coming today. For those who bought the game new, you’ll be getting the “Argul’s Tomb” add-on for free. Everyone else, prepare to fork out $6.99 (560MSP). The expansion includes two new dungeons, new legendary loot, and new boss battles. The “Death Rides” pack, formerly a pre-order incentive, is also becoming available to everyone at the same price. The WiiU version, coming at the console’s launch, will include both of these packs as well as all other pre-order packs.

Sony is pushing a new program, PSN Day 1 Digital, to release more top tier games via PSN on their retail release date. With the Fall and holiday glut of games nearly upon us, now’s the perfect oppportunity for them to push this feature. I haven’t confirmed that they’ll all be available at midnight, but that has usually been the case so far. Several have a 10% discount for PS+ members if you preorder now. The perfect scenario for this would be to preorder the games with your PS+ discount, and have your nightly update just start the download and install automatically. No need to stay up late, and your game is waiting for you after breakfast. Here’s the list of the first eight games in the new program:

• Resident Evil 6 (10/2/12, $59.99)
• NBA 2K13 (10/2/12, $59.99, PS+ 10%)
• Dishonored (10/9/12, $59.99, PS+ 10%)
• Doom 3: BFG Edition (10/16/12, $39.99, PS+ 10%)
• 007: Legends (10/16/12, $59.99)
• Medal of Honor: Warfighter (10/23/12, $59.99)
• Need for Speed: Most Wanted (10/30/12, $59.99, PS+ 10%)
• Assassin’s Creed III (10/30/12, $59.99)



As I mentioned, a bit of a slow week. That might continue for some time, but you won’t care for much longer because the games will be coming. Let’s finish today with a spoilerific rumor about Shepard’s next chapter.

SPOILER WARNING
Several fans are claiming to have cracked the code on the upcoming “Omega” DLC for Mass Effect 3. This should be filed under rumor, but these are the same folks who were previously right about “Leviathan.” In the script, Aria T’Loak convinces Commander Shepard to board the command ship leading a blockade to prevent supplies from reaching Omega Station. Before Anakin Skywalker can destroy the ship… Oh wait, wrong space saga. In retaliation, Cerberus assaults Omega’s shield, without which the station will be subject to destruction by meteors and other space-faring dangers. It will be Shepard’s task to stop the assault before the barriers fall. Of course, when this all takes place is up for debate, as a release date has not been announced. We are, however, expecting to see it “soon.”
/SPOILER WARNING

Longtime VGQH readers know that I occasionally include stories about well-known gaming personalities when they move about in the industry. I get the stories all the time, but it’s rare that I think one really qualifies as newsworthy. We have one this week that definitely needs to be known. Greg Zeschuk and Ray Muzyka of Bioware have retired. The two founded the company together back in 1995. Both plan for this to be a permanent exit from the gaming world. The retirement plans have been in place internally for at least six months and the studio feels they are still strong and very capable of progressing without the two founders. Muzyka and Zeschuk’s parting words, as well as comments from Aaryn Flynn (General Manager in Edmonton and Montreal), are available at the Bioware Blog. Best of luck to Greg and Ray, may your retirement (or next line of work) be just as successful.

The next projects slated from Bioware are Dragon Age III: Inquisition and the “Omega” DLC for Mass Effect 3. Part of Aaryn Flynn’s comments brought a little more attention to that upcoming DLC chapter and the further future of the franchise.

“Executive Producer Casey Hudson and his team are coming off an amazing eight-year run with the Mass Effect trilogy. But they’re not done yet. We are releasing more multiplayer content and we have more single-player stories coming throughout the next six months, including Omega which is coming in the Fall. But the Mass Effect universe is vast, and Casey and our teams have plans for another full game. “Where to go next?” with such a project has been a question a lot of us have been asking, and we’d all love to hear your ideas.”

He went on to mention that Hudson’s team is “putting together their vision for an all new game set in a fictional universe, built from the bottom-up with all new gaming technology.” That’s pretty vague, but it also sounds like the minds behind Mass Effect are building a new IP for next-gen systems.

When it comes to the Venn diagram of comics geeks and game geeks, no upcoming game sits right in the middle of that overlapping circle quite like Injustice: Gods Among Us. Which is why the release date being announced at TGS is so great. I was half expecting this to be Summer title, but Warner Bros. Interactive has earlier plans. You’ll be getting your own shot at Superman vs. Batman as early as April 2013. Zombietron’s got some screen shots and the TGS trailer here.

