Monday, February 29, 2016

New Halo 5: Guardians Free Content Detailed as Hammer Storm Launches


The February content release for Halo 5: Guardians, officially dubbed Hammer Storm. Like previous releases, the content will automatically download and install once you launch Halo 5: Guardians, with the complete portfolio of REQ content lighting up in the system throughout the day. Highlights of this release include:
  • New game modes: Grifball, Assault and Fiesta. From the hammer-meets-sword sports sensation of Grifball, and weapon-roulette hilarity of Fiesta, to the fan-favorite Assault game type that’s been fully evolved for Halo 5: Guardians, Hammer Storm brings a brand new game mode to fit every flavor of Halo fan.
  • New map Torque. An entirely new environment primed for battle, Torque is a large symmetrical map that caters to Capture the Flag and Assault game modes. The pistons in each courtyard can provide key gameplay for cover, traversal, and objective movement.
  • New weapons change the game. Literally. The Gravity Hammer provides the proper tool for smashing enemies, and the Halo: CE Pistol brings back a legacy of single handed death-dealing. Be sure to watch for the classic headshot death animation when you deliver the killing blow!
  • New REQ items. Hammer Storm contains a myriad of new REQs, including attachments for loadout weapons, weapon skins, armors, emblems, assassinations, visors, and stances.
  • New possibilities with Forge. The new “ball” mechanic that powers the Assault and Grifball modes unlocks the potential for entirely new game types in Forge mode, not to mention paving the way for returning favorites like Oddball and Ricochet.
Head over to Halo Waypoint for a full run down of Hammer Storm content and stay tuned to Xbox Wire for more updates on Halo 5: Guardians.

Post by Vikki
Twitter: ProfessorWhite
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343 Industries and Mattel Sign Master Licensing Agreement, Introduce New Halo Toys


Since Halo: Combat Evolved launched in 2001, Halo has grown from a video game to a more than $5 billion franchise that encompasses New York Times best-selling novels, multiple live-action digital series and consumer products. The latter – including a dizzying array of toys – have generated more than $1.5 billion and include action figures, weapon replicas, clothing and much, much more. 343 Industries has and continues to be focused on making Halo toys fun, accessible and appealing to everyone – collectors, hardcore Halo fans and franchise newcomers alike. With that vision in mind, the studio behind one of the most successful franchises in gaming history have signed a master licensing agreement with one of the largest toy manufactures in the world: Mattel.

“The success we’ve seen with the Halo MEGA Bloks franchise over the years laid the foundation for this partnership,” said Bonnie Ross, Microsoft Corporate Vice President and Head of 343 Industries. “We’re excited to work with Mattel to bring innovative, quality and, most of all, fun products to old and new Halo fans alike.” Partnering with Mattel not only expands visibility for Halo products in retailers worldwide, it unifies the design, development and creative vision of an important branch of Halo consumer products. The collaboration has already opened up new avenues for creativity, as two BOOMCo.-inspired weapons – the Assault Rifle Blaster and Magnum Blaster – recently made their way into Infinity’s Armory, the latest content update for Halo 5: Guardians.

“We’re excited to expand our relationship with Halo and 343 Industries to create and collaborate on a broad range of multi-category toys and collectibles,” said Joe Lawandus, SVP of Design and Marketing, Toy Box at Mattel. “From MEGA Bloks to blasters, action figures to radio controlled vehicles, our new line for 2016 features something for Halo fans everywhere.”Products available this fall include:

  • Halo Mega BloksDual Mode UNSC Warthog (SRP: $29.99) – Twice the firepower makes for twice the ride. This buildable ground vehicle comes ready to deal out double the devastation, with a dual-mode capability that lets you switch between either a Gauss Cannon or Rocket Launcher as your turret-mounted weapon.
  • Halo Mega Bloks Heroes Asst. II (SRP: $4.99) – Legendary Spartans assemble with Halo Heroes Assortment by Halo Mega Bloks that includes Sgt. Forge, Spartan DeMarco, ODST Romeo, and the multiplayer armors: Spartan Scout, Spartan Oceanic, and Spartan Gungnir. Packed with additional detail and iconic weapons, each of these highly collectible heroes comes with detachable armor and can be posed on a deluxe buildable display stand.
  • Halo Mega Bloks Fireteam Asst. (SRP: $15.99) – Assemble your forces and prepare your troops for battle with the Fireteam Assortment by Halo Mega Bloks. Employed by the UNSC and Covenant alike, small units of highly-trained soldiers are used for tactical expertise and flexibility during combat operations.
  • Halo Mega Bloks UNSC Vehicle (SRP: $69.99) – Batten down the hatches with this new UNSC vehicle by Halo Mega Bloks. Rigged with ironclad defenses, this buildable, eight-wheeled artillery tank comes fully loaded with a massive, pivoting cannon. Build the vehicle, and brace your Spartan for an attack from the approaching Covenant Brutes.
  • · BoomCo. Halo UNSC MA5 Blaster (SRP: $49.99) – One of the most iconic, go-to weapons of choice for the Master Chief. Includes true-to-game features – rapid-fire action, interchangeable clips and extra QwikClip storage in stock. Its size, speed and QwikClip compatibility make it a must-have item.
  • BoomCo. Halo Brute Spiker (SRP: $19.99) – Featured in the upcoming Halo Wars 2 and includes the QwikClip system, designed not to jam, for quick-fire action and rapid reloads. Comes with authentic, intimidating Brute Spiker blades and includes 6-dart QwikClip and 6 darts.
  • · Halo Warthog + 12” Master Chief (SRP: $49.99) – Step into the Halo universe with the Warthog deluxe vehicle and figure. Recreate epic missions with the UNSC’s premier ground transportation vehicle in epic scale, complete with a rotating weapon turret to fit your favorite Spartan or Covenant figures. Includes fully articulated, removable 12” Master Chief figure.
  • · Halo 6" Figure Assortment (SRP: $19.99) –All new 6” collectible action figures series brings the Halo universe to life! More than 30 points of articulation in a highly poseable form. Each figure includes mix-and-match armor suit and 1-2 iconic, interchangeable weapons so you can customize your figure for battle.
  • · Halo Ghost Vehicle + 6” Figure (SRP: $29.99) – Step into the Halo universe with the Ghost vehicle and 6” Elite Officer figure. Includes highly detailed 6” figure with removable armor and weapon.
  • · Halo 12" Figure Assortment (SRP: $9.99) – Step into the Halo action with the all new Halo 12” figure assortment. Each figure stands 12” tall and includes 15 points of articulation. Figures include one iconic, interchangeable weapon that can store on back of figure and authentic, game-inspired design based on characters from the Halo universe.
  • Tyco Halo Warthog ONI Anti-Tank Radio Control Vehicle (SRP: $49.99) – The deluxe Warthog ONI Anti-tank Radio Control vehicle is fully functional with forward/backward and right/left steering and missile firing capabilities.
  • Tyco Halo Warthog Light Reconnaissance Radio Control Vehicle (SRP: $29.99) – The Warthog Light Reconnaissance Radio Control vehicle is fully functional with forward/backward and right/left steering capabilities.
  • Halo Energy Sword (SRP: $49.99) – LFX and motion-activated SFX deliver life-like Halo experience, includes “Try Me” feature. Recreate epic Covenant vs. Spartan battles with Halo-inspired Covenant deco and design.
  • Tyco Halo Radio Control Vehicle *product title pending* (SRP: $29.99) – All new Halo Radio Control vehicle is fully functional with forward/backward and right/left steering capabilities.
Post by Vikki
Twitter: ProfessorWhite
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Sunday, February 28, 2016

The Walking Dead S6. ep. 11 "Knots Untie" Recap


Sasha and Abraham are having a deep discussion about life. She lets him know that Eugene will be taking over her shift with him. Abraham appears upset about the change and there is a weird awkward goodbye. Then he is in bed with Rosita....he still has flashes of saying goodbye to Sasha. Maggie and Glenn are talking while she works on growing the tomatoes.


