Microsoft has added a couple more games to Xbox One's backwards compatibility library. Two more Xbox 360 titles are now playable on the current-generation console. Microsoft's Major Nelson revealed the new additions today via Twitter.
The two new backwards compatibility games are Earth Defense Force 2017 and the Dreamcast classic Sonic Adventure 2. The former title was a physical release, while the latter was only available on Xbox 360 digitally as an Xbox Live Arcade title.
If you already own the disc for Earth Defense Force 2017, you can simply pop it into your Xbox One disc tray and begin playing, while Sonic Adventure 2 will be waiting in the Ready to Download section of My Games and Apps if you already own that game digitally. You can also purchase both titles now from the Xbox Store.
Star Wars Battlefront II players may soon get the chance to customize their characters. A video has been leaked of a character customization menu not currently found in the game.
The leak was published by a Redditor named uninspired_zebra, who has a history of obtaining Battlefront 2 information early through datamining. It shows the PC version of the game having a Change Appearance option in the Assault character class. This menu isn't currently available in the game.
Within the Assault class, the leaked video shows a player customizing the class's appearance across the game's six factions. By clicking on the Galactic Republic faction, it opens up a menu with a host of skins to choose from. The player then does the same thing for the Rebel Alliance. You can watch the video below, and uninspired_zebra has also shared a few images of the other classes here.
"It's an amazing brand that's been built over many, many years. So if you did a bunch of cosmetic things, you might start to violate the canon. Darth Vader in white probably doesn't make sense, versus in black. Not to mention you probably don't want Darth Vader in pink. No offense to pink, but I don't think that's right in the canon," he said at the Credit Suisse Technology, Media, and Telecom Conference on Tuesday.
Earlier this month, EA made the surprise move of pulling all microtransactions out of Star Wars Battlefront II just hours before its release. This follows concerns and criticism from fans, worried the loot crate system essentially made the game "pay-to-win." There is now speculation that the previous microtransaction system, which focuses on abilities and buffs, will be replaced with an Overwatch-style system of cosmetic-only purchases.
A new month means a slew of new programming to watch on Amazon Prime. The streaming video component of the service is ending the year on a high note by adding some notable franchises, the new Doctor Who Christmas special, and classic movies like Point Break to its offerings in December.
Most notable, the Rocky movies are coming to Prime. Rocky through Rocky V will all help Amazon kick off the month. They join Creed, which is already available to subscribers. Now Amazon just needs to snag the rights to Rocky Balboa and the collection will be complete.
The streamer is also adding the eight-film Marvel Animated Features collection. The cartoon movies, originally released direct-to-DVD, include Ultimate Avengers, Planet Hulk, Doctor Strange: The Sorcerer Supreme, and Thor: Tales of Asgard, among others. Originally released between 2006 and 2011, the films exist in their own universe apart from the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
December also brings several more Thursday Night Football games, as the NFL presents the Saints vs. the Falcons, the Broncos vs. the Colts, and the Steelers vs. the Texans. Those games will air live through Amazon Prime.
With the arrival of the holidays comes a slew of new shows and movies on Netflix. It's a particularly busy month for the streamer, with many holiday specials joining the service, alongside several Netflix originals and a number of new library titles. With popular titles like V for Vendetta, Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, and Disney's The Santa Clause trilogy arriving, December is going to be a busy month for streaming.
However, it's a Netflix original movie that you should be paying closest attention to. December 22 will see the premiere of Bright, starring Will Smith and Joel Edgerton. The fantasy crime movie is directed by David Ayer (Suicide Squad) with a script by Max Landis (American Ultra). The film marks Smith's first time starring in a Netflix project and he's certainly picked an interesting one.
Bright is set in a world where humans and fantasy creatures coexist. Smith plays an LAPD officer who is partnered with an Orc (Edgerton) when they find a very powerful magic wand that has the potential to change the world. Other new entries include Ace Ventura: Pet Detective, a new season of The Ranch, and Dave Chappelle's latest stand-up comedy special. It's not all good news, though.
There are also many titles departing the service in December. Black Snake Moan, Practical Magic, and 11 seasons of It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia are just a few of the movies and shows that will no longer be available after the end of 2017. So make sure you watch them while you still can.
You can take a look at the full list of what's coming and going on Netflix throughout December below. You can also see everything that's arrived in November.
Arriving on Netflix, December 2017
December 1
8 Mile
Ace Ventura: Pet Detective
Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls
All Hail King Julien: Season 5 (Netflix Original)
A StoryBots Christmas (Netflix Original)
August Rush
Chef & My Fridge: 2017
Dark: Season 1 (Netflix Original)
Diana: In Her Own Words
Dreamcatcher
DreamWorks Home: For the Holidays (Netflix Original)
Easy: Season 2 (Netflix Original)
Exporting Raymond
Forbidden Games: The Justin Fashanu Story
Full Metal Jacket
Hitch
My Happy Family (Netflix Original)
Nacho Libre
Sahara
The Farthest - Voyager in Space
The Little Rascals
The Wackness
The Young Victoria
Tyson
V for Vendetta
TURN: Washington's Spies: Season 4
Voyeur (Netflix Original)
While You Were Sleeping
December 4
When Calls the Heart: Season 4
December 5
Craig Ferguson: Tickle Fight (Netflix Original)
Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2
December 6
Trolls Holiday Special
December 8
El Camino Christmas (Netflix Original)
The Crown: Season 2 (Netflix Original)
December 11
Catwoman
The Magicians: Season 2
December 12
Disney's The Santa Clause
Disney's The Santa Clause 2
Disney's The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause
Judd Apatow: The Return (Netflix Original)
December 14
41 Dogs in My Home
A&E: When Patients Attack
Ainsley Eats the Streets: Season 1
Halt and Catch Fire: Season 4
December 15
A Five Star Life
Christmas Inheritance (Netflix Original)
Discovering Bigfoot
El Señor de los Cielos: Season 5
Erased: Season 1 (Netflix Original)
Freeway: Crack In The System
Neverlake
Pottersville
Reggie Yates Outside Man: Volume 2
The Haunting of Helena
The Mafia Kills Only in Summer
The Ranch: Part 4 (Netflix Original)
Trollhunters: Part 2 (Netflix Original)
Ultimate Beastmaster (Netflix Original)
Wormwood (Netflix Original)
December 18
Hello, My Twenties!: Season 2 (Netflix Original)
