By Kevin Wong on Jan 24, 2018 11:30 pm
The Royal Rumble is one of the "Big Four" original WWE pay-per-views, along with Survivor Series, SummerSlam, and WrestleMania. There have been 30 of them--the 31st will be this coming Sunday, January 28. And although its tropes are well-known at this point--30 participants, over the top rope, both feet touch the floor, title shot at WrestleMania--the match didn't start that way. Like all innovators, WWE used lots of trial and error before figuring out what worked, what could work, and what did not. Here are 7 WWE Royal Rumble Facts You Might Not Know, starting with how it came to be.
Pat Patterson Conceptualized The Royal Rumble
Longtime WWE employee Pat Patterson pitched the Royal Rumble to Vince McMahon as a modified Battle Royal; instead of having everyone start the match in the ring at the same time, they would enter the ring individually at two-minute intervals, thus extending the match and creating anticipation for each new wrestler. Vince McMahon didn't like the concept; he thought it would take too long, and fans wouldn't have the patience to endure such a long match. But during a meeting to plan the WWE's first show on the USA Network, Patterson pitched the idea to television executive Dick Ebersol, who loved it. McMahon agreed to run with the concept, so long as Patterson was wholly responsible for planning it.
The Very FIrst Rumble Match Was Untelevised
Before attempting such an ambitious match on a massive stage, where the chances for embarrassment were higher, Patterson staged a test run in St Louis in late 1987. So technically, this was the first Rumble. But because it was on a house show and it was not televised, it doesn't count "in canon." The stipulation for this match was that the winner would get a title shot the next time WWE came to St Louis. There were 12 participants, and it came down to the Junkyard Dog and the One Man Gang. Both men went over the top rope together, and the One Man Gang was declared the winner. He lost his title match against Hulk Hogan the following month. It was, by all accounts, a mess. Patterson wasn't even at the arena to choreograph things. And so the concept was dead in the water until Ebersol gave it new life.
The PPV Wasn't Always a PPV
The first televised Rumble was offered on the aforementioned USA Network, rather than on PPV. Hacksaw Jim Duggan won this contest after last eliminating the One Man Gang. The entire affair felt a bit rushed--it lasted 33 minutes, even though there were 20 entrants who purportedly entered at two-minute intervals. But it did set the bar. And it gave Bret Hart a key moment to shine as a singles competitor; he was the first entrant, and he lasted longer than anyone else that day. It was also a ratings success. It ran opposite Jim Crockett Promotions' Bunkhouse Stampede PPV. Wrestling fans had a "tough" decision to make: pay to watch Crockett's show or watch the Royal Rumble for free. It's this sort of cutthroat approach to business that made WWE into the juggernaut it is today.
The Rumble Winner Didn't Originally Receive A WrestleMania Title Shot
Currently, the Royal Rumble is such an integral part of the "Road to WrestleMania," that's it's hard to imagine a time when it didn't matter nearly as much. But it used to be bragging rights accomplishment, similar to being crowned King of the Ring. 1989 Rumble winner Big John Studd never even got a main event push. When Hulk Hogan won the Rumble in 1990, he was already the champion. And the 1992 Rumble was for the vacant WWE Championship, which Ric Flair won. 1993 was the first year that the Rumble was explicitly contested for a title shot at WrestleMania. Yokozuna won that match and defeated Bret Hart at WrestleMania IX to win his first world title.
WWE Didn't Play Every Entrant's Theme Until 1996
Typically, prior to 1996, the No.1 and No. 2 Entrants were the only superstars who got played to the ring with their entrance music. Everyone else just ran out with no fanfare. There are positives and negatives to having no music. On one hand, it draws the audience's attention to the ramp; the fans can no longer know what's coming next from auditory cues. It also adds to the spontaneity of the match and makes the entrances seem like actual run-ins. But the net positive of having music outweighs its drawbacks. The Pavlovian response to hearing a bell chime or hearing glass break is is irreplaceable. It also allows for brief moments of meaningful disorientation; when AJ Styles made his debut along with his never-before-heard theme song in 2016, the several seconds of confusion elevated the audience's excitement.
Whenever WWE Deviates From The Classic Rumble, It Doesn't Work
The formula works, but that has never stopped WWE from trying to improve it. In 1995, WWE Creative cut the entrance intervals to 60 seconds. In 2011, they upped the number of participants to 40, ten more than the traditional 30 participants. Neither stipulation has ever been attempted again. They've even toyed with the idea of adding hardcore elements to the match, like in 2001. But still, 30 men, 2-minute intervals, and over-the-top-rope eliminations have always worked best. The appeal of most Rumbles is how performers attempt to bend the rules, not when they break them entirely.
Pat Patterson Wants The Winner To Get A Trophy Cup
There's no physical prize for winning the Rumble, and Patterson would change that if he had his way. In his book Accepted: How the First Gay Superstar Changed WWE, he writes: "You know what I would like to see done every year? I'd love to be introduced as the creator of the match and give a cup to the winner at ringside. It would be just like the Stanley Cup in hockey. You would have all the past winners' names on it and people could look for the names of their favorite Superstars on there. The winner could celebrate by drinking champagne from it. (We would need to go back in time and have the winner of every edition of the match engraved on it.) People could get their picture taken with the Cup when we do Fan Axxess at WrestleMania. You could sell replicas as well." It's certainly an appealing idea (although WWE would have to engrave "Chris Benoit," which might cause some problems). But if the company can have a trophy for the Andre the Giant Battle Royal, why not the Royal Rumble? Bring on the Patterson Cup!
