I am a Gamer
Not because I don't have a Life . . .

Monday, September 16, 2013

Guild Wars 2: Tequatl Rising

Harder, better, faster, stronger..um...deadlier.

September 17, 2013
It has been gathering power in the depths.
...It is faster, stronger, deadlier.
....It has returned to devour and destroy.
.......It is called Tequatl the Sunless...and it has evolved.
Events
The Dragon Tequatl - Redefined!
Something’s gotten into Tequatl the Sunless. This ancient dragon, scourge of the Splintered Coast, has become more formidable than ever, with an arsenal of new attacks and lethal tricks at its disposal. To stop this rampaging beast, you’ll join forces with old friends and new allies in a desperate battle where failure is a very real option. Tequatl has risen – and it will take an army of players to bring it down!
Developer Livestream (September 20)
Dive deeper into the Tequatl Rising release with ArenaNet devs during the livestream on our Twitch channel on Friday, September 20 at 12PM PDT.
Features
"Looking for Group" Tool (Coming Soon)We’ve added a new system to help players find others to join in on their adventures. Using our new looking for group system, you’ll be able to select the type of content you’d like to do and add in a custom description about the group you’re trying to form. Use the system alone or with friends to easily fill out your party! Read more on the forums.
New Ruins of Power in World vs. World
Big changes are coming to the eternal war in The Mists!  Each borderland map in WvW has been redesigned to include five new Ruins of Power—capture points that armies can battle over in order to earn lethal Bloodlust boosts for everyone on their server!
Bosses Updated
We’ve adjusted all of our bosses to make them more challenging and fun! From the Megadestroyer to Golem Mark II to the Fire Elemental, bosses in Tyria are more dangerous than ever!
New WvW Ability: Flame Ram Mastery
Prepare to knock some gates down and set stuff on fire! Become tougher and more effective in those heated siege situations by earning ranks in the new Flame Ram Mastery ability!
Rewards
Wings of the Sunless
Earn this ominous new animated back item by waging war against Tequatl the Sunless!

More info

Thursday, August 15, 2013

Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn (Beta - Final Phase)

This is it...the last beta (unless the game gets another reboot) starts tomorrow, Friday August 16, 2013 at 2AM [PDT]. This phase will end on Monday, August 19, 2013 at 2AM [PDT].

I believe you need to re-download the game. I noticed when I re-installed with the 'Final Beta / Live' client "Beta" was removed from the Add or Remove Programs entry.

This also would mean a complete uninstall of Phase 3's client and data. No copy-pasting those multi-gig files into the new installation and hoping to avoid re-downloading the entire game.

...See you in Eorzea!

Guild Wars 2: Queen's Speech

Is this going to be long?

August 20, 2013
The celebration of Queen Jennah’s rule continues in Divinity’s Reach! All over Kryta, people are talking about The Queen’s Speech, which is rumored to contain a major surprise. What will the Queen reveal to her people and the world? Find out on August 20!
Events
Developer Livestream (August 20)
Take an inside look at the features in the Queen’s Speech release with ArenaNet devs during the livestream on our Twitch channel on Tuesday, August 20 at 12PM PDT.
The Queen's Speech (Begins August 20)
Don’t miss history in the making as Queen Jennah wraps up her gala Jubilee with a momentous speech to her loyal subjects and visitors. Starting August 20, be sure to visit Divinity’s Reach and hear what the Queen has to say!
Guild Wars 2 Anniversary Bash
On August 31, we’re holding our first-ever Anniversary Bash and Guild Wars 2 Invitational Tournament! The event will be held in the Renaissance Hotel in Seattle, WA over PAX Prime weekend – if you’re in town, come and join the fun! We’ll be streaming the entire event for you to watch from home.

New Rewards
Birthday Gifts
As characters created right at the launch of Guild Wars 2 hit their first birthdays, it’s time to introduce our first Birthday Gift! Characters that are one year old will receive a Mini Queen Jennah, a 24-hour Birthday Booster, and a Scroll of Experience.

New Features
World vs. World XP and Point Adjustment
We’re making it easier to earn World XP points for playing normally in World vs. World by increasing the WXP rate across the board! As an added bonus, we’re adjusting World vs. World Ability Points so that your total points are equal to your current rank. New characters will start off with one ability point, and all existing characters will receive one more!
World vs. World Trebuchet Mastery
Become a master of destruction with the new Trebuchet Mastery ability line! Increase your efficiency with Trebuchets by upping your basic shot damage, increasing your Trebuchets’ hit radius, adding a new supply-draining effect to your basic shot, and learning a new Healing Oasis skill that provides healing to your teammates.
The End of Culling in PvE
On August 20, we’re turning off culling, which will remove the limit on the number of characters you can see on-screen at once. The cities of Tyria will now be even more vibrant and bustling than ever!

