By Michael Rougeau on Apr 11, 2018 08:30 pm
Giddy up.
We may not be getting a Westworld Season 2 spoiler video any time soon, but we're still looking forward to the return of HBO's epic science fiction/western hybrid. Oh, and it has samurai now, too. "We want to see Shogun World" is probably the number one fan wish after the big tease in Westworld Season 1. But there's plenty more to hope for when Westworld returns to HBO on its April 22 premiere date. What do you want to see in Westworld Season 2? Let us know in the comments below.
13. To Find Out What Happened To Stubbs
Luke Hemsworth's character Stubbs was a fun side character in Westworld Season 1. By the first season's end, he'd been waylaid by the Ghost Nation, but since we didn't see him die on-screen it's safe to assume he's coming back. Oh, and Hemsworth himself confirmed he's fine. This one's pretty safe.
12. ...And Elsie
It seemed in Season 1 that Shannon Woodward's Elsie had been killed by Bernard after getting too close to the truth, but showrunner Lisa Joy confirmed to Entertainment Weekly that she's alive. "[Elsie and Stubbs] are finally getting to experience Westworld as guests and not in the managerial halls, but I'm not sure they're enjoying their experience," Joy said.
11. More Tessa Thompson
Tessa Thompson played Delos executive Charlotte Hale in Westworld Season 1, but her profile in the real world has increased significantly since then thanks to big roles in movies like Thor: Ragnarok and Annihilation. We're hoping for a bigger part for her in Westworld Season 2, and it sounds like we'll get it: "[Charlotte] is back and causes trouble," Westworld showrunner Lisa Joy told Entertainment Weekly. "She went from this controlled person playing this chess game with Ford. He takes out her king and queen in one fell swoop. Now she's left at the mercy of the hosts like everyone else."
10. More Robot Murder
Speaking of being at the mercy of the hosts, one of Westworld Season 1's most sadistic pleasures was watching the park's android hosts taking out their human oppressors. That may be twisted, but given how Season 1 ended, it's pretty much guaranteed that we'll get more robot-on-human violence in Season 2.
9. Even More "Worlds"
As we saw at the end of Season 1, Westworld isn't the only android-torture theme park that exists in this world. Shogun World will reportedly play a part in Season 2, but what other versions might exist? Hopefully we find out in Season 2.
8. Hosts Escaping To The "Real World"
Think about this: We don't even know what the "real world" looks like in this show. Westworld and Shogun World probably aren't the only host parks in existence, but what about the outside world? Is it a futuristic utopia or a post-apocalyptic wasteland? It would be neat for Season 2 to end with one or more hosts escaping the parks' confines and finding out.
7. A New Mystery To Solve
The search for the maze was one incredibly fun throughline in Westworld Season 1, whether you expected some metaphorical labyrinth of the mind or a literal maze with a big red button at its center. Here's hoping Season 2 has an equally tantalizing central mystery.
6. Another Big Twist
Fans who paid close attention during Westworld Season 1 figured out pretty much all the show's big twists well ahead of their reveals, from the "two timelines" to Bernard being a host. Not everyone who makes the show was happy about that, so hopefully there will be even more intricate secrets at play in Season 2--ones that will be even more difficult to puzzle out.
5. But Only One Timeline, Please
The Man in Black turning out to be William all along--his journey playing out in two separate time periods throughout Westworld Season 1--was a fun twist, but it also felt a little cheap. While actor Jimmi Simpson has confirmed that he'll "pop in" during Season 2, it would be nice if the show stayed in the present.
4. To Find Out What Happened To Logan
Actor Ben Barnes confirmed to Screen Rant that he was "on set at least once" during shooting of Westworld Season 2. The last we saw in Season 1, his character Logan was riding off into the sunset, though his story seemed far from over. Whether he returns in the present or the show will once again split its time between the present and the past, we'll have to wait to see.
3. Something Good Happening To Maeve For Once
Thandie Newton's character Maeve, the madame of Westworld's Mariposa Saloon, has had a tough life (well, lives. Countless of them). She almost got out in Season 1, but ultimately went back for her "daughter," despite knowing the little girl in her visions is really no such thing. She chose her feelings over her knowledge, and it would be nice to see something good happen to her for once.
2. To Find Out Why Ford Had To Die
We're looking forward to the story moving forward with Westworld Season 2, but it would be nice for one plot point from Season 1 to be revisited: Why did Ford have to die for the robot revolution to begin? Yes, it was poetic, but was it necessary? Besides, it would be cool for Anthony Hopkins to return for any reason.
1. More Than Just "Chaos"
In the post-episode clip following Westworld's Season 1 finale, showrunner Jonathan Nolan said, "If the first season was defined by control, the second season is defined by chaos." That sounds great, but here's hoping there's also more to it than that--much as we'd love a 10-episode robot bloodbath.
By Array on Apr 11, 2018 07:52 pm
Being an arctic explorer ain't easy.