By Mat Elfring on Jan 24, 2018 09:13 pm
The 31st Royal Rumble is coming to Philadelphia on Sunday, January 28, and WWE is planning on making this one special. For the first time, there will be a 30-woman Royal Rumble as well as the men's Royal Rumble. This is truly a landmark occasion, and most--if not all--of WWE's talent will be involved in the PPV. While not everyone has been announced for the main events of the Rumble, there have been a lot confirmed for both the men's and women's matches. As of this writing, 12 men and 18 women have been confirmed for their respective matches, and here they are, starting off with the men. Click here to jump ahead to women entrants. Click here to jump ahead to the 1/23 updates. Note: We'll continue updating throughout the week as more wrestlers are announced.
Aiden English (Smackdown)
This is Aiden English's first Rumble.
Apollo Crews (Raw)
This is Crews's second Rumble, and he first appeared in 2017's match, lasting close to six minutes.
Baron Corbin (Smackdown)
In 2017's Rumble, Corbin lasted over 30 minutes in the match. 2018 will be the Lone Wolf's second appearance in the Royal Rumble match.
Bray Wyatt (Raw)
Bray Wyatt competed in the three previous Royal Rumble matches, and in total, has spent 1 hour and 23 minutes in the ring. He has only come up with six eliminations, all of which came during the 2015 match.
Matt Hardy (Raw)
Believe it or not, Matt Hardy has only been in seven Royal Rumble matches, even though he's been with WWE for 17 years, in total. His first Rumble appearance came in 2003.
John Cena
John Cena has won two Royal Rumble matches: 2008 and 2013.
Finn Balor (Raw)
Although he's been with WWE since 2014--and on the main roster since 2016--2018's Rumble will be Finn Balor's first.
Randy Orton (Smackdown)
Randy Orton has been involved in seven Royal Rumble matches and won twice: 2009 and 2017.
Rusev (Smackdown)
Rusev made his first Royal Rumble appearance in 2014 while he was a part of NXT.
Shinsuke Nakamura (Smackdown)
2018 will be Shinuke Nakamura's first Royal Rumble match.
Titus O'Neil (Raw)
2018 will be Titus O'Neil's fourth time in the Royal Rumble match.
Elias (Raw)
This will be Elias's first time in a Royal Rumble match.
Alicia Fox (Raw)
2018 marks Alicia Fox's 10th year at WWE.
Asuka (Raw)
Since coming to NXT in the summer of 2015, Asuka has been undefeated in singles competition.
Bayley (Raw)
Bayley held the NXT Women's title for over 200 days and the Raw Women's Championship for over two months.
Becky Lynch (Smackdown)
Becky Lynch was the inaugural Smackdown Women's Champion.
Carmella (Smackdown)
Carmella won the first-ever Women's Money in the Bank match in 2017, and she still hasn't cashed in.
Lana (Smackdown)
Lana made her in-ring debut at Wrestlemania 32.
Dana Brooke (Raw)
Dana Brooke hasn't seen much in-ring action since joining Titus Worldwide after her defeat at the hands of Asuka.
Liv Morgan (Smackdown)
Liv Morgan has been with WWE since 2014, and until 2017, she only appeared on NXT.
Mandy Rose (Raw)
Mandy Rose came in second place during the 2015 season of Tough Enough.
Mickie James (Raw)
Mickie James made her WWE debut in 2005 after working for two years in WWE's developmental program, OVW.
Naomi (Smackdown)
Naomi is a two-time Smackdown Women's Champion.
Natalya (Smackdown)
Natalya won her second title last year and had an 87 day reign as Smackdown Women's Champion.
Nia Jax (Raw)
Although she's had a couple of chances, Nia Jax has yet to win the Raw Women's Championship.
Ruby Riott (Smackdown)
Ruby Riott made her Smackdown debut in November 2017 after a year run in NXT.
Sarah Logan (Smackdown)
While she first appeared in November 2017 on Smackdown, Sarah Logan had small performances as a make-up artist for the Miz and as a Rosebud for Adam Rose from 2014-15.
Sasha Banks (Raw)
Sasha Banks is a major part of the Women's Revolution in WWE, but prior to her appearance on the main roster, she had some amazing matches on NXT against Bayley and Charlotte.
Sonya Deville (Raw)
Prior to coming to NXT, Sonya Deville was an MMA fighter.
Tamina (Smackdown)
Tamina has been in WWE for eight years now, and she is the daughter of Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka.
The Miz (Raw)
After Raw 25 ended, The Miz revealed he'll be a part of the Rumble. To this date, he's been a part of 10 Royal Rumble matches.
Tye Dillinger (Smackdown)
"The Perfect 10" Tye Dillinger made his Rumble debut in 2017, when he entered the match as #10.
Big E (Smackdown)
Big E made his Royal Rumble debut in 2014.
Kofi Kingston (Smackdown)
Kofi Kingston is known for his acrobatics during the Rumble, in order to escape being eliminated, like the time he did a handstand outside of the ring, so his feet wouldn't touch the ground.
Xavier Woods (Smackdown)
Although he's been on the main roster since 2013, Xavier's first Rumble was 2017.
By GameSpot Staff on Jan 24, 2018 06:33 am
Nintendo's Newest
After failing to make people fall in love with Wii U, Nintendo is back and Switch is a household name--not to mention the fastest selling console in US history. In 2017, games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Super Mario Odyssey proved that Nintendo understands the strengths of its franchises and the importance of taking risks, but they are only two of the many games that have kept Switch owners entertained since the system's March launch. For an overview of all the Switch games we reviewed last year, head over to our Switch review page. Already, 2018 looks like another promising year for Switch owners, and there are some great-looking games coming to the system that you won't find anywhere else. We've compiled a list of all the exclusive games coming to Switch in the coming months, and as new announcements are made, we will continue to update our entries with specific dates and info. If you're curious about other platforms, you can check out our features on PS4 exclusives, Xbox One exclusives, and PC exclusives. There's also a wealth of exciting games coming out in 2018 that aren't necessarily exclusive to one platform or another, so be sure to check out our individual features highlighting the most anticipated PS4 games, Xbox One games, PC games, and Switch games for a broader look at the year ahead.