More Info

Tuesday, July 30, 2013

Guild Wars 2: Queen's Jubilee

God save the queen (of Tyria)!

August 6, 2013
A celebration of ten years of Queen Jennah’s rule is about to kick off in Divinity’s Reach! The queen has commissioned a new gladiatorial arena for the occasion—the Crown Pavilion—as a shining symbol of her people’s endurance.
Take a hot air balloon ride with dignitaries from across Tyria to the capital of the Krytan nation, and be there for the opening ceremony. Join in the festivities and compete in ceremonial combat in Her Majesty’s honor!
Events
Developer Livestream (August 5)
Enjoy an early look at the Queen’s Jubilee release with ArenaNet devs during the preview livestream on our Twitch channel on Monday, August 5 at 12PM PDT.
Hot Air Balloons (Begins August 6)
Need a lift to Divinity’s Reach? The Queen’s court has sent out hot air balloons to transport celebrants! Find one of these balloons out in the open world, and use it to find the party in short order.
The Opening Ceremony (Begins August 6)
In honor of her Jubilee, Queen Jennah is opening a new gladiatorial arena! Attend the dedication of the Crown Pavilion arena and watch its inaugural contest!
Ignite the Beacons (Begins August 6)
Special Beacons of Kryta, symbols of humanity’s hope, have been set up in Divinity’s Reach. Take a torch from a torchbearer, then race around a course to light all of the Beacons of Kryta!
Enter the Crown Pavilion (Begins August 6)
Test yourself in an entirely new mini-zone featuring mighty representations of humanity’s enemies. By representing various cities of Tyria, you can be named champion of a nation and gain access to unique reward vendors.
Fight in the Queen's Gauntlet (Begins August 6)
In the special Queen’s Gauntlet, you will face increasingly difficult challenges of single-combat against unique bosses. Cheer on your friends or show off your skills to the world. Take a risk with special gambit conditions to earn even more prestigious rewards!

New Rewards
Watchwork Mechanisms
Watchwork tech is the latest and greatest innovation in Tyria. Watchwork parts can be used in new crafting recipes or as currency in the Crown Pavilion to buy items like new rune and sigil recipes, Watchknight Tonics, or the new Sovereign Weapon Set. You might even find the recipe to assemble a Watchwork Portal Device, allowing you to create a personal portal!
Mini Watchknight
Once you complete the Queen’s Jubilee meta achievement, you’ll receive a miniature Watchknight, modeled after the Queen’s new mechanical sentinels, to follow you into battle.

New Features
Account Wallet for Currency
Keep all of your currencies in one easy-to-find location! This Wallet holds dungeon tokens, coins, karma, laurels, Guild Commendations, Fractal Relics, Badges of Honor, gems, and glory and makes them accessible to any character on your account. Upon logging in with each unique character for the first time after the Wallet has gone live, that character will have all of their currencies deposited into the account-wide collection.
PvP Solo Queue
Solo Arena matches allow you to get right into the action of PvP matches in a competitive environment without gathering a full team or finding yourself fighting against a pre-formed group. Solo Arena has its own leaderboard so players can earn rank without affecting their Team Arena standings.
Bonus Rewards for Dungeons
Each day when you finish a unique path for any explorable or story dungeon, you’ll receive a bonus reward for completion—1 to 3 gold for explorable dungeons depending on their length and difficulty, 50 silver for story dungeons. Guaranteed coin rewards that previously dropped from bosses in dungeons have been removed in lieu of these new rewards for dungeon completion; all other drops off of bosses have not been changed. Now you have even more incentive for braving the hazards of the dungeons of Tyria!
Champion Loot Updates
All of the champions in the game will now award a new bonus loot bag upon their death if you qualify for loot rewards on that boss when it is killed. These bags have a chance to contain rare crafting materials, items that award skill points, and more!
Mini-game Rotation System
Both Captain’s Council candidates have promised to introduce a new rotation of exciting competitions each day. The initial rotation includes the well-loved Sanctum Sprint, Keg Brawl, Southsun Survival, and Crab Toss. Speak to the activities NPC in Lion’s Arch to participate in the competition of the day!
Improved Effects Level of Detail System
Effects like fireballs, streaks that trail behind a sword, players’ footsteps, and even the fiery breath of dragons are all part of the beauty of Guild Wars 2. In situations where all of that beauty can start to take away from the visual clarity of the battlefield, this new system will slowly start reducing the detail of each effect in order to increase combat visibility when many effect types are overlapping. When action gets intense in dungeons, PvP, the open world, and WvW, this system will let you see more of the action.
World vs. World Supply Mastery
Become a master of supply with the Supply Master World vs. World ability line. This line includes benefits like increased supply pick-up speed, Courier Speed when you pick up supply, and a chance to get supply back when you use it!
Permanent Finishers
We’re adding support for permanent Finishers! With this release, you’ll be able to sort through your available Finishers and choose the one you’d like to use as a default. Change your mind and change your Finisher! Rank up for rank Finishers, or keep an eye on the Gem Store for a new selection of Finishers. Finishers can be used in both PvP and WvW!

