Category: Video Games

Surprise! Bandai Namco Is Uploading The Tales Of Symphonia Anime To YouTube

Episode one is now available.

Bandai Namco is getting right behind the upcoming Tales of Symphonia Remastered release next month, and in a surprising move, the company has decided to upload Tales of Symphonia: The Animation to YouTube to help promote the game.

The anime is technically three separate OVA series that retell the story of Tales of Symphonia. The three arcs are the Sylvarant Arc, the Tethe’alla Arc, and The United World Arc. Episode one of the Sylvarant Arc, which debuted in 2007 in Japan, was uploaded earlier today, and you can watch it with English, French, Spanish, or Italian subtitles on the European channel!

Read the full article on nintendolife.com

I adore these Hylics secrets of handcrafted art and actual hands

Hylics games are some of the prettiest around, with their striking mix of claymation and video capture. So I’m delighted to realise that, unbeknowst to me, creator Mason Lindroth occasionally give behind-the-scenes peeks at props and animations on Twitter. It is very interesting to see those original handcrafted figures. And it is very funny to discover that the process of animating one character’s hands involved wearing a little cardboard green screen like a shroud while waggling a sexy gloved arm through the hole.

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Meet the Killer Klowns From Outer Space: Exclusive Class Details

IGN is pleased to exclusively reveal the five playable classes in Killer Klowns from Outer Space: The Game, the upcoming horror multiplayer title from the executive director of Friday The 13th: The Game.

In the video above you can meet the five playable Klowns: the Trapster, Tracker, Scout, Fighter, and Tank. A team of three of these Klowns will be able to cause chaos in multiplayer matches versus seven other players taking the role of humans in the town of Crescent Cove. Each Klown is equipped with a raygun that can encase humans in a cotton candy cocoon, the Klown Jump ability that allows them to jump to any point on the map previously discovered by the team, and the all-important healing laughter ability. In addition, each Klown has their own signature set of skills that makes them unique.

Trapster

Based on Rudy from the Killer Klowns film, the Trapster is a trap-laying class designed to lock down humans and help other Klowns find them. His main weapon is the Jawbreaker Mace, which causes an explosion of popcorn on contact. When popcorn sticks to humans, all Klowns are able to see them through walls and on the map, and so the Trapster is able to tag enemies with every strike of the mace. He also has a deployable Popcorn Mine, which will also tag any human that runs over it. For a more grotesque trap option, he also has the Baby Klown, a disgusting larvae-like creature that latches on to humans and holds them in place.

Tracker

Similar to the Trapster, the Tracker – inspired by Spikey from the movie – is able to use popcorn to highlight humans to the rest of the Klown team. Tracker has a Popcorn Bazooka for an explosive, long-range option, and the Balloon Dog that will point towards the nearest human. As for enemies that are trying to escape, Tracker can chase them down on foot thanks to being able to vault over obstacles, or instead hop in his Invisible Car, which can be driven around the outdoors areas of the map.

Scout

Jumbo the Scout is, as his name suggests, a scouting class designed to push beyond the frontlines and seek out enemies. He’s the only Klown who can use the Klown Jump to leap into previously unexplored territory, which makes him an ideal reconnaissance option. His Hypnotic Lure ability will draw humans towards him, or he can quickly move close to them by using Lackey Swap; a skill that instantly lets the Scout switch places with a nearby AI minion.

Fighter

The Fighter is, as his name suggests, the straight-up combat class of the group. He’s armed with a pair of Boxing Gloves that can be used to pummel humans, and is the most agile of the group. But this Klown, based on Shorty from the movies, is more than just a brawler. His Pizza Box skill will be familiar to anyone who has played a prop hunt game, as it transforms him into a pizza box. Handy for a bit of stealth between the rough and tumble. Like Tracker, the Fighter is also able to quickly chase humans with a vehicle, but his Speedy Tricycle can also be used indoors, too.

Tank

The final class, inspired by Chubby from the movie, is the Tank. Armed with an Extendable Jawbreaker that can be charged up for increased range and power, the Tank is the most physically formidable Klown in the troupe. With his Sticky Bash ability he’s able to lay down a carpet of Cotton Candy that traps anyone caught within it, and the Rage Rush skill allows him to charge into enemies and bash through obstacles. The Tank is also able to reenact one of the film’s most memorable scenes: he’s can stick a straw into any human caught in a cotton candy cocoon and slurp them up to gain a temporary movement speed buff.

For more from Killer Klowns from Outer Space: The Game, check out our interview with executive director Randy Greenback, as well as our game vs. film comparison video.

Matt Purslow is IGN’s UK News and Features Editor.

Slick sci-fi city builder Industries Of Titan blade runs out of early access on Jan 31st

Industries of Titan, from Crypt Of The Necromancer developers Brace Yourself Games. They’ve announced Titan will be out for realsies on January 31st, when it will unshackle itself from its early access chains while forcing thousands more workers into indentured labour.

