Remedy says it "could bring Alan Wake to different platforms." The company earlier announced it had acquired the publishing rights to the series, which until now has only come to PC and Xbox 360, from Microsoft.When asked by GameSpot what this meant for the future of the franchise, Remedy replied, "The only thing we want to clarify, now that Remedy owns the publishing rights, is that we could bring Alan Wake to different platforms if we so choose. We have nothing to announce for now."Alan Wake and its spinoff, American Nightmare, were both published by Microsoft on Xbox 360 and self-published by Remedy on PC. The developer now solely holds the publishing rights, though it did not address the chances of a sequel. In the past, Remedy has repeatedly stated its desire to make Alan Wake 2, though it's unclear if that is more likely now. What is more likely, though by no means confirmed, is a PS4, Nintendo Switch, or Xbox One port of the existing Alan Wake games, which were released in 2010 and 2012, respectively.We do know of one project already underway: a live-action Alan Wake television adaption is in development. The show is a collaboration between Remedy and movie production company Contradiction Films.Remedy's next game, meanwhile, is Control, which launches for PS4, Xbox One, and PC on August 27. We saw the shooter at E3, and we think it's Remedy's most interesting game since the first Alan Wake.Info from Gamespot.com

Halo Reach is coming to PC as part of the Master Chief Collection, with a beta already underway. However, a few of its most popular features, the Forge and Theater modes, won't be coming on PC until sometime after launch. The studio hasn't committed to a timeline yet but has explained its rationale behind the delay.In a note on Halo Waypoint, 343 explains that the Forge and Theater tools will hit the Xbox One version when it migrates to MCC, but the PC version will have to wait a little longer. It also explains that maps and game types will be split into two separate migration days, but screenshots and clips won't make the trip."When you look specifically at Forge and what it truly is, it is a 3D editing tool that was built completely for console," lead producer Michael Fahrny explained. "In some cases, it's built to have mouse and keyboard support, and in some it's not--And that's one of our biggest challenges right now with the feature."He goes on to say that creating a "PC first experience" with full mouse and keyboard support creates an undetermined amount of work right now, and the studio is still looking into how much work it will be and how the team should prioritize it alongside their other development goals. He says they suspect it will be a lengthy process, so they're aiming to get the game itself to PC players quickly and then the Forge and Theater will come later through working with Ruffian and Splash Damage."Basically, our goal is to get them out as quickly as possible with each title," he said. "While I can't commit to a timeline right now, the underlying goal is a high-quality experience that it will empower PC players to create the content they want to."The beta for Reach just kicked off, and immediately sparked illegal copies circulating. 343 Industries warned that this could result in account bans. As announced recently, each Halo game in the PC version of the Master Chief Collection will cost $10 a la carte, while ODST will be $5. But each game will also be available through Game Pass on PC for $10 per month, or $15 for the Ultimate version that includes Xbox Game Pass and Xbox Live Gold.Info from Gamespot.com

For the time being, Amazon US is selling the Logitech G903 wireless gaming mouse for $75, which is half off of the full list price of $150. The G903 is an great mouse for general use, with a whole host of features that make it particularly outstanding for gaming. At this price, it's an absolute steal for any PC gamer. The price has dropped because there is in fact a newer model of the G903 available at full price with slightly improved specs (such as a higher DPI ceiling). We don't think the improvements are substantial enough to merit the splurge, however, unless you've really got money to burn.Get the Logitech G903 wireless gaming mouse for $75 »The Logitech G903 is built to provide esports-grade speed and responsiveness with a wireless mouse. The PMW3366 optical sensor operates from 200 up to 12k DPI, with buttons on the mouse for quickly swapping between adjustable settings. Customization is the name of the game, with a wholly ambidextrous design that includes swappable side buttons and covers, optional weights, and 11 programmable buttons. The main two buttons also feature "advanced mechanical tensioning," which, in practice, just means that they have a satisfying and consistent click, even after thousands of uses. Battery life is 24 hours with (colored, customizable) lighting on, or 32 hours without, and it's also compatible with Logitech's Powerplay wireless charging system. I have personally used this mouse on a daily basis for several years and can attest to its consistent and enduring quality and utility.This deal is available to anyone shopping on Amazon, but savings-conscious gamers should also keep an eye out for the upcoming Amazon Prime Day on July 15-16, which will include a whole host of deals on gaming hardware and software that are exclusive to Amazon Prime subscribers. Stay tuned for details on the actual deals as the dates get closer, and brush up on our general tips for getting the most out of Amazon Prime Day in the meantime. As an added incentive for gamers, the Amazon-owned Twitch also recently announced that Prime subscribers will get free, in-game goodies for Apex Legends and EA Sports titles, along with various other events in celebration of Prime Day.Info from Gamespot.com

