By Array on Jul 21, 2018 12:09 am
We're partway into summer, and that means it's time for San Diego Comic-Con 2018. The specifics of what's on display may be different for 2018, but as always, the show remains the year's big event for revealing news and trailers for movies, TV shows (Clone Wars!), comics, and even some video games. And because SDCC is an event that's open the public--including the most hardcore fans of those aforementioned shows, movies, and so on--that means it's home to a ton of cosplay. SDCC 2018 has only just begun, but we've already seen a tremendous amount of excellent cosplay. Attendees came out dressed as their favorite characters from a wide variety of games, comics, and movies, and we've gathered together a selection of the best from Day 1 for you to peruse above. You'll find Marvel's big-name heroes, like Iron Man and Gamora, as well as slightly more eccentric characters from the company's roster, like Thor Ragnarok's Grandmaster. Game of Thrones was represented by the likes of the Night King, while on the video game side, we got Team Fortress 2's Pyro and company. There's quite a variety, so check out all of our photos and stay tuned for more. Thursday featured more than just cosplay, though. There were panels for some big-name series, including a 10th anniversary panel for Breaking Bad that brought some exciting news for Better Call Saul fans. We also got a trailer for DC's Titans, while perhaps the most exciting news of the day came from the Star Wars panel, where we learned that more of The Clone Wars is on the way. A total of 12 new episodes will premier through Disney's upcoming streaming service. For much more, hit the links below, and come back to GameSpot for even more coverage of SDCC, which runs through July 22. San Diego Comic-Con 2018 Coverage Barriss Offee
Cosplay by @opalescentteacup Iron Man Nightsister
Cosplay by @Arwen62 Raphael Night King
Cosplay by @annhampshire Maui Grandmaster Darth Maul Cu-Bot
Cosplay by @kyasarin.cosplay Mega Man & Dr. Light Stain
Cosplay by @Mootyvision Navi Team Fortress 2 Elvis
Cosplay by @taracosplay Sally & Jack Skellington
Cosplay by @capuchinocosplay Stargate
Cosplay by @kristienell & @livelongandcosplay Gamora Loki
Cosplay by @Peachycake Noob-Noob
Cosplay by @Nz666kshatriya Green Lantern
Cosplay by @cristinamilizia Velajuel
Cosplay by @birdboy_cosplay ; Outfit by @howl.fx Killer Croc Team Fortress 2 Pyro Link & Sheik Valkyrie
Cosplay @miss_laneous Planet of the Apes Ridder & Joker
Cosplay by @deniciousd & @the_dancingnerd Veruca Salt & Violet Beauregarde
Cosplay by @dawnlikethedishsoap & @Popcornyeti The Shining Harry Potter Group Vanellope
Cosplay by @onthegocosplay Link w/ Majora's Mask Doctor Strange Trooper & Ahsoka Tano
By Matt Espineli on Jul 21, 2018 12:05 am The First Half's Finest
The first half of 2018 has delivered a wealth of amazing games well worth your time. Heck, the year is already shaping up to be similar to last in terms of quality--if not better. Big-budget games, like Dragon Ball FighterZ, God of War, and Far Cry 5 floored us with their attention to detail and complex mechanics. On the other hand, smaller indie experiences continued to turn our heads; Celeste and Iconoclasts proved to be standout games early standouts this year, but a multitude of other unique experiences have released since then, like Yoku's Island Express and Minit. Around this time of year in 2017, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Nier: Automata, Persona 5, Horizon: Zero Dawn, and Resident Evil 7: Biohazard were some of the most fantastic experiences. However, this year seems to be meeting the high standard set by those games, and in a wide variety of genres. With so many games coming out every month, it can be tough keeping track of the best ones. To ensure you're aware of this year's finest, we've gathered them all here for your convenience. Ahead are games exemplary enough to be considered some of the best of this year so far. By the end of the year, a number of these could become candidates for 2018's Game of the Year awards. Which games do you think will be good enough to be included in our Game of the Year awards? Let us know in the comments below. There's always games that fly under our radar, so we're eager to know what you think is the finest of this year so far. The Crew 2 -- 8/10
"I'm annoyed by the game's lack of public interaction and meaningless gear system, but I'll fondly recall both the tension of flinging sprint boats back and forth through the narrow, artificial canals of The Venetian in Las Vegas, and the easygoing satisfaction of an hour-long hypercar race from New York to San Francisco, where I listened to a podcast and enjoyed the rolling scenery. Despite its shortcomings, The Crew 2 still displays admirable strengths, which lie in its player-friendly features, freedom of movement, and its willingness to bend the rules in order to make things exciting and varied for an accessible, American-themed thrillride." [Read the full review] -- Edmond Tran, Senior Editor and Video Producer The Red Strings Club -- 9/10 (Platforms: PC)
"From the game's opening piano chords, The Red String Club's futuristic exploration of themes regarding human emotion, strong writing, and exciting situations create an experience that is deeply gratifying. The cast of relatable, three-dimensional characters elevate the stakes of every bullet fired, secret divulged and cocktail poured. They are flawed and dangerous, but also convey admirable human characteristics that feel inspirational. The Red Strings Club is a tense adventure about a cast of characters that endanger themselves for goals that aren't necessarily guaranteed, a rewarding journey into the human soul, and a game that pushes the limits of what a point-and-click adventure can do." [Read the full review] -- David Rayfield Iconoclasts -- 9/10 (Platforms: PS4, Vita, PC)
"When Iconoclasts' end credits begin to roll, it's bittersweet to see the journey come to a close. After solving every puzzle and witnessing the finale of its poignant narrative, you can't help but reflect on the growth of its characters and your impact onto the world. The game will shock and surprise you with how gripping its story is, and it's likely to do so again in subsequent playthroughs of New Game+ with your expanded knowledge of character histories and events. Iconoclasts may be a callback to the style and mechanics of old-school games, but it's also a sincere and compelling adventure that anyone with respect for fantastic storytelling and 2D-action can enjoy." [Read the full review] -- Matt Espineli, Associate Editor The Inpatient -- 8/10 (Platforms: PSVR)
"The Inpatient doesn't just do right by Until Dawn, but stands right alongside it as one of the strongest horror experiences on PlayStation 4. It's a game far less concerned with pushing you towards what's lurking down every corridor than feeding you the worst ideas of what could be." [Read the full review] -- Justin Clark Celeste -- 9/10 (Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, Switch, PC)
"It's a testament to convincing writing and ingenious design that after playing Celeste I felt like I'd been on the same journey as Madeline. Her struggle is one made easy to empathize with, her low points painful to watch, and her high notes exhilarating to experience. Her tale is delicately told and beautifully illustrated, confidently coalescing with the satisfying, empowering game it lies within. Not bad for a game about climbing a mountain." [Read the full review] -- Oscar Dayus, Staff Writer Monster Hunter World -- 8/10 (Platforms: PS4, Xbox One)
