E3 2015: Microsoft Press Conference

Microsoft's E3 2015 press conference has now concluded and you can pick up all the lovely reveals right here.

Halo 5: Guardians

To kick things off, Microsoft went with something everybody is familiar with. 343 Industries takes the floor to show Halo 5: Guardians. We see some coop gameplay with some known faces like Arbiter and Keith David. After the campaign demo, we are given a glimpse of a multiplayer map called Warzone. There will be 24 players and AI controlled units, and they are considering this the biggest map ever created.

Recore announced

Recore was announced and is by Keiji Inafune's Comcept studio and Armature, the developer founded by key folk behind Metroid Prime.This sci-fi action adventure is an Xbox exclusive and has a Spring 2016 release window.

Xbox One backwards compatible with Xbox 360 games

This has to be one of the biggest bombs from Microsoft - Xbox One has backwards compatibility with Xbox 360 games. Some digital titles should be up now and your retail discs can also be used. Popping in the disc will make your Xbox One system confirm you own the copy of that game, making you download the digital version for use. The first Mass Effect was shown using this feature, and Phil Spencer states that more titles will be available for use later this year.

Xbox One Elite Controller revealed for Xbox One and Windows 10

The Xbox One Elite Controller was revealed for Xbox One and Windows 10. Features for this new controller aim for the hardcore players that seek accurate control while gaming. The most interesting feature is the ability to swap components (thumbsticks, D-pads, and paddles) to fit the type of game you are playing. There are customization options such as trigger sensitivity, button mapping, and more. The backside of the controller also has four paddles, which we're trying to wrap our head around this addition.

Fallout 4 for Xbox One will come with a copy of Fallout 3

Bethesda's Todd Howard appears at Microsoft's stage and talks more about Fallout 4. Todd already dumped loads of information about the new game planned for a November release. But he did talk about something for Xbox One players of course. Xbox One copies of Fallout 4 will come with a free copy of Fallout 3. He then announces that Fallout 4's mods made in the PC version of the game will also be available for free first on the Xbox One.

EA Access to bring Titanfall first, Dragon Age: Inquisition later this year

EA's Peter Moore comes to the stage and announces that EA Access will be bringing its members Titanfall, with Dragon Age: Inquisition following later this year. He also reveals that all week-long, EA Access will be free to Xbox Gold Members to try out. EA Access is a premium membership allowing players to play EA games for free, get special discounts on Xbox One, get access to early betas, as well as play upcoming EA game first before it's officially released.

Plants vs Zombies: Garden Warfare 2 was revealed

Then, Peter Moore reveals that Plants vs Zombies: Garden Warfare 2 is a thing. More zombies, more plants, just like the first game it looks like a lot of fun.

Forza 6 is coming September 15

Then Forza 6 takes the stage in the most unusual fashion. They slowly bring down a car onto the small stage in the middle. A new trailer was shown and mentions 24 player online capability. Of course, the graphics look amazing.

Dark Souls 3 announced

No further introduction needed. From Software is bringing us the third game in the Dark Souls series. We are ready to die over and over...again...and again. It is confirmed though that this will be the final game for the series. No release date given.

The Division, Xbox One players get beta access first this December

The Division makes yet another E3 experience. It's slowly turning into a real game and we get new footage if the online shooter in action. The release date was already revealed and it will hit shelves 08/03/2016. Beta access to the game will come first on Xbox One this December.

Rainbow Six Siege on Xbox One will come with a free copy of Rainbow Six: Vegas and Vegas 2

Rainbow Six: Siege appears in Microsoft's stage and announces that you get free copies of the previous games. These free games will be available with the backwards compatibility feature on the Xbox One. Siege will be out on October 16, 2015.

ID@Xbox's strong list of indie games

And it won't be a Microsoft press conference without a indie montage. Xbox's indie lineup is looking stronger each year. Exciting titles like Tacoma and Gigantic was shown.

Early Access program coming to Xbox One

Xbox also announced an Early Access program for Xbox One, giving players the ability to try out games still in development before making a purchase to support it. Games like DayZ , The Long Dark, and Elite: Dangerous is confirmed to be in this program.

DayZ creator announces a new game called Ion

Dean Hall, maker of DayZ, is still working hard on it's online post-apocalyptic survival game but is already working on another project. It's called Ion and it makes its debut on Microsoft's stage floor.