While we're still waiting for the first footage or a trailer, Netflix has taken the wraps off of its upcoming The Witcher series with a round of photos that show the major cast members in full costume. In a pair of tweets, we got our first looks at Geralt (Henry Cavill), Yennefer (Anya Cholatra), and Ciri (Freya Allan).The shots also came alongside a poster-style image of Geralt facing the horizon, with the tagline, "The worst monsters are the ones we create." You'll notice Geralt only has a single sword on his back, rather than the two you're likely accustomed to seeing him carry in the video games. That's likely because, as in the books, his second sword is stored on his horse, Roach, although we don't see that in these first photos.The company also revealed the series' logline that sheds light on a story direction for this first season: "Based on the best-selling fantasy series of books, The Witcher is an epic tale of fate and family. Geralt of Rivia, a solitary monster hunter, struggles to find his place in a world where people often prove more wicked than beasts. But when destiny hurtles him toward a powerful sorceress, and a young princess with a dangerous secret, the three must learn to navigate the increasingly volatile Continent together."A separate image from Henry Cavill's Instagram shows a better look at Geralt from the front, striking a hero pose.Netflix is planning a panel at San Diego Comic Con on July 19 that will share more details on the series. That may be where the company drops a release date. So far we only know that it's planned for a fall release, and that the first season has wrapped production.The series appears to be modeling itself primarily after the well-loved Witcher 3. That game is currently slated for a release on Nintendo Switch, with a few graphical compromises.Info from Gamespot.com

There have been various attempts to make a movie version of Neil Gaiman's classic Sandman comic book series over the years, but none of them have so far made it to screen. However, it now looks like a Sandman adaptation is finally happening, with Netflix set to make a TV version of the acclaimed series.According to The Hollywood Reporter, Netflix has signed a "massive financial deal" with Warner to adapt Sandman. THR's sources state that this will be the most expensive DC show ever produced, although a specific dollar figure was not shared. The series' showrunner will be Allan Heinberg, who co-wrote the hugely successful DC movie Wonder Woman.The Sandman show will be executively produced by Gaiman and DC veteran David Goyer, whose credits includes co-writing Man of Steel and Christopher Nolan's Batman movies, as well as the TV show Krypton. DC and Netflix are yet to make an official announcement about the deal.The most recent attempt to bring Sandman to the screen was in 2016, when Dark Knight Rises star Joseph Gordon-Levitt was on board to star and produce a version for Warner subsidiary New Line Cinema. That project collapsed when Gordon-Levitt walked away, stating that he and executives at New Line couldn't "see eye to eye on what makes Sandman special."The original run of Sandman lasted for 75 issues, plus one special, between 1989 and 1996. Gaiman has returned to the title a number of times since, including a novella and a six-part prequel series. The comic has won over 26 prestigious Eisner Awards, and by the end of its run was DC's most popular title, outselling the likes Batman and Superman.Info from Gamespot.com

The start of the new month is always an exciting time for Xbox Live Gold members, as a new batch of free Xbox One and Xbox 360 Games with Gold will be available to claim and add to your library. July's first two free games are available to claim now, with the second two games becoming available halfway through the month. Here's what's on deck for Gold members in July:First up is Inside, Playdead's critically acclaimed puzzle-platformer and follow-up to Limbo. Inside features a creepy, mysterious environment where you control an unarmed boy as he makes his way through a strange facility. The setting is dark and largely monochromatic and noise is minimal, but Inside's ending is one you won't soon forget. It's available to claim now on Xbox One.Also available now is Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, which initially released in 1997. Considered one of the best 2D action side-scrollers of all time, Symphony of the Night is a cult classic and a must-play, especially if you've been enjoying the newly released Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night. Thanks to backward compatibility, you can play Symphony of the Night on both Xbox One