Jesus is looking at a painting at the house and Carl pulls a gun on him. (Awesome) Then everyone shows up with a gun and note the #Richonne hook up. Jesus is basically explaining to them how he knows their whole base and everything about their town. He lets them know about the Hilltop and how he wants to trade with them. He offers to take them back to the hilltop and Maggie is surprised that they are so many groups out there. Another awkward moment between Denise and Daryl in which she provides him with an oat cake for the road. Rick talks to Carl about the hook up and apologizes for not letting him know. Carl says its cool and that he will stay back. (A lot of the town's heavy hitters are going, I don't think that is a wise move in my opinion.) 


On the way to the hilltop they note a car crash that appears to have just happened. They notice tracks and decide to see what is going on. They enter a building and kill some walkers and find a few survivors, one that happens to be an obstetrician which is great for Maggie. Jesus leads them to the main house of the hilltop and introduces them to Gregory. He demands for them to get cleaned up before talking. Abraham talks to Daryl about Richonne and settling down. Rick tells Maggie to meet with Gregory. Maggie inquires how they survived and he is dodgy at best in answering the questions. He says Maggie's people can work for supplies and he gets creepy and Maggie tells him to stop and that they can help each other as they are both low in certain supplies. Gregory McCreepster turns her down. 


A group returns and says they must deliver a message from Neegan in which the guy Ethan stabs Gregory. Group fight and Rick ends up drenched in blood again and says "What" when everyone is looking at him. Jesus stops more blood shed. Jesus lets Rick know that there is more to the story. Abraham is still laying on the ground after being almost choked out and he claims he is good. Gregory is patched up and Rick demands to know about Neegan. Jesus lets him know that half of all their supplies goes to Neegan's group. Daryl says if they kill Neegan will they trade with them. Jesus says he will take the deal to Gregory. Maggie meets with Gregory. Maggie is frank saying they kill those that have come against them. Maggie says they will take care of Neegan for supplies. Maggie demands half or the deal is off and Gregory agrees. Rick and Michonne agree that they will win. Show ends with Maggie and Glenn having an ultrasound done of their baby. 

Fangirl Review Thoughts: I find the whole story line of Abraham during this episode to be annoying and frankly not needed. I would have been okay if they wrote this whole part out. Frankly anytime you see a show focus on a character like that they are more than likely about to die. 

Just like in the comics we all have the feeling that Rick has bitten off more than they can handle. I worry for the group and how this is going to turn out. The question is who will be left standing when everything is said and done. 

Friday, February 26, 2016

Toy Fair 2016: “Outlander” Collectibles Debut at Dark Horse



Hit Starz Show to See Full Product Line. Dark Horse Comics’ toys and collectibles imprint, Dark Horse Deluxe, is proud to offer new items based on characters and stories from the hit Starz show Outlander! TheOutlander collectibles from Dark Horse are licensed through Sony Pictures Television in a deal brokered by Knockout Licensing.

Outlander is a popular television drama that tells the story of World War II army nurse Claire Randall. While on her honeymoon, Claire is transported to 1743, where her freedom and life are threatened. To survive, she marries Jamie Fraser, a dashing Scots warrior with a complicated past and a disarming sense of humor. A passionate relationship ensues, and Claire is caught between two vastly different men in two inharmonious lives. Dark Horse senior product development manager Rebecca Dudeiros said, “With our new collectible line we hope to convey the lush and mysterious life that Claire is thrown into. We want to bring the consumer into the world of Outlander with items that make them feel like they are part of the story.”

Dark Horse Deluxe is launching its Outlander line with an assortment of products. The centerpieces of this first wave are the stainless steel stein and the beautifully sculpted Crown and Thistle pin. A coaster set, magnetic bookmarks, magnet four-pack, Crown and Thistle journal, and embroidered patch round out the initial range of products. Dark Horse will continue to offer more Outlander products, including a program of collectible items. Stay tuned . . .

Look for these Outlander collectibles on sale March 2016 at fine retailers everywhere!

The second season of Outlander debuts April 9, 2016. Outlander is produced by Tall Ship Productions, Story Mining and Supply Company, and Left Bank Pictures in association with Sony Pictures Television.

Post by Vikki
Twitter: ProfessorWhite
Facebook: Fangirl Review

DC Comics Proudly Presents: “The New 52” hits 52!


Celebrating 52 issues of incredible storytelling, DC Entertainment’s May 2016 variant cover theme will pay homage to the #1 issues of eleven comics that debuted in 2011 when DC Entertainment rebooted their superhero publishing line and revitalized the comics industry as a whole. It was a momentous occasion then, and is an anniversary to celebrate now! Inspired by Cliff Chiang’s Wonder Woman #1, Rags Morales and Brad Anderson’s Action Comics #1, Adam Hughes’ Batgirl #1, and more, these brand-new “The New 52” variants will grace the covers of those same landmark titles that are hitting issue #52 in May. Illustrated by an all-star lineup of incredible talent, May’s lineup of variant covers are as remarkable as the industry-changing covers they’re based on.

Action Comics #52 variant cover by Ben Oliver
Aquaman #52 variant cover by Brett Booth and Norm Rapmund
Batgirl #52 variant cover by Babs Tarr
Batman #52 variant cover by Rafael Albuquerque
Catwoman #52 variant cover by Inaki Miranda
Detective Comics #52 variant cover by Francis Manapul
The Flash #52 variant cover by Jesus Merino
Green Arrow #52 variant cover by Szymon Kudranski
Green Lantern #52 variant cover by Billy Tan
Superman #52 variant cover by Mikel Janin
Wonder Woman #52 variant cover by David Finch and Matt Banning

“The New 52” variants are the latest in a variety of monthly themes.

Post by Vikki
Twitter: ProfessorWhite
Facebook: Fangirl Review

Gears of War partners with McFarlane as part of new video game figure lineup


Legendary comic book and toy creator Todd McFarlane announced today that his company, McFarlane Toys has partnered with one of the gaming industry’s hottest properties, Gears of War, to produce a line of highly collectible action figures. Known for its gritty, gory, hyper realistic gameplay, Microsoft’s Gears of War has been an Xbox staple for nearly a decade. The franchise revolutionized cover-based combat, and drew millions of Xbox Live users in with its addictive multiplayer. One of the most anticipated video games of the year, Gears of War 4 is slated to release Holiday 2016, exclusively on Xbox One.

McFarlane Toys is well known for producing excellent figures in the gaming genre, and currently produce and hold the action figure license for the Halo, and Assassin’s Creed franchises. The Gears of War figures will be based on the upcoming Gears of War 4 video game and will be a part of McFarlane’s new 2016 Collector Box Program. The figures will stand a full seven inches tall, have an average of fifteen points of articulation for incredible poses and play action and feature game accurate accessories and weapons. The Gears of War 4 action figures will boast the same meticulous level of detail that McFarlane has become known for over the last two decades.