AMC's new horror show, The Terror, keeps getting scarier. The crews of the HMS Erebus and HMS Terror--two real ships that set out from England in 1845 and disappeared for over 150 years--arrived in the frigid Northern wastes in search of the Northwest Passage. Please don't consider it a spoiler that things won't turn out great for these characters in the end. These real life shipwrecks weren't discovered until 2014 and 2016, respectively, and their crews had died long ago from cold, starvation, disease, lead poisoning, and cannibalism. Anything that happens in The Terror between the start and that foregone conclusion is just embellishment invented by Dan Simmons, the author of the book on which the show is based, or showrunners David Kajganich and Soo Hugh. But what embellishments they are. With that in mind, we're going to keep a running list of all the scariest s*** that goes down in each new episode of The Terror. Don't miss our interview feature on how The Terror embraces horror without resorting to jump scares. Now click through to find out what's new.
1. Man Overboard
Episode 1 Of all the things that are no doubt going to kill these characters over The Terror's ten episodes, you might think falling overboard and drowning would be the least terrible. Then you imagine your whole body going numb, your vision shrinking, and your senses deadening as you slide further into the depths, unable to move or help yourself or do anything but die. Not a great start to this voyage.
2. This Guy
Episode 1 We don't know what it means. We just know that he's terrifying.
3. A Boy Among Men
Episode 1 It's unclear what this poor kid died from, but does it really matter? It's easy to envision these expeditionary crews as ships full of brave, hardened men, big sailors with 5 o'clock shadows and tattoos of mermaids and anchors. Seeing this kid get sick and scared and die is pretty jarring.
4. Hello Again
Episode 1 This trip underwater is filled with so much foreboding that you spend the entire scene just dreading that something awful is going to happen. Ultimately it could have been worse, but it was still a deeply unsettling moment.
5. World of Ice
Episode 1 The final shot of episode 1 is the most chilling of the whole episode: The two ships are completely encased in ice, presumably with no hope of digging out any time soon. This is only the beginning of the doom, though.
Episode 2
6. Crew, Meet Tuunbaq
Because probably starving to death in an Arctic wasteland isn't bad enough, the crew met the Tuunbaq, an Inuit creature of legend, in The Terror Episode 2. It doesn't seem very nice.
7. Bye Dad
Episode 2 Given that they were able to get this woman (who will come to be known by the name Lady Silence) and her dad back to the ship, there was a brief hope that they would save his life. Her frantic cries that he couldn't die below deck were terrible to hear.
8. Lady Silence's Warning
Episode 2 If only Lady Silence knew how right she was when she said they're going to disappear. Was it a prescient prophecy, or is she going to make sure of it? We'll have to keep watching to find out.
9. Photo Fnish
Episode 3 Captain Franklin poses for a photograph with the men chosen to hunt and kill the "bear." This being 1846, the group must pose for a full 30 seconds for the picture to be taken. Nothing really happens here, but the atmosphere is seriously ominous, as Goodsir watches his pocket watch to count down until the picture is done. It's almost like they are counting down to something terrible happening...
10. Tent Attack
Episode 3 And it does! Before the hunting party can even leave their tent, the Tuunbaq attacks, ripping open the tent from above and grabbing one of the men. As the rest of the group fire wildly into the blizzard and Franklin makes a run for it, the creature's victim loses his head in gruesome style.
11. Owwww-lid!
Episode 3 Episode 3 might be filled with decapitation and dismemberment, but one of the most excruciating moments comes shortly after the Tuunbaq attacks the hunting party. Crozier hears the gunshots and screams so runs to the deck, using a telescope to see what's going on. After he spots the terrified men retreating back to the Terror, he moves the telescope away from his eye, only to find that the metal has frozen to his eyelid, pulling a chunk of skin away with it. OWWWW!
12. Franklin Checks Out
Episode 3 Franklin's death was a genuine surprise. He had been introduced as one the show's main characters, and his antagonistic relationship with Crozier provided much of this episode's drama. But he becomes the Tuunbaq's third victim, pulled through the ice before having his leg torn off and dumped in same icy grave that we saw the Eskimo dad's body lowered into at the start of the episode.
13. Dinner Gift
Episode 3 This episode closes with Lady Silence back at her camp, alone. From outside the igloo we hear the ominous sound of large, beastly footsteps and the breathing of something big and scary. But the Tuunbaq is not here to kill--it is leaving her some food (a dead seal). The final shot of Lady Silence's terrified face as she emerges from the igloo is one of the most chilling moments of the whole episode.
14. Setting Sun
Episode 4 Crozier and his men stand on the deck of the Erebus, watching the final rays of the sun disappear below the horizon as the months-long darkness of winter descends. "The last of the year," says one of the men. "Feels like an omen." How right he is.