"Ever since the title was first announced last year, it was clear that Capcom was gunning for something grander than Monster Hunter Generations. It has succeeded, and this is likely the biggest and best that the franchise has ever been. It's not just the comparative depth of the narrative; it also boasts almost seamless integration between combat systems that were previously incomprehensible for amateurs. The Monster Hunter formula has definitely honed its claws, and all the above factors play their part in making Monster Hunter World a meaningful evolution for the series at large." [Read the full review] -- Ginny Woo Subnautica -- 9/10 (Platforms: PC)
"Subnautica's story, scares, and beautifully rendered underwater setting make it one of the most fascinating survival games around. You will always have to grind away to a certain extent to gather necessary resources, but the overall experience is both accessible and refined. Subnautica may not make you eager to get back to the beach this summer, but right now there is no better virtual way to experience the beauty, and the terror, of the deep blue sea." [Read the full review] -- Brett Todd Shadow of the Colossus -- 9/10 (Platforms: PS4)
"Shadow of the Colossus is a tremendous journey, and one well worth taking and retaking. The visual overhaul is stunning, thoroughly enhancing every facet of Wander and Agro's excellent adventure. Galloping through the tranquil world is always breathtaking; felling a monumental colossus is always humbling. Shadow of the Colossus is a beautiful reconstruction of an already exceptional title. It continues to be a modern classic and is an extraordinary game that everyone must experience." [Read the full review] -- Edmond Tran, Editor and Senior Producer Dragon Ball FighterZ (Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC)
"FighterZ is complex and distinct enough to be enjoyed by fighting game competitors, but there's no question that it's been designed to tap into the hearts of Dragon Ball's most dedicated fans, and no doubt those same qualities will win people over who've never given the series a chance. Where past games attempted to get there through huge character rosters and deliberately predictable trips down memory lane, FighterZ has bottled the essence of what makes the series' characters, animation, and sense of humor so beloved and reconfigured it into something new: a Dragon Ball fighting game that can go toe-to-toe with the best of the genre." [Read the full review] -- Peter Brown, Reviews Editor EA Sports UFC 3 -- 8/10 (Platforms: PS4, Xbox One)
"EA Sports UFC 3 is a tense, exciting, and dynamic recreation of the stand and bang aspect of mixed martial arts. There's a fluidity to the way it moves, and a satisfying feel and unpredictability to the way fights can unfold that demands your engagement. The grappling still needs plenty of work, and one would hope this is something EA Canada addresses in the next iteration; yet these shortcomings become easier to overlook because of the accomplishment of its redefined striking. When it comes to the art of combat, few sports titles do it better." [Read the full review] -- Richard Wakeling Radiant Historia Perfect Chronology -- 8/10 (Platforms: 3DS)
"With all the time juggling, the brain-teasing mechanic of the White Chronicle doesn't overshadow Radiant Historia Perfect Chronology's story. Its politically charged tale complements Stocke's personal journey as he follows his orders and makes sense of his powers. The White Chronicles' close connection to the plot only makes temporal manipulation all the more engrossing, regardless if you're working your way to the game's best conclusion or hitting every node in the timeline. This feature maintains its grip for much of the game's 60-hour journey in spite of its combat shortcomings. Had this been a straight port of the DS version, it would still warrant the attention of RPG enthusiasts who missed Radiant Historia the first time around. With its upgrades and considerable bonuses--particularly the Sub-History--even those who think they got their fill by beating the original game should check out this definitive edition." [Read the full review] -- Miguel Concepcion Kingdom Come: Deliverance -- 8/10 (Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC)
"Even with these issues in mind, anyone who can appreciate the down-and-dirty nature of history should play Kingdom Come: Deliverance. It's an impressive and unflinching look at the medieval era that transports you inside the compelling story of a real person caught in the middle of a civil war. As such, this is one of those rare, memorable games that stays with you long after you stop playing. While quirks and bugs can certainly be frustrating, none of these issues interfere much with the unique and captivating nature of the overall experience." [Read the full review] -- Brett Todd Moss -- 8/10 (Platforms: PSVR)
"It's a testament to just how well Moss understands PlayStation VR and works with the device instead of trying to bend it to a will it was never designed for. Moss wouldn't feel right without it at all, and its many strengths are married to the interactions that only full immersion can manufacture. Unsurprisingly, then, Moss is easily one of PlayStation VR's best titles to date, even if it's a little too eager to get you in and out of its world." [Read the full review] -- Alessandro Barbosa Into The Breach -- 9/10 (Platforms: PC)
"There is so much strategic joy in seeing the potential destruction a swarm of giant monsters is about to unleash on a city, then quickly staging and executing elaborate counter maneuvers to ruin the party. Into The Breach's focus on foresight makes its turn-based encounters an action-packed, risk-free puzzle, and the remarkable diversity of playstyles afforded by unique units keeps each new run interesting. It's a pleasure to see what kind of life-threatening predicaments await for you to creatively resolve in every new turn, every new battle, and every new campaign. Into The Breach is a pristine and pragmatic tactical gem with dynamic conflicts that will inspire you to jump back in again, and again, and again." [Read the full review] -- Edmond Tran, Editor and Senior Producer Kirby: Star Allies -- 8/10 (Platforms: Switch)
"Star Allies is yet another Kirby game, but it's up there with some of the best. It's an artistic showcase, and a great opportunity for co-op platforming. The one real complaint you can levy at it is that it gates off its more challenging aspects, but the fact that they are present to begin with will please anyone who's grown weary of the series' painless platforming." [Read the full review] -- Peter Brown, Reviews Editor Surviving Mars -- 8/10 (Platforms: Xbox One, PC)
"Surviving Mars, above else, is about hope. So many strategy games hold to their gameplay, eschewing any overarching themes or messages. But, as corny as it sounds, for those who believe in the majesty of spaceflight, for those who are keen to marvel at how pernicious our plucky little species can be, Surviving Mars is SimCity with soul. It shows the challenges that come along with planetary migration, but it also shows that they are solvable. With the right planning, drive, and ingenuity, we can do great things together." [Read the full review] -- Daniel Starkey Attack On Titan 2 -- 8/10 (Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch)
"Despite its slow start, Attack on Titan 2 offers exciting gameplay along with a deep and intriguing plot that, melodrama aside, tugs on the heart strings. It's well-paced and offers some impressive spaces to move through. The unique combination of the movement and combat mechanics combines with a gripping story to make Attack on Titan 2 one of the more surprising releases of the year." [Read the full review] -- James Swinbanks Ni No Kuni II: Revenant Kindgom -- 8/10 (Platforms: PS4, PC)
"Ni No Kuni 2 is a robust game that offers ample ways to spend your time, and even if they aren't all up to the same level of quality, it's easy to appreciate how they collectively contribute to the bigger picture. It's chock full of excellent battles and surprising moments that make for a far more memorable experience than you initially expect and leaves you impressed by your own accomplishments. If you didn't play the first game, don't let this one pass you by too." [Read the full review] -- Peter Brown, Reviews Editor MLB The Show 18 -- 9/10 (Platforms: PS4)