“The game does such a great job of giving these characters big dynamic personalities.” said Todd McFarlane, Creative Director and CEO of McFarlane Toys. “We’re going to make sure all that personality gets represented in the action figures.”

The Gears of War 4 action figures will be available at major retail locations beginning Fall of 2016. Fans of both McFarlane Toys and Gears of War can check www.mcfarlane.com and the McFarlane Toys social media channels for updates and news.


Post by VikkiTwitter: ProfessorWhiteFacebook: Fangirl Review

Thursday, February 25, 2016

Pokkén Tournament Joining Competitive Pokémon Championship Series


Special Pokkén Tournament Early Access Competitions Being Held for the Chance to Win a Spot at the 2016 Pokémon US National Championships

For over a decade, Pokémon video game and Pokémon Trading Card Game players have tirelessly trained and battled in official Pokémon Championship Series events throughout the year for the opportunity to be crowned Pokémon World Champion. Nintendo and The Pokémon Company International announced today that the upcoming Pokkén Tournament game for Wii U will join the Pokémon Championship Series beginning this spring. These tournaments are sanctioned annually by The Pokémon Company International, and this year will culminate with the crowning of the Pokkén Tournament World Champions this August at the 2016 Pokémon World Championships in San Francisco.

On Feb. 27 from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.local time, GameStop stores in the following cities will host local qualifiers for the Pokkén Tournament Early Access Competition. Registration will begin at each regional location starting at 10 a.m. local time. Players will compete at these regional competitions for a chance to move on to the finals at the Nintendo NY store in New York:One way to prepare for and even gain entry into the official 2016 Pokémon Championship Series, as well as getting the chance to play Pokkén Tournamentbefore it launches on March 18, is attending the Pokkén Tournament Early Access Competitions being hosted by Nintendo at select GameStop locations across the United States on Saturday, Feb. 27. Winners from the regional tournaments will advance to the finals being held at the Nintendo NY store in New York on March 17. The final two winners of the Pokkén TournamentEarly Access Competitions will earn travel awards to the 2016 Pokémon US National Championships (July 1-3 in Columbus, Ohio), where they will battle to advance to the 2016 Pokémon World Championships, the premiere Pokémon tournament of the year.
  • 2201 Preston Road, Plano, TX
  • 1841 Chamblee Tucker Road, Chamblee, GA
  • 3972 Barranca Parkway, Irvine, CA
  • 8115 S. John Young Parkway, Orlando, FL
  • 6451 W. Diversey Ave., Chicago, IL
  • 242 Bellevue Square, Bellevue, WA
  • 32 E. 14th St. – Union Square, New York, NY
  • 3914 Rivermark Plaza, Santa Clara, CA
The Pokkén Tournament Early Access Competitions are open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis, and will be split into two age brackets: players born in 2001 or later and players born in 2000 or earlier. The winner of each age bracket will then be trained by a professional fighting game player during fun training sessions that will be shared on Nintendo social media channels. Once training is complete, the winner from each city and age bracket and a guest will be flown to the Nintendo NY store on March 17for the Pokkén Tournament Early Access Competition finals, where they will battle against all other local champions. The winners of the Pokkén Tournament Early Access Competition finals will each win a Wii U system, the Pokkén Tournament game and a travel award to Columbus, Ohio, where they will battle at the 2016 Pokémon US National Championships for the chance to advance to the 2016 Pokémon World Championships in San Francisco. “If you have fighting game skills and love all things Pokémon, but never had a chance to combine the two, the Pokkén Tournament Early Access Competition is your chance to show off your skills,” said Scott Moffitt, Nintendo of America’s Executive Vice President of Sales & Marketing. “You’re only a few battles away from the chance to win an amazing travel award to the largest Pokémon competitive event in the United States!”

“We cannot wait to add Pokkén Tournament to the Pokémon Championship Series,” said J.C. Smith, The Pokémon Company International’s Senior Director of Consumer Marketing. “It’ll be fun watching who’ll quickly master the game, moving on to the Pokémon US National Championships, and ultimately battlingPokkén Tournament players from around the globe at the 2016 Pokémon World Championships.”

Pokkén Tournament launches for Wii U on March 18, and brings high-definition game play and over-the-top action to never-before-seen battles between some of the most recognizable Pokémon characters. People that buy the first production run version of the game will also receive a special Shadow Mewtwo amiibo card, which can be tapped to the Wii U GamePad controller to unlock the Shadow Mewtwo playable character in the game. When customers pre-order and purchase Pokkén Tournament from GameStop, they will receive a double-sided poster featuring art of some of the epic battles in Pokkén Tournament (while supplies last).

For more information about Pokkén Tournament, a list of GameStop tournament locations, times and the full rules, and to learn more about the 2016 Pokémon Championship Series, visit http://pokemon.com/PokkenTournament.

Post by Vikki
Twitter: ProfessorWhite
Facebook: Fangirl Review

Fire Emblem Fates Boasts the Best-Ever Launch for the Series in the United States


Multi-Path Nintendo 3DS Game Sold More Than 300,000 Units Over the First Three Days

With more than 300,000 units sold between all versions of the Fire Emblem Fates game during its launch weekend, the Nintendo 3DS strategy RPG earns a place in the record books as the fastest-selling game in the history of the long-running, critically acclaimed franchise in the United States. The game sold more than five times as many units as 2013’s Fire Emblem Awakening, the previous record holder in the United States, during its first three days of availability.

“Both fans and critics are falling for Fire Emblem Fates, and the early sales numbers prove the game’s undeniable appeal,” said Scott Moffitt, Nintendo of America’s Executive Vice President of Sales & Marketing. “This strong momentum for Nintendo 3DS is only the beginning, as many more high-quality exclusive games are set to launch for the hand-held system over the next few months.”

Breaking down the sales numbers reveals that Fire Emblem Fates: Birthright was the top seller between both versions, with the more challenging Fire Emblem Fates: Conquest coming close behind. But the adventures are just getting started for players across the country, as people can choose to purchase the other version of the game for only $19.99 through the in-game shop. Both versions of Fire Emblem Fates offer unique stories with new characters, game play and plot twists.

The first DLC map for Fire Emblem Fates launched for free on Feb. 19, with additional paid maps coming on a regular basis through April 21. By purchasing Map Pack 1 DLC for only $17.99, 11 maps plus bonus content will be available as they are released at a discount when compared to buying each map individually. When purchased individually, all of the maps would total more than $24. On March 10, a third story, Fire Emblem Fates: Revelation, launches for a suggested retail price of only $19.99 exclusively as DLC for Fire Emblem Fates: Birthright and Fire Emblem Fates: Conquest. This third path also offers a new adventure that sheds new light on the characters and settings from the other two games, and is ideal for players who have already completed one or both of the other versions.

Fire Emblem Fates is the first of several high-quality role-playing games launching for Nintendo 3DS over the next few months. In addition to all the weekly Fire Emblem Fates DLC, the original Pokémon games (Pokémon Red Version and Pokémon Blue Version, as well as Pokémon Yellow Version: Special Pikachu Edition) launch in the Nintendo eShop on Nintendo 3DS on Feb. 27. Bravely Second: End Layerfrom SQUARE ENIX launches on April 15, with the massive Dragon Quest VII: Fragments of the Forgotten Past game hitting this summer and Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King coming later in 2016. Role-playing games FINAL FANTASY EXPLORERS from SQUARE ENIX and Project X Zone 2 from BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment America, Inc. also recently launched for Nintendo 3DS.