15. Heather's Brain
Episode 4 The marine named William Heather is laid out on the operating table after being attacked at night by the Tuunbaq. His head is half-open and his brain is on display, but amazingly, he's still alive. The whole scene is so spooky that even the doctors are forced to seal his eyes shut so he doesn't stare at them while they operate.
16. Two Men, One Body
Episode 4 In Episode 4's creepiest scene, Hickey creeps along the deck of the Erebus towards a mysterious figure seemingly leaning over the edge of the ship. As he reaches out to touch the figure, the body falls to the ground in two pieces. Even worse, we discover in the next scene that the top and bottoms halves of the body belong to different victims and have been stacked by someone--or something--in this macabre way.
17. Hickey's Confession
Episode 4 Hickey takes matters into his own hands and kidnaps Lady Silence, bringing her back to the Erebus. When Crozier demands to know what happened, the officer describes seeing the Tuunbaq up close. It doesn't sound good. "It was three times that of any bear we've seen. With a different... set to its head," he says. "I do not believe it is an animal we battle."
By Chris Pereira on Apr 11, 2018 04:52 pm
Ovewatch Archives 2018 brings new looks for Reaper, Hanzo, and more
Blizzard has launched the latest update for Overwatch. Dubbed Overwatch Archives 2018, it's effectively this year's iteration of the Uprising even from 2017. It introduces a variety of new content, but as always the case, the highlight for many are the newly added skins. A total of eight Legendary skins have been added. Fans of Moira, Reaper, Winston, Hanzo, Mei, Doomfist, Sombra, and Lucio are all in for a treat, as those characters have new attire to equip. These can be obtained through the current loot box, which also contains a total of 60 new items. More than 100 cosmetics from last year's Uprising event are also available once again and include things like highlight intros, emotes, and more. You can see all of the new skins above, along with some of the other new cosmetics you can now get your hands on. Another big component of this update is the Retribution Brawl. This new limited-time PvE mode is set eight years before the events of Overwatch. It focuses on a mission involving Genji, McCree, Moira, and Reyes (who ultimately becomes Reaper, hence his new skin), whom you'll play as in this mode. There's also another version that lets you play as any character you wish. Regardless of which character configuration you use, you'll playing on a new map set in Venice. This is a modified version of a new PvP map called Rialto that's played in the Escort game type. If you grow tired of Retribution or just want to dip back into what was available last year, Uprising's co-op Brawl has also returned. That teams up Tracer, Torbjorn, Reinhardt, and Mercy as they attempt to liberate King's Row. Those characters all received new skins as part of last year's event, and they return as part of this new patch for those who haven't already gotten their hands on them. The Archives 2018 update is live now on PC, PS4, and Xbox One and runs from April 10-30. You'll have until then to collect any of the cosmetics you want and take part in the Retribution Brawl.
Reaper Legendary Skin
Reaper Legendary Skin
Hanzo Legendary Skin
Hanzo Legendary Skin
Doomfist Legendary Skin
Doomfist Legendary Skin
Lucio Legendary Skin
Lucio Legendary Skin
Winston Legendary Skin
Winston Legendary Skin
Moira Legendary Skin
Moira Legendary Skin
Sombra Legendary Skin
Sombra Legendary Skin
Mei Legendary Skin
Mei Legendary Skin
By Array on Apr 11, 2018 05:30 am
Silicon Vally Comic-Con had it's 3rd annual event and attendees went all-out with amazing cosplay. From comic favorites like Spider-Man, Captain America, and Deadpool to gaming mainstays like Waluigi and Peach, check out some of the best cosplayers we saw at the show!