and Xbox 360.Starting in mid-July, two more games will become available. The first is Meet the Robinsons, which is based on the animated film of the same name. You'll play as Wilbur Robinson, who's in the midst of some time travel chaos that requires him to track down a villain called the Bowler Hat Guy. The action-adventure game includes 40 missions and six different environments in which Wilbur must solve puzzles and battle enemies while armed with various scientific gadgets. You can play Meet the Robinsons on both Xbox One and Xbox 360.Big Crown: Showdown is the fourth and final game Gold members can claim in July. Available to play locally or online with up to four players, Big Crown: Showdown pits you and your friends against each other across three wacky medieval worlds and 15 insane courses. The goal is to stay on the course as it constantly shifts and throws hazards your way while also attempting to shove your friends off. Big Crown: Showdown is available to play only on Xbox One.July 2019 Games with GoldCastlevania: Symphony of the Night -- July 1-15 (Xbox One, Xbox 360)Inside -- July 1-31 (Xbox One)Meet the Robinsons -- July 16-31 (Xbox One, Xbox 360)Big Crown: Showdown -- July 16-August 15 (Xbox One)Info from Gamespot.com

It's the first week of July, and many folks in the United States are getting ready for their Independence Day holiday week. Because it's a new month, there are plenty of new shows and movies to watch on Netflix. This week, the streaming service's most popular series returns for a third season, so spend the 4th of July inside your house, watching people escape the clutches of creatures from another dimension.This Thursday, Season 3 of Stranger Things arrives, and while few plot details have been shared publicly, GameSpot's review was extremely positive of the new season, giving it a 9 out of 10. Mike Rougeau said, "It's safe to say that Stranger Things creators Matt and Ross Duffer have pulled it off: After a lackluster sophomore slump, Stranger Things is back at the top of its game."Since Stranger Things arrives in the latter half of the week, you're probably looking for something else to fill the void. On Monday, Netflix will be releasing plenty of new movies that you'll want to watch. Both Caddyshack movies head to the service, along with the '80s classic monster movie Little Monsters. If you're looking for a classic drama, Philadelphia and Rain Man arrive the same day. But our pick of the week that isn't Stranger Things has to go to the classic Patrick Swayze movie, Road House. It's about a bouncer who is amazing at his job/ripping throats. He heads to a new bar called The Double Deuce and squares off against an evil developer and his goons, who have a monster truck.Below you'll find the full list of everything coming to Netflix this week. Make sure to check out everything coming out in July to plan your bingeing schedule.Monday, July 1Designated Survivor: 60 days -- NETFLIX ORIGINALKatherine Ryan: Glitter Room -- NETFLIX ORIGINALAlice Doesn't Live Here AnymoreAstro BoyCaddyshackCaddyshack 2Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005)Cheech & Chong's Up in SmokeCloverfieldDisney's Race to Witch MountainFrozen RiverInkheartKill the IrishmanLady in the WaterLittle MonstersMean DreamsMean StreetsMegamindNights in RodanthePaul Blart: Mall CopPhiladelphiaRain ManRoad HouseRoom on the BroomScream 3Starsky & HutchSwipedSwordfishTaxi DriverThe Accountant of AuschwitzThe AmericanThe Book of EliThe Brothers GrimmThe HangoverThe Pink PantherThe Pink Panther 2War Against WomenWho's That Knocking at My Door?Tuesday, July 2Bangkok Love Stories: Objects of Affection -- NETFLIX ORIGINALBangkok Love Stories: Plead -- NETFLIX ORIGINALGood Witch: Season 4Wednesday, July 3The Last Czars -- NETFLIX ORIGINALYummy Mummies: Season 2 -- NETFLIX ORIGINALThursday, July 4Kakegurui: Season 2Stranger Things 3 -- NETFLIX ORIGINALFriday, July 5In The Dark: Season 1Saturday, July 6Free Rein: Season 3 -- NETFLIX FAMILYThe Iron LadySicilian Ghost Story Info from Gamespot.com

The latest entry in 2K's annual basketball series, NBA 2K20, returns this September, and now we know who this year's cover athletes will be. The publisher announced that Anthony Davis will grace the cover of the game's standard and Deluxe editions, while three-time NBA champ Dwyane Wade will be featured on the Legend edition.This isn't Davis's first appearance on an NBA 2K box; he was also among the stars featured on NBA 2K16's cover. It doesn't appear he'll be wearing his Lakers jersey on the 2K20 boxes, however, having just recently been traded to the team, although there is a chance that could be updated ahead of the game's release.As usual, players who pre-order any of NBA 2K20's editions ahead of launch will receive an assortment virtual currency and MyTeam points, along with MyTeam League packs and other in-game goodies. You can take a look at all the pre-order bonuses for each edition--as well as the game's different covers--above.NBA 2K20 launches for PS4, Xbox One, PC, and Nintendo Switch on September 6. The game will also be available at launch on Google's new game streaming platform, Stadia, which is slated to arrive this November, but the service will initially only be available to those who purchase the Founder's Edition. You can read more about the upcoming platform in our Stadia Founder's Edition pre-order guide.2K's previous basketball game, NBA 2K19, received a 7/10 from GameSpot. In our NBA 2K19 review, critic Michael Higham wrote, "It's impressive that the game of basketball has translated to controllers and screens in the way it has. If you want to immerse yourself in the sport and culture, NBA 2K19 has you covered with a breadth of content. But even that has its limitations after several years of iterations. Although those willing to grind for everything will eventually get rewarded, the system of VC still comes off as exploitative."Info from Gamespot.com