More Info

Friday, July 19, 2013

Guild Wars 2: Cutthroat Politics

At least they aren't an Elephant and an Ass; ones a kitty cat! :D

July 23, 2013
An assassination has created a vacancy on the Captain’s Council of Lion’s Arch. Two candidates —war hero Ellen Kiel and prominent merchant Evon Gnashblade —both want to occupy that empty seat, but they can’t do it without your support!
To prove they have what it takes to sit on the powerful ruling council, Kiel and Gnashblade will compete to secure a lucrative trade agreement with the merchants of the Zephyr Sanctum. Support your favorite candidate as you experience two weeks of new events, activities, features and rewards beginning July 23!
Events
Support Your Candidate (Begins July 23; Ends August 5)
Evon Gnashblade and Ellen Kiel are trying to work out a trade agreement with the Zephyr Sanctum in order to help them secure a spot on the Captain’s Council of Lion’s Arch. Use Support Tokens and coins to help out your candidate of choice!
New Activity - Southsun Survival (Begins July 23)
Scheme, kill, and scavenge your way to the top in this new competitive activity! Armed with only a bow and whatever supplies you can find, you’ll face off against other players in a battle to be the last one standing. Earn karma and coins for each round you play, plus a rare chance at an exclusive Back Item!
New PvP Activity - Aspect Arena (Begins July 23)
Pick one of the Aspects of Sun, Wind, or Lightning, and face off in teams to collect crystals. Each Aspect will grant you different skills with which to maneuver and fight. Earn karma and coins for each round you play, plus a rare chance at an exclusive Back Item!
Candidate Trials Challenge (Begins July 23)
Enter into the Candidate Trials alone or with a group in support of your chosen candidate. You’ll test your battle skills by facing off against waves of Aetherblade pirates – hold out for as long as you can to earn Support Tokens and loot! The challenge is great, but so are the rewards – you may even earn a rare chance at an Aetherized weapon!

Meet The Candidates
Evon Gnashblade
As owner and proprietor of the Black Lion Trading Company, I have the proven leadership skills and business acumen that is sorely needed on the Captain’s Council. With your support, I will secure a trade agreement with the Zephyrites that benefits us all.
If I am elected to the Captain’s Council, I’ll show my gratitude for your support in the following ways:
  • I’ll slash prices on Black Lion Keys for four whole weeks
  • I’ll sponsor important Fractals of the Mist research into the Fall of Abaddon, to be completed by the end of the year
  • I’ll host a rotation of popular activities like Crab Toss and Southsun Survival.
 You can find me in the Zephyr Sanctum, working for the best interest of Lion’s Arch.
Ellen Kiel
I've stood by the people of Lion’s Arch in good times and bad, defending her from all manner of threat. Now I want to ensure the security of our beloved city in a different capacity, as a member of the Captain’s Council. I’ll need your support to establish a fair trade treaty between Zephyr Sanctum and Lion’s Arch.
If I’m fortunate enough to earn a position on the Captain’s Council, here’s what you can expect from Ellen Kiel:
  • I’ll reduce waypoint travel prices for four weeks’ time
  • I’ll support important Fractals of the Mists research into the Thaumanova Reactor explosion by the end of the year
  • I’ll introduce a rotating schedule of activities such as Crab Toss and Southsun Survival.
Come find me in Zephyr Sanctum; let’s work together for a brighter future!

New Rewards
Exclusive New Back Items
Two new exclusive back items, the Desert Rose and Zephyr Rucksack, are available as rare drops from the Southsun Survival and Aspect Arena activities respectively.
Mini Ellen Kiel and Mini Evon Gnashblade
Complete the Gnashblade Supporter and Kiel Supporter meta achievements to unlock a miniature Evon Gnashblade and Ellen Kiel of your very own!

New Features
New World vs. World Ability: Catapult Mastery
This month’s World vs. World ability line addition is Catapult Mastery! Invest points in Catapult Mastery to increase damage done to walls, extra damage against other siege, increase your attack radius, and unlock a new, powerful skill.