Casey Jones
Cosplay by @seanxlong
Captain America
Cosplay by @Captain_steverogers_
Cable
Cosplay by @ladyauroracosplay
Deadpool
Cosplay by @Daddydeadpoolx5
Daenerys Targaryen & Dragon
Green Arrow
Cosplay by @ghawk50
Guardians of the Galaxy
Ghost Rider
Steven Universe - Racer Lapis
Cosplay by @ashton.taylor.cosplay
Thor
Hulk
Mr. Incredible & Power Girl
Cosplay by @Evanbydesign & @baconshinobi_cosplay
Waluigi & Peach
Cosplay by @Laura_martino
Tiny the Clown
Cosplay by @tinytheclown
Joker
Mad Hatter
Princess Mononoke
Cosplay by @Pixical_trin
Jyn Erso
@celticzombie
Tanooki Peach
Cosplay by @squirrelbraindesigns
Raven
Riddler
Skyrim
Cosplay by @thaneoffalkreath
Spider-Man
Cosplay by @segawdcd
Autumn Ivy
Cosplay by @tiny_heart_
Darth Maul
Cosplay by @twillsie
Asajj Ventress
Cosplay by @nightsisterjin
R2-D2 & BB-8
Cosplay by @cinisyren13
Grand Moff Tarkin
Cosplay by @Madclarinet
LEGO Obi-Wan Kenobi
Saber Alter
Cosplay by @tytalis
Up - Russell with Kevin
Ghostbusters - Jillian Holtzmann
Cosplay by @Jillesbianholtzmann
Spring Ivy
Cosplay by @maidenhellxo
By Array on Apr 11, 2018 04:04 am
Maps Worth Playing
If you've played Far Cry 5's Arcade mode, you'll know that it's an incredibly fun time. It's dense with user-created maps of varying kinds; some are skillfully crafted with myriad obstacles to overcome, while others are haphazardly put together in a way that's both self-aware and charming. There are even maps that are homages to other popular games, with a few that are literal geographical recreations of their most iconic areas. Regardless of what you choose, there's a wealth of options available that you're liable to enjoy in some shape or form. But by playing Far Cry 5 Arcade, you're also aware of the fact that it has a lot of subpar maps too. You need only look to the slew of maps that are texture-less wastelands where the only objective is to murder 160+ cultists. Given the mode's focus on user-created content, it can be somewhat difficult finding some of the best maps to play. To help you sort through Far Cry 5 Arcade's constantly expanding map library, we've narrowed down the best non-Ubisoft made ones available now. Since the mode's map libraries are self-contained on each platform, we've included the best maps you can find on PS4, Xbox One, and PC. We've labeled each map with the platform you can find them on, so be sure to look ahead to your respective platform to find its best maps. What are some of your favorite maps in Far Cry 5 Arcade? Let us know in the comments below. And be sure to check back often as we update this with feature with even more great maps that we find ourselves or discover from your suggestions. If you're interested in our other Far Cry 5 guides, be sure to check out our feature on how to design a great Far Cry 5 Arcade map, as well as our guide highlighting nine tips we wish we knew before starting.
Western Assault (Only on PS4)
Creator: Usagiyama01 A good old-fashioned shootout in a Western town packed with cowboys and cultists.
Shadow Moses (Only on PS4)
Creator: TheRoostr_ A relatively faithful recreation of the first couple of areas from the original Metal Gear Solid. Instead of saving the DARPA Chief stand-in, your objective is to kill him.
The Last Of Us (Only on PS4)
Creator: Kaiguy153 A map themed around Naughty Dog's critically acclaimed The Last of Us. It features a mix of zombie-like enemies and armed soldiers, much like the source material it's inspired by.
Horde Mower (Only on PS4)
Creator: Phyrotechnics You, two Mowers, and 106 Cultists. It's a chaotic good time.
Resident Evil 7v3 (Only on PS4)
Creator: adrijosefabi A literal recreation of the first few rooms in the Baker mansion from Resident Evil 7: Biohazard. If you enjoy this one, check out the other Resident Evil 7 map recreations available.
Stranger in the West (Only on Xbox One)
Creator: NASTY Blastaaa Venture through a town in the Wild West where you'll have to fend off enemies as you try to gun down a specific target and then escape through a church.
Memoir of Sanity (Only on Xbox One)
Creator: AbsorbedTitan A short level that essentially functions as a haunted house, you make your way through a series of distinct, creepy environments that ratchet up the tension as you make your way toward the exit.
GoldeneyeFacilityV2 (Only on Xbox One)
Creator: RainisaurusRox This is a fun little nostalgia trip back to the days of GoldenEye for N64, featuring perhaps its most famous level--complete with you starting out in a vent above an occupied bathroom stall.
Town Zombies (Only on Xbox One)
Creator: Keevo KX This level starts out slow, with harmless enemies for you to gun down. Take down enough of them, however, and you're soon faced with a rush of aggressive, hard-to-kill zombies that will get your heart pounding.
Weapon Fun Remastere (Only on Xbox One)
Creator: TheEpicGame600 After worrying about death throughout the campaign, this map offers a refreshing break by making you invincible--and, for good measure, by giving you access to an unlimited supply of weapons and a super jump. It's great, mindless fun to rain destruction down on crowds of enemies from high in the sky.
Metro 2018 (Only on PC)
Creator: Bigsmoke If you're down to play a map that looks and feels like an environment from the Metro series, then this is a must play.
Mansion on the Beach (Only on PC)
Creator: Thetoaster5 This map takes place in a mansion. On the beach. Kill enemies and rush to the exit!
Legend of Zeldo (Only on PC)
Creator: Cute_N_Evil A map that pokes fun at Nintendo's The Legend of Zelda franchise. It has ATVs and a surprise Ganon fight at the end.
Hotline Miami (Only on PC)
Creator: Robertardunygga Hotline Miami takes inspiration from the popular indie game series of the same name. Expect '80s synth music, neon lights, and melee combat.
Going Home (Only on PC)
Creator: Rat-Trash A post-apocalyptic themed map set at nighttime.
Cultist Coast
Creator: Mazzbotzkii A journey through a cultist shanty town by the sea.
By Meg Downey on Apr 11, 2018 03:58 am
Who's going to survive Avengers: Infinity War?