July is officially here, which means Amazon Prime Day 2019 is only a couple weeks away. In typical fashion, Amazon is already offering early deals and announcing some brand-new products exclusive for Prime members, and one Prime Day launch in particular caught our eye: this Star Wars Funko Pop Deluxe figure featuring Han Solo piloting the iconic Millennium Falcon.SEE IT AT AMAZON Measuring 5.5 inches tall, 10.5 inches wide, and 13.25 inches long, this collectible comes in a window-box display and is one of the largest Funko figures ever made, according to the listing. With its captain at the helm, the Millennium Falcon is replicated with incredible detail and is hoisted off its base with a few supports to give it the illusion of flying. It's unclear whether Solo can be removed from the Millennium Falcon, but what use is a spaceship without its driver, anyway? We are a bit sad, however, that his copilot Chewbacca isn't along for the ride (RIP).This item is an Amazon-exclusive, and even though it's categorized as a "Prime Day launch," the Funko Pop actually releases on October 21, 2019. However, you can pre-order it now, and the item is protected by Amazon's pre-order price guarantee, which means you'll automatically receive the lowest price if it drops between now and when the item ships. Currently, it's selling for $65--but you won't actually be charged until the item ships. Whether you grab it for yourself or as a gift for a loved one, this deluxe Funko Pop will be a badass addition to any Star Wars fan's collection.Amazon Prime Day 2019 will run a full 48 hours this year, kicking off on Monday, July 15 and ending at midnight PT on July 17. Some deals are already starting to go live (and sell out, like this Toshiba Fire TV that was on sale for $180 for a while), and we're slowly getting info on deals to expect. For example, Twitch Prime members will be receiving free Apex Legends skins for Prime Day, along with free games and in-game loot. We also know other retailers will be throwing their own sales around Prime Day, like Target's Deal Days, so if you've been holding out on a big purchase, this month may be your best chance to seal the deal until Black Friday. Stay tuned, because GameSpot will be covering all the best gaming and entertainment deals around Prime Day this month.Info from Gamespot.com

Crunchyroll has announced a new mobile Mob Psycho 100 video game. Titled Mob Psycho 100: Psychic Battle, the game will first be playable at Anime Expo 2019 and releases this fall.In a press release, Crunchyroll describes the game as "an original, turn-based RPG mobile game, allowing fans to interact with and use powerful psychic moves alongside their favorite characters from the show." Though an original story, the game will utilize certain elements from the first season of the anime. The voice cast of the anime will be reprising their roles in Psychic Battle as well.Last week, Crunchyroll revealed the story of Mob Psycho 100 would continue in a brand-new OVA. Scheduled to premiere September 1 at Crunchyroll Expo, Mob Psycho 100 II: The First Spirits and Such Company Trip - A Journey that Mends the Heart and Heals the Soul will publicly release on Crunchyroll on September 25. The OVA sees Mob, Reigen, Dimple, and Serizawa respond to a request to discover the truth behind strange rumors surrounding an inn. But on the way, both Reigen and Serizawa fall asleep and get sucked into an eerie parallel world.Created by the same studio behind the first season of One Punch Man, Mob Psycho 100 was one of 2017's most popular anime series and its follow-up season, Mob Psycho 100 II, is looking to be one of the best for 2019. The story focuses on the titular Mob, a teenage boy who struggles with balancing his everyday life as a student with his afterschool activities as a near-unstoppable esper.Mob Psycho 100 is available on Crunchyroll and VRV.Info from Gamespot.com