It’s more than just a slick sci-fi city builder, boasting battleship combat and the ability to tinker with what goes on inside your buildings.

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It’s Official, PowerWash Simulator Scrubs Up On Switch This Month

And you can wash… Croft Manor?

Pack it up Zelda, Final Fantasy, Starfield, etc. — PowerWash Simulator is turning on the hoses on 31st January when it launches on Switch. Finally, a real video game that will wash the scrubs away.

Joking aside, PowerWash Simulator became a bit of a surprise hit in 2021 in Early Access, and again when it launched on PC and Xbox in 2022. It’s got nearly 30k reviews on Steam and sits at an Overwhelmingly Positive rating.

Read the full article on nintendolife.com

PowerWash Simulator splash lands on PS4 & PS5 January 31

Hey washers, Jess here from FuturLab!  

Since we announced that PowerWash Simulator would be coming to PlayStation (via our good friends Kenny Washmore and Jerry Cleansburg), we’ve seen such a buzz from the community. So, as you can imagine, we are thrilled to be putting the power of relaxation into the hands of players when PowerWash Simulator lands on PS5 and PS4 on January 31st, 2023. 

Alongside this launch, we are also releasing our first free Special Pack, where you can explore and clean iconic locations and vehicles from the totemic Tomb Raider series!  

Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect from both PowerWash Simulator and the Tomb Raider expansion pack… 

Everything isn’t as it seems in the town of Muckingham: an active volcano smoulders nearby, the mayor’s cat is missing, and things are extremely dirty. You’ll be commissioned to clean an array of dirty destinations, from hosing down humble homes to unmasking ancient architecture. With such a diverse range of locations, you may find your mind wandering as you clean… “what gives with this town?!” 

But for all its oddities, Muckingham scrubs up quite nicely… thanks to you! The residents have noticed too. As you blast away every speck of grime that covers Muckingham, you’ll uncover secrets hidden in the dirt and objects of each level, as well as receive messages from clients that reveal the untold tales of the places you visit. You know what they say, it all comes out in the wash! 

Once you get going, word of your power washing prowess will spread quickly, and business will be booming in no time. Earn cash by completing jobs and reinvest in more powerful washers, nifty nozzles, and cool outfits to help you clean more efficiently (and in style ?). No dirt is too tough for you to handle! 

The whole aim of PowerWash Simulator is for players to wash away their worries and take a clean break from the real world; getting all the satisfaction of washing to a sparkling finish without having to work up a sweat or even leave the sofa! 


PowerWash Simulator splash lands on PS4 & PS5 January 31

Tomb Raider Special Pack 

Once you’ve finished cleaning up Muckingham, you might be tempted to put your feet up, BUT WAIT… you’re not done yet! We are thrilled to have had the opportunity to collaborate with Crystal Dynamics to bring players five new levels from the time-honored Tomb Raider series.  

For the Tomb Raider Special Pack, we focused on the illustrious Croft Manor, including its grounds and some of Lara’s trusty vehicles that have been muddied out on (and off!) the road.  

“Creating the Tomb Raider Special Pack has been an honour and a fantastic experience,” said Dan Chequer, our Lead Designer at FuturLab. “We can’t wait for players to get up close and personal with Croft Manor and explore its many secrets!” 

In the Special Pack, we’ve left the perilous plots to Lara whilst challenging our players to undertake the most hazardous escapade yet… cleaning her stately home! Only the very best will do when it comes to the Croft residence; so unwind and blast away every speck of dirt you can track down, whilst Lara regales you with tales of past adventures. 

“What Tomb Raider fan hasn’t explored Croft Manor and thought ‘Winston could really use some help with these grounds! I would love to power wash this place!’?” asked Dallas Dickinson, Franchise General Manager for Tomb Raider at Crystal Dynamics. “Now, with the help of Square Enix Collective and FuturLab that’s not only possible, but immensely satisfying as well.”  

“We know the community wants more to clean, and I’m delighted we’re able to kick off our post-release plans in style with this Tomb Raider collaboration,” added Phil Elliott, studio head at Square Enix Collective. “We’ve had so much great support from players, press and content creators, and we wanted to do something special to say thank you!” 

We hope that you have good clean fun discovering the secrets of Muckingham and Croft Manor alike when PowerWash Simulator washes up on PlayStation next week! 

PowerWash Simulator launches on PS4 & PS5 on January 31 alongside the free Tomb Raider Special Pack.

Have You Played… Far Cry 2?

Far Cry 2 is a lot of things, based on the memories I have from playing it a decade ago. First and foremost, I recall Far Cry 2: Parasitic Pain, which tasks you with running around begging for pills to stave off a growing infection. Next comes Far Cry 2: Buddy Bonanza, which lets you make lots of lovely AI friends, charge into battles together, and then hide while they die. Then, there’s Far Cry 2: Firewatch, which is all about watching fire. It’s the best.