With the arrival of Thanos looming just over the horizon, one question seems to be nagging at the forefront of just about everyone's brain: Out of the MCU's seemingly endless roster of heroes, who's going to die in Avengers: Infinity War? The threat is pretty legitimate. Thanos represents the biggest, baddest villain any of the Marvel Cinematic Universe superheroes have yet to face, and the marketing campaign hasn't been pulling any punches when it comes to emphasizing just how dire things are looking. With the Infinity Stones at his disposal, Thanos can wipe out "half the galaxy" with a snap of his fingers, meaning that the odds are pretty firmly stacked against the Avengers and their allies. That, coupled with the behind-the-scenes negotiations regarding contract expiration and renewal that we know are going on, mean Infinity War is prime time for some changing of the metaphorical guard. It's time to take a closer look at the totally mathematical, theoretically sound, extremely clinical, and not at all anxiety fueled probabilities behind some of the MCU's biggest heroes making it out of Avengers: Infinity War alive.
31. Black Panther
Likelihood of death: 0.1% While anything could technically happen, it's a pretty safe bet that T'Challa isn't going anywhere. Not only did he just star in his own record-shattering solo movie this year, but Wakanda's arc in the MCU is only just beginning. Rest easy, the King is sitting pretty right now.
30. Shuri
Likelihood of death: 0.1% Just like her brother, Shuri is sitting pretty comfortably in this one. Not only has she already proven to be a huge fan favorite, but it's abundantly clear that her story has plenty of fuel left in the engine. She's not going anywhere.
29. Valkyrie
Likelihood of death: 1% Seeing as it's actually pretty doubtful Valkyrie will be on screen for more than just a brief cameo this time around, killing her off right now wouldn't make a ton of sense--at least not when she's only just getting started.
28. Okoye
Likelihood of death: 1% Though her role as a general puts her closer to the front lines, and therefore, more at risk, Okoye--like the rest of the Black Panther crew--is very likely sitting pretty for this one. The Dora Milaje are one of Wakanda's big breakouts for fans so it absolutely wouldn't make much sense to cut them off at the knees by killing their leader.
27. Spider-Man
Likelihood of death: 2% Peter Parker already has a solo movie sequel confirmed with a release date of July 5th, 2019, meaning unless there's some sort of cosmic time-warping involved, everyone's favorite web slinger is skating through this one just fine.
26. Ned Leeds
Likelihood of death: 2% Peter's best pal Ned is, for all intents and purposes, just as safe as Peter himself. He may not be as critical to the continuation of the Spider-Man line, but killing Ned would be pretty pointless and strangely cruel. He's going to be alright.
25. Mantis
Likelihood of death: 2% As the latest official addition to the Guardian's lineup, killing Mantis wouldn't accomplish much beyond leaving a gap that will need to be filled for their next solo film. Anything can happen, of course, but probably not this.
24. Groot
Likelihood of death: 2% C'mon, even if Groot does "die," we've already seen that he can just come back. If anything winds up happening to him, it'll probably be to revert back to the very merchandise friendly Baby Groot rather than anything permanent.
23. Rocket
Likelihood of death: 3% Similar to Groot, Rocket's status a fan favorite mascot-style character in the Guardian's lineup is very likely going to keep him safe for this one. It's kind of hard to replace a talking raccoon.
22. Ant-Man
Likelihood of death: 3% There's been some debate about where, exactly, in the MCU's timeline Ant-Man and The Wasp actually takes place, but even if it's something designed to slot into the time between Civil War and Infinity War, it's still pretty unlikely that Scott Lang is going to kick the bucket here. It just wouldn't make a whole lot of sense from a marketing standpoint.
21. The Hulk
Likelihood of death: 3% Mark Ruffalo has been extremely open about the Hulk's version of a "solo movie" being a three part arc across three movies. The first part of that story happened in Thor: Ragnarok, so it goes to follow that the second will come in Infinity War, and the finale will likely be in Infinity War's unnamed sequel. Consider him pretty safe, at least until next year.
20. Black Widow
Likelihood of death: 5% Natasha Romanoff's standalone Black Widow movie has all but been confirmed. Of course, we don't have a release date or any real information yet, so that could potentially change in the future--and it might be an origin story or something set in the past, to be sure--but it's definitely a lot less likely that she's going to bite the dust any time soon with those rumors swirling around.
19. War Machine
Likelihood of death: 6% Rhodey just came out of a near-miss moment in Civil War, so might feel a little redundant to have him put at risk again so soon. Also, War Machine's status as one of the major, active Iron Man replacements keeps him pretty safe.
18. Pepper
Likelihood of death: 6% Pepper's been a tertiary character in the MCU for as long as Tony's been a star and, though Tony's future may not be all that certain right now, Pepper's death wouldn't gain all that much for the shared universe. It's pretty safe to say the thing more likely to bench Pepper Potts than death is Gwyneth Paltrow renegotiating her contract.