"Sony's flagship baseball franchise has never been better. With its best-in-class controls and visuals, and impeccable attention to detail for the small stuff, MLB The Show 18 is worth catching for any baseball fan." [Read the full review] -- Eddie Makuch, Editor Minit -- 8/10 (Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC)
"Minit's lives might only last 60 seconds, but its extremely well-thought-out world design and engrossing loop of progress make it a curse-filled adventure that is worth dying the world over for. Its throwback to classic visuals aren't done for aesthetic alone, as none of its gameplay systems scream antiquity. It's a slickly presented adventure that continually manages to surprise you with every new area you uncover or item you procure, pushing you to pick away at its seams to uncover every drop of what it has to offer. With a delightful ending and more promised after its first run of credits, Minit is far more than just a collection of seconds." [Read the full review] -- Alessandro Barbosa Far Cry 5 -- 9/10 (Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC)
"Despite some brief irritations and missed opportunities with its narrative, spending time in the world of Hope County remains absolutely delightful. Far Cry 5 boasts a wonderfully harmonious flow to its adventure, with its smart changes to exploration, discovery, and progression distinctly bolstering the enjoyment of creatively engaging and experimenting with its spectacular open world." [Read the full review] -- Edmond Tran, Editor and Senior Producer God of War -- 9/10 (Platforms: PS4)
"In many ways God of War is what the series has always been. It's a spectacular action game with epic set pieces, big-budget production values, and hard-hitting combat that grows more feverish and impressive as you progress. What may surprise you is how mature its storytelling has become. Like Kratos, God of War recalls the past while acknowledging the need to improve. Everything new it does is for the better, and everything it holds onto benefits as a result. Kratos is no longer a predictable brute. God of War is no longer an old-fashioned action series. With this reboot, it confidently walks a new path that will hopefully lead to more exciting adventures to come." [Read the full review] -- Peter Brown, Reviews Editor Yakuza 6: The Song of Life -- 8/10 (Platforms: PS4)
"Yakuza 6 reins in its scope, but doubles down on what has made the series great. It's a unique and fascinating representation of the modern Japanese experience, worth playing even if you're a newcomer. The narrative is dramatic and sincere, and the game's endearing characters--coming from all walks of life--are interesting studies. The world is dense and rewarding to exist in, the dynamic combat system stays exciting even after you've kicked the crap out of five thousand enemies, and perhaps most importantly, Yakuza 6: The Song Of Life serves as a fulfilling conclusion to the turbulent, decade-long saga of its beloved icon, Kazuma Kiryu." [Read the full review] -- Edmond Tran, Editor and Senior Producer The Alliance Alive -- 8/10 (Platforms: 3DS)
"There's a lot to love about The Alliance Alive: a well-paced story in an interesting world, a meaty mashup of unique combat elements, and a fantastic soundtrack that keeps you pumped and eager to explore. If you can put up with a bit of a learning curve, you'll find a great portable adventure well worth dusting off your 3DS for." [Read the full review] -- Heidi Kemps Frostpunk -- 9/10 (Platforms: PC)
"Frostpunk is among the best overall takes on the survival city builder to date. Its theming and consistency create a powerful narrative through line that binds your actions around the struggle to hold onto humanity in uncertain times. Hope is a qualified good, but you may not always be strong enough (or clever enough) to shelter that flame from the cold." [Read the full review] -- Daniel Starkey Total War: Thrones of Britannia -- 8/10 (Platforms: PC)
"Thrones of Britannia is an exciting experience despite the cuts to integral components of the Total War series, such as city planning hinging on military needs, specific building customization, and expanded intrigue options. But this has given Creative Assembly room to focus on enhancing parts of the strategy experience that aren't quite as impenetrable to newcomers, and to allow the series to return to some of the beloved parts of previous historical games to balance out its newer, slimmer form. While there are minor issues with AI, and pacing suffers when you've comfortably gotten the upper hand, this is still a worthy and engaging contribution to the Total War stable that has successfully taken its cues from history's winners and losers alike." [Read the full review] -- Ginny Woo Battletech -- 8/10 (Platforms: PC)
"Battletech is a game that selfishly takes its time to be meticulous in every respect, and pushing through the density and idiosyncrasies of its many, slow-moving parts can be tough. But if you have the will to decipher it, albeit, at a deliberate and punishingly plodding pace, you can find yourself completely engrossed in its kinetic clashes. Battletech's intricate components ultimately foster a fascinating wealth of nuanced systems that build a uniquely strenuous, detailed, and thoroughly rewarding tactical strategy game." [Read the full review] -- Edmond Tran, Editor and Senior Producer Pillars of Eternity 2: Deadfire -- 8/10 (Platforms: PC)
"Deadfire is dense, and it isn't a small game, easily dwarfing its predecessor in terms of scale. There's a lot to do, and it's easier than ever to get lost in the little stories you find, without following the arcs that the game has specially set out for you. Still, it's worth taking your time. The richness of Deadfire takes a while to appreciate, and like the brined sailors that call it home, you'll be left with an indelible attachment to these islands when you do finally step away." [Read the full review] -- Daniel Starkey Far: Lone Sails -- 8/10 (Platforms: PC)
"Lone Sails is a transfixing, lovely experience, one that takes recurring indie game tropes and does something unique and fun with them. It's short enough that you could play through it in a single two or three-hour session, but it will likely stick with you for a long time. I can see myself going back in a few months just to revisit the ship, like checking in on an old friend." [Read the full review] -- James O'Connor Yoku's Island Express -- 8/10 (Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Switch)
"Yoku's Island Express takes two unlikely genres and combines them into one playful, natural experience. The game's audio and visual design is simply joyous and the large game world seamlessly combines its pinball puzzles with some brilliant level designs. While traversing the large map does get frustrating at times, Yoku's Island Express' main quest never drags, and with its slate of fun abilities, quirky supporting characters and a generous amount of optional content, Yoku's Island Express is a unique journey that's refreshing and just straight up fun." [Read the full review] -- Alexander Pan BlazBlue: Cross Tag Battle -- 9/10 (Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, Switch)
"Whether playing through the story mode alone or against hardened opponents online, Cross Tag Battle is an absolute joy with a surplus of possibilities within its wide roster and versatile fighting system. Even with all the ridiculousness of the overarching plot, I reveled in the charm of my favorite characters and embraced the many moments of fan service. It's a masterful unification of styles and mechanics from four different universes that compels you to dig deeper and dedicate the time to getting the most out of the beloved members of this cast." [Read the full review] -- Michael Higham, Associate Editor Onrush -- 9/10 (Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC)
