TheShadowGamer.com | video games, gadgets, malaysian esports

Ragnarok Online 2 turns One, updates with Advent of Valkyrie and Job Master level

noreply@blogger.com (X) — Wed, 08 Jan 2014 15:30:00 +0000

That's right, it's the sleek, new-looking logo of Ragnarok Online 2 recently unveiled by Asiasoft in celebration of their first anniversary. Marking calendars on the 7th of January and turning a year older, its official publisher Asiasoft has promised us new contents and more importantly even more activities all year round.

RO2 players might now be familiar with Advent of Valkyrie, one of RO2's largest content update yet, which will also mark a new milestone in game with the much-awaited launch of the 'Job Master' level, enabling its dedicated fans who are already on level 50 to break limits and reach out further.

Asiasoft has also promised that as levels improve, skills to master the game greatly extends with even more challenging tasks, battle strategies, and also the opportunity to unlock weapons to pair their rank.

We mentioned that Asiasoft has some activities lined up for its fans, you'd be happy to know that to truly embrace the spirit of giving during birthdays, there will be a raffle draw with an Aftershock Gaming Laptop, a Razer Black Widow Mechanical Keyboard and obviously more up for grabs. And there is simply no easier way to drop an entry than logging in anytime between the 7th of January to the 6th of February.

Take a peek at ro2.playpark.net/

Diablo 3: Reaper of Souls set to storm Malaysia on 25th March 2014

noreply@blogger.com (X) — Wed, 25 Dec 2013 13:06:00 +0000

Highly-acclaimed franchise Diablo 3 has been long standing strong, and its similarly-renown creators Blizzard has recently announced a third installment, Reaper of Souls, set to unleash globally on the 25th of March, 2014.

Closer to home, Asiasoft has also informed us that they will once again take the role as SEA's official distribution partner. Folks from the Phillipines, Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia of course, will be able to get your copies first hand, straight from the set.

Diablo 3: Reaper of Souls will welcome a new champion, the Crusader, among the original five heroes. But that's not all.

“With Reaper of Souls, we’re taking Diablo III back to its darker, deadlier roots and also giving players a new way to experience the game” - Mike Morhaime, CEO and cofounder of Blizzard Entertainment.

Besides a new character class and a new chapter in its epic journey, Mohaime pointed out that they will also be opening up the world and introducing a more flexible storyline for players to explore the game however they think its best.

Picking up from the trend of being open-world and what not, Diablo 3: Reaper of Souls will come at a RM125 suggested retail price for the standard edition, and RM250 for the exclusive Collector's Edition, which will include certain collectibles such as a Reaper of Souls mouse pad, and in-game exclusives like a Spectral Hound minion who players can take on as their journey companion, as well as 3 additional character slots to accommodate new heroes.

Of course, as always, these are just some of the features we personally think might be useful. For the full set of what you can get, do check up sea.blizzard.com and don't forget to keep a lookout from Aisasoft as the new year beckons to come.

Yasuo joins League of Legends

noreply@blogger.com (X) — Wed, 18 Dec 2013 16:53:00 +0000

“A wanderer isn’t always lost”

This is the tagline of League of Legends' latest champion, Yasuo. Known also as a top-lane player, Yasuo is a champion that does not depend on mana but instead fights courageously with his attacks and combos he is made famous for.

First off, Steel Tempest is Yasuo’s first skill. There is 2 ways to Steel Tempest. The first click on Steel Tempest, Yasuo damages a enemies in a line. When Steel Tempest is cast 3 times, Yasuo lets out a twister that knocks enemies airborne in a line.

Yasuo’s second skill is Wind Wall. Wind Wall generates a powerful shield that blocks off every enemy projectiles except turret attacks.

His 3rd skill, Sweeping Blade. With Sweeping Blade, Yasuo jumps to and damages the targeted enemy. With a combo of Sweeping Blade and Steel Tempest, Yasuo jumps to the targeted enemy and spins while damaging surrounding enemies. If Sweeping Blade is combo-ed with Steel Tempest’s 3rd cast, Yasuo not only hits his surrounding enemies but also knocks the surrounding enemies airborne.