For more information about Fire Emblem Fates, visit http://fireemblemfates.nintendo.com/.

Post by Vikki
Twitter: ProfessorWhite
Facebook: Fangirl Review

Toy Fair 2016: Dark Horse Reveals New Character in Line of "Game of Thrones®" Figures!



Dark Horse Deluxe, an imprint of Dark Horse Comics, has revealed the latest figure in an ongoing series of characters from the critically acclaimed HBO® series Game of Thrones®: the Night King. The masterfully sculpted figure finely details the leader of the White Walkers. It measures eight inches in height and is packaged in a collectors’ window box.

The Night King will be the twenty-fourth figure in the series and is slated for in-store release in September of 2016.

“The Night King’s confrontation with Jon Snow in the aftermath of the Hardhome battle is one of the most dramatic moments of Game of Thrones to date. We are very excited to have captured the power of this character in a stunning new figure,” Dark Horse Product Development head David Scroggy remarked. Response to the Game of Thrones collectible figure line has been overwhelming, and additional characters are in development for release in summer and fall 2016. The Night King figure will be joined by Ygritte, Margaery Tyrell, Oberyn Martell, Grey Worm, and Varys.

Dark Horse also recently announced a limited-edition bust statue of the Night King, which will be released in March 2016. Game of Thrones figures have a suggested retail price of $24.99 and are packaged in deluxe window box packaging.


Post by Vikki
Twitter: ProfessorWhite
Facebook: Fangirl Review

Tomasi's "Super League" (April/May 2016) Revealed!



Peter J. Tomasi's "Super League" is almost here! Last month DC revealed that Tomasi would pen eight issues of "Super League," spanning SUPERMAN, BATMAN/SUPERMAN, SUPERMAN/WONDER WOMAN and ACTION COMICS over April and May of 2016. We showed some incredible cover artwork by Yanick Paquette, John Romita, Jr. and Klaus Janson, and Karl Kerschl, but we didn't reveal how huge this story would be.

It's going to be epic!

Did anyone notice that Mikel Janin is on art for SUPERMAN #51? With the upcoming solicitation of SUPERMAN #52 we thought it was time to give an early look at his interior pages for SUPERMAN #51 so you can see for yourself just how awesome this experience is going to be.

And here's your recap of all upcoming "Super League" issues, including selections from May's top-secret solicitations:
  • SUPERMAN #51, written by Peter J. Tomasi, art by Mikel Janin, cover by John Romita, Jr. and Klaus Janson, is on sale APRIL 6.
    • It’s the start of a new chapter in the Man of Steel’s life that will change everything you know as the epic eight-part “Super League,” all written by Peter J. Tomasi, spans SUPERMAN, BATMAN/SUPERMAN, SUPERMAN/WONDER WOMAN and ACTION COMICS in April and May!
  • BATMAN/SUPERMAN #31, written by Peter J. Tomasi, art by Doug Mahnke and Jaime Mendoza, cover by Yanick Paquette, is on sale APRIL 13.
    • In part two of “Super League,” Superman enlists Batman’s aid in seeking out people that can help form his new super-league…
  • ACTION COMICS #51, written by Peter J. Tomasi, art by Fernando Pasarin, cover by Karl Kerschl, is on sale APRIL 20.
    • Superman is shocked to learn that Kara has been missing for some time as part three of “Super League” begins!
  • SUPERMAN/WONDER WOMAN #28, written by Peter J. TomasI, art by Ed Benes, cover by Paul Renaud, is on sale APRIL 27.
    • In part four of “Super League,” Wonder Woman and Superman encounter the being that was discovered in BATMAN/SUPERMAN #31.
  • BATMAN/SUPERMAN #32, written by Peter J. Tomasi, art by Tyler Kirkham, cover by Yanick Paquette, is on sale MAY 4.
    • “Super League” continues this month as Kal-El’s bid to strengthen his forces brings him, Batman and Wonder Woman into China and into conflict with the might of that nation’s greatest heroes: the Great 10!
  • ACTION COMICS #52, written by Peter J. Tomasi, art by Fernando Pasarin, cover by John Romita Jr. and Klaus Janson, is on sale MAY 11.
    • “Super League” continues—as two Supermen meet at last: pre-New 52 Superman meets the current Clark.
  • SUPERMAN/WONDER WOMAN #29, written by Peter J. Tomasi, art by Doug Mahnke and Jaime Mendoza, cover by Karl Kerschl, is on sale MAY 18
    • It’s the penultimate chapter of “Super League”! When all the Supermen have fallen, it’s Supergirl to the rescue!
  • SUPERMAN #52, written by Peter J. Tomasi, art and cover by Mikel Janin, is on sale MAY 25.
    • The “Super League” epic concludes in one explosive fight as the new master villain uses Superman's own solar super flare power against everyone.

Post by Vikki
Twitter: ProfessorWhite
Facebook: Fangirl Review

Wednesday, February 24, 2016

X Files Revival: The Good and The Bad Now That The Dust Has Settled


I was so hyped for the X Files return that I ended up watching the entire 9 previous seasons, the two movies, PLUS the X Files Season 10 comic series. Six episodes later and my final verdict is mixed. A lot of it I liked, but a good portion of it was so blatantly bad that it acted as the proverbial bad apple that spoils the bunch. So here is a short list of the good and bad from The X Files, Season 10.

THE GOOD:

The cinematography and set production is still top notch: What made the original run so special is how it looked like nothing on television, and some of it was nearly on par with feature film cinematography and still stands up to today's standards. This new series did not hold back, the show was full of eye candy.

Mulder and Scully back together: There is something special about these two actors together which makes the show special. I think there could have been even more development to their bond, but a few of their back and forth dialogue scenes were worth the price of admission.

The stand alone episodes: The two mythology episodes which book-ended the series were rushed and plagued with bad editing and acting, the stand alone episodes were much more enjoyable, and harkened back to the original show's oddball qualities.

 The special effects: The producers did not hold back on the visuals. The teaser scenes for both “Founder's Mutation” and “Home Again” were classic X Files gore. The space craft landing in the “My Struggle I” was also beautifully executed.

The writing team which did not include Chris Carter: Although I am on the side of the fence that enjoyed “Babylon”, Carter's stories were not the best. Glenn Morgan, Darin Morgan, and James Wong wrote the three more character driven episodes of the series, which tried to move the story forward without disrespecting what had come before.


THE BAD:

Pacing: The X Files has always been a super slow paced show, which I worried was going to be one of the pitfalls for its success in super amped 2016 television. Carter and company simply had too much to work with in too little time, and with the exception of “Founder's Mutation” and “Mulder and Scully Meet The Were-Monster”, tried to shove too many elements into one episode. “My Struggle I” and “II” suffered the most from this rush.

The acting: Scully and Mulder both seemed tired. I was especially annoyed by Scully's voice which seemed to be rasping and whispering most of the time. “Mulder and Scully Meet The Were-Monster” was one exception where it seemed she was having fun, despite disappearing for the last bit of the episode. Even the Cigarette Smoking Man came off as flat, as did Skinner. They were simply caricatures of their old selves at points. I think this is a direct result of the pacing, which did not allow for the characters to truly develop into their roles.