It's been almost two years since Stranger Things Season 2 concluded, and even longer since Barbara "Barb" Holland (played by Shannon Purser) met her demise in the Upside Down. With Stranger Things Season 3 on the horizon, the question of "is it good?" rings louder than Fourth of July fireworks. Read below to see what critics think of Eleven and friends' new outing.Stranger Things 3 features the same cast with a new addition. Eleven is still played by Millie Bobby Brown, with Caleb McLaughlin, Gaten Matarazzo, Finn Wolfhard, and Noah Schnapp all reprising their roles as Lucas Sinclair, Dustin Henderson, Mike Wheeler, and Will Byers, respectively. Max Mayfield returns to her Season 2 role as Sadie Sink, while David Harbour (Jim Hopper) and Winona Ryder (Joyce Byers) are both accounted for. New cast member Maya Hawke (Robin) joins the gang in Season 3.Stranger Things 3 picks up after the events of Season 2. School's out in Hawkins--at least for a few months, as the summer sun shines over the town. There's finally something to do in the form of newly-built Starcourt Mall. Things are changing, people are growing up, and romance is blossoming all around Hawkins. But while the crew is seeking thrills, things get stranger by the minute.Reviews for Stranger Things Season 3 have begun appearing online. We've collected review excerpts to help give you a sense whether the third season lives up to the series' potential. Head over to GameSpot sister site Metacritic for more reviews.Stranger Things Season 3Directed By: Matt and Ross DufferWritten By: The Duffer Brothers, Shawn Levy, Uta BriesewitzStarring: Caleb McLaughlin, David Harbour, Finn Wolfhard, Millie Bobby Brown, Winona Ryder,Release Date: July 4 (United States)GameSpot"It's hard to say much more about Stranger Things Season 3 without giving away too much. There's going to be a lot of discussion about what happens to various characters, questions about the ways certain things were revealed, and debate about Season 3's ending, but that will come after the glorious July 4 weekend binge. For now, it's safe to say that Stranger Things creators Matt and Ross Duffer have pulled it off: After a lackluster sophomore slump, Stranger Things is back at the top of its game." -- Michael Rougeau [Full review]CNET"This season's sense of fun, along with its relationship drama and multiple odd pair-ups bring humor and touching moments that recall Game of Thrones at its best. While the story flows in tighter spaces and everyone has a part to play in grander events, the conspiracy is simply a side project. It's a fun excuse to spend the summer in the warmer-than-ever world of Stranger Things." -- Jennifer Bisset [Full review]Comic Book"Stranger Things [Season 3] manages to both be exactly what you wanted and nothing like you expected, with its summer setting shifting from the confounding mysteries of the Upside Down and Dr. Brenner into an explosive and action-packed romp towards adulthood. Despite its rocky start, the creators and performers find a way to pull off the impossible and deliver the best season yet, all while honoring their loyal fan base and challenging them to want more from a series known for playing it safe." -- Patrick Cavanaugh [Full review]IndieWire"'Stranger Things' will be easier to discuss once everyone has seen it, as the granular details that could spoil fun surprises are the same that need to be mentioned in outlining issues, but overall Season 3 leaves the franchise in a good place. If Season 2 was too serious, too dark, and too fractured, then Season 3 is pretty fun, very bright, and streamlined to deliver sensory overload. The Netflix original still remains trapped by the genres it pays tribute to; content to play out the same outdated archetypes of yesteryear and play off the beloved films that were brought to life from untethered imaginations. But as far as 2019 blockbusters go, 'Stranger Things 3' delivers in a lot of the ways 'Game of Thrones' did not--like a candle in the window, after a cold, dark winter's night." -- Ben Travers [Full review]Paste Magazine"[Season 3] is clearly made for the date Netflix is releasing it on (July 4), which coincides with the season's action in a number of ways. It harnesses a Big Summer Mood, a healthy heap of nostalgia and has plenty of fun references. But its story is also convoluted and far too scattered. The overall pattern of what happens and how is overly familiar, and the stinger for the season doesn't inspire much confidence for a (sure-to-be) fourth season to refresh the formula at all. For better or worse, Stranger Things' new season is as tasty, messy, and fleeting as an ice cream cone on a hot summer's day." -- Allison Keene [Full review]The A.V. Club"The series' embrace of something else that was cloying, sticky, and inescapable is cause for asking where a zeal for verisimilitude ends and where extreme product integration begins--the same could be asked of the Starcourt, an immersive piece of set design that also stamps logos across Stranger Things 3 like it's a race car. But the mall's also an important, resonant symbol of the characters' newfound autonomy, and New Coke isn't just another piece of Reagan-administration kitsch--it was a brazen experiment in messing with a good thing, and a cautionary tale for anyone who might attempt something similar in the future. It was change people couldn't believe in. As time goes on and their stars get older, the Duffers and team will need to similarly continue tweaking the Stranger Things formula. They don't have everything flawlessly calibrated in Stranger Things 3, but there's enough of the taste that got viewers hooked in the first place to keep them cracking open one episode after another." -- Erik Adams [Full review]The Hollywood Reporter"Stranger Things is a show that absolutely knows its audience, and that leads me to wonder if casual viewers will