Lastly, Yasuo’s ultimate, Last Breath. Last Breath does a huge amount of damage to the enemies with condition, the enemy must be airborne. Last Breath can also be activated on multiple enemies if the targeted enemies are all airborne. It’s one of the more damaging skills that can pick up multiple kills if used correctly.

Combos are always impressive to be seen, but simply not easy to execute. But meanwhile, we'll get back to practicing (more like playing, tsk) around with the new guy in town.

First Look: Pokemon X and Y

noreply@blogger.com (X) — Sun, 08 Dec 2013 15:58:00 +0000

Since its release in October, we have finally gotten our hands on a copy of Nintendo’s latest, Pokemon X and Y 3DS. Both copies of the game are both similar in every aspect but the only difference are the Pokemon you can get in their individual versions.

Let’s start off with what’s different from their older generations of Pokemon. Pokemon X & Y offers an amazing graphic improvement compared to the previous Black 2 and White2. Like most 3DS games, Pokemon X and Y are set in a 3D dimensional world to walk around and the camera tilts as you enter different areas.

The third dimention

The in-depth 3D effects of the game during Pokemon Battles are another highlight to look out for as you play the game. You really need to give time to get used to the 3D effect before actually seeing the depth of the screen. Battle sequences are also improved as the movements are much smoother than what they did in Black 2 and White 2.

Being different

Not only that, unlike the previous generations of Pokemon games, Pokemon X and Y allows you to choose your own avatar after the gender selection at the beginning. Rather than sticking to only 1, you are allowed to look different from what your friends choose if they too own the game.

Multiplayers

Due to popular demand, Pokemon X and Y have also successfully made their game into an MMO when the device is running on internet. It has allowed more interaction amongst players in the game. The interaction amongst players with NPC (Non-Playable-Characters) is also improved as the NPC will try conversations that will make you feel like you’re actually conversing with them (unlike previous generations, where the NPC treats you like a dumbo).

A Challenge

Also, a change has been made as your rival this time would be choosing a Pokemon that is to your advantage. Being a fan of water starters, I have chosen Froakie as my starter. In previous generations, your rival would most probably choose a starter of your weakness. However, in this generation, your rival chooses a starter that is to you advantage. (For my case, my rival chose Fennekin...)

Though we’re only 30 minutes into the game and I’ve yet to face a single gym yet but there is definitely a lot more to expect on Pokemon X & Y. This has definitely worth my money.

ps. In celebration of the release of a new generation of Pokemons, a promotion is running to get a free Torchic when you purchase a Pokemon X or Y anytime before January 14th.

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by Marcus Heng

League of Legends Season 4 brings huge changes - especially supports and vision

noreply@blogger.com (X) — Fri, 29 Nov 2013 10:04:00 +0000

It has been 3 years since the beginning of the League of Legends (LoL) by Riot and for the 2014 season, it is about to face one of their biggest changes in LoL history.

As most of you know, League of Legends began without any specific roles in each champion which then evolved to a game where roles matter. With that, Riot decided to pump up the roles in the game and make changes from the gameplays they have been observing.

This season’s change is mostly based on the support and jungle role in the game. League of Legends players would know that in the game, the ones are always lacking behind in order to help their team are usually these two roles.

Let’s start off with the supports. Supports in L.o.L. are usually known as the non-killer, sacrificing and warding role for the team. Wards are of one of the importance for a support in the previous seasons, causing them to roam around and planting wards (Either most of the time being ambushed by gank or away from the fight leaving them lacking of gold and experience).

With that in concern, wards are now made into a team effort as each player is only allowed on planting with a maximum of 3 wards. The burden on the support role players are then decreased as placing wards around the map is now a team effort.

Then move on the Jungle role players. Jungle role players never gets a lane to farm and are always pushed to jungle camps for their buffs and jungle creatures for farm and experience. With that, Riot now has added an extra jungle camp for the Jungle role players to get more farms of gold and experience. The jungle camp consists of a wrath with a kill that gives 60 gold to the jungle role player upon kills.

As mentioned above, Jungle and Support roles gets the least farms of gold and experience. With the new and updated masteries, they now are able to keep up with the team as they play.