December 19
Miss Me This Christmas
Russell Howard: Recalibrate (Netflix Original)
The Indian Detective: Season 1 (Netflix Original)
You Can't Fight Christmas
December 20
La Casa de Papel: Season 1 (Netflix Original)
December 21
Peaky Blinders: Season 4 (Netflix Original)
December 22
72 Dangerous Animals: Latin America: Season 1 (Netflix Original)
Bright (Netflix Original)
Dope: Season 1 (Netflix Original)
Fuller House: Season 3, New Episodes (Netflix Original)
Rosario Tijeras: Season 1
The Toys That Made Us: Season 1 (Netflix Original)
December 23
Creep 2
Myths & Monsters: Season 1
December 25
Cable Girls: Season 2 (Netflix Original)
Planet Earth II
December 26
Todd Barry: Spicy Honey (Netflix Original)
Travelers: Season 2 (Netflix Original)
All Hail King Julien: New Year's Eve Countdown 2018
Beat Bugs: New Year's Eve Countdown 2018
Larva: New Year's Eve Countdown 2018
Pororo: New Year's Eve Countdown 2018
Puffin Rock: New Year's Eve Countdown 2018
Skylanders Academy: New Year's Eve Countdown 2018
Trollhunters: New Year's Eve Countdown 2018
True and The Rainbow Kingdom: New Year's Eve Countdown 2018
Word Party: New Year's Eve Countdown 2018
December 27
Pusher
December 29
Bill Nye Saves the World: Season 2: Part 1 (Netflix Original)
Killer Legends
La Mante: Season 1 (Netflix Original)
Shelter
The Climb (Netflix Original)
December 31
Dave Chappelle: Equanimity (Netflix Original)
Fun Mom Dinner
Leaving Netflix, December 2017
December 1
All I Want for Christmas
Bedazzled
Black Snake Moan
Compulsion
Cousin Bette
Hoffa
La Viuda Negra: Season 1
Picture Perfect
Practical Magic
Rebelde
Scary Movie 2
Scary Movie 3
Super Size Me
Terriers: Season 1
The Crucible
The Gospel Road: A Story of Jesus
The Man from Snowy River
Touch: Season 2
Toys
Two Girls and a Guy
Waking Life
Young Frankenstein
Yu-Gi-Oh! Bonds Beyond Time
Yu-Gi-Oh! Zexal: Seasons 1-2
December 5
Holes
December 9
It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia: Seasons 1-11
December 10
Lucky Number Slevin
Nightcrawler
The Rite
December 11
Dollhouse: Season 2
December 13
The Queen of Versailles
December 15
America's Funniest Home Video Kids: Holidazed
America's Funniest Home Videos Kids: Animals with Attitude: Season 1
America's Funniest Home Videos Kids: It's Tough Being a Kid: Season 1
America's Funniest Home Videos Kids: Playtime Ain't for Wimps: Season 1
America's Funniest Home Videos: New Collection D: Nincompoop Nation
Jeff Dunham: Arguing with Myself
December 19
Dance Academy: Series 1-3
December 20
Che: Parts 1 & 2
December 24
Amores Perros
December 25
Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl
Another batch of titles have been added to the Nintendo Switch Eshop. The bulk of this week's releases launch today, November 30, but the biggest game of the week--both literally and figuratively--arrives tomorrow.
Headlining this week's Switch releases is Xenoblade Chronicles 2, the last major first-party game for the console in 2017. The open-world JRPG launches on December 1 and puts players in the role of Rex, a Driver who is able to summon and fight alongside living weapons called Blades. Alongside the game, Switch owners will be able to purchase the Xenoblade Chronicles 2 season pass, which costs $30 and adds new quests, rare Blades, story content, and more throughout 2018. You can read more about the game in our Xenoblade Chronicles 2 review and review roundup.
Today's batch of releases consists of seven titles, including two arcade titles: the latest ACA Neo Geo classic, World Heroes, and Traverse USA. Also arriving today is Serial Cleaner, a game about cleaning up bloody murder scenes, as well as the classic adventure game Syberia 2.
Rounding out today's releases is the shoot-'em-up Star Ghost; the space-searching adventure game Opus: The Day We Found Earth; and the mythological puzzle game Mujo. Also out for Switch this week are Resident Evil: Revelations and its sequel. The two games are available to purchase individually from the Eshop or bundled together in the Revelations Collection physical package. You can find the full list of this week's Switch releases below.
EA and DICE have detailed the contents of the new update for Star Wars Battlefront II, patch 1.03. It doesn't do much in the way of introducing new features, instead focusing on resolving bugs and making other small tweaks. Perhaps most notably, it addresses complaints about the awards screen presented at the end of a round.
Previously, this screen recognized the player who earned a certain distinction--MVP, most kills, longest killstreak, and so on. Because of the specifics awards that it hands out, this oftentimes results in the screen being dominated by a single player (or sometimes two) who earned all five awards. Update 1.03 makes a change to simply acknowledge players by their score, which means more of them will be recognized.
Spawn points and the combat area on a number of maps have been adjusted, as have some specifics of how objectives can be captured. Most notably, Boba Fett can no longer hover high up in the air and make progress toward capturing an objective. Additionally, some collision issues have also been addressed on Jakku, Endor, and Kashyyyk. "This means that movement [is] now more fluent and no weird or invisible barriers are stopping your movement," DICE said.
Other changes of note include a fix for the error when quitting games, an increase to reinforcements earned after each stage of a Galactic Assault match, and a reduction to the time needed to interact with objectives.
December is nearly here, and that means the next batch of free Games With Gold titles will soon be available. As a result, time is running out for November's freebies, and today is your last opportunity to claim a pair of them if you're an Xbox Live Gold member.
On the Xbox One side, intense racing game TrackMania Turbo returns to its regular price tomorrow, December 1. The other Xbox One game, Tales From the Borderlands, will be available through December 15, though there's no reason to wait on claiming that one, if you haven't already done so.
Today's also the last day to claim an Xbox 360 game, the Indiana Jones-esque Deadfall Adventures. As with all Xbox 360 games offered through Games With Gold, it can be played on Xbox One through backwards compatibility, so One owners have as many as three games to claim right now. You can grab them all through the Xbox.com links at the bottom of this story.
Destiny 2 will be unplayable for a few hours this week as developer Bungie performs server maintenance. The company is taking the game offline for around six hours to perform the maintenance, which applies to PS4, Xbox One, and PC.
Players will no longer be able to log in from 8 AM PT / 11 AM ET / 4 PM GMT on Friday, December (that's 2 AM AEST on December 2 in Australia). An hour later, anyone still playing the game will be booted to the title screen. Bungie says the maintenance will end five hours after that--at 2 PM PT / 5 PM ET / 10 PM GMT (8 AM in Australia).
Bungie has provided no clues as to what--if anything--is changing; it only says that "no gameplay content or updates will be introduced with this maintenance period." It could be related to an upcoming blog post, which will detail some key changes coming to Destiny 2.