Speaking of Warner Bros. Interactive, they’re getting set to release Midway Arcade Origins for PS3 and XBox 360. The single disc will retail for $29.99 (about $10 too much methinks) and include “more than 30 classic, genre-defining Midway titles from the golden age of arcades.” Of the 30+ titles, only Gauntlet, Rampage, Joust, Spy Hunter, Defender, and Marble Madness have been confirmed. No date was announced, but full trophy/achievement support will be included along with four player, local co-op. I’d like to see the full list of games, and I’d definitely like to see the price drop, but this should be a good collection for retro-arcade enthusiasts.

Sony announced that PS+ was coming to Vita at Gamescom, but it’s been a waiting game ever since to learn more. We now know that this addition will come in November (just after the PSN Store remodel) and will include games for the instant game collection, discounts, online backups (up to 1GB), and automatic downloads, updates, and trophy sync. The biggest questions is still unanswered: will we have two separate subscriptions for the two devices, or does membership to PS+ Vita automatically include PS3+? Conflicting hints have been dropped that could go either way. Hopefully we’ll get a definitive answer from Sony on that one soon.

If you’d hears about Inafune’s secret “Yaiba” project and been wanting to know what he’s doing, look no further. Yaiba: Ninja Gaiden Z is apparently dumping long-time protagonist, Ryu Hayabusa, for Yaiba, a ninja with a cybernetic arm. We’re promised “ninjas, zombies, and robots,” the golden trifecta of video game greatness. Oddly, the new protagonist seems to be a zombie, and coming after Ryu. Should be an interesting twist for fans. No word on a release date or platforms, though PS3 and XBox 360 should be expected.

On a related note, Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 will be coming to PS Vita early next year. Hopefully that’s enough, because there were no other details.

I hate to even comment on such an unfounded rumor, but I can’t ignore anything about Half-Life 3. It’s just too much in demand. A source “close to Valve” has reportedly outed the game as being open world and containing RPG elements. We apparently won’t see the game until after 2013, sparking the question of whether it will even hit this console generation. Then again, with Valve’s recent moves in the gaming world, assuming it will even hit consoles may be folly. Frankly, the whole thing seems like a strange move for Valve. On the other hand, Valve has had a lot of success over the years making very strange moves. Read this as the rumor it is. If you like it, keep your fingers crossed. If you hate it, just assume it’s false until we see something official.

Have you ben enjoying Borderlands 2 this week? In addition to the comments about Star Wars-type vehicles possibly coming as DLC (that was in Tuesday’s VGQH), Randy Pitchford seemingly can’t stop talking about their future DLC plans. He’s clearly as excited for the game as the people playing it. There’s the four planned DLC add-ons that you get with the Season Pass, but that might not be all:

“We created the ability in Borderlands 2 to add additional characters because we want to use that ability.

“The Mechromancer is the first one. I hope to do more. The success of the Mechromancer will help to define this. Our ambition and passion and our fans requests will also contribute to decision making about what we do.
…
“The stuff we’re planning and working on for the Campaign DLC Season Pass is big DLC stuff – more like Knoxx. [Referring to “The Secret Armory of General Knoxx,” the biggest add-on for the original Borderlands.]

“We’re extremely far along with the first campaign DLC. The second DLC is also in amazing shape. The third DLC is a little farther out and the fourth DLC is just in the pre-concept stages.

“We will have other, non-season pass related DLC. The additional character (Mechromancer) is one kind of example. The Borderlands 2 team is fired up at the moment. Customer love for the game is driving us wild – making us want to do more and more stuff.

“So, expect that there will be even more beyond the big Campaign DLC in the Season Pass and the additional character. We’ll announce more stuff as soon as we are able to be confident in the commitment of the details we share.”

Details were just released today about a new mode in Halo 4, “Dominion.” This mode is similar to Battlefield‘s “Conquest” mode with a few changes. Each map will include three strategic points that your team will need to claim. The longer you hold a territory, the better the perks you gain (vehicle stations, turrets, shield doors, etc.). Of course, if you lose the territory, all those perks you gained fall immediately into enemy hands. Once a single team controls all three territories a countdown will begin. If that clock hits zero before the other team can claim one piece of strategic territory the game is over. This looks like a pretty robust mode, especially with two solid teams. It should be a solid addition to the multiplayer library, but will probably be instantly spoiled racist teenagers that only know four letter words. 343 Industries’ newest take on the franchise is coming November 6, 2012.

That’s all for this week. suprisingly slow considering Tokyo Game Show. Then again, TGS is so late in the season, there really isn’t much new and noteworthy by the time it rolls around. Check back Tuesday for next week’s early edeition.