Rise of the Tomb Raider gameplay footage shown

We finally get first look at gameplay for Rise of the Tomb Raider. It will be out on Xbox One first on November 10, 2015.

The Rare Replay announced

Miss Perfect Dark? Battle Toads? Conker? Banjo Kazooie? To celebrate Rare's 30th anniversary, rare is releasing the Rare Replay for Xbox. 30 games in one package.

Sea of Thieves announced

Rare then announced a new game. It's a pirate game, and a shared world pirate game. We are sold with the idea of making a player walk the plank. ARGH!

Fable Legends features cross-compatibility and cross-play

Fable Legends, the Free-To-Play coop game for Xbox One and Windows 10, makes an appearance and features cross-compatibility and cross-play. It will be out this year.

Xbox is working with Valve to bring the best VR to the players

Kudo Tsunoda takes the stage and announces that Microsoft is working with Valve to bring the best VR experience to players. They also mention the Oculus Rift being bundled with the Xbox One controller (announced last week).  Valve's Vive VR didn't make an appearance, and the information on what this means is still not clear, but Microsoft is showing that they are staying really close to VR technology.

Minecraft with Hololens

Then they blew our minds by combining Minecraft with Microsoft's Hololens technology.

Gears of War: Ultimate Edition to hit Xbox One

Now it's time to talk Gears of War. They start off by revealing Gears of War: Ultimate Edition, a fully rebuilt version of the first game that includes new content. The public beta starts today and will be released on August 25, 2015 on Xbox One.

Gears of War 4 announced

And to close off Microsoft. Gears of War 4 is happening. We did not get a series of explosions and set pieces, which is a nice touch. It's planned for a Christmas 2016 release window.

That's Microsoft's E3 2015 press conference. What do you think?

E3 2015: Bethesda Press Conference

Bethesda's first ever E3 press conference has come to a close and boy was it a good first attempt. This is a presentation that was all about the games, nothing else. Here's what was revealed.

First Gameplay Footage of Doom

They start things off with Doom. It was revealed that the world will get a first look at the new Doom game during the press conference, and they delivered just that. A straight to the point Doom game of you killing demons in the most gruesome way. The game is being run by the new Id Tech 6 game engine and it's looking good so far. Big demonic monsters, bloody melee kills, over the top weapons, what more do you want out of a new Doom?  It's weird really, never thought I'd get nostalgia out of a game's door sound. Have a look at the gameplay below.

Doom Multiplayer

After getting a taste of the game's campaign, they quickly reveal that the game will come with multiplayer. Not much details regarding the multiplayer, but after the video footage of the mode in action, they quickly revealed SnapMap, a powerful but simple cross-platform drag and drop tool that lets players create their own maps and game modes to keep content fresh for the community. SnapMap will be available the same day Doom is released.

More Doom Footage

And just when we thought the Doom talk was over, they throw more gameplay footage from the campaign, giving us a peek at the demon's home turf.

Battlecry

Next was Battlecry, and they showed new gameplay footage of the Free-To-Play online team-based action game for the PC. The footage also reveals a new faction called the Han Republic. It's currently in Alpha but is expected to go closed beta later this year. Quite curious, and it's said to be using the same network that powers Elder Scrolls Online.

Dishonored 2 Revealed

And the second worst kept secret from Bethesda is no other than Dishonored's sequel. Dishonored 2 was revealed by Arkane Studios and we were given a CG trailer of the game introducing a new playable character called Emily. It will be set in a new city, and you will be able to play as either Emily or Corvo, each with their own set of skills, equipments, and abilities. Dishonored 2 will be available for PC, PS4 and Xbox One in Spring 2016. Also, they revealed a Dishonored: Difinitive Edition coming to PS4 and Xbox One sometime in August.

Elder Scrolls Online: Tamriel Unlimited

Now it's time to talk about Elder Scrolls. The console version of Elder Scrolls Online was just released on the PS4 and Xbox One, and we were given a video of what to expect from the MMORPG.

Elder Scrolls: Legends Revealed

Then, we were given something no one was expecting from Bethesda - The Elder Scrolls: Legends was announced. A strategy card game for the PC and tablets. You can't blame them for making such a game, have you seen the huge success Blizzard is having with Hearthstone? Time will tell if this will have the same level of addiction, but we are definitely curious on how it turns out. No other details were given, but more to follow in the coming months.