It's possible that post--which replaces the now-canceled Curse of Osiris stream--will address the game's recent XP controversy. Fans discovered that Destiny 2 was limiting the amount of XP you earned when taking part in certain activities, such as Public Events. Bungie acknowledged this hidden system was in place and disabled it, stating, "We are not happy with the results." However, this seemingly welcome change coincided with another adjustment, this one doubling the amount of XP needed to rank up at the level cap. Bungie did not acknowledge this change at first, only later confirming it to be the case and informing players it is working on an update to the in-game UI to make this change clear.
The final week of November, along with December 1, bring a slew of new TV shows and movies of Netflix. What better way to kick off a holiday season loaded with discovering new gems and binge-watching them?
On the TV side, the week brings the final season of Broadchurch, starring David Tennant. The British drama first premiere on ITV in the UK earlier in 2017. The final season sees Alec Hardy (Tennant) and Ellie Miller (Olivia Colman) teaming up one last time to solve a crime. The acclaimed series is a must-watch for Doctor Who fans, as Broadchurch creator Chris Chibnall is taking over as showrunner on the next season.
Additionally, new seasons of Netflix originals Glitch, Good Morning Call, and All Hail King Julien, among others. And for the child--or brony--in your life, new episodes of My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic will be available.
As for movies, Ace Ventura: Pet Detective and Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls are both being added this week, along with titles like V for Vendetta, 8 Mile, The Little Rascals, and Hitch.
The Nintendo Switch may have launched less than a year ago, but the hybrid console has already become home to some of Nintendo's most ambitious and acclaimed titles. The company's last major release for the system this year, Xenoblade Chronicles 2, launches on December 1, and like Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Super Mario Odyssey, it's a massive and lengthy adventure.
Despite the number in its title, Xenoblade Chronicles 2 isn't a direct follow-up to the original Xenoblade Chronicles for Wii, but it shares many similarities with the previous two Xenoblade titles. The game is set in Alrest, a swirling sea of clouds where all life forms live atop the backs of colossal beings known as Titans. The game follows the story of Rex, a Driver who is capable of summoning living weapons called Blades. Together with a Blade named Pyra, he journeys across Alrest in search of the World Tree, where the fabled paradise Elysium is said to rest.
Ahead of the game's release, reviews for Xenoblade Chronicles 2 have begun appearing online. As usual, we've rounded up a sample of them below to give you an idea of what critics are saying about Switch's next big release. For a wider look at what critics think of Xenoblade Chronicles 2, be sure to check out GameSpot sister site Metacritic.
Game: Xenoblade Chronicles 2
Developer: Monolith Soft
Platform: Nintendo Switch
Release date: December 1
Price: $60 / £50
GameSpot -- 7/10
"Xenoblade 2 exhibits admirable depth. Adventurous types that enjoy complex combat systems can easily spend more than 100 hours uncovering Alrest's secrets and developing their team of Blades, provided they can come to terms with a handful of unavoidable shortcomings. It's equal parts pleasing and frustrating, but the struggle to keep up with everything thrown your way is more of a hurdle than a roadblock. It will be a tough pill to swallow for people who aren't accustomed to the typical cliches found in many Japanese RPGs, and its often clumsy nature keeps it from being the next groundbreaking Switch game, but Xenoblade 2 is worth pursuing if you've got enough patience to let it blossom." -- Peter Brown [Full review]
Eurogamer -- Recommended
"Xenoblade Chronicles 2 is a crunchier, more chaotic proposition than the rest of Nintendo's recent output, then. Monolith Soft either doesn't have the resources or the relentless tenacity to explore every one of its game mechanics with the rigour and finality of Nintendo EAD. But while the game's individual components are far from pristine, in combination they prove irresistible. And as with Rex, it is to the wrinkles and idiosyncrasies that we are ultimately drawn, and ultimately convinced." -- Simon Parkin [Full review]
IGN -- 8.5/10
"Xenoblade Chronicles 2 is a standout RPG that manages to keep its story, combat, and exploration interesting over the course of at least 70 hours of adventure through an impressively varied and rich world. Getting from place to place can be confusing, but outside of that and a multi-hour progression roadblock near the end this is an excellent game full of tough, memorable battles and a positive message." -- Leif Johnson [Full review]
US Gamer -- 4.5/5
"Xenoblade Chronicles 2 applies an energetic signature and wax seal to a wonderful year for the Nintendo Switch, and for JRPGs in general. Between the amount of time it takes to get used to the game and getting through everything it has to offer, Xenoblade Chronicles 2 is a worthy investment for series fans and newcomers." -- Nadia Oxford [Full review]
Destructoid -- 8/10
"To the delight of many, Xenoblade Chronicles 2 is less X and more traditional Xenoblade. Although they all have a special place in my library, I appreciate the return to what brought Monolith Soft back into the public eye after a series of portable games." -- Chris Carter [Full review]
Trusted Reviews -- 4.5/5
"Xenoblade Chronicles 2 is an excellent JRPG with a truly extravagant open world begging to be explored. Its in-depth battle system and impressively paced narrative help to deliver a smooth experience, despite its massive run-time. The Nintendo Switch has yet another jewel in its exclusive library, cementing itself as a system never to be underestimated. Now, if you'll excuse me, Alrest is calling." -- Jordan King [Full review]
Polygon -- Review-in-Progress
"It feels like both a relic out of time and a welcome glimpse of handheld gaming's future. For all its sloppiness, Xenoblade 2's combination of classic RPG concepts and flexible on-the-go play make for one of the most engrossing takes on the genre I've encountered since Dragon Quest 9, which possessed a similar appeal. While I still have quite a bit more of the game to battle through before I can definitively say whether it manages to hold my interest through the final chapter, the first half has at least been a success." -- Jeremy Parish [Full review]
Disney's live-action remake of Mulan has found its lead actress. It has been confirmed that Chinese actress Liu Yifei will play the title role in the studio's upcoming adaptation of the animated favorite.
In the West, Yifei is known for such movies as Jackie Chan's The Forbidden Kingdom and the Nicolas Cage's Outcast. As well as being one of China's most popular stars, she is also fluent in English, having previously lived in New York.
Mulan is to be directed by New Zealand filmmaker Niki Caro, who previously helmed The Zookeeper's Wife. The movie doesn't currently have a release date, but it is expected in 2019. It will combine the story of the 1998 animated film with the tale of the legendary Hua Mulan, who impersonated a man to fight against a Hun invasion in the 4th Century.
Mulan is just one of several live-action remakes of classic Disney movies currently in development. New versions of The Lion King and Aladdin are expected in 2019, with Dumbo, Pinocchio, and The Jungle Book 2 also in the works.