More Info

Tuesday, July 9, 2013

Guild Wars 2: Bazaar of the Four Winds

The Flea Market arrives Tyria!

July 9, 2013
The Bazaar of the Four Winds is gathering— merchants are converging from all corners of Tyria to sell their wares. But this time it’s not just shady characters and risky trades; this year, the mystical, flying Zephyr Sanctum has landed, bringing their magical crystals and amazing movement skills to savvy traders and daring adventurers alike! What a joy it will be to experience the thrill of the trade—and the race. Let’s go!
Events
Developer Livestream (July 8)
Take an inside look at the Bazaar of the Four Winds release with ArenaNet devs during the preview livestream on our Twitch channel on Monday, July 8 at 12PM PDT.
New Mini-game: Belcher's Bluff (Begins July 9)
Put your Omnomberry Juice drinking skills to the test in this new, permanent mini-game. Seek out challengers around the world to learn their signature skills, then challenge your friends in PvP mode!
Sanctum Spring (Begins July 9)
Take part in Sanctum Sprint , a competitive race that will send you leaping over barriers and flying through the air! You’ll need to use cunning, agility, and some special skills to navigate this dizzying obstacle course.
Lessons from the Sky (Begins July 9)
Explore the Labyrinthine Cliffs in this scavenger hunt which will lead you in search of Sky Crystals. Show your mastery of Wind, Sun, and Lightning as you find your way to hard-to-reach places.

New Rewards
Aspect Back Items
Compete in the Sanctum Sprint for a chance at one of these three special back items, representing the Aspects of Wind , Sun, and Lightning.
Personal Quartz Node
Once you complete the meta achievement for this release, your home instance will have a daily resource node, allowing you to harvest Quartz at your leisure . Quartz is a new material being introduced in this release and will be used to craft new recipes!
Zephyr Sanctum Model
Upon completing the Lessons from the Sky achievement, you’ll be awarded a miniature model of the Zephyr Sanctum which will allow you to view the ship at any time, even after it’s flown away.

New Items
Kite Fortunes
Kite Fortunes contain wise sayings and random boosts. They always drop Fortune Scraps and have the chance for a rare Golden Fortune. Golden Fortunes can be traded for a permanent prize like Zephyrite helms and Aspect back pieces. Fortune Scraps can also be saved and traded for those rewards.
Zephyrite Helms
The traders of the Zephyr Sanctum are proud to present three new crystal helms, one each for the Aspects of Wind, Sun, and Lightning. Wear them with pride! Zephyrite Helms will be available in trade for Golden Fortunes and multiple Fortune Scraps.
Bazaar Quaggan Mini Pack
Kookoochoo the Incredulous, Poowulpi the Persnicketous, and Peggellegg the “Pirate” are three daring little quaggans with a thirst for adventure! This exclusive 3-pack will allow you to bring them along for all of your travels.

New Features
New PvP Map: Skyhammer
Jump into the new Skyhammer map, a high-tech Asura lab packed with jump pads, shattering floor panels, and one gigantic mega cannon. Battle for control of three capture points, turn the mega cannon’s power against your foes, and be sure to watch where you step!
Learn More
Account Achievement Reward System
Put your account achievement points to good use! From now on, you’ll be able to unlock rewards like exclusive new armor skins, weapon skins, and permanent account bonuses as you earn achievement points on your account. You’ll also earn laurels, gems, gold, powerful items, and PvP and WvW rewards as your achievement score grows. These rewards will be retroactively awarded for any tiers of account achievement rewards you’ve already earned on your account.
New and Improved Achievement Panel UI
Learning about achievements has never been easier! Our revamped UI will make it simple for you to keep track of specific achievements and rewards. You can also look at individual achievements in detail to find point breakdowns, potential rewards, and helpful tips.

More Info

Monday, June 24, 2013

Guild Wars 2: Sky Pirates of Tyria

So, you thought Dragon Bash was just another funnzy event? Well, dastardly foes used the event to execute their devious plot!

June 25, 2013
Chaos has come to Lion’s Arch and the culprits responsible for the mayhem have holed up in their hideout! Inspector Ellen Kiel spearheaded the investigation into the murder, and she’s now gathering teams of deputies to capture the perpetrator. Better sharpen your weapons and skills—this criminal promises to be a slippery eel!
Events
New Story Dungeon: Aetherblade Retreat (June 25 - July 9)
Find the hidden entrance to the Aetherblade base and take the fight to the pirates! It’ll take skill, courage, and no small measure of agility to battle your way to the Aetherblade Captain and First Mate.
Developer Livestream (June 24 @ 12PM PDT)
Take an inside look at the Sky Pirates of Tyria release with ArenaNet devs during the preview livestream on our Twitch channel on Monday, June 24 at 12PM PDT.
New Guild Wars Novel: Sea of Sorrows (Available June 25)
We’re proud to announce Sea of Sorrows, the third original Guild Wars novel by Ree Soesbee! Sea of Sorrows follows the thrilling adventures of young Cobiah Marriner, founder of the reborn city of Lion’s Arch.