"When it comes to crumpling metal and high speed thrills, not all of Onrush's game modes are on equal footing in terms of consistent excitement. Yet its foundations are so strong, and so unique, that it's easy to lose hours upon hours barreling around these disparate tracks. The question of longevity will, of course, depend on post-release support, with new classes, game modes, and tracks potentially on the horizon. Considering you need 12 players to fill a full room, it would be a shame if Onrush doesn't find the kind of audience that will give it the lifespan it deserves. Part of this will depend on how Codemasters iterates on the game from here on out, but they've shown a proficiency in knowing how arcade racing games click, and Onrush is such a bold, refreshing twist on the genre that there should be little hesitation in putting your faith in them to succeed." [Read the full review] -- Richard Wakeling Unravel Two -- 8/10 (Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC)
"With its charming yarnlings and a newfound style of platforming, Unravel Two remains welcoming even at its most foreboding. Sure, a forest fire breaks out in one of the latter stages, but even then, the race to keep ahead of the blaze is fun and frantic instead of stressful. In almost every moment you're given ample time and space to breathe and take in the stunning photorealistic world from the viewpoint of the tiniest creatures. It's a game with boisterous birds, chases through meadows, and most importantly a cheerful partnership with a companion who's always got your back. With only six chapters that run roughly 30 minutes apiece, Unravel Two doesn't last long, but it's a game where the time you have is meaningful, memorable, and downright pleasant from beginning to end." [Read the full review] -- Justin Clark The Awesome Adventures of Captain Spirit -- 8/10 (Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC)
"Life is Strange gained a huge cult following, and whether you're a veteran or a newcomer, Captain Spirit captures a lot of the original game's appeal. Regardless of how you classify The Awesome Adventures of Captain Spirit--whether it's a standalone adventure, a demo, or a prologue--it's a beautiful game, and one that leaves you all the more excited about Life is Strange 2." [Read the full review] -- James O'Connor Wreckfest -- 9/10
"It's rare when a racing game manages to modernize and reinvigorate an old formula with spectacular confidence, but Wreckfest does just that. Minor issues with menus and its soundtrack aside, it wows with a gorgeous look and wonderful driving feel, along with a damage system that satisfies in the most brutal of fashions. With its array of different cars, tracks, and event types, Wreckfest is a brilliantly fun and frenetic racing game that can be thoroughly enjoyed by anyone, not just racing game fans." [Read the full review] -- James Swinbanks Octopath Traveler -- 8/10
"Despite the lackluster stories that pull you through the world, Octopath thrives on its character progression and the temptations of high-level challenges and rewards. The promise of new jobs, exciting boss fights, and powerful gear will inspire you to poke around every corner, and there are no shortage of discoveries to strive for. And all the while, you're treated to one of the most interesting and effective re-imaginings of a retro aesthetic around. Octopath will likely be a divisive game due to its fractured storytelling, but it's one worth playing despite its lesser qualities. Its high points are simply too good to ignore." [Read the full review] -- Peter Brown, Managing Editor
By Alessandro Fillari on Jul 20, 2018 11:08 pm Learning often requires failure.
There can be a lot of pressure involved in trying to release a follow up to a much-loved game. When making a sequel, oftentimes creators have to follow the vague mantra of "bigger and better"--but as it turns out, that's not always the way to find success. Over the years, there have been many game sequels that managed to let fans down, leaving us all to wonder what went wrong. No developer is immune from missing the mark, unfortunately. With the likes of Blizzard, EA, Capcom, Sega, and even Nintendo releasing games that didn't quite land the way we wanted, not every game in a series can be a winner. But in some cases, those missteps would eventually lead to other entries that not only surpassed the previous game, but also allowed the series to grow in ways that fans least expect. In this feature, GameSpot dug deep and picked some titles which we believe were some of gaming's more notable stumbles when trying to make a worthy sequel. Whether it was ambition going beyond the developer's means, or an ill-advised vision that drastically changed from what worked before, some sequels just weren't able to rekindle the magic that the original title had. We've chosen a few games for this list, and broke down exactly why we think they didn't quite live up to their predecessors. While not all of these games are total flops, these particular games lacked a certain something that's noticeable when placed next to its predecessor. For more features on upcoming sequels that may live up to expectations, be sure to read everything we know Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, The Last of Us 2, and Fallout 76. In the mean time, which game sequels do you feel like didn't live up to the original? Let us know in the comments below. Assassin's Creed III (October 30, 2012)
Assassin's Creed III has always been a tough game for me to settle. Back when I first played the game, I was in love with its historical setting, the cultural authenticity of its protagonist Ratonhnhaké:ton, and its courage to step away from the urban environments of previous entries. However, Assassin's Creed III's overall execution proved to be lackluster--which was embodied in its opening hours. What began as an ambitious beginning by putting you in control of the protagonist's father, Haytham Kenway, inevitably turned into a rote trip down all too familiar ground. Laced in those early hours were derivative storytelling and mechanics that fans have known for years. And new additions to the formula, like naval combat, hunting, and tree free-running, were split too few and far in-between, making the whole introduction a slog. For every great aspect it had to offer, there was a caveat that took away from its impact. After six or so hours, Assassin's Creed III eventually picks up, throwing you headfirst into the American Revolutionary War's most iconic events. Seeing a grounded, more honest depiction of George Washington was fascinating, while participating in the Battle of Bunker Hill proved to be one of the adventure's most exciting set pieces. But these moments were accompanied by inconsistent stealth, patchy AI, and inflexible mission design. Its fragmented world never did justice to the openness of its frontier premise, with activities split apart across too many different areas. Back then I wanted very much to enjoy Assassin's Creed III, but it would often disappoint me more than satisfy. Today, I'm happy that I can better appreciate its ambition; the game proved to be a proper springboard that would inevitably set up the framework for the franchise's later entries. However, no matter which way you cut it, Assassin's Creed III failed to live up to the legacy of quality set by its predecessors. | Matt Espineli Bioshock 2 (February 9, 2010)