Bayonetta and Bayonetta 2
At the same time that Nintendo revealed Bayonetta 3 at The Game Awards, it also confirmed a popular rumor: Bayonetta 2 and the original Bayonetta are on their way to Switch. The two games are coming early in the year on February 16. The sequel will headline the physical copy of the game, but every copy of Bayonetta 2 will include a download code for the original. Developer: PlatinumGames | Release Date: February 16 | Watch the Trailer
Kirby Star Allies
Kirby's Switch debut is a multiplayer twist on traditional Kirby action, allowing four players to party up and tackle platforming stages and boss battles using powers absorbed from lesser enemies. The game was announced at E3 2017, and was further discussed in a September 2017 Nintendo Direct. It's currently scheduled to release sometime in 2018. Developer: HAL Laboratory | Release Date: March 16 | Watch the Trailer
Runner3
The Bit.Trip games from developer Choice Provisions rank among some of the best throwback experiences of the past decade. Later this year, Nintendo Switch owners will have exclusive access to the series' newest game, Runner3, which continues the tradition of linking rhythmic timing and platforming, with plenty of new tricks promised to surprise returning players. Developer: Choice Provisions | Release Date: April 24 | Watch the Trailer
Donkey Kong Tropical Freeze
Continuing the tradition of updated Wii U games that get Switch ports like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Pokken Tournament DX, Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze is due out for Switch on May 4. The game will add a new playable character, Funky Kong, who introduces his own unique twist on the original's platforming gameplay. Developer: Retro Studios, Monster Games | Release Date: May 4
Nintendo Labo
Nintendo Labo is a series of kits that include cardboard cut-outs and other materials that are assembled in combination with the Switch and its Joy-Cons to be played with special game software and vice versa. The series' first two kits--the Variety Kit and the Robo Kit--are set to release in April. Developer: Nintendo | Release Date: April 20
Light Fingers
Light Fingers is a turn-based multiplayer board game where your goal is to gather loot and progress across the board, all while your opponents play cards and manipulate mechanical obstacles in an effort to trip you up. The game is coming to Switch sometime early in 2018. Developer: Numizmatic | Release Date: Early 2018
Mario Tennis Aces
A new Mario Tennis game from developer Camelot--the team behind the GBA game Golden Sun as well as numerous other Mario sports titles--is heading to Switch this spring. It will be the first Mario Tennis game to include a story mode Mario Tennis: Power Tour on GBA. Developer: Camelot | Release Date: Spring 2018 | Watch the Trailer
Hyrule Warriors: Definitive Edition
The revamped version of Hyrule Warriors for Switch comes with all of the maps, missions, characters, and DLC from both the original Wii U release and the expanded 3DS version, including Yuga and Ravio from A Link Between Worlds. It also introduces some new content in the form of Breath of the Wild-themed costumes for Link and Zelda. Developer: Omega Force | Release Date: Q2 2018
Fire Emblem for Nintendo Switch (working title)
Fire Emblem was born on Nintendo's first console (in Japan) in 1990. But in recent years, it's been an exclusively handheld series (barring Fire Emblem Warriors) since Fire Emblem: Radiant Dawn landed on Nintendo Wii almost a decade ago. Nintendo announced that a new Fire Emblem game is in the works for Switch, though little else is known beyond its broad "2018" release date. Developer: Intelligent Systems | Release Date: TBA 2018
Project Octopath Traveler (working title)
Square Enix and developer Acquire are in the home stretch of development on Project Octopath Traveler, a retro RPG that mixes 2D and 3D graphics in an effort to bridge the gap between 16-bit and HD graphics. A demo was released on the Nintendo eShop earlier this year, but the release date is still listed as "2018." Developer: Square Enix, Acquire | Release Date: TBA 2018 | Watch the Trailer
No More Heroes: Travis Strikes Again
The third game in the No More Heroes series from infamous developer, Goichi "SUDA 51" Suda, is scheduled to land on Switch later this year. The debut trailer presents a revenge tale against frontman Travis, who finds himself confronted by Badman, father of Travis' first assassination target, Bad Girl. Before they get into a scuffle, both characters are drawn into a video game system. From within, they will have to confront a handful of fictional video games, supposedly inspired by real-world hits like Hotline Miami. Developer: Grasshopper Manufacture | Release Date: TBA 2018 | Watch the Trailer
Yoshi for Nintendo Switch (working title)
Yoshi's debut standalone adventure on Switch is another platformer, but Nintendo is utilizing a new art style to define the game's distinct gameplay twist. With each stage appearing similar to a diorama, you can view stages from the "front," or look behind the scenes from a new perspective to reveal the inner workings of seemingly one-sided buildings and environments. The new Yoshi game will also support two-player local co-op. Developer: Good-Feel | Release Date: TBA 2018 | Watch the Trailer
Dragon Marked For Death
The latest game from the team behind Mega Man Zero, Mega Man 9 and 10, and Azure Striker Gunvolt is coming exclusively to Switch this year. Dragon Marked for Death looks like another action-packed 2D side-scroller with intricate sprites, but Inti Creates is experimenting by adding in four-player local co-op and progression systems that give the game an action-RPG feel. Developer: Inti Creates | Release Date: TBA 2018
The World Ends With You - Final Remix
The hi-res version of Square Enix's The World Ends With You is coming to Switch, along with a "sizable" new story scenario. It was announced during January's Nintendo Direct Mini, and is due sometime in 2018. Developer: Square-Enix | Release Date: TBA 2018
SNK Heroines: Tag Team Frenzy
This new brawler from NIS is heavy on fan service, but should also please fans of the classic SNK fighting series. Battles will focus entirely on the female fighters from SNK's various fighting game series. Developer: NIS/SNK | Release Date: TBA 2018
By Matt Espineli on Jan 24, 2018 06:22 am
A Growing Library Of Exclusives
With the release of the Xbox One X last year, Microsoft managed to enhance its latest and a few pre-existing games with upgraded visuals. However, the publisher's roster of exclusives in 2017 was small. Fortunately, Microsoft is kicking off this year with a solid array of exclusive triple-A and independent games. With so many great-looking games coming to the console that you won't find anywhere else, we've compiled a list of all the exclusive games coming to Xbox One in the coming months. Make sure to check back often, as we'll continue to update our entries with specific dates and info when new announcements are made. If you're curious about other platforms, you can check out our features on PS4 exclusives, PC exclusives, and Switch exclusives. It's worth noting that some of the games you see this gallery are also on PC. Given Microsoft's Play Anywhere program and the company's hand in both console and PC gaming, these games have been included. There's also a wealth of exciting games coming out in 2018 that aren't necessarily exclusive to one platform or another, so be sure to check out our individual features highlighting the most anticipated PS4 games, Xbox One games, PC games, and Switch games for a broader look at the year ahead.