As promised, Bungie has delivered details on where Destiny 2 is headed. Since launch, there have been complaints from the hardcore fanbase about the lack of a real end-game and poor communication from Bungie, among other things. Today's preview, which took the place of a canceled Curse of Osiris livestream, is meant to address much of this.
Stating that Bungie needs to be "more open," director Luke Smith and project lead Chris Barrett stated that the studio plans to refocus its efforts on catering to players who want to enjoy the game long-term: "Going forward, Destiny 2's post-launch game systems, features, and updates are being designed specifically to focus on and support players who want Destiny to be their hobby--the game they return to, and a game where friendships are made. We want Destiny to be a game that fits into your life, providing you with reasons to log in and play with your friends, clans, and families. We want Destiny to be a world you want to be a part of."
Bungie outlined its plans for two updates coming next month that will start this process. The first of these comes on December 5, alongside Curse of Osiris, with another following on December 12. The studio's stated goals for these patches are as follows: "Deepen rewards for advanced players; provide more player control over obtaining rewards; make Shards useful by adding things to use them for; provide general quality fixes wherever possible."
In the December 5 update, new Armor Ornaments will be added for "some" existing armor. These will allow you to obtain a new look for your gear without affecting your Shaders or Mods. Armor sets will have a set of objectives to complete, and doing so will unlock Ornaments for your entire account. These sets will have Ornaments in Season 2, which begins on December 5:
Vanguard Faction Armor
Crucible Faction Armor
Trials of the Nine Armor
Iron Banner Armor
Dead Orbit Armor
Future War Cult Armor
New Monarchy Armor
Eater of Worlds Raid Lair Armor
Also on December 5, there will be changes to how mods are acquired from Banshee. Rare Mods can be dismantled for Gunsmith Materials and "have a chance to produce Legendary quality Mod Components." Banshee will also sell specific Legendary Mods, including those for Kinetic weapons. The lineup will change daily, with the price being a combination of Legendary Shards and Mod Components. Additionally, Master Rahool will sell Legendary Engrams, which will be one way of obtaining Masterworks (more on those below). Reputation Tokens will now be obtained in greater quantities and in more ways, though the amount of reputation required to obtain an Engram will also increase.
The bigger changes come in the December 12 update. Bungie will introduce Masterworks versions of Legendary weapons; these track and display your kills with that weapon (and can be set to show Crucible kills or total kills), create Orbs when securing multi-kills, and have weapon stat bonuses that are "selected randomly from a small pool and are re-rollable." That part is particularly important, as a common complaint is that weapon duplicates are effectively worthless in the current game.
Masterworks can be obtained through drops once you hit Power level 250, or Legendaries can be upgraded into them. To accomplish the latter, you can dismantle Masterworks to obtain materials that you'll then use to enhance a Legendary you own. Bungie notes that weapons from the Raid and Trials of the Nine have a "very high chance" to drop as Masterworks. It also states that there are plans for Masterworks versions of other types of gear, and to add more ways for your kill counts to be displayed, such as on the Crucible kill screen.
The December 12 update also introduces the option to directly purchase Faction armor and weapons for Legendary Shards and Faction Tokens from "most" Faction vendors. The selection will always include each armor slot, while weapons will rotate weekly (for Factions that offer them). These different slots will be unlocked as you claim Engram rewards for each Faction--and any you've earned previously will count toward unlocking these.
Finally, Xur will have new items on offer weekly. Fated Engrams can be purchased for Legendary Shards and will decrypt into Exotics that you don't already own, and there will be a new Three of Coins item for purchase with Legendary Shards. This Three of Coins will be easier to use than that of the first game; here, they'll simply provide a boost to Exotic drop rates from all sources for four hours. Zavala and Shaxx will both sell some new items, and--in maybe the most welcome change of all--vendors will only have a notification icon when you actually have enough Tokens to obtain an Engram.
Bungie's post also provided details on the recent Destiny 2 XP controversy, vowing to make further changes. It also reiterated its promise to communicate more effectively, stating, "Going forward, we plan to continue this dialog as openly and frequently as possible. This will be an ongoing process, but one that we are committed to." The developer also plans to release a podcast this week where it will further discuss the state of Destiny 2. There's no exact date for when that will arrive, but in the meantime, you can check out some new Destiny 2 Curse of Osiris Crucible maps, or see the full list of announced changes in the December updates and beyond here.
Have an Xbox Live Gold membership? More free games are now waiting for you to claim, but only for a limited time. The second wave of November's Games With Gold titles are out now, presenting you with two new titles (for a total of three) to grab. With the end of the month in sight, you should act quickly. [Update: It's November 30, making this your last chance to claim certain Games With Gold titles. December's first freebies will be available on December 1.]
You can use the links below to queue up your download of November's remaining free Games With Gold games. They are free through the end of the month, with the exception of Tales From the Borderlands, which will stick around until December 15. December 2017's free Games With Gold titles have not been announced yet, but we'll report back with all the details once Microsoft shares them.
In other news, Microsoft's ongoing Black Friday sale has ended. Hundreds of Xbox One and 360 games were on sale, and although the prices may not be as strong as those you can get in stores, many of them were very good. The same goes for the current Deals With Gold, which also expire soon but offer the likes of Middle-earth: Shadow of War for $36.
Like the previous Pokemon Sun and Moon versions, Pokemon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon feature community challenges called Global Missions, the first of which recently concluded. Unfortunately, players weren't anywhere close to hitting the target goal.
The first Global Mission in Pokemon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon was called "Catch a lot of Pokemon," and it tasked players around the world with a straightforward challenge: capture 10 million Pokemon across both titles in 10 days. However, players only managed to catch 5,442,088 Pokemon (via Pokemon fansite Serebii), which is only slightly more than half of the target number.
Successfully completing the Global Mission would have rewarded participants with 2,000 Festival Coins, while those with a Pokemon Global Link account would earn twice as many. As the challenge ended in failure, players who took part in the Global Mission will earn 1,000 Festival Coins instead, with Pokemon Global Link members getting 2,000.
The next Global Mission for Pokemon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon begins on December 12 and is called "Have Fun Mantine Surfing." The challenge runs until December 27, though no further details have been announced for it yet.
Meanwhile, Pokemon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon's first Online Competition, the Johto X Alola Online Competition, kicks off on December 15, with registration opening up a week prior, on December 7. The competition uses the Double Battles format and is restricted to Pokemon that can only be found in the Johto and Alola Pokedexes. Pokemon that you transfer to Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon from the classic Gold and Silver versions via Pokemon Bank are also eligible for the competition.