BioShock is rightfully considered a classic for its eerie atmosphere and unsettling story twist. Descending into Rapture and hearing a Splicer scuttle across your biosphere still gives me a shiver down my spine, and feeling the lumbering thud of a Big Daddy is possibly the only thing from the franchise that causes me more anxiety than hearing the jaunty tune that summons BioShock Infinite's Songbird. But before we soared above the clouds in Columbia, we returned to the depths of Rapture for BioShock 2. Despite the improvements made to the shooting mechanics, this sequel ultimately falls short in comparison to the original game. BioShock 2 is just too similar to the original. For some genres, sticking to what you know is fine, but the tone of Rapture is so closely tied to discovering its hidden horrors that it's best experienced as a stranger who's trying to understand a nightmare. You're no longer a stranger to Rapture in BioShock 2, and that makes everything far less terrifying. As a result, Rapture just lost a lot of its mystique in BioShock 2. Most of the characters we encountered and enemies we fought are a little too similar to the deranged assortment of damaged souls we met the first time around. I have plenty of qualms with BioShock Infinite as well, but I'll admit that the new setting at least offered interesting changes to the original game's mechanics. BioShock 2 could have been way better if it had just done more to distance itself from the first BioShock. | Jordan Ramee Crackdown 2 (July 6, 2010)
I adored the original Crackdown; it offered a take on the open-world action game that no game at the time (and very few since) have provided. A playground where you can jump high into the air, climb skyscrapers, and pick up cars over your head to throw at enemies made for a very enjoyable sandbox. The game was perhaps a bit shallow overall, with repetitive objectives and dumb enemies, but it was still great fun--just the sort of setup that makes for a strong sequel. Rather than being developed by the same studio, Realtime Worlds, Crackdown 2 went to another developer, Ruffian Games. While there's nothing wrong with that, it felt as if Ruffian was too busy trying to recreate the basis of the first game to provide any meaningful innovations. Crackdown 2 was set in the same location, Pacific City, and made few real advancements in terms of gameplay. The story remained an afterthought, there was little variety in objectives, and the new Freak enemies did nothing to impact the game. While the core gameplay remained enjoyable, and the addition of four-player co-op was very welcome, Crackdown 2 nevertheless felt like a disappointing retread. | Chris Pereira Crysis 2 (March 22, 2011)
While history remembers Crysis as a benchmark for PC gaming performance, I like to think back on the original game as more of a fun solid sandbox FPS. With plenty of weapons and different powers channeled from your nanotech infused armor, you could wreak havoc across a tropical island filled with North Korean military and alien invaders. Its story was forgettable, and the characters even more so, but the game was all sorts of dumb fun, and even in 2018--nearly 11 years after its release--Crysis is still quite easy on the eyes. Coming from Crytek, the developers behind the original Far Cry, Crysis felt like a spiritual successor to their previous game's focus on exploring and battling through a dense jungle environment. But for the follow-up, Crysis 2, the developers opted for a change in scenery and some revisions to the core gameplay, which unfortunately took away the heart of what made the original so fun. Now set in future-New York City, and armed with a more streamlined nanosuit, you're tasked with taking out a rogue military force and deal with another alien invasion. On the surface this sounds all well and good; the original game certainly didn't win any points for originality, but in practice Crysis 2 lost me when it focused on far more linear-style action with fewer options. This was all made worse by a more simplified power-up system, where certain powers were only contextual and never on command. The original Crysis was far from a masterclass in FPS gameplay, but it still managed to let players go about missions in the way they saw fit. This was a game, regardless of tone, that let players grab chickens and throw them at enemies with "maximum strength"--as the nanosuit's AI said. The sequel, while not an awful game, lost sight of that--instead going for a more traditional FPS experience. While Crysis 3 was Crytek's attempt at offering the best of both worlds--even re-introducing jungle environments in a ruined NYC--it still never reached the same heights that the original game managed to meet. What I remember most about playing Crysis 1 was figuring out the best ways to go through several of the game's major set-pieces, which resulted in some of my favorite moments playing it. I can't recall having anything even close to those moments in both of the sequels, which is a real shame. | Alessandro Fillari Deus Ex: Invisible War (December 2, 2003)
Believe me when I say that Deus Ex: Invisible War was a perfectly fine game. The original Deus Ex is, without a doubt, one of the greatest games of all time, and with such a high bar to clear, Invisible War had an incredibly tall order to fulfill. And because of that, it felt like a step back during the earlier years of immersive sims. At first, I noticed the RPG elements that were stripped away and the simplified (to a fault) inventory system. Spec-ing your character to a specific playstyle was entirely relegated to an either-or situation with augmentations since there were no stats or skill trees to tinker with. I couldn't shake the feeling of being funnelled through a narrow path despite having options to tackle objectives through either stealth and hacking or sheer force. The cast was considerably less charismatic and the conspiracy aspect of the story didn't hit quite as hard as the original. And the one aspect that stood out to me the most was an unshakeable sense of claustrophobia. Deus Ex's world felt open, with space to work, but Invisible War didn't provide the same level of freedom in its level design. Deus Ex: Invisible War did do some things right, though. The game still had its own sense of place and distinct atmosphere. Neon lights beamed across environments that served as playgrounds for emergent moments when messing with physics or the set of tools you're given. Getting tangled in a web of factions still evoked a tension that was felt throughout. However, Alex Denton's journey just didn't live up to JC's. | Michael Higham Devil May Cry 2 (January 25, 2003)
If there's one thing to be said about the Devil May Cry series, it's that it always tries to keep things interesting. Known for its fast-paced and stylish approach to action, with an assortment of seriously cheesy moments throughout, Capcom's self-assured brawler franchise offers some of the most satisfying combat and thrills around. However, there's one entry in the series that's universally regarded as the black sheep--and no, it's not Ninja Theory's misunderstood and grossly underrated DmC: Devil May Cry. Releasing only 16 months after the original game, Devil May Cry 2 was Capcom's attempt at capitalizing on the surprise success of DMC1, and it almost immediately became the quintessential example of how not to do a sequel. I was a big admirer of the original game, and watching the early trailers and previews for DMC2, which showed off more stylish moves, a cooler outfit for Dante, and a new secondary campaign with newcomer Lucia--in her first and only appearance--made me very excited for what was to come. However upon release, the game's more serious tone and revisions to gameplay ended up rubbing fans, myself included, the wrong way. The game's combat also saw a noticeable downgrade from DMC1's sharp and responsive mechanics, made worse by the glaringly subdued difficulty. When stacked up with its predecessor, the sequel showed a stark drop in overall quality, which made clearing through its two campaigns a chore. While it did have some bright spots, which include real-time weapon swapping, mission select, and the Bloody Palace mode--all of which are now mainstays of the series--DMC2 was a poor attempt at chasing after the original's success, which ultimately resulted in a game that was far too easy, muddled in its approach to stylish combat, and, well, boring. Personally speaking, I was more annoyed that I wasted a weekend and some allowance powering through the game over the course of a weekend. Though the sequel missed the mark, the Devil May Cry series would eventually find its footing again with the release of Devil May Cry 3: Dante's Awakening, which reaffirmed its status as a top-tier action game. While fans have had many intense debates about what their personal rankings are for the series, one thing is rarely disputed--Devil May Cry 2 was where the series hit rock-bottom. | Alessandro Fillari Diablo 3 (May 15, 2012)