17. Star Lord
Likelihood of death: 6% Until more of Marvel's space-based heroes make their live action debuts, it's pretty unlikely that Peter Quill is going to go anywhere. After all, those Adam Warlock teases from Guardians of the Galaxy vol. 2 are going to need someone to follow up on them at some point.
16. Thor
Likelihood of death: 15% It's pretty hard to kill a god, but as we've seen more than once it's definitely possible--and, by the look of things in the most recent trailer, Thor is about to undergo some truly rough treatment. However, the Thor franchise is largely without an heir as of right now and, considering its position as one of the MCU's most light hearted lines, a major heroic death would probably be pretty counterproductive. Thor may end up benched, but he probably won't die.
15. Bucky Barnes
Likelihood of death: 25% Not only is Bucky very recently rehabilitated from his stint as the brain washed Winter Soldier, he's also spent the duration of his time on screen in all three Captain America movies getting relentlessly teased as a potential successor to the mantle after Steve Rogers. Sure, there's always a chance that those shield-holding moments were just Easter eggs for the sake of Easter eggs, but let's not count Bucky out just yet.
14. Falcon
Likelihood of death: 25% Similar to Bucky, Sam Wilson's MCU story has been heavily intertwined with the Cap movies in a way that made room for a potential solo spin off. If Bucky isn't the one to pick up the Cap mantle, Sam's the next most likely candidate. Of course, he's also a non-powered, non-serum'd, non-armored human being running into battle with Thanos here in Infinity War, so he might not be all that safe.
13. Scarlet Witch
Likelihood of death: 35% Wanda Maximoff has an interesting relationship with the Infinity Stones, considering her superpowers were the result of experiments on the Mind Stone. That said, we really don't know all that much about how those experiments actually affected her or what will happen when Thanos takes the Stone back. Killing Wanda wouldn't be much of a narrative power move, but it's certainly a possibility.
12. Gamora
Likelihood of death: 45% Though they're just supporting characters in their own Guardians of the Galaxy corner of the MCU, the "daughters" of Thanos are headed toward a major spotlight as dear ol' dad makes himself known. Gamora even narrated the majority of the second trailer, which confirmed we'd get a closer look at her origin story which featured Thanos himself abducting her as a child. It's not super likely, considering the popularity and franchise power of the Guardians as a unit, but if a member of that team is going to get benched this time around, Gamora is probably the most likely--it would certainly be an emotional gut punch.
11. Drax
Likelihood of death: 55% If a Guardian of the Galaxy is marked for death that isn't a Daughter of Thanos, let's face it, it's probably Drax. He may be a great bit of comic relief but his actual narrative arc hasn't gone all that far since his debut and with so many teammates who could clearly pick up the slack as the bruiser of the bunch (Groot's growing up pretty fast, after all), if that herd needs to be culled, Drax is likely the one to go.
10. The Collector
Likelihood of death: 65% It's actually strangely likely that The Collector is going to bite the dust here. Not only is he sitting on one of the Infinity Stones, which puts him right in Thanos's crosshairs, he's also a tertiary enough character played by a big enough actor (Benicio del Toro, lest we forget) that he sits in a "fat trimming" area.
9. Wong
Likelihood of death: 65% The mystical arm of the MCU is a strange animal. With no real franchise plans on the horizon that we know of, Wong's role is teetering on a knife's edge between expanding or collapsing entirely. It'll depend on just how things shake of for Strange.
8. Hawkeye
Likelihood of death: 70% Fans of Clint Barton have been clamoring about his lack of inclusion in the marketing material since the Infinity War campaign dropped. We know he'll be taking on a new identity--Ronin--at some point in this movie, but other than that, it's been pretty tricky to pin down any information about him at all. As one of the few totally non-powered, non-metahuman, non-armor clad Avengers, Clint's more at risk this time around than others.
7. Doctor Strange
Likelihood of death: 70% Things started looking a little dicey for Stephen Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch) in the latest Infinity War trailer, where we got a brief but up close and personal look at Ebony Maw's torture techniques, prompting no shortage of speculation from fans. In the Infinity comics event, a similar scene takes place which winds up with Ebony Maw parasitically infecting Strange's brain and using him as something of a double agent for Thanos's plans--something which probably won't translate directly to screen, but leaves the good doctor with a pretty ominous shadow hanging over him. On top of that, Strange is one of the few solo superheroes introduced to have no confirmed plans for a sequel, meaning he can be taken off the board without much concern for franchise building.
6. Nebula
Likelihood of death: 75% Nebula, however, has been pretty absent from a lot of promotion and, given the tumultuous relationship she and her adoptive sister have shared on screen as of late, that might be a bad sign. Her redemption arc could be completed by a big moment of sacrifice that would arguably provide the same kick as Gamora's potential doom but at half the narrative (and future merchandising) cost. If one of the daughters of Thanos is going down, it's probably going to be her. Sorry, Nebula.