Despite launching a year ago, Square Enix continues to introduce new features and content to Final Fantasy XV. The game's next free monthly update is slated to arrive soon and will continue this trend by adding yet another new function to the acclaimed RPG.
During its Active Time Report livestream today, Square Enix revealed that one of the new features coming to Final Fantasy XV in the December update is the ability to swap between characters. Up until now, players could only control the game's primary protagonist, Noctis, during the course of the single-player campaign, but the December update will allow you to freely switch to Gladio, Prompto, and Ignis during its open-world portions.
The December update will mark the conclusion of Final Fantasy XV's season pass and coincide with the release of the game's next DLC chapter, Episode Ignis. That expansion is scheduled to arrive on December 13 and focuses on the party's culinary expert, Ignis. Square Enix revealed more details and footage of the upcoming DLC during Sony's Paris Games Week pre-show, which will see Ignis fight alongside Ravus and, at some points, pilot a boat. Episode Ignis will be priced at $5, while those who purchased Final Fantasy XV's season pass will receive it for no additional cost.
November 29 marked the first anniversary of Final Fantasy XV, and Square Enix commemorated the occasion with a special Active Time Report livestream. Along with announcing that the game's December update will allow players to switch characters, the stream revealed that Square Enix plans to release more DLC episodes for Final Fantasy XV next year.
Thus far, two DLC episodes have been released for Final Fantasy XV, with a third one--Episode Ignis--scheduled to arrive in December. While that marks the end of the game's announced content, Square Enix plans to release more DLC episodes throughout 2018. During the Japanese Active Time Report stream (via Gematsu), game director Hajime Tabata said he would like to release "at least three" more episode-style DLC chapters for Final Fantasy XV during the course of the year.
Tabata didn't share many more details about the next DLC episodes. However, he did reveal that the first will focus on Ardyn. He also said the chapter will reveal more details about the world of Eos. Square Enix will share more information about any future DLC by the end of the year.
Although 2019's Star Wars: Episode IX will end the current trilogy of movies in the long-running sci-fi saga, we know there's plenty more to come. As well the ongoing spinoff movies, Rian Johnson, who has directed next month's The Last Jedi, is planning a brand new trilogy. Just don't expect to see Rey actress Daisy Ridley in any of them.
Ridley, who first played the character in 2015's The Force Awakens and stars in The Last Jedi, has told Rolling Stone that she plans to make Episode IX her final Star Wars movie--for now. "I am really, really excited to do the third thing and round it out, because ultimately, what I was signing on to was three films," she said. "So in my head, it's three films. I think it will feel like the right time to round it out."
Ridley went to explain that if she did return to the franchise it wouldn't be for 30 years--if we're around long enough. "I honestly feel like the world may end in the next 30 years," she said. "But if in 30 years we are not living underground in a series of interconnected cells... then sure. Maybe. But again, it's like, who knows? Because the thing I thought was so amazing, was people really wanted it. And it was done by people who really love it."
The Last Jedi hits theaters on December 15 and also stars John Boyega, Mark Hamill, Adam Driver, Carrie Fisher, Oscar Isaac, Domhnall Gleeson, Anthony Daniels, and Andy Serkis. There has been plenty of promotional activity for the movie over past couple of weeks, including a TV spot in which Chewie smacks a Porg, and another that focuses on Luke's relationship with Rey.
The first trailer for Avengers: Infinity War has been released. The upcoming superhero epic brings together pretty much every hero from the last decade of Marvel movies in their fight against the evil Thanos. Check the trailer out above, and click here for a full trailer breakdown.
Avengers: Infinity War hits theaters on May 4, 2018. It's directed by Anthony and Joe Russo, who previous helmed Captain America: The Winter Soldier and Captain America: Civil War. It's the first of two upcoming Avengers movies that the Russo brothers have directed, with the currently untitled Avengers 4 due in May 2019.
"There will be two distinct periods. Everything before Avengers 4 and everything after. I know it will not be in ways people are expecting," he said. "We're 22 movies in, and we've got another 20 movies on the docket that are completely different from anything that's come before--intentionally."
Hamill was recently spotted at JFK airport in New York, hunched over in a wheelchair, leading fans to speculation about his health. However, the actor has now confirmed that he is fit and well, and was using the wheelchair as part of a disguise to avoid unscrupulous autograph-hunters.
Hamill replied to the fan's concerned tweet with, "HA! Arriving 5AM I tried the old 'wheelchair trick' JUST 2 avoid autograph $alesmen/Dealer$ who constantly badger me (& my family) 2 increase value of their items. All the better 2 gouge TRUE FANS later on Ebay #TheyCanGoForceThemselves #NoMoreAirportSignings."
"When filming [the] scene I was assured my lightsaber swipe toward camera (creature not on set) would simply singe fur to scare him off," Hamill tweeted. "[I was] horrified to later see amputation and unnecessary cruelty. Wampa was HUNGRY (not EVIL). Luke would never do this!"
Hamill will be seen in Star Wars: The Last Jedi, which hits theaters on December 15. There has been plenty of promotional activity for the movie over past couple of weeks, including a TV spot in which Chewie smacks a Porg, and another that focuses on Luke's relationship with Rey.
A teaser website has been live for the game for some time, but right now simply shows a grenade rolling out of a microwave and a countdown with four days left to go. However, Japanese manga publication Weekly Jump (translated by Gematsu) has confirmed the game exists. No other details have yet been revealed for the adaptation; we don't yet know what kind of game it will be, when it will launch, or if it will come to other platforms. We will likely learn more when the game's first trailer drops on December 16.
My Hero Academia started as a manga series in Japan in 2014. It has since been adapted into an anime, which along with the manga has been critically acclaimed. A third season of the anime is coming soon, with eight volumes of the manga already available.
The franchise has already received one video game, titled My Hero Academia: Battle for All. This was released on 3DS in 2016, though never made it to the West. Let's hope One's Justice does make it out of Japan when it launches for Switch and PS4.
Pokemon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon have been released for 3DS, and while the two games are largely based on the previous Sun and Moon versions, they set themselves apart from last year's titles with a host of new content. Along with an expanded story that sheds more light on the mysterious Legendary Pokemon, Necrozma, the pair introduce a handful of new features and even Pokemon to the series.
If you've already played Sun or Moon and are unsure if the upcoming titles differ enough to warrant a return trip to Alola, we've rounded up all of the new Pokemon, moves, and features Nintendo has announced thus far to give you a better idea of what's new in Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon. You can read more about the games in our Pokemon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon review. And if you're unsure which version is right for you, we broke down the major differences between Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon.
New Pokemon
Ultra Beasts
In the original Sun and Moon versions, Ultra Beasts are powerful, unidentified Pokemon that traveled to the Alola region from other worlds through wormholes. Naturally, they once again play a major role in Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon, and this time the games introduce a couple of new ones to the series.