Blizzard rarely rushes to release new games, and Diablo III was no exception. It came 12 years after its predecessor, yet--long wait or not--proved to be a huge disappointment. Diablo II was not known for having a terrific endgame--I spent a huge chunk of my adolescence doing Baal runs, where you endlessly repeat the same final boss fight--but Diablo III likewise failed to provide anything worth doing once the credits rolled. The lack of PvP hurt in that regard further, but worse than anything was the way the item economy worked. High-quality items were handed out at a ridiculously infrequent pace, and the best way to obtain good gear was the game's controversial auction house where you could spend real-world money. For a game all about the loot grind, it was hugely off-putting (as was an always-online requirement preventing offline single-player). While I didn't share every complaint others had--I enjoyed the change in art style--it was undeniable that I was not just disappointed, but I wasn't even having fun. For the follow-up to what was at the time my favorite game ever, that was astounding. Thankfully, unlike many of the other games on this list, things did turn around. The shutdown of the auction house and release of the Reaper of Souls expansion and a major free update all paired to turn the game around. Quality items were no longer rationed out at a snail's pace, an Adventure mode provided variety in the endgame, and years of further updates have ultimately turned Diablo III into not only a worthwhile sequel, but one that in many ways surpasses its predecessors. | Chris Pereira Dragon Age 2 (March 8, 2011)
The acclaimed RPG developer BioWare has gone through many changes over its 20+ years in the business. With games like Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic and the Mass Effect franchise pushing it to the forefront, many diehard fans longed for a return to its classic CRPG titles like Neverwinter Nights and Baldur's Gate. 2009's Dragon Age: Origins ended up being the happy mix of its modern design sense it developed working on Mass Effect, with the old-school sensibilities of its early hits. In the framework of a traditional fantasy-RPG, you would create a unique character, become one of the last Grey Wardens, and have their choices shape the land of Ferelden forever. Truth be told, the first Bioware game I played was KOTOR, and I mostly followed their modern movement since then. I ended up getting into their CRPG beginnings sometime later. I did, however, play the original Dragon Age, which I ended up liking far more than I thought. After the game's completion, I was already looking forward to seeing more from the series. And just two years later, BioWare's sequel Dragon Age II was released--but it ended up making some big changes that I couldn't get over. While you could import your saves from the original game to carry over important decisions--which was very important to me--the sequel focused on the exploits of an entirely new character named Hawke, a human exile traveling to the city of Kirkwall, far away from the original's main setting. By and large, Dragon Age II was a much more cinematic and action-focused game, a big shift from Origins' more traditional fantasy adventure. By focusing on a more defined character--even removing options for backstories and different races to choose from--it resulted in a game that took the role-playing aspect of the original game less seriously, which ironically was what placed BioWare on the map. Moreover, the action-focused gameplay ultimately didn't mesh well with the original's tactical framework, which felt like busywork when coupled with the new system. Coming off of Origins, I found getting into Dragon Age II to be quite jarring. Throughout Hawke's story, you could see moments where the developer struggled to balance the expectations of a more accessible action-RPG with its traditional role-playing style. After its release, Dragon Age II received several updates and expansions that sought to refine the game further. But eventually, BioWare cut its losses and moved on, even cancelling the final DLC episode, The Exalted March. The developer then began work on the next installment in the series, Dragon Age Inquisition, which ended up being a better evolution of the studio's role-playing lineage, and even justifying Hawke's place in the overarching story. Still, Dragon Age 2 comes off more like an odd diversion in the grand scheme of things, that feels a bit too inconsequential for the series it's a part of it. It certainly makes me feel like I won't miss much by skipping out on it during my eventual revisit of the series. | Alessandro Fillari Final Fantasy Tactic Advance (September 8, 2003)
Final Fantasy Tactics wasn't a great game solely because of its deep tactical combat; it also told a great story that featured more backstabbing and heroics than a season of Game of Thrones. The setting of Ivalice was so notable and well beloved that it graduated into something bigger: a mainstay of the Final Fantasy series at large. Games like Final Fantasy XII and XIV gave the concept of Ivalice room to grow, but the basis for their version of Ivalice more closely resembles the Final Fantasy Tactics follow-up game, Final Fantasy Tactics Advance. It's medieval, it's got decent tactical combat, but it also sets itself up as an imaginary dream world living between the pages of a modern children's fantasy novel. That's all well and good in isolation, but as a "sequel" to a game that thrived in part because of its characters, many of whom were sadistic adults hell-bent on accruing power by any means necessary, a children's fantasy hardly fits the bill. Oh and that tactical combat? Every battle has some limitation decided at random by a judge. It's not awful, but it strips away the sense that you're playing tightly orchestrated battles that are being fought for an unavoidable purpose in service of the plot. | Peter Brown Mass Effect: Andromeda (March 21, 2017)
We waited a long time for Mass Effect: Andromeda--five years to be exact, so expectations were high. BioWare promised an ambitious science-fiction adventure fit for the current generation of consoles, one that would allow you to explore an uncharted galaxy with an entirely new cast of characters. What we got was underwhelming to say the least. Considering we saw very little of the game until a month before release, we shouldn't have been surprised. The characters were dull, the worlds were barren, the story fell flat, and the game was rife with bugs. Many of the glitches have been ironed out at this point, but Andromeda's problems run much deeper. The one thing Andromeda had going for it was the combat. Zipping around combat zones with your jetpack while mixing and matching different abilities felt fantastic. Unfortunately, for a franchise known for its characters and storytelling, it takes more than flashy gameplay to leave a lasting impression. | Jake Dekker Metroid II: Return of Samus (November 1991)