The reset button: Carter and company seemed to have gotten bored with their original mythology while still in the original run of the show. Samantha's storyline was resolved, the syndicate was killed off, and Super Soldiers entered the scene. The myth arc had become too large and complicated for its own good. But instead of trying to tweak with it and bring it back stronger, it was mainly rewritten for this new series. Also, the fact that Cigarette Smoking Man survived a direct hit from a missile without any explanation as to HOW, was a cheap shot. And also bringing Agent Reyes back only to destroy her character was in bad taste. The Season 10 Comics give us a much better continuation of the previous 9 seasons of X Files mythology.

Agent Miller and Einstein: They were cute in “Babylon”, and The X Files has played around with alter egos before, but to bring them back in the finale was a big mistake. Mulder and Scully became second banana to these two, who essentially saved the day – Einstein helping Scully figure out the “science” and Miller figuring out where Mulder was hiding. These agents came out of nowhere and suddenly became central figures. Again, pacing! Agents Doggett and Reyes had to win their trust from the audience over a few episodes time – and even then were disliked by a lot of fans. These two aren't nearly as interesting.

Too short a season: Despite my gripes, I believe that the good from this season outweighs the bad and would have outshone it by a lot had they had more time to develop the stories, i.e. a longer season. Six episodes is simply not enough time to tell the stories that The X Files likes to tell. If they come back again for a Season 11, which I believe they will, I hope everyone's schedules work out so that they can at least do 10 episodes. “My Struggle I” and “II” could have been simply cured by making them an hour and half episodes.

So to conclude, Season 10 of The X Files was not a complete train wreck, it was certainly way more enjoyable than Season 9 and even a lot of Season 7, and still had a uniqueness that can't be found on any other show out there.  I would put it right behind Season 8 (which went less mythology heavy and brought the show back to its early season freaky monster roots) in terms of quality. I am definitely pumped for a Season 11, or perhaps even a movie, to wrap the mythology story up: I think it has been overcooked and needs to rest. Season 11 should focus on solving weird cases and nothing more.

Post by P. Ray

THE FIRST CHAPTER OF CODENAME BABOUSHKAENDS WITH A BANG


Writer Antony Johnston (THE FUSE, The Coldest City, Daredevil) and artist Shari Chankhamma (SHELTERED, The Sisters' Luck) will conclude the first story arc in their ongoing modern pulp spy thriller series CODENAME BABOUSHKA this March. Previously in CODENAME BABOUSHKA: THE CONCLAVE OF DEATH, the enigmatic Contessa, the last heiress to a noble Russian line (and secret deadly assassin!), was blackmailed by the U.S. government to carry out dirty jobs even the C.I.A. can't sanction—like “persuading” a retiring crime lord to sell her his secrets.

In CODENAME BABOUSHKA: THE CONCLAVE OF DEATH #5, the gauntlet is thrown down! Everything explodes…or at least, it will if Baboushka can’t stop it. Don’t get in her way!

"The Conclave of Death ends with a bang—and, unsurprisingly, several deaths!” said Johnston. “But long after the smoke clears, Baboushka will be forever changed. The future is full of guns, high-kicks, and yet more secrets to be revealed..."

CODENAME BABOUSHKA: THE CONCLAVE OF DEATH #5 Cover A by Shari Chankhamma  hits stores Wednesday, March 9th. CODENAME BABOUSHKA: THE CONCLAVE OF DEATH #5 Cover B by Kate Leth will also be available Wednesday, February 24th. 

Post by Vikki
Twitter: ProfessorWhite
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ISSUE #3 of Dark Knight/Heroes in a Half Shell Crossover Goes Back To Press For a Second Printing!


It’s another hit as the third issue of the awesome BATMAN/TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES miniseries is going back to press for a new, second printing! Congratulations to James T. Tynion IV and Freddie E. Williams II on their incredible run! Cowabunga! BATMAN/TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES #3 Second Printing will feature a version of the original cover by Freddie E. Williams II with spot color.

In this issue of the miniseries co-published with IDW, the Batcave is overrun with Turtles—and its landlord is not at all pleased about it. But Batman’s going to have to put aside his animosity toward his uninvited guests because he’s about to have his first run-in with their deadliest enemy, Shredder!

BATMAN/TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES #3 Second Printing will arrive in stores on March 16th.


Post by Vikki
Twitter: ProfessorWhite
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Tuesday, February 23, 2016

Dave McKean Channels WWI Surrealism in New Original Graphic Novel



Dave McKean Channels WWI Surrealism in New Original Graphic Novel. Dark Horse proudly presents Black Dog: The Dreams of Paul Nash, a new original graphic novel by the legendary artist Dave McKean based on the life of surrealist painter Paul Nash.

Black Dog takes biographical moments from Paul Nash’s life and explorations of his work, writing, and imagination and mixes them with firsthand accounts of the First World War. Presented as a series of surreal dreams, the stories add up to a moving piece about how war and extreme situations change us and how we deal with the resulting pain—in Nash’s case, by turning landscapes into powerful and fantastical “psychoscapes.”

Best known for his collaborations with Neil Gaiman, McKean defied expectations with his stunning debut as writer and artist in Cages, winner of multiple awards for Best Graphic Album. McKean is also the winner of the Alph-Art, Pantera, Harvey, Spectrum, and BSFA awards. In addition to the standard release, Black Dog will also receive a limited edition of 400 copies featuring an exclusive plate signed by Dave McKean.

Black Dog: The Dreams of Paul Nash (978-1-50670-108-0) is in stores October 5, 2016. Preorder your copy today at your local comic shop or through these fine retailers: AmazonBarnes and NobleIndieBound

Post by Vikki
Twitter: ProfessorWhite
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DC ENTERTAINMENT REVEALS THE FIRST OF MARCH'S POLYBAG VARIANT COVERS


Back in December, DC Entertainment announced that their ongoing monthly themed variant cover program for March would showcase variants for ten of DC Comics’ most popular Batman and Superman titles. The variants are to be polybagged with a Batman v Superman theme, concealing stunning cover artwork by the comic industry’s most talented artists!

March’s Batman v Superman polybagged comics will follow a format similar to December’s Harley’s Little Black Book variant program, where three different versions of each variant were printed in equal quantity. All ten upcoming Batman v Superman comics will also have three versions, but this time they’ll be published in full color, fade and character spotlight.

What’s that look like? The first of these top-secret images is now ready—the art for Rafael Grampá's variant cover to DETECTIVE COMICS #50! Check it out!

March can’t come soon enough!