Sea of Thieves
Sea of Thieves is the first original, non-Kinect game by iconic developer Rare in years. It's a first-person multiplayer action-adventure game that allows you to live out the life of a pirate with your friends. You'll be able to work together to navigate the sea by ship while hunting down treasure and fending off competing players. Developer: Rare | Release Date: March 20 | Watch the Trailer
Ashen
Ashen is an action-RPG where you play a wanderer in search of a place to settle. However, the game's hostile world filled with malicious scavengers and deadly creatures ensures you won't stay in one place for long. Ashen challenges you to explore the world, create settlements, and seek out other adventurers to join you and improve your chances of survival. Developer: Aurora44 | Release Date: TBA 2018 | Watch the Trailer
Black Desert Online
The incredibly popular PC MMORPG Black Desert Online is making its way onto Xbox One this year as a timed-exclusive. Thanks to the power of the Xbox One X, the upcoming console port can be played in 4K. Developer: Pearl Abyss | Release Date: Early 2018 | Watch the Trailer
Crackdown 3
Crackdown 3 is an open-world action-adventure game that has you stopping crime in a futuristic city where everything is destructible. Its main protagonist is voiced by famous actor, Terry Crews (White Chicks, Idiocracy, Brooklyn Nine-Nine). Developer: Sumo Digital, Reagent Games, Ruffian Games, and Cloudgine | Release Date: TBA 2018 | Watch the Trailer
Deep Rock Galactic
Deep Rock Galactic is a first-person cooperative sci-fi shooter where up to four players explore procedurally generated, destructible environments to complete a variety of missions. As a team of Dwarven space miners, you work together to blow up cave walls and mow down enemies. Developer: Ghost Ship Games | Release Date: TBA 2018 | Watch the Trailer
The Darwin Project
The Darwin Project is a third-person competitive multiplayer battle royale game with an emphasis on survival. In order to win, you must endure extreme weather conditions, while tracking opponents and setting up traps. Developer: Scavenger Studio | Release Date: TBA 2018
The Last Night
The Last Night is a 2.5D cinematic platformer where you play as Charlie, a lower-class citizen in a society where computers and machinery have taken over menial work. You explore the city, talk with its various inhabitants, and discover its secrets. Developer: Odd Tales | Release Date: TBA 2018 | Watch the Trailer
State of Decay 2
State of Decay 2 is a multiplayer zombie survival game featuring an open-world environment and co-op gameplay with up to three other players. Unlike the original, the game allows you to control anyone in your crew of survivors, who each have their own unique strengths and weaknesses. Developer: Undead Labs | Release Date: TBA 2018 | Watch the Trailer
By Matt Espineli on Jan 24, 2018 06:17 am
This Year's Exclusives.exe
With so many great-looking games on the way, we've compiled a list of all the exclusive titles coming to PC this year to help you keep track. Make sure to check back often, as we'll continue to update our entries with specific dates and info when new announcements are made. If you're curious about other platforms, you can check out our features on PS4 exclusives, Switch exclusives, and Xbox One exclusives. Thanks to all the independent developers set to launch their projects, PC platforms like Steam and GOG are set to receive hundreds of exclusive games this year. Since rounding them up would prove unwieldy, we've narrowed the field down to this list of some of the most high-profile exclusives. There's also a wealth of exciting games coming out in 2018 that aren't necessarily exclusive to one platform or another, so be sure to check out our individual features highlighting the most anticipated PS4 games, Xbox One games, PC games, and Switch games for a broader look at the year ahead.