At least three new Ultra Beasts appear in the titles: UB Burst, UB Assembly, and UB Adhesive. The former two are exclusive to a specific version. The jester-like UB Burst only appears in Ultra Sun and is a Fire/Ghost-type Pokemon that learns an exclusive move called Mind Blown. UB Assembly, meanwhile, is a defense-oriented Rock/Steel-type Pokemon that's exclusive to Ultra Moon.
The third new Ultra Beast, UB Adhesive, is a Poison-type that is said to be able to understand humans if it spends enough time among them. It first appears with the Ultra Recon Squad, a mysterious new group of trainers that travels to Alola through a wormhole. Which members of the Ultra Recon Squad you encounter depends on the version you're playing.
Dusk Mane / Dawn Wings Necrozma
While the mysterious Legendary Pokemon Necrozma appeared in the original Sun and Moon versions, it plays a much larger story role in Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon. Depending on which version you pick up, it merges with the games' mascot Pokemon, Solgaleo or Lunala, to turn into its new Dusk Mane and Dawn Wings forms, respectively.
Along with taking on a new appearance and typing, Necrozma is able to use Solgaleo and Lunala's signature attacks when it merges with the two Legendaries. Dusk Mane Necrozma is a Psychic/Steel-type and can unleash Sunsteel Strike, while Dawn Wings Necrozma is a Psychic/Ghost-type and can use Moongeist Beam. Both forms also have the ability Prism Armor, which reduces the damage Necrozma takes from super-effective attacks.
Dusk Form Lycanroc
Depending on which version you played, the Rock-type puppy Pokemon Rockruff would evolve into one of two possible forms in Sun and Moon; in the former game, Rockruff would become Midday Form Lycanroc, while in the latter it would evolve into Midnight Form Lycanroc. Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon introduce a third possible variant, this one called Dusk Form Lycanroc.
Like its name implies, Dusk Form Lycanroc is a cross between its Midday and Midnight forms. It has an orange and white coat and can learn both forms' signature attacks, Accelerock and Counter. It also comes with a different ability, Tough Claws, which increases the power of attacks that make direct contact with an opponent. Dusk Form Lycanroc is exclusive to Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon, and so far, the only way to obtain one is to purchase either game by January 10; do that and you'll receive a special Rockruff that evolves into Dusk Form Lycanroc as a free gift.
New Features
Team Rainbow Rocket
In addition to the Ultra Recon Squad, Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon introduce another new villainous group called Team Rainbow Rocket. Nintendo hasn't revealed many details about the team, but we know it is led by Team Rocket boss Giovanni and is made up of the leaders from every previous enemy team, including Archie and Maxie (Team Aqua/Magma from Ruby/Sapphire), Cyrus (Team Galactic from Diamond/Pearl), Ghetsis (Team Plasma from Black/White), and Lysandre (Team Flare from X/Y).
Ultra Wormholes
Ultra Wormholes were an important story element in Sun and Moon, allowing the Ultra Beasts to arrive to Alola from other worlds. In Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon, you'll actually be able to travel through these wormholes atop either Solgaleo or Lunala and visit the worlds the Ultra Beasts come from. You'll also be able to encounter other powerful Pokemon by traveling through Ultra Wormholes, including previous Legendaries such as Mewtwo and Ho-Oh, neither of which appeared in the original Sun and Moon versions.
Beyond encountering Legendary Pokemon, you'll also use Ultra Wormholes to travel to a new area known as Ultra Megalopolis. Nintendo hasn't revealed many details about the mysterious city, but it has been described as "a world that has had its light stolen by Necrozma" and will undoubtedly play an important role in the games' story.
Battle Agency
Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon introduce several new areas to the Alola region, as well, one of which is a new battle facility called the Battle Agency. As in the Battle Tree, players can take part in a series of three-on-three Pokemon battles against a gauntlet of AI opponents; however, you can only take rental Pokemon into battle. The variety of Pokemon you can rent at the Battle Agency increases the more you use the games' communications features with other players.
Move Tutors
The reward for winning battles in the Battle Tree and at other facilities across Alola is Battle Points, or BP, which can be spent on a range of rare, competitive battling items like Mega Stones. In Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon, you'll also be able to spend your BP on new moves for your Pokemon, including some that they cannot normally learn through leveling up or with TMs.
Rotom Dex
The Rotom Dex plays an expanded role in Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon. In the new games, you'll be able to form a bond with your Rotom Dex the more you interact with it, which in turn will affect its personality. If you develop a strong enough bond with your Rotom Dex, you'll unlock its own unique Z-Power, which allows you to use a second Z-Move during battle.
Your Rotom Dex also has a new feature called Roto Loto, a slot machine-style mini-game that you can play at any time to get new items. The items can have a variety of different effects; some increase the amount of experience or money you earn for a period of time, while another temporarily decreases the amount of time it takes for Pokemon eggs.
New Z-Moves
Mega Evolution was one of the most notable features introduced in Pokemon X and Y, but in Sun and Moon, it was largely replaced with Z-Moves. At the start of your journey, you're given a Z-Ring, a special bracelet that allows your Pokemon to perform these ultra-powerful moves once per battle when it is equipped with a particular Z-Crystal.
Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon expand on this by introducing a handful of new Z-Moves to the mix, many of which are exclusive to a particular Pokemon. In the new games, the Pikachu lookalike Mimikyu can use a new Z-Move called Let's Snuggle Forever when it's equipped with Mimikium Z. All three forms of Lycanroc can also use an exclusive Z-Move, Splintered Stormshards, while the Fighting/Dragon-type Kommo-o gets its own signature Z-Move called Clangorous Soulblaze.
The Legendary cover Pokemon Solgaleo and Lunala get their own exclusive Z-Moves in Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon, as well, which can also be used by Necrozma when it takes on its two new forms. Solgaleo and Dusk Mane Necrozma can use the Steel-type attack Searing Sunraze Smash when equipped with Solganium Z; Lunala and Dawn Wings Necrozma can unleash the Ghost-type Z-Move Menacing Moonraze Maelstrom when they hold Lunalium Z.
Mantine Surf
Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon introduce a new mini-game called Mantine Surf. When you summon Mantine, you can use it to manually surf between the different islands of the Alola region. You can also perform a variety of tricks while surfing, which will increase your high score and reward you with BP.
Totem Stickers
Like last year's games, Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon eschew traditional gym battles for island trials--different challenges that culminate in a battle against a Totem Pokemon. What sets these monsters apart from regular Pokemon is their size; Totem Pokemon are much larger than normal ones and are surrounded by an aura that boosts their stats.