be more generous to the evidence of familiarity and sluggishness that I experienced. I spent more than half the season thinking Stranger Things might be a show doomed by a refusal, in Coca-Cola terms, to break from its beloved recipe and then the last couple episodes thinking it was a season explicitly about that refusal, representing a turning of the corner. Expect very few of these reservations to get in the way of holiday-weekend bingeing of this too-long-absent series." -- Daniel Fienberg [Full review]TV Guide"In fact, Season 3 is so rewarding because of the very fact that it doesn't try to do too much. TV these days feels a responsibility to say something, but aside from the faintest taps into problems we face today--the mall hurting local businesses and signaling the advent of gross Reagan-era capitalism; Nancy (Natalia Dyer) trying to break into her new job but getting stymied by disgusting, misogynistic men; the mere presence of the new villain in Hawkins--Stranger Things wants to be pure entertainment of the simplest degree... Though there are signs that Stranger Things is on the verge of slowing down (one-note villains, the missing feeling of an unearthed '80s treasure), that's not happening yet in Season 3. This is the Stranger Things you came for, and it's the perfect American summer vacation." -- Tim Surette [Full review]Vox"All of this is a reminder that writing has always been Stranger Things' biggest weakness: When it's not closely following pre-established tropes, the show frequently feels like it doesn't know what to do next. And while it's committed to its characters, it still doesn't quite know how to write meaningful character interaction and meaningful plot action; it's often one or the other. [Season 2] mostly delivered on developing characterizations, but its plot was frequently marching in place without a lot of direction; [Season 3] manages to provide an engaging plot, but it falls down on the character development. It would be nice to have a version of Stranger Things that really levels up and commits to both." -- Aja Romano [Full review] Info from Gamespot.com

Hearthstone will be rolling out its next expansion in August, titled Saviors of Uldum. This marks the middle chapter in a three-part series of expansions that are all thematically linked. Just like the last expansion, Rise of Shadows, this next one brings back some familiar characters, along with some new mechanics. It will launch on August 6.Saviors of Uldum takes place immediately after Shadows, after the villain Rafaam and his League of EVIL have made off with the floating city of Dalaran. They've sailed it over to the desert area Uldum, where the League of Explorers are ready to stop their schemes. The foursome includes Reno Jackson, Elise Starseeker, Sir Finley, and Brann Bronzebeard. (They were first introduced in the League of Explorers expansion in 2015 as a foil to Rafaam.)As usual, the expansion will introduce a handful of new mechanics. This one will include a new keyword, Reborn, which will bring minions back to life with one remaining health the first time they're destroyed. Powerful Plague spells for Priest, Shaman, Warrior, Warlock, and Rogue will impact the entire battlefield equally.Finally, Saviors of Uldum will bring back Quests for the first time since the Journey to Un'Goro expansion. These one-cost Legendary spells will always start in your hand, and give you a goal to pursue as you play. If you achieve the goal, you get a big reward. This time, though, the quest reward will trigger automatically, rather than generating a card into your hand. Blizzard promises more familiar mechanics will be returning as well.The expansion will once again introduce 135 new cards, and pre-purchases will net you some bonuses. The standard bundle ($50) will include 50 packs, an Elise Starseeker card back, and a random Golden Legendary. The mega bundle ($80) will include 80 packs, card back, random Golden Legendary, and an Elise Starseeker Druid hero portrait. You can also log in within the first 90 days of the expansion's launch to get a free random Quest card.The single-player portion of the expansion is planned to launch in September. Upon Uldum's launch, the Arena will rotate to include Basic, Classic, Saviors of Uldum, Rastakhan's Rumble, Journey to Un'Goro, Kobolds & Catacombs, and League of Explorers. You can attend a pre-release Fireside Gathering between August 2-5 to open your packs early.Info from Gamespot.com