5. Nick Fury
Likelihood of death: 78% Samuel L. Jackson's been pretty candid about not really knowing or understand where Nick Fury slots into Infinity War, which could be seen as a pretty bad omen for the character's continued presence in the MCU. Increasingly it feels like the movies are moving away from both Fury and S.H.I.E.L.D, which means we may see the end of Fury here pretty soon.
4. Iron Man
Likelihood of death: 80% Tony Stark sits near the very top of the "Most Likely To Die" list in this one, unfortunately. Not only has Robert Downey Jr. been playing the character for a full decade, he's been pretty open about his desire to scale Tony's role in the franchise back "before it gets embarrassing." Of course, that doesn't necessarily mean Iron Man has been earmarked for death, but if Infinity War is looking to make a powerful statement with an extremely beloved character, Tony is obviously and definitely the lowest hanging fruit. Of course, things get complicated when you think about Tony's overall lack of a real on-screen successor. War Machine has only recently started prominently featuring alongside any of the Avengers ensembles with Captain America: Civil War, and Peter Parker, Tony's only real protege (for now) has a mantle of his own to bear--so, maybe, just maybe Tony could make it through this one in one piece--at least long enough to hand the keys to the Iron Man armor over to someone new. Someone like Black Panther's sister Shuri, maybe?
3. Captain America
Likelihood of death: 85% All things considered, Steve Rogers has been living on borrowed time in the MCU since his surprising survival through Civil War--a movie based on the comic event that famously killed him in its aftermath. Now visibly hardened, shieldless, and world weary, Captain America's Infinity War look and feel is unlike anything we've ever seen from our Star Spangled Avenger in the past--and no matter how much a fan favorite the beard and the scowl may be, when looked at in context, it all feels pretty ominous. Add to that the fact that Cap has not one but two potential on-screen replacements in Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan) and Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie), both of whom have expressed interested in doing their own solo or duo spin off movies and--this is painful to type--things aren't looking all that great for Steve's future.
2. Loki
Likelihood of death: 85% In a similar boat as Gamora, Loki's on-again-off-again role as a villain has put him on some thin ice moving forward in the MCU. His heartwarming turn at the end of Thor: Ragnarok certainly won him some brownie points, but after the latest Infinity War trailers confirmed that he did indeed steal the cosmic cube from Odin's vault, it's clear that Loki hasn't completely changed his heart or his ways. This means things are getting a little complicated for him these days. Nabbing the cosmic cube (which contains the Space Stone) puts him right in the crosshairs of Thanos and the Black Order, something that opens the doors for him to execute yet another one of his classic backstabbing moves on his brother or sacrifice himself for the greater good. Sure, it might be a shockingly altruistic move for someone like Loki to make at the literal 11th hour, but it would be a pretty satisfying (and emotionally devastating) end to his MCU journey.
1. Vision
Likelihood of death: 90% Another Avenger high up on the potential chopping block is Vision (Paul Bettany), and he has an extremely literal target painted right on his forehead. Given life by the Mind Stone, Vision has been all but invincible through his movie appearances in Age of Ultron and Civil War, but we've already seen in Infinity War's marketing material that Thanos does, indeed, manage to get his hands on the yellow Infinity Stone at some point during the course of the movie. Of course, that begs the question: What exactly happens to a robot powered by a cosmic rock when the cosmic rock is taken from him? Is there a way he could survive? Or will it be like his batteries have been popped out for good? His romantic relationship with the immensely powerful Scarlet Witch might be the thing to save him--but with Wanda's abilities so loosely defined on screen, this one is too close to call.
By Matt Espineli on Apr 11, 2018 02:24 am
Biggest Battle Royale Games
Battle royale games are quickly evolving, moving past the genre's humble beginnings as mods for large-scale survival games, like ARMA 2 and Minecraft, and into new territory. You can already see it rapidly growing thanks to the massive successes of PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds and Fortnite. This year alone is packed with a slew of new battle royale games that aim to push the genre even further. To keep you informed of all the latest games in the genre, we've compiled 11 of the biggest ones releasing in 2018. As you'll see in this feature, many of the latest battle royale games are expanding upon its most long held tenets and adding new mechanics into the mix. Some games add in spectator elements and dynamic environmental effects, while others are taking the experience to VR. Others battle royale games this year are opting for a more traditional approach. Games like Europa and Mavericks: Proving Grounds are sticking to the last person standing approach but across different scales and with additional mechanics, like dynamic environmental effects and higher player counts. Regardless of what you prefer, it's safe to say that there is likely a new battle royale game for you. But which one are you looking forward to the most? Let us know in the comments below. And be sure to check back often as we update this feature with even more new battle royale games as they get announced.