Fallout 4

Last but not least, the big one - Fallout 4. Bethesda Game Studios Todd Howard shows up on stage and gives a lengthy presentation on Fallout 4. Todd starts off by showing off some concept art, and stating that the development of Fallout 4 started the moment Fallout 3 was done, meaning they were developing Skyrim alongside Fallout 4.

Finally, we get a look at the game, and Todd confirms that the game starts off before the bombs hit, so we get a  glimpse of how the world is before it was given it's apocalyptic makeover. They show off the robust character customization with your character staring at a bathroom mirror, with your partner right beside you. You can be either male or female by picking one of the two characters. At this point, it's very much confirmed that your character will have a voice this time around. Door to Door salesmen shows up at the door advertising a nearby vault, giving your information to him sets your characters SPECIAL stats. The sirens hit and the player and the rest of the towns flk starts running to the vault. The bombs hit, and you find your character walking up after 200 years and being the only survivor of vault 111.

Another gameplay video was shown, and shows the game's very ambitious crafting and building system. Todd explains how players can build settlements, grow plants, provide electricity, and watch how your settlement attracts residents planning to live there, with shop owners showing up with rare items. Players will also be able to place defensive structures like turrets and walls to defend your settlement from raiders and such. This settlement gameplay features is completely optional. A feature the team is very excited to add into the game.

Everything you find in the wasteland now has a purpose. Those trash items like cans, or toy cars, can be used as materials in making weapons attachments, scopes, etc. It is said there are over 700 premutations of weapons, so we'll be customizing our weapons in the most craziest way possible. Oh, and you can also customize your power armor.

They also mentioned that the Collector's Edition will come with a Pip-Boy. You can load your smart phone in it, download an app that uses the same code used for the Pip-Boy in the game, and use it as a second screen. Gimmicky, sure, but it's damn cool though.

Last but not least, the biggest shocker. A title that is considered to be the worst kept secret in gaming, and was technically announced just a week ago, will be released this year - November 10, 2015 for PS4, Xbox One, and PC.

Fallout Shelter

Todd Howard revealed something we weren't expecting. A Fallout mobile game. We were scared at first on what it will be, but it turned out to be a completely Free-To-Play game with no internet access required, and no paywalls. The game is about you managing your own vault. You are a vault overseer and you are tasked to manage the resources of your vault, keep your vault residents happy, and make vault babies. It's pretty much a simple, but charming Fallout vault simulator. Here's another shocker: It's available for download in Apple's App Store.

And that's Bethesda's first ever press conference in a nutshell. Were you impressed at what they showed?

Xbox One gets a permanent price cut as the Xbox One 1TB bundle gets announced

Xbox One gets a permanent price cut now priced at $350. Together with this announcement, Microsoft revealed the Xbox One 1TB bundle priced at $399 that will come with the new Xbox One controller.

The long awaited 1TB storage is here and the new redesigned controller will include a 3.5mm stereo jack, which let's you plug your headset directly into your controller. With the new controller, players will have the option to adjust headset volume, mic monitoring, and voice and game audio balance through the Settings menu on the console. The new controller also has "fine-tuned bumpers" for better performance. Also, the updated controller allows for wireless firmware updates, so you won't require to connect the controller via USB cable to receive updates.

The new Xbox One controller will be on sale for $64.99 in black, with the Special Edition Covert Forces controller going on sale for the same price.

For those planning to get the new Xbox One controller for Windows, the adapter will be released this fall for $24.99, with the adapter bundled with the new controller priced at $79.95. Eurogamer also confirms that the new controller adapter will only support PCs running on Windows 10.

For a limited time, the new Xbox One 1TB console will come with a copy of Halo: Master Chief Collection.

The new controller and console is scheduled to hit the US on June 15 and on "selected markets" later this month.

[Source: Polygon]

Witcher 3 Downgrade, Why Are People Surprised?

I'm enjoying every minute of the Witcher 3. The game looks amazing, the combat has been improved for the better, and the stories you come across as you explore the world of Temeria keeps me glued for hours. But as I take a break after a long session as Geralt of Rivia, I noticed a lot of public outcry regarding CD Projekt Red's latest game - the final product looks nothing like the footage shown in 2013, the graphics have been downgraded. Many are disappointed, many thought that CD Projekt Red were the honest developers in the industry. I say - it's as expected. it's footage years ago.

Before anything, have a look at the footage comparing the old 2013-2014 footage material to the final product below.