>Buy the Book<
Sea of Sorrows Scavenger Hunt (Begins June 25)
In this new permanent content, retrace the steps of Cobiah Marriner. Twelve plaques have been set up to honor the history of the city and its founder. You can find clues to the plaques’ locations in Sea of Sorrows. Complete the scavenger hunt to earn five skill points. 
Aetherblade "Not So Secret" Jumping Puzzle (Begins July 1)
Introducing a new, permanent jumping puzzle! An Aetherblade airship is hidden inside a holographic mountain – find your way in, fight with the pirates inside, and prove your prowess using a pair of hard-to-find diving goggles.
Rewards
Track Down Aetherblade Caches (June 25 - July 9)
The Aetherblade pirates have hidden caches of plunder around the world in hard-to-reach locations. Scout them out to take a share of treasure and earn special achievements.
Mini First Mate Horrik
Commemorate your struggle against the Sky Pirates of Tyria with this fierce, cannon-wielding miniature companion. Finish the Against the Aetherblades achievement to win a little First Mate Horrik for your very own.
Monocle
Players who face down the deadly Aetherblade Captain will have a chance at a new, stylish Monocle. This dandy piece of Headgear is combat-ready, tradeable, and full of sophistication!
Aetherized Rewards
Your journeys through the Aetherblade Retreat will earn you a chance for items like rare salvageable materials or a new infinite tonic recipe in addition to guaranteed rare item rewards. Enduring the trials of the Not So Secret jumping puzzle will win you a set of exotic shoulderpads.
New Items in the Gem Store
Last Chance to get Dragon Bash Items
The Dragon Bash items won’t be in the Gem Store forever – you only have until July 8 to pick up a Fireworks Launcher or some Rich Dragon Coffers! Rich Dragon Coffers hold tasty candy and a chance at fireworks or rare drops like Dragon’s Jade Weapon skins or a mini Holographic Risen Knight. The Dragon Bash Mini Pack is also leaving the Gem Store soon; it won’t be available after July 15, so be sure to pick up your holographic companions before then!
New Features
Skill and Trait Balance Update
We’re introducing our largest balance patch ever in this build, which includes significant updates to traits and skills to introduce more viable build diversity. Every single profession trait line is seeing changes and we've also made updates to some less popular skills to improve their effectiveness.
Learn More
Custom Arenas and Spectator Mode are out of Beta
Custom PvP arenas allow players to host private matches and customize their map settings. This feature is leaving beta, which means that Custom Arena Starter Kits will be available for anyone to purchase in the Gem Store. Spectator Mode is also officially out of beta – together, these two features allow for practice, competitive play, and tournaments!
Mortar Mastery
Players can increase their mortar effectiveness by training in Mortar Mastery. Improvements in this line include increasing mortar blast radius, beefing up on damage, reducing skill recharge, and even adding a new skill, Mortar Barrage!
More Info
 
 

Tuesday, May 28, 2013

Guild Wars 2: The Last Stand at Southsun

Who ever said islands were a nice place clearly never went here...