For the full list of comic books that will feature these fun and collectible covers, please see below:

3/2: Detective Comics #50 (variant by Rafael Grampa)
3/9: Action Comics #50 (variant by Martin Ansin)
3/9: Batman/Superman #30 (variant by Kevin Maguire)
3/16: Robin Son of Batman #10 (variant by Ryan Ottley)
3/16: Superman #50 (variant by Kaare Andrews)
3/23: Batman #50 (variant by Chris Daughtry and Jim Lee)
3/23: Grayson #18 (variant by Stephen Platt)
3/23: Superman/Wonder Woman #27 (variant by Charlie Adlard)
3/23: Wonder Woman #50 (variant by Massimo Carnevale)
3/30: Batgirl #50 (variant by Kevin Nowlan)

Post by Vikki
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EMPTY ZONE KICKS OFF NEW STORY ARC


Eisner-award nominated artist Jason Shawn Alexander (Abe Sapien: The Drowning, The Escapists), joined by newcomer and co-writer Darragh Savage, will launch a new story arc in the ongoing dystopian series EMPTY ZONE this March. Previously in EMPTY ZONE, Corinne White, ex-soldier and black-market spy, was on a slow spiral to oblivion at the bottom of a bottle when she got a message from the ghost of her lover. A psychotic billionaire named Oni, obsessed with finding the secrets of death and immortality, was bionically reanimated corpses. His experiments had ensnared the souls of Corrine's dead friends, and to set them free, she had to kill them. Corrine destroyed Oni's lab in Pittsburgh, but the job wasn’t quite finished...

EMPTY ZONE #6 introduces us to the cold streets of future Berlin, a pair of doomed lovers, a deadly bounty hunter, and the bloody secret waiting for Corrine in the walled city. “Now that we’ve established who our main characters are, this arc will be faster-paced, with more intense action and horror,” said Alexander. “Everything has been turned up. But there is also a love story geared to make you hurt a bit. This continues to be the most fun I’ve had working in comics!”

"We want to deliver a book that is beautiful, visceral, psychological and passionate; on a surface levelEmpty Zone aims to animate horror tropes with injections of future-style and high level visual execution, but at it’s core it is a book about people and what moves them, saves them, or dooms them,” said Savage. “It’s for people who like ghost stories or love stories or stories about the future—as long as they like their stories a little on the dark side."

EMPTY ZONE #6 hits shelves Wednesday, March 16th.

Post by Vikki
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Monday, February 22, 2016

Quantum Break Coming to Xbox One and Windows 10 on April 5


Stunning Live-Action Trailer and Pre-Order Bonuses Set the Stage for Remedy Entertainment’s Latest Blockbuster. With less than two months away until the highly anticipated launch of Quantum Break, Remedy Entertainment and Microsoft Studios kicked things into high gear with a number of huge announcements about the upcoming cinematic action blockbuster. The most noteworthy? Quantum Break will also be launching on Windows 10 on April 5…and will be available at no additional cost for those who digitally pre-order the game on Xbox One*.

Alan Wake Included with Quantum Break for Xbox One; American Nightmare Available with Pre-Order . Two of Remedy Entertainment’s most popular and critically-acclaimed classics – Alan Wake and Alan Wake’s American Nightmare – are now part of the Quantum Break experience. Every copy of Quantum Break for Xbox One will come with a full-game download for Alan Wake for Xbox 360, plus its two add-on packs, The Signal and The Writer, playable on Xbox One via Backward Compatibility. Fans who pre-order Quantum Break for Xbox One at participating retailers or through the Xbox Store will also receive a full-game download of Alan Wake’s American Nightmare for Xbox 360.

Pre-Order Quantum Break for Xbox One to Receive the Windows 10 Version at No Additional Cost. Xbox wants to empower gamers to play the games they want with the people they want on the devices they want, so Microsoft Studios and Remedy Entertainment will launch Quantum Break on Windows 10 simultaneously with the Xbox One version on April 5, 2016. Anyone who pre-orders the Xbox One digital version of Quantum Break through the Xbox Store, purchases an Xbox One digital token at participating retailers, or pre-orders an Xbox One Special Edition Quantum Break bundle, will receive the Windows 10 version of the game downloadable at the Windows Store via redemption code.

For more details about the Windows 10 version of Quantum Break, including minimum and recommend hardware specs, please visit http://www.quantumbreak.com/windows10

Action-Packed, Live-Action Trailer Shows Jack Joyce’s Desperate Struggle to Survive in a World in Chaos To celebrate the upcoming launch of Quantum Break, Remedy Entertainment and Microsoft Studios also released a new, live-action trailer titled “The Cemetery.” Watch Quantum Break be brought to life as Jack Joyce (Shawn Ashmore) is hunted by agents from Monarch Solutions while he mourns the loss of his brother. But time isn’t the same anymore. It’s broken. And it’s the only weapon Jack has to survive a world in chaos.

Introducing the Xbox One Quantum Break Bundle. Xbox also announced a new Xbox One Special Edition Quantum Break Bundle featuring a 500GB Cirrus White console and matching wireless controller, a full-game download of Quantum Break and a full-game download of Alan Wake accompanied by The Signal and The Writer add-on packs. The bundle will be offered worldwide in most regions where Xbox One is available for $349 USD ERP startingMarch 29, 2016. For more information, check out the full Xbox Wire post here

Quantum Break is a unique experience; one part hard-hitting video game, one part thrilling live action show, featuring a stellar cast, including Shawn Ashmore (“X-Men”) as the hero Jack Joyce, Aidan Gillen (“Game of Thrones”) as his nemesis Paul Serene and Dominic Monaghan (“Lord of the Rings”) as Jack’s genius brother, William. Quantum Break is full of the vivid storytelling, rich characters and dramatic twists Remedy Entertainment are renowned for. Your choices in-game will affect the outcome of this fast-paced fusion between game and show giving the player a completely unique entertainment experience.
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Dark Horse Delivers “The Art OF DOOM”!

 

Dark Horse Books and Bethesda Softworks® announced that The Art of DOOM will be available in stores on June 8, 2016. The Art of DOOM is a massive art tome from id Software®’s highly anticipated first-person shooter DOOM®. The iconic game that defined a genre, DOOM is considered one of the most influential games ever made and returns as a brutally fun and challenging modern-day shooter experience on May 13, 2016.

From the massive UAC facilities on Mars to the depths of Hell, uncover never-before-seen sketches and concept art from DOOM. The book also features an exclusive look at the development of the relentless demons of Hell, devastating, over-the-top weapons, and the iconic DOOM marine. The Art of DOOM also includes commentary from the developers at id Software, the studio that pioneered the first-person-shooter genre and invented multiplayer Deathmatch.

The Art of DOOM is indispensable for fans of incredible art, video games, visceral first-person shooter combat, and pulse-pounding action!

Preorder your copy today at your local comic shop or through these fine retailers: AmazonBarnes and Noble; and IndieBound

Post by Vikki
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Sunday, February 21, 2016

The Walking Dead S6, ep. 10 "The Next World" Recap


Important Moments: Show starts with Michonne helping Rick in a very domestic way. The town is rebuilding. Denise lets Daryl know the list of the things to pick up on her run and she has an awkward moment of asking for soda for Tara as a surprise.....super awkward. Daryl leaves town with Rick for a supply run. Michonne notices someone going into the woods. Spencer is out taking on walkers on his own.  Maggie talks with Enid who apparently decided to stick around but has been MIA and Maggie would like to know where she has been. She gives an uplifting talk of how she is around for her to talk to.......(um let the child be) Rick and Daryl find a great deal of supplies. (as my mother pointed out, why did they both have to ride in the truck they found, why not one in a car and one in the truck) Rick and Daryl stop at a gas station and while trying to get in the soda machine they come face to face with a survivor. They pull their guns on him. It turns out it is Jesus, he is all cryptic and takes off after warning them of the coming walkers. He stole Rick's keys and takes off with the truck. 