This time around, you'll be able to add your own Totem-sized Pokemon to your team thanks to new Totem Stickers. These collectibles are hidden throughout the entire Alola region, and you'll be able to get your own giant Pokemon depending on how many Stickers you collect. Some of the Totem-sized Pokemon are exclusive to a specific version; Ultra Sun players, for instance, can get a giant Lurantis, while those with Ultra Moon can get a Totem-sized Salazzle.
Sony has launched the next set of free games for PlayStation Plus members. We're now well into November, and subscribers can download a total of seven titles across PS4, PS3, and Vita. That's one more than usual, as Sony is again offering a bonus PlayStation VR game following the headset's recent one-year anniversary. As usual, PS4 owners have the widest and best selection of games, but you've got something to look forward to regardless of platform.
PS4 owners with PS Plus have four games in total to nab for free right now: strategy game Worms Battlegrounds, the gorgeous (but hard-to-describe) Bound, and PSVR shooter Until Dawn: Rush of Blood; the latter will be available for longer than the other games, as it's not a part of the standard monthly lineup. Additionally, Cross-Buy provides PS4 players with a fourth title at no cost, the action RPG Dungeon Punks.
All of the standard PS Plus freebies can be claimed until December 5, when they'll return to their regular prices. By adding them to your library before then, you can play them for as long as you remain a Plus subscriber. Until Dawn: Rush of Blood, meanwhile, remains free until January 3. You can see the full list of this month's PS Plus freebies and grab them from the links below. PSN's Black Friday sale has come to a close, but there's still something to look forward to, as December's PS Plus games have been announced.
The next pair of Pokemon games, Pokemon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon, are quickly approaching their November 17 release date, and ahead of their launch, Nintendo has been giving away a ton of free items and Pokemon for the previous Sun and Moon versions. Many of the giveaways have already ended, but there are still plenty of rare freebies for Sun and Moon players to get their hands on.
We've rounded up all of the distributions that are currently running for Pokemon Sun and Moon, as well as a few that will be available for Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon when those versions launch. We'll be updating this list as more giveaways are announced, so check back often to see what free items and Pokemon you can get. In the meantime, check out our rundown on everything new in Pokemon Ultra Sun And Moon, and the differences between Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon.
Pokemon Sun/Moon Free Gifts
Pokemon
Magearna
Unlike other Mythical Pokemon, the Steel/Fairy-type Magearna is available not through Mystery Gift, but via a QR code. After defeating the Elite Four and completing the main story, you can use the QR Scanner feature to scan the below code. After doing so, visit the Antiques shop in Hau'oli City and pick your Magearna up from the deliveryman waiting there. The Mythical Pokemon comes at level 50 and knows the moves Fleur Cannon, Flash Cannon, Lucky Chant, and Helping Hand.
Celebi -- Ends Sep. 21, 2018
Players who purchase either Pokemon Gold or Silver from the 3DS Eshop by September 21, 2018 will receive a bonus download code for the Mythical Pokemon Celebi. The code can be redeemed in Pokemon Sun, Moon, Ultra Sun, or Ultra Moon. We've outlined the steps you need to take to find and redeem the code here.
Charizard -- DONE
Players in the US can pick up a free download code for Charizard from the electronics department in Target stores. The popular Fire-type Pokemon comes at level 50, is equipped with the Red Card item, and knows the moves Dragon Dance, Flare Blitz, Fly, and Earthquake. As with other download codes, you need to input your code via Mystery Gift to receive Charizard. The distribution runs until October 14, and you have until February 4, 2018 to redeem your code.
Marshadow -- DONE
For a very limited time, players can pick up a free download code for the Mythical Pokemon Marshadow. Those in the US can get the code from GameStop, while players in the UK will have to visit "participating retailers." This is the first legitimate way Sun and Moon players can obtain the rare Fighting/Ghost-type, which comes at level 50 and is equipped with Marshadium Z. It also knows the attacks Spectral Thief, Close Combat, Force Palm, and Shadow Ball.
Pikachu -- DONE
To celebrate the release of the Pokemon series' 20th anniversary film, Pokemon The Movie: I Choose You, The Pokemon Company is giving away six different versions of Ash's Pikachu for Sun and Moon. To receive a Pikachu, enter the code PIKACHU20 in Mystery Gift. However, you can only receive one of the six Pikachu, and the version you get depends on when you enter the code. The full Pikachu distribution schedule is below.
Beginning October 23, players in the US and Canada can pick up a free download code for a shiny Silvally from GameStop and EB Games stores. The distribution will run until November 13. Players in the UK will also have a chance to get the rare Pokemon at participating GAME stores from November 3-16.
Mega Stones -- DONE
Mega Stones are exceptionally rare and valuable in Pokemon Sun and Moon. When equipped to their corresponding Pokemon, Mega Stones allow it to Mega Evolve during battle, often changing its type and giving it a considerable stat boost. Nintendo is giving away several batches of Mega Stones that aren't normally available in Sun and Moon, all of which are redeemable via a universal download code. Input the following codes in Mystery Gift by October 31 and you'll receive these Mega Stones:
Purchase either Pokemon Ultra Sun or Ultra Moon by January 10 and you'll receive a special Rockruff as a free bonus. This Rockruff will only evolve into Dusk Form Lycanroc, a new variant of the popular wolf Pokemon that is exclusive to Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon.
Netflix has announced what's coming and going in the month of November. As usual with the streaming service, many titles--both original and not--will be added to the service leading throughout the month. One particularly interesting addition is the documentary Jim & Andy: The Great Beyond, which is made up of behind-the-scenes footage of Jim Carrey during production of Man on the Moon--the Andy Kaufman biopic.
Of course, the most anticipated release of the month for Netflix is none other than Marvel's The Punisher. The streamer's first Marvel series after Defenders is streaming now, with Jon Bernthal playing the gun-toting vigilante. November will also see the arrival of new seasons of Lady Dynamite and Broadchurch, along with movies like Chappie, Men in Black, and Piranha.
Leaving Netflix isthe Matrix Trilogy, V for Vendetta, and The Human Centipede: First Sequence, to name a few. On the TV front, the streaming service will also remove all nine seasons of How I Met Your Mother, along with four seasons of Jessie.
Activision is teaming up with Amazon for a pretty cool new Destiny 2 gadget. This $90 physical Ghost connects to Amazon's Alexa device so you can talk to it to equip weapons and learn more about quests, among other things. It's basically the game's Ghost coming to life, which is cool and possibly a little unsettling at the same time.
For example, you can say, "Alexa, ask Ghost what I should do next" and it'll tell you what to do. You can also say, "Alexa, ask Ghost to equip my most powerful weapon," and then it will do that for you. There are apparently over 1,000 custom voice commands that are supported. Pretty neat. You can see a further rundown of what you can say to Alexa in the text below, which comes from the device's Amazon product page (via RollingStone).