Metroid II suffers the same fate as Zelda II--it tries to be great by doing something different, but loses the appeal of the original title. Its one saving grace is its legacy: giving Samus her iconic Varia suit design. But it's not like we knew that suit was going to stick around back in the day. Pretty much every Metroid game focuses on one of Samus' missions where she has to traverse dangerous environments and find different types of weapon and suit upgrades to explore new areas and take on more formidable threats. Metroid II is the one exception, where Samus acts as a bounty hunter instead of a super soldier. It's an ideal mission on paper--Samus is a bounty hunter after all--but it's ruined in practice by Metroid II's repeated use of the same type of prey. Sure, the Metroids come in five different forms, but you'll face each of those forms numerous times in the exact same type of fight. Metroid II's 3DS remake, Samus Returns, works so well because the game implements new bosses to break up the humdrum of hunting the same thing for hours on end. Metroid II was also just limited by technology when it first released in the early 90s. Launching on the original Game Boy meant Metroid II lacked the vibrant color palette of its NES predecessor, and the musical score couldn't be as complex either. | Jordan Ramee Perfect Dark Zero (November 22, 2005)
Rare had some expectations to live up to with Perfect Dark Zero; it had been five years and two console generations since the original game by the time Zero came around. Perfect Dark was a spiritual follow-up to the iconic Goldeneye 007 and certainly took console shooters to new heights during the N64's lifecycle, but games had evolved drastically in that five-year period, and the franchise didn't feel like it changed with the times. That didn't necessarily sour the entire experience, though. Perfect Dark Zero released right around the launch of the Xbox 360, and it was exciting to see Joanna Dark back in action with an incredibly fun cooperative mode and some good single-player moments. The game was also a decent showcase of the console's graphical prowess at the time, and really leveraged that shiny-surface look of this era. However, it lacked a compelling narrative and fluid gameplay seen in some of the top-tier shooters from Microsoft's previous console. While many other games honed in on smooth movement and shooting mechanics, Perfect Dark Zero seemed like it adopted the antiquated feel of older games and stayed true to its roots to a fault. | Michael Higham Sonic Riders: Zero Gravity (January 8, 2008)
The original Sonic Riders remains one of my favorite racing games to this day. It knocked the blue blur and the rest of his friends off their feet and onto Extreme Gear--a collection of hoverboards, skates, and bikes--which they'd use to race against the avian Babylon Rogues. I had a blast weaving between traffic on Metal City or careening through the sky on Babylon Ruins. The story isn't the best, but the campaign challenges you to master balancing your speed against fuel consumption. A sequel, Zero Gravity, made way too many changes to the original game's winning formula. Taking shortcuts became dependent on which Gear a character was riding, not the character themselves. The Extreme Gears also used an upgrade system that relied on rings, but since rings took such a long time to respawn, whoever was in first place would get all their Gear upgrades first. Made their lead even bigger. If I'm in first place by the end of the first lap on a race, it's practically impossible for anyone to catch up to me. And that's no fun. I want a race, not a blowout. Zero Gravity's worst offender is the gravity mechanics. In the original Sonic Riders, deciding when to give up a massive chunk of fuel for a speed boost made for some of the closest, most stressful competition I've had with my friends. In Zero Gravity, boosts are replaced with Gravity Dives, which let a player careen ahead at breakneck speeds. However, each course only has one place where players can really use a dive (the game even lets you know when to use it). There's no strategy to fuel consumption in Zero Gravity, so the game just can't produce the same heart-pounding races I love in the original. | Jordan Ramee Star Craft 2 (July 27, 2010)
By no means is StarCraft 2: Wings of Liberty a bad game; its expansion packs, Heart of the Swarm and Legacy of the Void, were welcome additions to the base game. But having to be a sequel to the most iconic real-time strategy game ever, StarCraft 2 was more of a victim of circumstance. The sequel had a healthy competitive scene for a while and the community was very active in the game's heyday. However, it's near impossible to match the impact of StarCraft and StarCraft: Brood War (both released in 1998), which still get competitions to this day. StarCraft 2 had sensible modernizations for how you command units so you weren't held to the same limitations from all those years ago. There was considerably less emphasis on micromanagement, which gave newcomers an avenue to jump into an RTS franchise that was often seen as intimidating, but there was still substantial depth to strategy. Regardless, it wasn't able to maintain the same competitive scene as its predecessor; many factors, like the rise of MOBAs or the attachment to the purity of Brood War's gameplay, are part of the equation. High-level players also had frustrations with some of the more intricate changes with balance and unit abilities. | Michael Higham Valkyria Chronicles 2 (August 31, 2010)
Valkyria Chronicles on PS3 (now remastered on PS4 and PC) remains a console strategy treasure, a unique take on turn-based tactics that melds top-down sandtable strategy with the satisfying real-time component of third-person positioning and attacking. Its signature watercolor-style visuals are gorgeous and understated, a timeless look that perfectly serves the game's somber tone and wartime themes. Valkyria Chronicles 2 was a great game too--it was proof that the tactical system was stalwart, and it was one of those games that I sunk dozens and dozens of hours into. But it failed to reach the same kinds of heights as the original game, and despite some positive tweaks in gameplay, fell short in many respects. A lot of that boiled down to the fact that the series had moved onto Sony's PSP handheld, and the limitations that came with that. Superficially, the visuals just couldn't compare. Without the crispness of textures and 3D fidelity, its interpretation of the game's art style didn't have the same impact. The large battlefields were now split into smaller maps, presumably to reduce the strain on hardware resources, requiring you to capture encampments before being able to continue on. It was fine, but another chip away at the grandeur established in the original. But the big disappointment for me personally was its decision to crank the anime knob to 11. The narrative turned away from the human effects of political and international warfare, and towards the dynamics of a military academy--basically, a high school, featuring an increased number of obvious character archetypes, loud personalities, and even more fanservice (though that felt more at home here than in the original). It's the kind of Japanese-style teenage drama that you've likely seen a ton of before, which isn't the worst thing in the world, but a bit of a shame after I was so impressed with the tone of the original. I enjoyed Valkyria Chronicles 2 a lot--it's the perfect series for a handheld system--but the thing I remember most about my time playing it is how much I wanted to go back and play the original Valkyria Chronicles once I was done. A lot of time has passed since then, and I still revisit Valkyria Chronicles every so often. Its sequel? Not so much. | Edmond Tran Zelda II: The Adventure of Link (January 14, 1987)