Enid and Carl are out in the woods. (Carl is sporting the eye patch) They see Michonne and Spencer. Enid says she doesn't want to be out in the woods anymore and they head back. but run into a walker that Carl refuses to kill. 


Rick and Daryl are running down the street and see the snack machine and take the items in it. They are tracking the truck and see that Jesus is broken down. Jesus almost wins but they beat him down and demand the keys back. They tie him up and plan to leave him but leave the knots loose so he can get out in a reasonable time. He however is on the roof of the tuck and they are not chasing after him. During the fight the truck ends up going into a lake and they lose everything. Jesus gets knocked out. Rick and Daryl discuss what to do about Jesus and decide to at least get him somewhere safe. Spencer and Michonne run into the walker that Carl did not want to kill and it turns out it is Deanna. Spencer has to kill his own mother and bury her. Rick and Daryl bring Jesus back to Alexandria to have his head checked out. 

Michonne talks with Carl and why he would not kill her as he believes it should be someone who is family and he would do it for Michonne. Awe! They hug it out. At the end of the night, Michonne and Rick are sitting on the couch talking about their day but admit they just do not want to talk about it. They hold hands and have a moment which leads to a kiss and sex.....They are woken up by Jesus who has gotten free. 


Fangirl Thoughts: Rick and Daryl are in a Chrysler 300 and my mother and I discuss how that wasn't the best car for the apocalypse but we figure that must be a sponsor of some sort. I did not enjoy the motivation speaking that Michonne is providing Spencer but I did enjoy the beginning with the domestic moment between Michonne and Rick. Great heart cockle warming moment between Carl and Michonne. 

I however see that relationship like Zack and Lisa, something they set us up to want but does not fully happen. I still reserve my right to see if this will actually work out. In the comics Rick is with Andrea but considering that she is dead on the show, I guess we get Michonne and Rick together but lets see how long that will last. 

Also I have always like Jesus and I am happy that he is here now! 


Friday, February 19, 2016

McFARLANE TOYS TEAMS WITH VIDEO GAME GIANT TITANFALL


Comic book icon and toy creator Todd McFarlane announced today that his company, McFarlane Toys has partnered with the video game powerhouse Respawn Entertainment to produce a line of action figures based on the upcoming game, Titanfall 2. The first Titanfall was announced in 2013 and was immediately heralded as a game changer for the first-person-shooter genre of video games. During its reveal at E3 that year, it won over 60 awards including six E3 Critic’s awards: Best in Show, Best Action Game, Best Original Game, Best Console Game, Best PC Game and Best Online Multiplayer. To date, the game has had over 11 million unique players.

McFarlane Toys is well known for delivering top quality figures for the gaming genre including: Halo, Assassin’s Creed and Metal Gear franchises. The upcoming Titanfall figures will be a part of McFarlane’s bold new 2016 Collector Box Program. Each figure will stand seven inches tall, have an average of fifteen points of articulation for incredible poses and play action and feature screen accurate accessories and weapons. The figures will boast the same meticulous level of detail that McFarlane has become known for over the last two decades.

“This is a perfect fit. McFarlane [Toys] was created so I could make cool stuff just like this,” said Todd McFarlane, Owner and CEO of McFarlane Toys. “Without saying too much about the new game… You’re not going to believe where we can take this.”

The McFarlane Toys action figures will be released in conjunction with the highly anticipated launch of Titanfall 2! Fans can visit mcfarlane.com and the McFarlane Toys social media channels for all the latest toy news and visit respawn.com for all the latest upcoming game announcements.

Post by Vikki
Twitter: ProfessorWhite
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Thursday, February 18, 2016

Jonathan Case’s “Dear Creature” to Receive Hardcover From Dark Horse


Award winner Jonathan Case’s beautiful art collected in new edition. Rising from a brine of drive-in pulp and gentle poetry, award winner Jonathan Case’s Dear Creature is the love story you never imagined! Dark Horse will produce a hardcover edition of the rising star’s debut graphic novel, first published by Tor Books in 2011.

Deep beneath the waves, a creature named Grue defies his nature, no longer wanting to eat lusty beachgoers, no matter how their hormones call to him. Grue discovers love after finding Shakespeare’s plays in cola bottles. When his first attempt at companionship in the world above ends . . . poorly, Grue searches for the person who cast the plays into the sea. What he finds is love in the arms of Giulietta―but with his wicked past catching up to him, Grue must decide if becoming a new man means ignoring the monster he was.

Dear Creature (978-1-50670-095-3) is in stores September 28, 2016. Preorder your copy today at your local comic shop or through these fine retailers: AmazonBarnes and Noble; and IndieBound

About Jonathan Case
Jonathan Case spent his formative years on a boat in Mexico, where he had nary to do but hole up in a cabin and draw, read and plot his escape from paradise. He made it out eventually, traveling to the American south to study performing arts at the Savannah College of Art and Design in Georgia. He is a member of Portland's own Periscope Studio, the largest collective of comics artists and writers in the United States. Case's work can also be found in the Eisner Award-winning anthology Comic Book Tattoo, Green River Killer, and The New Deal.

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ROCHE LIMIT RINGS IN A NEW STORY ARC


The critically-acclaimed sci-fi hit returns for its third and final arc. The bestselling team of writer Michael Moreci (HOAX HUNTERS) and artist Kyle Charles (‘68) will launch the final story arc in their ongoing dark sci-fi series ROCHE LIMIT this March.

Previously in ROCHE LIMIT, the Roche Limit colony, and consequently most of Earth itself, crumbled under the onslaught of the insidious Black Sun. Following the fan-and-critic-favorite CLANDESTINY, ROCHE LIMIT: MONADIC #1 kicks off the final chapter in the ROCHE LIMIT trilogy. Earth is in ruins after the Black Sun’s annihilation of the planet. Now, in the last remaining human city, its inhabitants fight for survival while a chosen few realize that their world may not be what it seems.

“After what's still, to me, a surprising amount of success, the Roche Limit story is coming to an end—the end I've always envisioned, and I can't wait to take readers there,” said Moreci. “This volume, Monadic, will continue to push the story deep into cerebral sci-fi and deliver the kind of suspenseful and existential storyRoche Limit is known for. I can't wait for it to start, but I'm dreading seeing it end!"

"To go from being a fan, to drawing these last two volumes, is about as weird and odd as the world of Roche Limit, itself,” said Charles. “Our creative team is sad to see the series draw to a conclusion but we're making sure it's going to kick butt for the fans of Roche, new and old."

ROCHE LIMIT: MONADIC #1  hits stores Wednesday, March 16th.

Post by Vikki
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Wednesday, February 17, 2016

Preregistration Now Open for Miitomo, Nintendo’s First Smart Device App


Create Nintendo Account Before Launch Day and Receive My Nintendo Platinum Points. Nintendo’s first-ever app for smart devices, Miitomo,launches next month, but now’s the time to sign up to receive a notification when the app is available for download. Now through launch day, anyone can preregister for Miitomo by signing up for the new Nintendo Account service at http://www.Miitomo.com and be among the first to be notified about the availability of Miitomo when it launches in March. Those who create their Nintendo Account before the launch of Miitomo will also receive Platinum Points for the new My Nintendo rewards program, which will launch simultaneously with Miitomo.