Platinum Games has enjoyed a close relationship with Nintendo of late. The partnership has already resulted in the release of a Wii U-exclusive sequel to Bayonetta, while Bayonetta 3 is also in development for Switch. But the studio's next game, Astral Chain, is its first brand-new property created for Nintendo's console-handheld hybrid. As such, it aims to do things a little differently.While the core of Astral Chain looks unmistakably Platinum, it's not specifically in the mold of the studio's traditional action games. This time, it seems Platinum wants to make a game that features more RPG elements and, in doing so, it could perhaps attract a different audience.We spoke to director Takahisa Taura, who previously worked on the critically acclaimed Nier: Automata, about how the studio came up with Astral Chain, how it represents the DNA of Platinum Games as a studio, and some of the newer elements it's introducing to its tried-and-true action gameplay.Click image to view in full-screen galleryGameSpot: Platinum has a lot of wild ideas for games; where did the idea for Astral Chain come from?Taura: The biggest [thing for me], as far as the concept is concerned, was to control two characters at the same time, with our main character [and] the Legion. With Platinum Games what we've made up until now has generally been games where you control one character at any given time, so I thought maybe if you increase the number of characters the player is controlling, it'll become more fun.Platinum's games are about precision and having tight windows to execute moves. How does having a second character impact that?The Legion that you call into battle generally fights on its own. So while it's fighting you could do things like work together with it, right alongside it, or you can run around and let it handle the fighting. So it may not be as complicated to play as it looks.But, having said that, there's also a way to control the Legion directly at the same time. So you can get the feeling while you're playing that you are controlling two characters at once if you want to.So is it a simpler mode where you just control one character, and then for those who have a history with Platinum Games or are inclined towards those types of action games there's a trickier version, and that's where the depth is?Well, they're kind of two sides of the same coin as far as controlling one or the other. Essentially you can control one and have the Legion do the fighting for you or you can control both at the same time.As far as a separate mode for players who aren't as experienced with this kind of genre is concerned, there is a mode where the Legion [is] more active in helping the player out, and that's made so that players who aren't as experienced can make it to the end of the game.There's always a symbiosis between how a Platinum game plays and the story around it. Something like Vanquish, for example, is a sci-fi story, but it is built around this ability to slide around everywhere. And the fiction of Bayonetta feels like it's designed just so we can have a character that can manipulate time and be a witch. How do you come up with your stories and what comes first, the story or the mechanic?First, you have the mechanics of the game. And you establish something like, there are five types of Legions, which there are in this game. And then you have other ideas within the game world, that there's a good Legion called the Arm Legion, and the Arm Legion has the ability to move objects, and the Beast Legion has the ability to be mounted. And so you create parts of the world that respond to those.And there are other abilities that you can do as well. Like you can send your Legion out and have them pull you over to different things. And so you think of all these systems and that's fun to do. And having these things available in the real world that the game takes place in is kind of hard to do, so for that we created something called the Astral World, which is a key part of this game. Essentially that came into being as a place where you can do all these fun Legion abilities and then it was added to the [story] of the game from there.And it's not like we just leave things as they are. At that point, we make sure, having established the system and scenario, that you interweave the two of them and that's exactly how we did it for Vanquish. That's also the way we did it for Bayonetta.Because [in Astral Chain] the player plays as a police officer you can gain points by doing things like picking up empty cans on the streets and throwing them away or helping the people in the town. So, those kinds of systems were things we were able to do because of the scenario and setting, as well.What pushes you to create this mad game where you're this space anime cop and at the same time there's a mechanic where the player is doing menial tasks like picking up cans?We just wanted to create a world where you can have lots of different play styles. And it's not like you're forced to pick up these cans or anything, but we just wanted to give players the option to do that within this world. And if you don't want to pick them up, you can just run at them and kick them.It just reminds me of when I was younger and I would be watching Dragon Ball Z and there'd be a massive fight for the fate of the universe, but every now and then Chi-Chi would appear and be like, "You need to take care of Gohan and make sure he's studying," and the entire time I was thinking, "But he's trying to fight for the universe, why would you be worried about something so meaningless in the grander scheme of things?"Actually, I should admit that we are kind of going for that kind of, I don't know if you should call it a gag or kind of a surreal quality in what we've made here. In addition to picking up the cans in the street, there are also other elements like you find lost cats, and you take care of them as well.Click image to view in full-screen galleryAre you tracking that stuff? Is there a leaderboard that shows players