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A Space For The Unbound review: a supernatural teen romance with a wonderful sense of time and place

A Space For The Unbound is Mojiken’s first ‘big’ release in that sense, clocking in at around nine-ish hours. What begins as a YA coming-of-age tale about a small-town romance quickly gains remarkable momentum, and suddenly you’re dealing with supernatural teens trying to desperately stop a world-ending calamity. Part sci-fi drama, part high school romance, A Space For The Unbound manages to have incredible weight and grandeur while also being poignant, sweet, and honest at the same time. It’s a triumph.

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This Turn-Based Mystery RPG Sneaked Up On Us, And It Looks Absolutely Brilliant

To-mayto, to-Mato.

A lot is coming out in 2023, but somehow, a turn-based RPG that combines a neo-futuristic world with mystery-solving completely passed us by — until today. Mato Anomalies comes from Chinese-based developer Arrowiz and is coming to Switch on 10th March 2023.

That’s in the middle of a crowded period for RPG fans, but the combination of detective work and strategic turn-based battles absolutely should make this stand out from the crowd. You’ll play as both Detective Doe and his unlikely partner in crime Gram to uncover the mysteries behind the fantasised neo-futuristic city of Mato.

Read the full article on nintendolife.com

Tchia will release Spring 2023 on PS4 & PS5: fresh gameplay details shared

Hey everyone, happy 2023! I’m Phil Crifo, Tchia’s Game Director and Awaceb Co-founder. Last year was a very busy and exciting one for us, and I would like to give you an update on the development of Tchia and offer a sneak peek into the game. As you’ll see, it has come a long way, and we’re happy to announce the game is coming to PS4 & PS5 this Spring (stay tuned!).

A trip to our homeland

As you may know, Tchia is inspired by our homeland, New Caledonia, and it was super important for us that folks who worked on the game got to experience those landscapes, wildlife, cultures, languages and customs firsthand. If you’re interested in finding out more, we have already released a 3-part series on the topic.


Tchia will release Spring 2023 on PS4 & PS5: fresh gameplay details shared

Everything in Tchia is infused with the local culture of New Caledonia. This includes all the various landscapes that we recreated in the open-world archipelago, and that you can freely explore, swim or navigate around, and even climb on if you’d like!

This is also the case with our cast of characters that you will meet throughout your journey. We have worked with local talent to voice everyone you will encounter in either Drehu (one of the most ancient local New Caledonian languages) and French. As you can freely explore the archipelago in Tchia, we encourage you to try out various side quests to acquaint yourself with some of the island’s inhabitants and learn more about their culture and individual personalities.

Music, finally, is a major component of your adventure. All sounds and sonorities are inspired by traditional New Caledonian culture and folklore. You’ll try these out for yourself using your trustworthy Ukulele! More on that below.

Development milestones

2022 was also the year where Tchia shaped up into its final form.

To celebrate the approaching conclusion of this great adventure, and to thank you for your support and patience throughout development, here are a few highlights of what you can expect from Tchia.

Soul-Jumping

One of the main mechanics in Tchia is called Soul-Jumping. Soul-jumping lets you take control of any object or animal you can find. Any by any object we mean just that – swim as a turtle, fly as a dove or launch yourself at enemies as a lantern plus so much more. Ever secretly wished you were a coconut? Well, now is your time!

Each object or animal you can possess allows you to experience a specific move set. And with a bit of dexterity, you’ll learn unique tricks that will allow you to chain Soul-Jumps and even use a secret feature we call the Soul-Canon! You’ll need to be careful not to deplete your stamina to keep control of your animal or object. As you explore the world and complete challenges, you’ll upgrade your stamina bar for even more Soul-Jumping action.

Ukulele

Tchia’s fully playable ukulele will be a trustworthy companion throughout your journey. It’s fully playable and we’ve even been able to re-create some famous tunes by playing around with the various chords and tones implemented in this system. You’ll also encounter scripted events that will teach you traditional music pieces, but don’t worry if rhythm is not your strong suit. Tchia is super accessible, so even a Ukulele novice can complete these challenges. Getting 100% may be another story though, we can’t wait to see some of you take on the challenge.

Finally, your ukulele lets you trigger the special ‘Soul-Melodies’. Once unlocked, these mystical tunes will affect the world around you, from changing the weather to invoking magical plants and creatures to ease your journey or reach specific quest elements quicker.

Explore

Exploration is at the heart of Tchia. You can free-climb any surface and soar the skies with Tchia’s glider made of woven coconut leaves. Whenever Tchia is in mid-air, you can use special tricks to spin in various ways and show off your acrobatic skills. Those skills can also be put to the test in diving board challenges, so be on the lookout for those! That’s just one of a range of mini-game challenges to enjoy. There’s also racing, shooting ranges, and even claw machines! Each providing rewards ranging from useful items to progress in your quest, or to customize Tchia, her backpack and glider. You’ll encounter those challenges and many other hidden secrets as you sail around the archipelago’s glistening lagoons and dive to the depths of the coral reefs.

Thanks again for all the love and support you keep sending our way!