“Miitomo makes it easy for people to express themselves and interact with their friends in new and fun ways,” said Scott Moffitt, Nintendo of America’s Executive Vice President of Sales & Marketing. “Preregistering now is the best way to be among the first to get in on the fun whenMiitomo launches next month.”

Miitomo is a free-to-start social experience that lets you spark conversations with your friends in a whole new way and uses Nintendo’s Mii characters, which first debuted with the launch ofWii Sports in 2006. More than 200 million Mii characters currently exist across Nintendo systems worldwide. To get started, users can quickly create a Mii character, customizing its facial features, eyes, hair, as well as voice and personality. Users can also use the camera of their smartphone or tablet to snap a photo that will be translated into Mii form, or they can simply import their Mii from the Wii U or Nintendo 3DS systems using a QR Code.

Once their Mii is ready to act as their social go-between, users can add friends in person, or through their existing Facebook or Twitter accounts. Once that step is complete, then it’s time to answer some questions. Miitomo creates conversations and turns discussions into a form of play by prompting users to answer all kinds of questions. Did you know that your best friend’s favorite food is pizza? Maybe, but did you know her favorite music genre is secretly polka? And that she believes in aliens? The answers get shared among friends, sparking interesting conversations – part of the fun is discovering surprise facts about your friends that you never knew before. When users hear how their friends responded to questions, they can give it a “heart” or comment through text or with a picture.

Mii characters will travel around and visit others that users have added as friends in the app, so it’s important to look good. As users experience Miitomo, they’ll earn Miitomo coins, which can be redeemed in the in-app shop to get all kinds of cool outfits. Users also have the option to get more Miitomo coins via in-app purchase. Users can set their own style with shorts, pants, socks, shirts, shoes, accessories and hats. If users want to go further in expressing themselves, they can dress up in a variety of outlandish costumes, such as a bear costume, pirate costume or hot dog costume.

Users can also express themselves with the Miifoto feature, which lets them put their Mii characters in fun poses with cool stamps, or by combining their Mii image with photos they have taken themselves. These creations can then easily be posted to social media services like Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.

Launching alongside Miitomo in March, My Nintendo aims to become much more than a traditional rewards program. It is a more comprehensive service that rewards users for interacting with Nintendo products and services in a variety of ways. Miitomo users with a Nintendo Account will be able to take advantage of My Nintendo to enhance their experience.

For more information about Nintendo Account and Miitomo, visit http://www.Miitomo.com.

Post by Vikki
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McFARLANE TOYS TO RELEASE CONSTRUCTION SETS BASED ON SMASH-HIT HORROR SERIES FIVE NIGHTS AT FREDDY'S


Comic book icon and toy creator Todd McFarlane announced today that McFarlane Toys has teamed with video game maker Scott Cawthon to produce a line of highly collectible construction sets based on his runaway success, Five Night’s at Freddy’s. The series has become a verified cultural phenomenon over the last two years allowing Cawthorn to release three sequels. It’s been reported that there are over 2000 daily installs of the mobile game. In part, a large part of the game’s success was due to influential YouTube stars recording their terrified reactions while playing the game. With all four Five Nights at Freddy’s games in the series firmly nestled into the top 100 paid app lists on mobile devices, the franchise has thus proven its longevity and consumer appeal. 

The first wave of McFarlane’s upcoming Five Nights at Freddy’s construction sets will depict intricately detailed buildable scenes at various price points. One of the first Construction Sets from McFarlane Toys will allow fans to build the iconic “Freddy Fazbear’s Pizza” restaurant featured in the first game. The game’s main characters, Freddy, Bonnie, Chica and Foxy will all appear as buildable and collectible mini-figures that straddle the line between adorable and absolutely horrifying.

“We’ve struck the perfect balance,” said Todd McFarlane, Owner and CEO of McFarlane Toys. “The mini figures for the Five Nights [at Freddy’s] sets are equal parts cute and creepy. The Five Nights at Freddy’s construction sets will be available at major retail locations beginning Summer 2016. Fans of both McFarlane Toys and Five Nights at Freddy’s can check www.mcfarlane.com and the McFarlane Toys social media channels for updates and news. The McFarlane Toys deal was brokered by Striker Entertainment, the licensing agency for Scottgames.

ABOUT FIVE NIGHTS AT FREDDY’S
Five Nights at Freddy’s puts the player in the shoes of the new night watchmen of Freddy Fazbear’s Pizza. Freddy, Bonnie, Chica and Foxy, the restaurant’s animatronic attractions are a delight to children during operating hours, but when the lights go out, the terror begins. The world of Five Nights at Freddy’s is rich and mysterious, and the fan base is hungry to discover all of its hidden secrets. The series spans four games, with a fifth on the horizon, as well as a recently released prose novel.

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ALOHA, HAWAIIAN DICK TAKES A DARKER TURN


An all-new noir story from B. Clay Moore and Jacob Wyatt. The critically-acclaimed HAWAIIAN DICK noir begins an all-new, five-issue miniseries by fan-favorites B. Clay Moore and Jacob Wyatt in ALOHA, HAWAIIAN DICK #1, which launches from Image Comics this April.

“Jake and I have been working on this book for some time, and I'm excited to see Hawaiian Dick return to the shelves looking better than ever,” said Moore. “With the announcement that NBC is working toward a television show, we hope interest is at an all-time high.”

While Byrd remains in 1954 Hawaii, in ALOHA, HAWAIIAN DICK #1 we meet another Byrd back in the States, and his impending arrival on the scene is destined to change the landscape of HAWAIIAN DICK forever. Moore added: “The tone of Aloha is a little darker than previous series, as events take place that alter the entire perspective of our lead characters. I think new readers will feel comfortable, and long-time readers will be rewarded for their patience.”

ALOHA, HAWAIIAN DICK #1 will hit comic book stores on Wednesday, April 20th.

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Tuesday, February 16, 2016

TIMELESS FINAL FANTASY IX REMASTERED FOR MOBILE DEVICES


FINAL FANTASY® IX, a fan-favorite in the franchise, has been optimized for compatible Apple and Android devices, and is available starting now on App Store® and Google Play™. This remastered tale of love, magic and self-discovery offers new features, including:
  • · High-definition movies and character models
  • · New cloud save feature allows players to back up save data to play across other compatible devices
  • · Auto save function
  • · Seven all-new optional booster features, including high speed mode and no encounter mode, which will allow players to automatically master equipped weapons and gear, as well as maximize character levels, magic stone counts and gil
First released in 2000, FINAL FANTASY IX tells the story of the bandit Zidane Tribal who plans to kidnap the princess of Alexandria, Garnet Til Alexandros the 17th, with the troupe of thieves known as Tantalus. An unlikely series of events set Zidane, Garnet, the shy yet powerful black mage Vivi Ornitier, the loyal knight Adelbert Steiner, and other memorable characters on an epic journey as they learn about themselves, the secrets of the Crystal, and a malevolent force that threatens to destroy their world.

In celebration of its release, the game will be available starting today for a discounted price of $16.99, and will then be priced at $20.99 starting on February 21st. The game can be downloaded from the App Store (https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/final-fantasy-ix/id1041260001?l=ja&ls=1&mt=8) and Google Play (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.square_enix.FFIXww.android_googleplay).

FINAL FANTASY IX will also be available on Steam at a later date; featuring keyboard and mouse compatibility, as well as full Steam trading cards and achievements. More information on this version can be found at: http://store.steampowered.com/app/377840.

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