The Destiny 2 physical Ghost is compatible with all version of the game (PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC), and apparently releases in December. Go to the device's product page on Amazon to learn more and order one for yourself, if it sounds good to you.
EXPLORE THE DESTINY 2 UNIVERSE: Ask and receive custom dialogue lines that will expand your knowledge of the Destiny 2's worlds and characters you'll encounter on your journey.
Try saying: "Alexa, ask Ghost who are the Red Legion."
FIND OUT WHAT TO DO NEXT: Based on your progress inside the game, you'll receive unique recommendations for things to do inside the massive world of Destiny 2 in real time.
Try saying: "Alexa, ask Ghost what I should do next."
MANAGE YOUR ARSENAL: Equip your most powerful weapons or entire loadouts with a simple voice command.
Try saying: "Alexa, ask Ghost to equip my most powerful weapon."
CONNECT WITH FRIENDS: Send messages to friends, find out who's online and ready to play, and stay on top of Clan progress without having to turn on your PS4, Xbox One or PC.
Try saying: "Alexa, ask Ghost to call for backup"
AND MUCH MORE: Over 1000 custom lines to discover.
The live-action Pokemon movie, Detective Pikachu, has found its female lead. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Big Little Lies actress Kathryn Newton will play the lead female role. Others reportedly in contention for the role included Natalia Dyer (Stranger Things), Katherine Langford (13 Reasons Why), and Haley Lu Richardson (Split).
According to THR, the movie just recently finished an "intense session of reading and testing" for the part, with Newton ultimately winning the part. She'll star in the film opposite the male lead, Justice Smith (The Get Down). Newton is now reportedly in negotiations, so it sounds like the deal is not yet completely finalised, though it might just be a matter of time.
Newton will play a character named Lucy who is a "sassy journalist." It's not immediately clear who Smith is playing; Pikachu is of course also in the movie, presented as a motion-capture character. Last month, it was reported that big names were being considered to voice Pikachu, including Hugh Jackman, Mark Wahlberg, Ryan Reynolds, and Dwayne Johnson.
Detective Pikachu will be based on the Japanese video game Great Detective Pikachu, in which the Pokemon character features as a master detective. It's something like Sherlock Holmes but with Pikachu. Unlike the character's primary appearances in Pokemon games, the detective version of Pikachu speaks, which explains why producers are considering actors with such familiar voices. Production is set to begin in January, but there is no word yet on a release date.
In other Pokemon news, The Pokemon Company announced this week that the franchise has now passed 300 million unit sales across 76 titles dating back to 1996.
"Our intention was to keep slower-paced activities as rewarding as high intensity grinding without confusing variations in displayed XP values, but the silent nature of the mechanic betrayed the expectation of transparency that you have for Destiny 2," Bungie wrote its website.
With this system disabled, Bungie said it is now working toward finding a solution to address XP balance in Destiny 2. Work has begun on this effort, and you might notice this in XP levels contained in the code embedded on the Bungie website's API.
"In a future update, we intend to link these internal and display-only values together for greater consistency, and to ensure that when changes are made they are accurately reflected everywhere we report them," Bungie said.
As it stands currently, levelling is "too slow for some activities" with the new 160K XP value, Bungie wrote, adding that it's in the process of looking over feedback and will make further adjustments as needed. XP boosts from consumable items and the 300% bonus you get for being Well Rested are unchanged.
Finally, Bungie said this is just the beginning of the studio's dialogue with players in the area of XP balance. You can expect to hear more from the studio soon.
This announcement was made as part of an in-depth blog post today titled "The State of Destiny 2." In it, Bungie talked about the feedback it's heard from players since launch and discussed what's changing and why in the upcoming December update.
A new update is out now for Call of Duty: WWII. Arguably the biggest part of it is that it makes the Headquarters social space work as intended. Immediately after launch, developer Sledgehammer Games made HQ a solo experience to help alleviate server stress issues, but with this update installed, you should expect to see other players there.
HQ being a solo experience was a big bummer because it meant that you couldn't easily compete in the 1v1 mode or earn rewards for doing things with other soldiers like opening loot boxes in front of them. Under the previous setup, you had to manually invite people to join your HQ session to do these things, but of course that was not ideal.
Today's new Call of Duty: WWII patch also includes fixes for crash scenarios, along with general server and connectivity improvements. The new update also nerfs the really good BAR weapon to add more recoil and resolves a problem where the game would display a black screen if the host left the match.
Take-Two, the parent company of GTA and Red Dead developer Rockstar Games, has responded to the recent controversy surrounding loot boxes and microtransactions. Speaking today during a Credit Suisse event, Take-Two president Karl Slatoff said the company doesn't view loot boxes as gambling. The executive said Take-Two's view is the same as what the Entertainment Software Association said earlier this year when it released a statement plainly stating that loot boxes "are not gambling."
"We don't view that thing as gambling," Slatoff said of loot box mechanics. "Our view of it is the same as the ESA statement for the most part; so [potential legislation is] going to play its course."
"In terms of the consumer--the noise you hear in the market right now--it's all about content and over-delivering on content," Slatoff said. "It's about making making sure you're focused on engagement, and I think that has been our strategy; that has been our focus. And as long you keep your eye on that ball, you're going to be okay. The consumer's going to be really happy with what they get."
Rockstar's Grand Theft Auto Online, the multiplayer mode for GTA V, has been a massive success when it comes to the revenue it makes from microtransactions. In fact, the mode recently had its best quarter ever in terms of microtransaction revenue, a notable achievement considering the game launched more than four years ago.
Slatoff went on to say that it's all about creating compelling content. If what's for sale is compelling enough and priced appropriately, consumers will flock to it, he said.
"Yeah, you can't force the consumer to do anything," Slatoff said. "You try your best to create the best experience you possibly you can to drive engagement, and driving engagement creates value in franchises. That's how it's always been and how it always will be."
For lots more on the subject of loot boxes and gambling, check out GameSpot's newest episode of The Dive. In the episode, we spoke with psychology professor Ronald Riggio and psychologist Jamie Madigan about the affects gambling has on our minds and the concepts that make us feel better about spending money. We also talked about how these might apply to loot boxes and ask them both whether they feel Battlefront II and Overwatch's systems could constitute gambling.
It's the end of November, so now is your final chance to pick up some of November's free Games With Gold titles before they return to their normal prices on December 1.
You can use the links below to queue up your download of November's remaining free Games With Gold games. They are free through the end of the month, with the exception of Tales From the Borderlands, which will stick around until December 15.