Age of Empires: Definitive Edition
Age of Empires: Definitive Edition is a remaster of the iconic history-based real-time strategy game from 1997. Developer: Forgotten Empires | Release Date: February 20
Long Gone Days
Long Gone Days is a 2D RPG that follows the adventures of Rourke, a soldier who decides to abandon his post, which leads him on a journey where he'll collaborate with allies from different parts of the world to overcome the peril of an inescapable war. While a traditional RPG at its core, the game also features elements from visual novels, puzzlers, and shooters. Developer: BURA | Release Date: March 2018 (Early Access)
Agony
Agony is a first-person horror game that forces you to survive the depths of Hell. Developer: Madmind Studio | Release Date: March 30
Chuchel
Chuchel is a puzzle game developed by Jaromir Plachy & Amanita Design, the creators of Botanicula, Machinarium, and Samorost. Developer: Amanita Design | Release Date: Early 2018
Griftlands
Griftlands is the latest game by developer Klei Entertainment, the studio behind Don't Starve and Mark of the Ninja. Unlike its previous efforts, Griftlands is an action-RPG that emphasizes player choice and charting your own journey through an in-depth negotiation system. Developer: Klei Entertainment | Release Date: Early 2018
Dauntless
Dauntless is a free-to-play action-RPG that plays similarly to Capcom's popular Monster Hunter series. It takes place in a world where a cataclysmic event has torn the world apart, releasing monster-like Behemoths that prey on the surviving humans. You play as a Slayer, a special warrior tasked with taking down the Behemoths. Developer: Phoenix Labs | Release Date: Q1-Q2 2018 | Watch the Trailer
Total War: Three Kingdoms
Total War: Three Kingdoms takes developer Creative Assembly's long-running real-time strategy series to the turbulent Three Kingdoms period in Chinese history. Developer: Creative Assembly | Release Date: Fall 2018
MechWarrior 5: Mercenaries
MechWarrior 5: Mercenaries is the first numbered mainline entry in the once popular mech-sim series to be released in nearly 16 years. In keeping with MechWarrior tradition, you customize and pilot your own personal BattleMech across a new conflict set within the universe of the popular BattleTech franchise. Developer: Piranha Games | Release Date: December 2018 | Watch the Trailer
Anno 1800
Anno 1800 is the latest entry in the long-running real-time strategy Anno series. It takes the series back to the past, allowing you to build and manage metropolises during the industrial revolution. Developer: Ubisoft Blue Byte | Release Date: Winter 2018
Aquanox: Deep Descent
Aquanox: Deep Descent is a first-person shooter where you control a submarine through undersea caverns in the dystopian world of Aqua. Developer: Digital Arrow | Release Date: TBA 2018
Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire
Pillars of Eternity II is the successor to the critically acclaimed 2015 original. It features an expansive multiclassing system, which allows players to build unique characters that tie both into personal playstyles and stories. It also gives you access to a ship that you can sail across the game's world and continually upgrade to better survive perilous encounters. Developer: Obsidian Entertainment | Release Date: TBA 2018 | Watch the Trailer
Quake Champions
Quake Champions revives the classic Quake style of arena shooter gameplay but with a new character/class system. While not a major factor, these characters do feature their own distinct movement speeds, health pools, and a special ability. Developer: id Software | Release Date: TBA 2018 | Watch the Trailer
Total War Saga: Thrones of Britannia
Total War Saga: Thrones of Britannia is the latest spin-off game in the popular Total War franchise. In contrast to the mainline games, Thrones of Britannia is a turn-based strategy game that takes place in the aftermath of the Viking invasion of Britain. Developer: Creative Assembly | Release Date: TBA 2018
Underworld Ascendant
Underworld Ascendant is an action-RPG made by developers that worked on the Ultima Underworld series. Like those games, it focuses on player choice while taking you on a journey across a fantasy realm packed with danger and intrigue. Developer: Otherside Entertainment | Release Date: TBA 2018
Xenonauts 2
Xenonauts 2 is a strategy game where you command a multinational organization defending Cold War-era Earth from an alien invasion. Developer: Goldhawk Interactive | Release Date: TBA 2018
By Peter Brown on Jan 24, 2018 06:15 am
Only on PlayStation
2017 was a good year to own a PlayStation 4. On top of the excellent selection of multi-platform games like Nier: Automata, Resident Evil 7: Biohazard, and What Remains of Edith Finch, you also had access incredible exclusives like Persona 5 and Horizon: Zero Dawn. And for anyone with an interest in virtual reality, the launch of PlayStation VR was the icing on the cake. Looking ahead to 2018, there are plenty of new PlayStation 4 exclusives on the way. We've compiled every one we know of so far here, and will continue to update this gallery with new games as they get announced. If you're curious about other platforms, you can check out our features on Xbox One exclusives, PC exclusives, and Switch exclusives. Of course, there's a wealth of exciting games coming out in 2018 that aren't necessarily exclusive to one platform or another, so be sure to check out our individual features highlighting the most anticipated PS4 games, Xbox One games, PC games, and Switch games for a broader look at the year ahead.