that are most helpful in those smaller tasks?There's no leaderboard or anything like that but you [will] feel better about yourself.Platinum's always going over the top. Have you ever thought about going in the opposite direction and making a straight-laced experience that's grounded in more realism?Until now [our games] generally have the player fighting and fighting and fighting and that just keeps going on, but in this game we wanted to have aspects that were not that kind of thing, where they resembled more of an adventure mode type of thing, where it calms down and the player can ask questions. We wanted people who generally aren't used to Platinum Games to be able to see that side of it as well.You mentioned it briefly earlier but in that spirit of trying to bring in people who may not be super into or very knowledgeable about this style of action game, are you planning to include a one-button-style control option again?There is a simpler system like that for people playing this game who aren't used to Platinum Games titles. But we are going to announce more details about that system at a later date, so please look forward to it.Info from Gamespot.com

We may be nearing the end of Season 9 of Fortnite, but Epic's hit battle royale game shows no signs of slowing down. Not only is the 14 Days of Summer event underway (which has its own set of challenges to complete and rewards to unlock), Week 8's challenges are now live on PS4, Xbox One, PC, Nintendo Switch, and mobile devices, giving you another opportunity to earn Battle Stars and level your Season 9 Battle Pass up.If you can finish all seven tasks from a given week, you'll also complete one of this season's Utopia challenges. The reward for doing so is a special loading screen that leads to a free item hidden somewhere around the game's map. Each odd-numbered Utopia challenge you complete will lead you to a free Battle Star, which levels your Battle Pass up by one full tier. Even-numbered Utopia challenges, on the other hand, will point you to a Fortbyte--a new type of collectible introduced in Season 9.Unlike the aforementioned Battle Stars, you don't need to actually complete the Utopia challenges in order to find the Fortbytes; you can pick them up as long as you have a Season 9 Battle Pass and know where to go, but they won't actually appear in the game until that week's challenges have gone live. That's the case with Fortbyte #97, which is now live (albeit a little later than anticipated).As is the case with previous Fortbytes, the clue for #97 isn't hidden within the Week 8 loading screen itself, but rather its description, which reads: "Peely and Jonesy first met at Bao Bros. and instantly knew they would be friends forever." This is your clue to head to the dumpling shop in Lucky Landing. The shop itself is easy to spot; you can tell it apart by the giant angry dumpling head spinning on its roof. Head inside, then make your way downstairs to the gym and the Fortbyte will appear.There are a few weeks left in Season 9, so you still have some time to catch up on any outstanding challenges from this season. If you need help completing them, you can find tips and guides for all the trickier ones in our full Fortnite Season 9 challenges roundup. We also have guides for the 14 Days of Summer challenges to help you clear those. If you manage to complete all 14 by the time the event ends, you'll unlock a special smoothie back bling.Info from Gamespot.com

Star Trek: Discovery was recently renewed for a third season, and it will be soon be joined by two more series in the long-running sci-fi franchise--Star Trek: Picard and the animated show Lower Decks. It has now been announced that all three shows will feature at this year's San Diego Comic-Con.CBS has confirmed an event titled "Enter the Star Trek Universe" is taking place on Saturday July 20 in Hall H, at 11.30am PST. It will kick off with a Discovery panel, moderated by comedian Tig Notaro, who also co-starred as Reno in the most recent season of the show. Guests will include star Sonequa Martin-Green and executive producer Alex Kirkman.The event will also give fans the first look at Star Trek: Lower Decks. This animated series has been developed by Rick & Morty writer Mike McMahan, who will appear at the panel alongside "surprise guests."But the most exciting appearance for most fans will be at the event's third panel, at which Patrick Stewart will speak about Star Trek: Picard. The series is set to premiere in the fall and sees Stewart reprise his iconic Next Generation role as Jean-Luc Picard. The Picard panel will also feature showrunner Michael Chabon and co-stars Alison Pill, Michelle Hurd, Evan Evagora, Isa Briones, Santiago Cabrera, and Harry Treadaway.In addition to the Hall H event, throughout the convention, fans will be able to visit the Star Trek Universe booth. There will be a meet-and-greet sessions to meet Star Trek talent on Saturday July 20, plus an "immersive transporter experience" during the whole weekend. There will also be limited edition Star Trek pins available from the booth.For more on SDCC 2019, check out GameSpot's guide to What Matters At This Year's Convention.Disclosure: CBS is GameSpot's parent company.Info from Gamespot.com