May 28, 2013
The culprit behind the recent wildlife attacks on Southsun Cove has been revealed: the Sylvari renegade Canach.
In a fatally misguided attempt to free the new settlers from exploitation by The Consortium, Canach has turned the creatures of the island into tools of destruction. Can you and Inspector Kiel of the Lionguard stop Canach’s plot before the shores of Southsun Cove run red with blood?
New Features
Hunt Down Canach
Join Kiel for a mission to capture the deadly, desperate Canach! In this all-new story dungeon, you’ll enter Canach’s Lair on a subterranean solo mission under the island. If you defeat the elusive sylvari you’ll unlock a challenging all-new group adventure!
A Monstrous Threat
Even if you manage to capture Canach, can you also foil his master plan? Defend the new settlers on Southsun Cove from a massive final onslaught of rampaging wildlife or die trying! And beginning June 5, a hulking monstrosity joins the fray—without your help, it will destroy the settlers and everything they've built!
New Improved World XP
We’re improving the way we award World XP to World vs. World players! Now you’ll gain rewards for a much wider range of activities in the Mists – everything from destroying siege weapons, repairing walls, escort missions, and more.
Greater Variety and More Rewards in WvW
We’re adding new WvW daily achievements to the list you can choose from so you can earn World XP for playing the way you want. And every time you gain a new World rank, you’ll earn a bonus chest packed with useful WvW loot!
Dangerous New WvW Abilities
Become even deadlier in The Mists with new World vs. World abilities like Burning Oil Mastery or new ranks in Defense Against Guards!
Introducing Infusions and Ascended Gear in WvW
Now you can purchase Ascended rings and amulets and upgrade your WvW abilities with six new Infusions that give your character special WvW bonuses! Just speak to the new Laurel and Badge Merchants on each map.
WvW Matchup Changes!
World vs. World matches are about to get an injection of variety! With these changes you can look forward to facing new opponents in new matchups and testing your world’s skill against more foes!
UPDATE: Custom PvP Arenas and Spectator Mode (Beta)
We've had some great feedback from beta players that have enabled us to fix bugs and further improve these new features. We’re adding Custom Arena Time Tokens to the Gem Store so beta players can extend the time of their favorite custom arenas!
New Southsun Cove Rewards
Find your very own limited-edition Mini Reef Rider – a loyal floating friend available only until June 11! Dedicated defenders of the Southsun settlers can also earn the Settler’s Amulet, Keepsake, and Ring! Earn these rare new rewards from creatures and chests in Southsun Cove, and by playing Crab Toss!
Exclusive Southsun Items: Fervid Censer and Sclerite Karka Shell
The risks are great on Southsun Cove, but so are the rewards! Players who help keep the peace during the Secret of Southsun can earn two exclusive new back items, the floral Fervid Censer and the writhing Sclerite Karka Shell! Learn how you can earn these back items at the Fervid Censer and Sclerite Karka Shell pages on the Official Guild Wars 2 Wiki.
More Info

Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Guild Wars 2: The Secret of Southsun

Ah...sun, the beach, the ocean, the Ladies....what could possible go wrong.

May 14, 2013
Trouble is brewing on the tropical island of Southsun Cove.
The merchants and traders of The Consortium have given shelter to refugees driven from their lands by the Molten Alliance, but many of these new arrivals feel more like prisoners than guests. With the new settlers on the verge of rioting and someone—or something—driving the local wildlife to new heights of aggression, it’s up to you and Lionguard Inspector Kiel to quell the violence and discover the Secret of Southsun!
New Features
Keep the Peace on Southsun Cove
Inspector Ellen Kiel of the Lionguard has been tasked with restoring order to the island, but she can’t do it alone. In this all-new content, you’ll partner with Kiel to protect the settlements on Southsun Cove and uncover the source of the mysterious animal attacks!
Blow Off Steam with New Crab Toss Game!
To keep their minds off their troubles, the settlers on Southsun Cove have created a rugged new beach game: Crab Toss! In this instanced mini-game, players try to score points by capturing a hermit crab and withstanding Karka attacks. It’s fun in the sun, Southsun-style!
Introducing Traps in World vs. World
Traps are fiendish items that can be purchased from the new Traps and Tricks Outfitters on each WvW map. We’re starting with anti-stealth fields and traps that remove supply from enemy players, but in the months ahead we’ll introduce even more ways to spread mayhem in the Mists!
More Info

I don't know...I think I see a pattern. May-hem.

Monday, April 29, 2013

Guild Wars 2: Flame & Frost (Retribution)

All good things...

Chapter 4...

April 30, 2013
In secret foundries deep beneath the Shiverpeaks, the Molten Alliance forges deadly new weaponry that combine the fiery power of the Flame Legion with the iron might of the dredge. There, Alliance weapon smiths test their creations on innocent captives, perfecting their cruel technology until it is ready to unleash on all of Tyria.
In the last chapter of the Flame and Frost series, you’ll strike at the heart of the Molten Alliance with your comrades Rox the Charr and the Norn Braham. Take the battle into the enemy’s weapons facilities and defeat a final hybrid menace unlike any Tyria has ever seen!
New Features
New Story Dungeon - Molten Weapon Facilities!
Prepare for an underground raid against the Molten Alliance in our brand-new Living Story dungeon! Fight alongside Rox and Braham on this final mission against the combined forces of the dredge and Flame Legion, which culminates in a boss battle that will go down in Guild Wars 2 history!
Limited BETA - Custom PvP Arenas & Spectator Mode
Custom PvP arenas allow players to host private matches, and customize their map settings! Spectator Mode allows invited players to observe a live PvP match from within the game. On April 30, we’re rolling out both of these in limited beta. Initially, creating a custom arena will be limited to a small pool of players, but playing in custom arenas and access to spectator mode will be available to all players. (Learn More)
New World vs. World Abilities
Give your character an edge in the Mists with expanded WvW abilities. Become a battlefield menace with the brand new Arrow Cart Mastery ability! Make NPCs fear your name with five formidable new levels in the Guard Killer ability line!
New Guild Missions
Gather your guild mates for brand new challenges! Transform into Quaggan for a cool new guild rush through the icy waters of Frostgorge Sound and track down 30 new guild trek locations scattered all over Tyria!
Guild Siege Weapons and Back Banners
Deliver death on the battlefield in the name of your guild!
Now you can purchase powerful WvW guild siege weapons or fly their colors proudly with new back banners.
More Info

Whelp. It's been a fun few months. But now that this 'Book' is over. What will the next one hold. And who will be our champions.