Digimon Story: Cyber Sleuth - Hacker's Memory
The latest game in the long-running Digimon series presents the mysterious backstory to the events that transpired in the first Cyber Sleuth game, and features 320 Digimon from the animated series. Developer: Media.Vision | Release Date: January 19
The Inpatient
The Inpatient is an unlikely prequel to Supermassive Games' 2015 horror gem, Until Dawn. It's a PSVR experience set 60 years prior to the first game, inside the foreboding halls of Blackwood Sanatorium. Developer: Supermassive Games | Release Date: January 23 | Watch the Latest News
Dissidia: Final Fantasy NT
The Dissidia games found a lot of fans back during the PSP's heyday, and more recently in Japanese arcades. The latest in the series is coming to PlayStation 4 courtesy of Team Ninja, and promises wild mid-air battles between Final Fantasy's most beloved and infamous characters. Developer: Team Ninja | Release Date: January 30 | Watch the Trailer
Shadow of the Colossus
The magical PS2 game Shadow of the Colossus has been given a new lease on life, and the upcoming PS4 remake looks to be in good hands at Bluepoint Games, a team known for top-notch ports and remasters. Developer: Bluepoint Games | Release Date: February 6 | Watch the Trailer
Moss
Moss is a fetching adventure in a magical world starring a daring and capable mouse named Quill. Early footage shows a game with a lot of heart, and its storybook whims can only be experienced through a PSVR headset. Developer: Polyarc | Release Date: February 2018 | Watch the Trailer
Frantics
Frantics hopes to entertain you and a few of your closest friends with 15 oddball mini-games. Designed for PlayLink support, you use your smartphone, rather than a DualShock, to participate. Developer: NapNok Games | Release Date: March 6
Bravo Team
Supermassive's other PSVR game is a tactical shooter designed for two-player co-op, either locally or online; teamwork and communication will be key to your success. Developer: Supermassive Games | Release Date: March 6 | Watch the Trailer
Yakuza 6: The Song of Life
Sega's serious-meets-slapstick open-world series continues its onslaught on the West with Yakuza 6: The Song of Life. It's also the first game to take advantage of the new Dragon Engine, which helps the game's lifelike renditions of Tokyo and famous Japanese actors look more convincing than ever. Developer: Ryu ga Gotoku Studios | Release Date: March 20 | Watch the Trailer
MLB The Show 18
The next game in Sony's annual baseball series is on the way, and this year's cover features the formidable New York Yankee, Aaron Judge. Developer: Sony San Diego Studio | Release Date: March 27
God of War
With the pantheon of Greek gods behind him, Kratos' latest adventure takes him to the frozen Norse wilds. Though the series' familiar action appears to remain intact, Kratos must now also care for his son, Atreus, as the two work together to overcome brutal obstacles and new opponents. Developer: Sony Santa Monica Studio | Release Date: April 20 | Watch the Trailer
Dragon's Crown Pro
The sumptuously illustrated beat-em-up from Vanillaware is making a comeback, and the Pro version of the game will feature new support for 4K (on PS4 Pro) and a newly recorded orchestrated soundtrack. Developer: Vanillaware | Release Date: April 24 | Watch the Trailer
Detroit: Become Human
The next game from David Cage (Heavy Rain, Beyond: Two Souls) aims to examine the potential complications that may arise if artificial lifeforms advance far enough to not just appear human, but to convince us they feel human as well. Expect incredible production values and multiple outcomes based on choices made during calm and heated scenes alike. Developer: Quantic Dream | Release Date: Spring 2018 | Watch the Trailer
Megadimension Neptunia VIIR
Megadimension Neptunia VIIR is essentially a rerelease of Megadimension Neptunia VII, but the new version comes with special-made PSVR sections created in an entirely new engine for VIIR. Developer: Compile Heart | Release Date: Spring 2018 | Watch the Trailer
Days Gone
Days Gone is a sandbox survival game set during a zombie-infested post-apocalypse. Players will have to be resourceful and use clever problem-solving skills to overcome not just zombie-like Freakers, but other ruthless survivors trying to make it in the beautiful-turned-dangerous Pacific Northwest. Developer: Sony Bend Studio | Release Date: TBA 2018 | Watch the Trailer
Star Child
Star Child is a dreamy, narrative-driven platformer from a team of self-admitted sci-fi junkies that's coming to PSVR sometime later this year. Developer Playful Corp. is best known for the two Lucky's Tale games: Lucky's Tale for Oculus Rift and Super Lucky's Tale, an early Xbox One X game. Developer: Playful Corp. | Release Date: TBA 2018 | Watch the Trailer
Spider-Man
Based on its previous projects, Insomniac Games seems like a perfect fit for a new Spider-Man game. Early footage has shown the upcoming PS4 game to be both great looking and action packed, but we'll have to wait until later this year to see if the experience at large delivers the Spider-Man experience Marvel's biggest fans are waiting for. Developer: Insomniac Games | Release Date: TBA 2018 | Watch the Trailer
Golem
Golem is a PSVR game that will give you the power to create and control creatures made of stone. At first, you will be limited to the confines of your virtual bedroom, but as you grow more familiar with your powers you will eventually end up in the middle of an ancient abandoned city controlling massive, 15-foot giants. Developer: Highwire Games | Release Date: TBA 2018 | Watch the Trailer
Blood and Truth
Blood and Truth is a PSVR game poised to build on The London Heist portion of Sony's PlayStation VR Worlds, with more immersive environments and massive shootouts. Developer: Sony London Studios | Release Date: TBA 2018 | Watch the Trailer
Dreams
Like Little Big Planet before it, Dreams aims to give you the power to create worlds with ease and share them with other players. Media Molecule claims that players, rather than the developers, will define what Dreams ultimately becomes. Developer: Media Molecule | Release Date: TBA 2018 | Watch the Trailer
By Mat Elfring on Jan 24, 2018 04:39 am
It's that time of the year again. The time to watch a whole bunch of people get into a wrestling ring and toss each other over the top rope until there's one man or woman left standing. The Royal Rumble is a special time of the year where we all hope WWE has some surprises up its sleeve, whether it's old favorites or bizarre celebrities entering the main event match. Last year, we discussed 15 surprise entrants we waned to see and actually got one right--Tye Dillinger. He was one of the two surprises in that Rumble, with the other being Undertaker. This year, there's both the men and women's Royal Rumble matches, so there is a possibility we'll see even more surprises in 2018. Because the men's roster is so stacked, this year's surprise entrants will more than likely be female-heavy--since there aren't even 30 women on the main roster. Regardless, here are 15 men and women surprise entrants we'd love to see at the 2018 Royal Rumble.