The original Zelda is fun to play today, but in the 1980s it was a revelation. For a generation of gamers who were used to playing repetitive arcade games, The Legend of Zelda was an almost unimaginably epic adventure. With its vast open world rife with secrets and Link's expanding set of abilities, this game exploded our sense of what a video game could be. What new wonders could its sequel possibly bring? I could hardly imagine. Zelda II: The Adventures of Link didn't bring unimaginable wonders. Instead of polishing the almost perfect gameplay of the original, it made big, sweeping changes, nearly all for the worse. In place of a fully open world is one in which your progress is gated to make for a more linear adventure. Instead of the satisfying top-down action of the original, we get awkward side-scrolling combat hampered by Link's toothpick-sized sword. And don't even get me started on the knights who can block your every attack, no matter how fast you duck and stab. But let's end on a high note: at least the music is rad. | Chris Reed
By Mat Elfring on Jul 20, 2018 10:55 pm
We've hit the midpoint in July, and that means San Diego Comic-Con is upon us. The show runs from July 18-22, and there certainly will be a lot to see and do at and around the convention center. Aside from the cosplay, show floor, and panels, one thing many fans will be looking forward to is getting a look at all the cool exclusives that show up at SDCC, including those focused on the likes of Marvel. One of the biggest companies that people will be flocking to during the show is Funko (Booth 5341), so fans can get their hands on those sweet, tiny, vinyl figures called Pops. This year's show will be crazy as Funko has a whopping 58 exclusive Pop figures for Comic-Con 2018. That's right--58 new figures that you can only get at this show. That's also not including Funko's non-Pop brands too, which would increase that number even further. From the Marvel Cinematic Universe to DC to Rick and Morty to WWE to Doctor Who, there is something for everyone at Funko's booth. However, in order to get some of the sweet Pop figures you're about to see, there are some guidelines to follow, which includes going through Comic-Con's Exclusives Portal in order to book a time to buy something at the booth. That's how popular Funko is. But if you're desperate to get your hands on them, it'll be worth the trouble, as many of these will no doubt end up selling for higher prices on places like Ebay after the show. Unfortunately, no prices were listed for all these Funko figures. After you've booked your time for the Funko booth, here's what you can buy. All of the Pop figures are separated into different categories, and which you can jump ahead to by clicking a link below. For more on San Diego Comic-Con, check out our guides to the must-see panels, as well as what we want to see at the show. Make sure to come back to GameSpot this week for live coverage from the show floor. Doug - Skeeter Valentine Rick and Morty: Western Rick Rick and Morty: Western Morty Bob's Burgers - Tina on Unicorn Masters of the Universe - Stinkor (Scented) Masters of the Universe - Ram Man Teen Titans Go! - Killer Moth Looney Tunes – Playboy Penguin Looney Tunes – Pepé Le Pew Hanna-Barbera: Captain Caveman Kingdom Hearts – Unhooded Organization 13 Mickey Destiny – Sweeper Bot Overwatch – Grillmaster Solider: 76 Stranger Things - Dustin at Snow Ball Dance Stranger Things - Billy & Karen Wheeler 2-pack Doctor Who - Thirteenth Doctor Riverdale – Josie Game of Thrones – Olenna Tyrell Parks & Recreation - Ron Swanson with Cornrows WWE: Asuka Green Hornet (1960) - Green Hornet & Kato 2-pack Hanna-Barbera: Banana Splits Hanna-Barbera: Banana Splits – Fleegle Hanna-Barbera: Banana Splits – Bingo Hanna-Barbera: Banana Splits – Drooper Star Wars: Clone Wars – Cad Bane Star Wars: Solo: A Star Wars Story - Imperial Stormtrooper Mad Max Fury Road - The Nux Car Justice League - Running Flash Justice League - The Flash Chrome 3-pack (Gold/Red/Silver) Marvel Studios 10 - Iron Man Mark I Thor Ragnarok - Thor with Odin Force Thor Ragnarok - Hero Valkyrie Guardians of the Galaxy 2 – Kraglin Hercules - Pain and Panic 2-pack Incredibles 2 – Edna Jack-Jack Moana – Neon Tamatoa 8-Bit: Wreck-It Ralph – Ralph 8-Bit: Wreck-It Ralph – Fix-It Felix Harry Potter: Moaning Myrtle (translucent) Harry Potter: Nearly Headless Nick (Glow-in-the-Dark) Heavy Metal – Bloody Taarna Scott Pilgrim vs. the World - Scott Pilgrim & Ramona Flowers 2-pack Sailor Moon - Black Lady Dragon Ball Z - Dead Yamcha Dragon Ball Z - Super Saiyan Broly Dragon Ball Z – Gold Vegeta Dragon Ball Z – Metallic Whis Deadpool - Cheerleader Deadpool in Pink Glitter Marvel: Classic Ant-Man Red Hood Saga - Flocked Ghüs with Pajamas Hellboy in Suit Taika Waititi James Wan Cap'n Crunch – Crunchberry Beast Spastik Plastik – Gill Spastik Plastik – Sam
By Mat Elfring on Jul 20, 2018 04:59 am
Every year, DC Collectibles unveils its upcoming toys, statues, and more at San Diego Comic-Con. This year was no exception, and DC has quite a few new products based on the company's properties. From classic reinterpretations of iconic animated series to statues giving the characters all new looks. In addition to new versions of Batman: The Animated Series characters, like Gray Ghost and Scarecrow, there are a couple new additions to the Batman: Black & White statue line. Also the Artists Alley vinyl line expands with two more creators giving their take on some of DC's most popular characters. It has been a pretty big week for DC already, with the company releasing the first trailer for their original series Titans. Additionally, more info for the service, titled DC Universe, was revealed, including pricing. We got a hands-on look at the new service, which shows a lot of promise. Here is what DC Collectibles revealed Thursday morning of San Diego Comic Con. San Diego Comic-Con 2018 Coverage Bat-Family Multi-Part Statue: Batman
Available March 2019. Bat-Family Multi-Part Statue: Completed Look Batman: Black & White Statue by Klaus Janson
Available in 2019. Batman: Black & White Statue by Sean Murphy
Available in 2019. Batman: The Animated Series: Gray Ghost
DC Collectibles' newest Batman: The Animated Series figures, including the Batcycle, will debut in 2019. Batman TAS: H.A.R.D.A.C. Batman TAS: Scarecrow Batman TAS: Two-Face Batman TAS: Batcycle With Batman
The Batcycle is 9.25" long, which is perfect for the rest of the 6" Batman: TAS figures. The cycle comes with a Batman figure, and it features two free-spinning wheels, and it lights up. Batman TAS: Batcycle With Batman Batman TAS: Batcycle With Batman DC Artists Alley Vinyls: Batgirl by Chrissie Zullo DC Artists Alley Vinyls: Hawkgirl by Chrissie Zullo DC Artists Alley Vinyls: Wonder Woman by Chrissie Zullo DC Artists Alley Vinyls: Supergirl by Chrissie Zullo DC Artists Alley Vinyls: Catwoman by Joe Ledbetter DC Artists Alley Vinyls: Penguin by Joe Ledbetter DC Artists Alley Vinyls: Penguin by Joe Ledbetter DC Artists Alley Vinyls: Batman by Joe Ledbetter DC Artists Alley Vinyls: Robin by Joe Ledbetter DC Bombshells: Batman And Catwoman
Available in 2019. DC Bombshells: Big Barda
Available in 2019. DC Cover Girls By Joelle Jones: Mera
Available in 2019. DC Designer Series: Green Lantern by Ivan Reis DC Essentials: Batgirl
Available in 2019. DC Essentials: Harley Quinn
Available in 2019. DC Essentials: Joker
Available in 2019. DC Essentials: Nightwing
Available in 2019. Justice League Animated Series
Available Fall 2018. Aquaman
Available Fall 2018. Batman
Available Fall 2018. John Stewart Green Lantern
Available Fall 2018. Hawkgirl
Available Fall 2018. Martian Manhunter
Available Fall 2018. Superman
Available Fall 2018. The Flash
Available Fall 2018. Wonder Woman
Available Fall 2018.
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