Sunday, March 24, 2013

Guild Wars 2: Flame & Frost (The Razing)

Just when you thought it was save to wonder the countryside in search of herbs...

Chapter 3...

March 26, 2013
A hybrid army erupts through fiery portals in the Shiverpeaks. A Molten Alliance between the dredge and the Charr Flame Legion has created a force powerful enough to massacre any who stand in their way. One settlement, one homestead at a time, they’re wiping out all resistance. The razing has begun.
New Features
Braham's Struggle
 As the cities struggle to handle the influx of refugees, a valiant young Norn named Braham seeks help for the besieged people of his homestead. Join Braham on his journey to find aid for those Norn who stayed behind in the foothills of the Shiverpeaks—a journey that will bring you into conflict with the deadly Molten Alliance!
 Rox's Mission
During the chaos, Rox—a Charr ranger lacking a warband—is sent on a desperate mercy mission by Rytlock Brimstone himself. Team up with this young Charr gladium as she strives to prove her worth on a dangerous errand in the midst of a war zone!
We've Been Infiltrated!
The Dredge have constructed a series of surveillance posts throughout the Diessa Plateau and Wayfarer Foothills to keep tabs on their prospective new territory. Confound the Molten Alliance’s war efforts by destroying these spy posts wherever you find them!
New WvW Progressions and Abilities
There’s never been a better time to play World vs. World! We’re adding a brand-new WvW progression system—which includes new World XP and new WvW Ranks. You can use your WvW Ranks to purchase new titles and abilities that are exclusive to WvW. We’re also rolling out new WvW achievements to help you track and plan your progress; you can keep track of them in your Achievement panel. (Learn More)
Improved World vs. World Performance
We've made vast improvements in World vs. World with the elimination of culling, a process that used to make some enemy players invisible in large groups. Beginning March 26, you’ll be able to see way more players on-screen in WvW, even in the largest pitched battles!
 New Guild Bounty Hunt Targets
More fugitives are on the run, and the Tyrian authorities need your guild to bring them in! Prepare yourself for a challenge, because these three new bounty targets are more elusive and menacing than ever. Bounty Hunt Training missions are perfect for a new or small guild looking to work their way up to bigger challenges. (Learn More)
Introducing Leaderboards
We’re excited to announce that we’ll activate Guild Wars 2 leaderboards with the release of Flame and Frost: The Razing on March 26. However, the leaderboards website won’t be visible to players until we’re sure it has stable information, which could take up to a week after the release goes live on March 26. Initially, the leaderboards will feature WvW rankings, PvP player rankings, and total achievement points.
More Info

All in all this patch is looking to be a boon for those fellow WvWers who are sick and tired of enemy players abusing the Culling. The new items added to WvW should also make it more worthwhile for players to jump into the fray and fight for their server.

Friday, February 15, 2013

Guild Wars 2: Flame & Frost (The Gathering Storm)

Last time we left off we were helping refugees. And while our help has been instrumental in saving lives...things are about to get worse.

The story unfolds...

February 26, 2013
The situation worsens for the citizens of Wayfarer Foothills and Diessa Plateau. Volunteers have eased the burden, but more refugees hobble down from the Shiverpeaks. The storm there gains momentum, but the forces of good are beginning to rally. They’re sending their heroes to defend the land and its peoples. Someone must hold back the gathering storm.
In Flame and Frost: The Gathering Storm, the second installment in this four-part series, the stakes are raised, and battles rage, in the foothills of the Shiverpeaks.
New Features 
Brand new PvP Map - Spirit Watch

This peaceful green vale, nestled between cliffside shrines to the Norn Spirits of the Wild is about to echo with the sounds of combat. In Spirit Watch, players will score bonus points by capturing the Orb of Ascension and running it to any of the three shrines on this newest PvP map.
 Team up for Guild Mission
Join your fellow guild members to take on an entirely new category of content! These missions, designed for coordinated group play, include everything from bounties to group puzzles to cross-country challenges. You’ll need to work together to complete the missions and earn new Guild Merits, which can unlock cool upgrades and rewards. It pays to be in a guild!
 Two Team Rated Play in PvP
It’s time to prove your skill! In this new type of competitive PvP, two teams of equal average rating are pitted against each other in a quick, intense match. The ratings for every member of each team is then adjusted after the match.
 Choose Your Own Daily Achievement
With our new selectable achievement system, you’ll have a chance to set new daily challenges for yourself and to choose what kind of content you want to be rewarded for playing.
And finally, best for last... 