"Stone Cold" Steve Austin
One of the two highlights of Raw 25, right behind Miz beating Roman Reigns for the IC title, was Steve Austin coming out, drinking beers, and stunning both Vince and Shane McMahon. Austin looked good too. He was in shape, and while he didn't have one line of dialogue, he outperformed everyone else in the ring during the segment. We predicted him to come out last year, and he didn't. However, out of all the retired Attitude Era stars, he's the most likely to come back, especially considering his close relationship with WWE.
Beth Phoenix
There are a handful of stars from WWE's past that were especially important in the evolution of women's wrestling at the company. One of them is Beth Phoenix, who filled an important role during the Ruthless Aggression era as one of the few women during the time who was extremely talented on the mic and in the ring. Considering she's included in WWE 2K18's DLC and working commentary on the Mixed Match Challenge, her inclusion in either Royal Rumble--or both--is likely.
Trish Stratus
If Beth Phoenix was one of the most important parts of the Ruthless Aggression era, then Trish Stratus is the same for the Attitude Era. During a time when the majority of women were used as arm candy, Stratus was busy delivering some stellar performances. Because she was at Raw 25, it seems like her showing up at the Royal Rumble isn't entirely out of the question.
Lita
You can't talk about the Attitude Era and Trish Stratus without also discussing Lita. She embraced what it meant to be a unique and entertaining wrestler who had the same high-flying talents as her male counterparts. Lita still works with WWE on live events, usually during the PPV pre-shows, so there is a good chance we could see her at this year's Royal Rumble. The real question is, "Why wasn't she on/invited to Raw 25?"
Kurt Angle
The Raw general manager has already returned to the ring since he's come back to WWE, so an appearance in the Rumble seems like a pretty solid idea, especially if it's going to set something up for Wrestlemania. Angle has been cleared to wrestle, but I don't think WWE will take any huge risks with him, considering how many times he's broken his neck. That being said, the Rumble is a lower-impact match and the perfect fit for Angle.
Daniel Bryan
Having Daniel Bryan in the Royal Rumble match may just be wishful thinking as Bryan has not been cleared to wrestle yet, as far as we know. The Smackdown general manager had a staredown with The Miz at Raw 25, and because of this, we're hoping this leads to a match between the two at Wrestlemania. There is no better way to really put some fire under this rivalry than to have Bryan eliminate The Miz at this year's Rumble.
Adam Cole
Adam Cole has only been with NXT since August, but wrestling fans couldn't have been more excited to see him make his way to WWE. The former Bullet Club member has already made a name for himself in NXT, especially after his performance at NXT Takeover: Wargames. Normally, the Rumble lets at least one person from NXT join the fight, and Cole could be the one this year.
Aleister Black
Aleister Black is a really cool NXT superstar. He's got an interesting look and entrance. Unlike most other wrestlers with a unique and dark look, Black boasts an extensive martial arts background. He'll be coming to the main roster sooner rather than later, so his inclusion in the Rumble could be a great way to introduce the wider WWE Universe to him.
The Velveteen Dream
If you're unfamiliar with The Velveteen Dream, he's one part Prince and one part Rick Rude. The wrestler feels like a contemporary reimagining of the characters from the golden era of WWE. He's been on a roll recently in NXT, and his match against Aleister Black at Wargames was truly phenomenal. Maybe I'm a bit partial to the Velveteen Dream, as I love over-the-top gimmicks.
Ember Moon
The women's revolution really started because of stars from NXT coming to the main roster, like Paige, Sasha Banks, Charlotte, Becky Lynch, and Bayley. We've recently seen a third wave of NXT stars come to Raw and Smackdown with Ruby Riott and company, and there is no one more worthy from the developmental brand to come to the Rumble than NXT Women's Champion Ember Moon.
Kairi Sane
There are multiple reasons why NXT's Kairi Sane should be included in this year's Royal Rumble match. First and foremost, she's the winner of the Mae Young Classic, and she put on an extremely impressive performance. Secondly, she dresses like a pirate when she comes to the ring, which I am a huge fan of. She brings a flash and flare to her style that's undeniably wonderful, including to her elbow drop.
Nikki Cross
One of the other women of NXT we'd love to see in the Rumble is none other than Sanity member Nikki Cross. It's only a matter of time before all of the stable makes their way to the main roster, and Cross brings something special to her character and in-ring performance. She's a dynamic character and someone who would be a great fit on the female roster, which could start with Cross making her debut at this year's Rumble.
Cody Rhodes
It's no secret the American Nightmare is having a ton of success outside of WWE. He left the company on what seems to be good terms, and he's just been so much fun to watch on the indie circuit. He's breathed new life into his career and has really found his character and voice. I don't think Cody will be returning to WWE anytime soon, but a one-and-done Rumble appearance doesn't seem completely out of the question.
Ethan Carter III
TNA star EC3 left the company in mid-January, leading everyone to believe that he'll make his debut at the Rumble. There have been rumors and reports that he was spotted at the WWE Performance Center and that he's already signed with the company. Carter could follow in the footsteps of AJ Styles, who made his debut at the Royal Rumble in 2016.
Ronda Rousey
Last year, we hoped mixed martial artist Ronda Rousey would appear in the Royal Rumble--which she didn't--but we're hoping she makes her way to the ring this year. Rousey first appeared in WWE at Wrestlemania XXXI, and since then, fans have speculated when she's going to come back. Considering this year marks the first year of the women's Royal Rumble, it seems like an ideal time for her to return.