Radical Heights
Radical Heights is an '80s extreme sports-themed battle royale game developed by Boss Key Productions, the studio founded by Gears of War creator Cliff Bleszinski and developer of LawBreakers. Like most battle royale games, Radical Heights tasks contestants with surviving against other players, but adds its own twist on the formula by inviting players to use vehicles to give themselves the advantage. On top of that, you can collect cash and deposit it in the bank, to use later on regardless of whether you win or lose the match. The game is set to be in Early Access for about a year before releasing fully sometime next year. Platforms: PC | Release Date: April 10 via Steam Early Access
H1Z1 | PC (PS4 and Xbox One Versions Coming Soon)
Formerly known as H1Z1: King of the Kill, H1Z1 is the battle royale version of the zombie-survival sandbox game, Just Survive. It pits 150 players against each other in a last-man-standing deathmatch; players can choose to play solo, with a partner, or in groups of five. In addition to the game's standard battle royale mode, H1Z1 features a mode called Auto Royale, where four players drive a car into battle, collecting power-ups in order to emerge the last team driving. Platforms: PC | Release Date: Available Now
SOS | PC
SOS offers something unique: it requires a microphone, and your social skills and sense of showmanship will be put to the test. Each player has to present themselves in an interesting way to stand out and earn the favor of a live audience. Each game is broadcast live online via the social gaming platform Hero, with spectators voting on possible in-game events like supply drops or bombing runs. The main goal is to find one of four relics spread across the map, and then signal for extraction and make it onto a helicopter. This sounds simple on paper, but 15 other players are also striving to accomplish the same goal, and with only a few seats on the helicopter, you're going to need to be clever and ruthless if you want to survive. Release Date: Available Now via Steam Early Access
Paladins: Battlegrounds | PC, PS4, Xbox One
Paladins: Battlegrounds is a 100-player battle royale standalone expansion of Paladins: Champions of the Realm. It takes on qualities similar to other battle royale games, but attempts to redefine them by introducing mechanics from hero shooters, with myriad playable characters, each with their own unique skills and abilities. Release Date: TBA 2018
The Darwin Project | PC, Xbox One
The Darwin Project is a third-person competitive multiplayer battle royale game with more of an emphasis on survival than its competitors. In order to win, you must endure extreme weather conditions, while tracking opponents and setting up traps in order to be the last one left alive. It's most noteworthy quality is that it incorporates reality TV show elements into its gameplay, like spectator interaction and a show director who controls varying aspects of the arena. Release Date: Available Now via Steam Early Access and Xbox One Game Preview program
Mavericks: Proving Grounds | PC
Mavericks: Proving Grounds is an first-person battle royale game where up to 400 players do battle in a highly dynamic environment. For example, you can set fire to a map, tactically spreading it to others parts of the map to either damage other players or cut them off. In addition, the game promises more intelligent mission systems, social hubs, and a player-driven narrative that informs your experiences playing the game. Release Date: TBA 2018 (Beta opens Summer 2018)
Islands of Nyne | PC
Islands of Nyne is a sci-fi-themed first-person battle royale game that's more skill-driven than its competitors. Based on how well you play, you'll earn special armor sets and weapon skins for your character. There's also a player betting system, which allows you to use in-game credits to place bets on individual players or teams during a match to win more equipment or skins. Release Date: TBA 2018 (Currently in Closed Alpha, which you can get into by pre-ordering the game)
Dying Light: Bad Blood | PC, PS4, Xbox One
Dying Light: Bad Blood is a standalone battle royale-esque expansion of the critically acclaimed Dying Light. It seems an almost unexpected release, but apparently it was made by developer Techland due to numerous fan requests. In Bad Blood, six players are dropped into random locations around the map in a race to acquire enough samples from several powerful infected zombies. As you take down these special zombies, you'll collect samples and potentially level up your character--boosting their health, agility, and attack power. The first one to acquire all the samples and escape in the evac chopper wins. Release Date: TBA 2018 (a Global Playtest is schedule for sometime this year, which you can sign up for via the Dying Light website)
Europa | PC
Europa is Chinese publisher Tencent's contribution to the battle royale genre. Unlike its competitors, the game will feature real-time weather, underwater exploration, environmental kills, and destructible cover. Whether Europa releases anywhere besides China remains to be seen. Release Date: TBA 2018 in China only
Survival Games: Battle Royale | PC
Survival Games: Battle Royale retains the genre's tried and true premise, but provides some twists of its own. Maps are procedurally generated and you must keep track of your stats and hunger as you fight to be the last one standing. In addition, the game sports a map editor that allows you design your own custom battle royale arenas. Release Date: Available Now via Steam Early Access
Stand Out: VR Battle Royale | PC (Oculus Rift, HTC Vive)
Playing a battle royale game in VR sounds like a huge challenge, but developer raptor lab is looking to make it happen with Standout: Battle Royale VR. In order to survive a match, you'll literally have to crouch down to avoid enemy and lean in and out of cover to get a clear line of sight on opponents; you can even reach out and snatch a magazine from a player's hands. Release Date: Available Now via Steam Early Access
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