Preview Items in the Trading Post
Try before you buy! You’ll have the ability to preview items in the Trading Post before you buy them. Simply right-click an item icon and select “Preview” to see the item equipped on your character. Check out how a weapon looks by itself, how it looks when sheathed, and how it looks when wielded by your character.
More info

Tuesday, February 5, 2013

Guild Wars 2: Flame & Frost (Prelude)

So apparently some new things have been happening in the land of Tyria....like literally the sky is falling.

UPDATE:
This new event, like previous, comes with it's own achievement: Living Story
Currently, one needs to assist refugees in the Diessa Plateau (Charr) and Wayfarer Foothills (Norn).
More info 
The story so far...

January 28, 2013
The sky falls and the ground shakes in the lands of the north. Charr and norn refugees crawl from the wreckage of their homes in the Wayfarer Foothills and Diessa Plateau, struggling to find shelter in the south. The call goes out for volunteers to assist the victims in this time of need, when earth and sky seem to have become the enemy…
 On to the actual game changes.

Temple of the Silent Storm Week
From January 28—February 4 the regular eight-team/three-round paid tournaments will be replaced by two-team/single-round paid tournaments in the Temple of the Silent Storm map. After the week is over, we’ll add Temple of the Silent Storm to the regular rotation of both free and paid tournaments.
Another arena... Why is it Massively Multi-player Online games want to sequester its players into small boxes? With so much control over what is done inside said box that the fighting ends up being a battle of Rock 'em Sock 'em Robots.

Improved Achievement System
We’re adding a new rotation of daily achievements to add variety and encourage you to explore the open world. You’ll get different achievements every day of the week and a new achievement tracker in the UI to make it easier to track your progress.
This seemed like a nice addition. Until you realize the new daily achievement requires you to Dodge. Now this is just plain silly.

New Achievement Laurels
You’ll earn these brand-new laurels as a reward for daily and monthly achievements!
Redeem these laurels for rewards like the new Ascended gear and Infusions!
What's this? Achievement points that actually do something?! But what can I purchase...

New Utility Infusions and Ascended Amulets

We’re adding a wide range of new gear that can be purchased with the new laurels.
With 5 new Utility Infusions and 30 Ascended Amulets to choose from, there’s something for every style of player.
More character customization? Yes, PLEASE!


Guesting
With the new guesting system, you can play with friends on other worlds in the same region (North America, Europe) without changing your homeworld. Guesting is free, but going forward there will be a gem fee for transferring home worlds, so make sure you’re on the home world you want to permanently play on before 28 January!
FINALLY! No longer shall we need to plead with our real life / other game friends to switch to our homeworld just to quest. *Does not apply to PVP

...and finally

New Store Items

It’s a new year, which means all-new items and a redesigned favorite in the Gem Store!
From Baby Quaggan Backpacks to Riding Brooms to the revamped Box o’ Fun, you’ll find it all in the Gem Store!
Can't wait to see how many Quaggan-packs are sold.

More info


Dead Space 3: It begins

Who's ready to stomp some more monsters. All while going insane from girl friend turned alien-ish artifact?

Saturday, January 19, 2013

Ingress: Shape the Future, Today

What if a game was more than 'just a game'.
             What if it changed your perception of the world around you.
What if you could directly affect the outcome.


...Imagine an Alternate Reality Game (ARG) powered by the Super Giant, Google.

Now imagine that within this reality you are going up against 40 million others. To ally with or fight against, that is your choice.



Ingress...


Welcome to the world you didn't even know existed.
             Welcome to the fight.

Tuesday, January 8, 2013

Final Fantasy XIV - A Realm Reborn: New CGI / In-game Trailer

A new trailer that's actually an expanded version of this one:


Has been released:


I'm excited. You excited? Ya, thought so!

Don't forget to throw your Beta Application in with the rest of us.

-Beta Application Links-
North America
Europe
Japan

Monday, January 7, 2013

TES V - Skyrim: My Mods

The following is a list of mods I use for Skyrim (PC).
*Note: Some require the Skyrim Script Extender (SKSE) [ http://skse.silverlock.org ]
-These are found at Skyrim Nexus [ http://skyrim.nexusmods.com ]



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