By Chris Pereira on Jan 24, 2018 03:44 am
Overwatch's big new cosmetic update has launched on all platforms. That means there's a ton of new skins and items to get your hands on--and no time limit rushing you to get them all right away. These new cosmetics work differently than those we typically see added as part of an event with a limited-time loot box. This update adds more than 100 new items to the base loot box. In other words, these can all be unlocked at any time by playing, or you can purchase them directly through the Hero Gallery with Credits. Among the new items are 17 new skins: 12 Legendaries, and five Epics. Some of these were revealed in the lead up to the update's release, but now we've gotten a look at them all--you can check them out in the gallery above, along with all the new sprays. The update also introduces new player icons, emotes, highlight intros, and more, spanning all 26 characters in the game. Aside from the cosmetic side of things, the new update introduces a new map called Blizzard World. This is an amusement park based on Blizzard's other, non-Overwatch franchises, such as Warcraft, Diablo, and StarCraft. It's a hybrid map where teams fight to push or defend a payload through the park. On a related note, some of the new skins are actually based on characters from other franchises, such as Zarya's Barbarian outfit based on Diablo III and Widowmaker's Nova from StarCraft II. The free cosmetic update is out now on PC, PS4, and Xbox One. A new Overwatch hero is currently in testing, though we don't know how soon it will be released. Blizzard also has plans for a Lunar New Year event and will bring back the Uprising and Anniversary events in the coming months.
Blackhand Doomfist
Black Cat D.Va
Kabuki Hanzo
Caution Junkrat
Capoeira Lúcio
Royal McCree
Ecopoint: Antarctica Mei
Immortal Orisa
Asp Pharah
Hellfire Reaper
Crusader Reinhardt
Butcher Roadhog
Peacock Symmetra
Carbon Fiber Zenyatta
Magni Torbjörn
Nova Widowmaker
Barbarian Zarya
By Dan Auty on Jan 24, 2018 02:32 am
Black Mirror Season 4 featured some of the darkest, weirdest, and most disturbing episodes of the show to date. From consciousness transference and mental manipulation, to killer robot dogs and auto-mutilation, creator Charlie Brooker and his collaborators took the viewer through a series of nightmarish near-future scenarios, which were all the more terrifying because they seem so possible. Here's our rundown of the most disturbing moments from the latest season. Naturally, there will be spoilers.
1. Deep space death (USS Callister)
While all the nastiest stuff in 'USS Callister' technically exists in the fevered virtual world created by coding whiz Robert Daly, it doesn't make the experience any less bleak for either the viewers or his victims. Determined to torment company co-founder Walton, Robert forces him to watch his son being blown out of the airlock into deep space. Walton knows that if he doesn't bend to Daly's will and play his sick game, his son will be brought back for an even more gruesome demise.
2. No face, no luck (USS Callister)
Daly has absolute control over every person he's trapped within the USS Callister, and can keep them alive for as long as he wants. In an attempt to subdue the rebellious Nanette, he removes her face. She cannot see or breathe, and yet remains alive, trapped in a ghastly state of permanent suffocation.
3. Surveillance surprise (Arkangel)
In 'Arkangel', a concerned mom returns to the tech she had implanted into her now-teenage daughter as a child, which allows her to monitor her every move. Unfortunately for mom, she turns the tablet-based monitor on just as her daughter is enjoying an illicit tryst with her boyfriend.
4. Mom's gone (Arkangel)
Things go from bad to worse, and the episode ends with the daughter beating her mother nearly to death with the very device that she used to spy on her. The weird digital disruption that mom's head experiences with every blow makes this scene even more disturbing.
5. Bath time (Crocodile)
The darkest episode of Black Mirror Season 4, 'Crocodile', is a twisted tale of memory and murder. 15 years after she helped cover up a murder, Mia finds herself knee-deep in bodies as she attempts to stop memory-recall tech exposing her crime. The most shocking kill is the husband of an insurance agent, who is beaten to death with a hammer while he relaxes in the bath.
6. Blind luck (Crocodile)
Although the bath murder is the most graphic scene in 'Crocodile', there's an even more disturbing coda. Shortly after dealing with the husband, Mia realises that the couple have a baby whose memories could also be accessed. Although, thankfully, the child's death occurs offscreen, we are left in no doubt as to what happened. In a tragic, ironic twist, it is revealed that the kid had been born blind, so the memory recall tech would not have worked anyway.
7. Love hurts (Hang the DJ)
The most powerful moment in the otherwise relatively upbeat dating app satire has a real emotional punch. 'Hang the DJ's' perfectly-matched lovers Amy and Frank have decided not to check the expiry date of their relationship, but Frank can't help giving into his curiosity and in doing so without Amy's knowledge or consent, tragically reduces their five-year relationship down to a few hours. Sob.
8. Terminator mutts (Metalhead)
'Metalhead' is a scary, pared-down thrill-ride set in a bleak future where humans are hunted down by terrifying robotic dogs. And that's really it--40 minutes of unrelenting, black-and-white scares and tension, as these metallic killing machines chase, kill, kill and chase. They're unrelenting and resourceful; a terrifying vision of what could await for us in our real-world future.
9. Pain and gain (Black Museum)
Season closer 'Black Museum' tells three stories in one, and is packed with unpleasant moments. One of the grimmest is the story of Dr. Dawson, who begins to experience pain as pleasure via a neurological implant. Hopelessly addicted to these sensations, he proceeds to cut, slice, snip, and gouge his body in wincingly graphic detail.
10. "Monkey needs a hug" (Black Museum)
Rolo Haynes, the proprietor of this strange museum of cutting edge "criminological artefacts", recounts the story of a man who had the consciousness of his comatose wife transferred into his own mind. When he tires of his wife's presence in there, he has Haynes transfer it into that of a toy monkey. In a sickening twist, we learn that years later, her consciousness is still trapped within the monkey, who now sits alone in the museum.
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