See the difference? Claims about the downgrade seems pretty valid at this point and it raises a lot of issues this industry is facing. Did CD Projekt Red ripped off their loyal fans? Not really, it's more like we raised our expectations way too high, thus having fans pushing that 'pre-order now' button the moment the 2013 footage ended.

The developers could simply place a notice in the footage stating this is not a representative of the final product, end of story, but they didn't. The team wanted to reach that level of detail, but when it was time to actually make the project into a playable product, they had to be honest with what's possible for the given time and hardware provided. Having Witcher 3 released on multiple platforms could be the main reason to why the level of quality shown a few years ago was cut, but console systems are a big chunk of what will make this title a success financially. Releasing this as a PC exclusive isn't going to work for everybody involved.

We are mostly to blame.

Pre-ordering a game that's considered to be released after a year is mostly never a good idea, but the option will always be there once a developer officially announces a product. Games will be shown in trade shows or events, marketing teams will do their thing, and during all of that the developers will continue to develop the game and do a few changes along the way. If someone does get sold on what they've seen so far? Well, you'll have to expect the fact that the team might not release that level of quality or cut a specific feature, because changes happen during development.

I consider this a repeat in history. When Watch Dogs was first released, people were excited. Myself included. Come release day, we were welcomed with a very noticeable downgrade that people reacted the same way they are reacting now on the Witcher 3. So what's the difference with these two issues? One of them is actually a really good game, a potential Game of the Year even. No, we are not talking about Watch Dogs of course. Watch Dogs had so many elements going against it that it turned out as a complete disappointment in all fields. From repetitive gameplay, dull activities, to a story that can easily be forgotten right after the credits start rolling. Witcher 3 is the complete opposite of Watch Dogs, and it's quite sad some gamers might consider taking a pass thanks to this downgrade issue, missing out on a game that I consider a must have for any RPG fan.

CD projekt Red is considered as an open developer to their fan base, showing a lot of footage through the course of development. The negative reaction of how it looks compared to the 2013 footage took the developers off-guard. But with all the footage you show the public, and as much information you throw at them regarding the state of the game, there will always be that small few sold by it the moment they saw footage two years ago. You can't disregard some players that did make their purchase decision with that level of quality in mind. In an interview with Eurogamer, the developer confronted the downgrading claims:

“We don’t agree there is a downgrade but it’s our opinion, and gamers’ feeling can be different. If they made their purchasing decision based on the 2013 materials, I’m deeply sorry for that, and we are discussing how we can make it up to them because that’s not fair,” explains studio co-founder Marcin Iwinski.

“In a way, because of us not seeing it as a problem, and working hard on the game until the very end, that’s where we are today and that’s why we have to explain. I hope it shows our intentions, because we are not hiding anything. Considering our values, hiding is the last thing we ever want to do.

“And for those who are still not 100 per cent decided, I definitely encourage them to wait and see what we will be releasing in patches, updates and whatnot.”

Moral of the story? Expect games to change through the course of development. Do yourself a favor - Don't make a purchase decision like placing a pre-order thanks to a build released two years ago.

Patch 1.03 has already hit PC, PS4, and will soon on Xbox One, fixing a series of bugs and improving the current frame drops present in the game.

Microsoft's Phil Spencer Giving Some Love to Bloodborne for Hitting the 1M Mark

Now you don't see this everyday. Xbox head Phil Spencer took the time to congratulate Sony and Bloodborne hitting 1 Million in sales via Twitter. See, Xbox and PlayStation are friends. Now why can't we all be like them?

Bloodborne is the latest exclusive title for the PlayStation 4 and is getting a lot of good praise from critics and fans of the souls series. It just hit its 1 million sales mark and it's indeed a big achievement with it being a new IP (Intelectual Property) only available on one platform. A

https://twitter.com/XboxP3/status/588040165005910017

We had our fair share of the punishing action RPG with Miggy trying it out before it's release. Our review is currently in progress and will be out in a couple of days.

I loved every minute of Bloodborne, but to get a fresh and accurate judgement on From Software's latest game (I'm a huge fan of From Software games), I will take a step back and give Willem the reins on the site's full review. My impressions of the game is already out  on episode 76 of the TMG Podcast, so if your interested in what I think about the game, have a listen now.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O5Qb9XutVVI

Bloodborne was developed by From Software (Demon's Souls, Dark Souls, Dark Souls 2), and it's now available exclusively on the PlayStation 4.