• Bandit – Helps grants extra gold to the support players mostly in the bottom lane with the ADC.

• Scavenger – Also, more for the support role players, they tend to gain an extra gold each time their ADC gets a kill on nearby lane minions.

• Inspiration – Increases experiences for jungle and support role players who are always lacking behind in terms of level in the team.

Also, adding up to the challenges in the game, bushes now are trimmed to make hiding, ganking and warding a bit harder for players. Tip of the bushes are trimmed makes camping jungle role players take more time to reach their target and also be seen much more when approaching for the gank. With the bushes trimmed, there will be more bushes to cover to be warded which will really put the team into a warding spree amongst the players to stay alert and on watch all the time.

Lastly, a minor change to the Dragon as difficulty of taking down the Dragon will now be harder as time goes. However, price of slaining the Dragon will also increase as time goes. Slaining the Dragon has never been as rewarding as it is now.

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by Marcus Heng

League of Legends Champion Spotlight: Jinx

noreply@blogger.com (X) — Sun, 20 Oct 2013 12:13:00 +0000

The wait is over! Jinx is finally on the list of champion selection to the battlefield of Summoner’s Rift. A sister of Vi and also categorized as the Loose Cannon who is mad about explosions, Jinx!

Though I was hoping for a new AP (Ability Power) mid player, Jinx is marked as a marksman in the game, also known by most players, an ADC (Attack Damage Carry). Being a support player myself, I’ve never ventured into trying out an ADC role. Mostly will be known as a champion to be playing the bottom lane as the support.

Skills on the other hand are the things to be focused on. Switcha-roo, Jinx’s first skill is an ability to change Jinx’s basic attack either using Pow-Pow, her minigun or Sharkbones, her bazooka as her basic attack. Both have its advantage as Pow-Pow has higher attack speed but with lower damage. Sharkbones on the other hand, has higher damage but at a very much lower attack speed. (However, once fed, Sharkbones can be used to clear minions easily)

Zap is a however weaker ability that slightly damages the target but it slows as well as reveals the target for a while. Not much to harp on as Jinx’s 3rd skill, Flame Choppers are much more like an extra ward when activated in bushes. Similar to Caitlyn’s Yordle’s Snap Trap, Flame Choppers are placed as a trap for any enemy who steps on it. Flame Choppers lights the enemy on fire as well as rooting them in place.

Lastly, Jinx’s ulti, Super Death Rocket. Like Ezreal’s as well as Ashe’s ulti, Jinx’s ulti allows her rocket to travel across the map. The further it travels, the harder the hit. The rocket however, does not affect the minions and will only explodes once it comes in contact with an enemy champion.

Not to forget, Jinx also have a unique but personally, a overpowered passive. Once Jinx assists or kill an enemy champion or turret, Jinx massively gains movement speed which can either help to escape or chase down for a killing combo.

How would you like to play Jinx? Well, that’s for you to find out. AP Jinx or AD Jinx for you? (You frequent League of Legend players will get me!

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by Marcus Heng

[Infographics] All the reasons why you own a smartphone now

noreply@blogger.com (X) — Sun, 20 Oct 2013 11:11:00 +0000

Huge thank you to Coupon Audit (provides Toms promo code) for producing the above infographics! Feel free to pass it along.

Brace yourself, Phantasy Star Online 2 to hit South East Asia early 2014

noreply@blogger.com (X) — Fri, 16 Aug 2013 16:01:00 +0000

Phantasy Star Online 2 (PSO2), one of the biggest online RPG titles in Japan, has recently been unveiled to officially arrive in our South East Asian shores as Asiasoft ties the knot with Sega to collaboratively publish it. PSO2 comes as the highly anticipated sequel to the award winning Phantasy Star Online which spans a history of up to 25 years, and will be made available in 6 SEA countries namely Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Indonesia and the Phillippines.

In Phantasy Online 2, you take up the role as a member of an Oracle interplanetary expedition called "ARCS", into the unknown galactic territories and the infinite universe. This may all seem pretty cliche and what not, but what PSO2 has to particularly offer is its top-level action and a highly-customisable character creation and control system. This provides players with the opportunity to feel unique and distinct, giving them an edge and control over themselves while propelling players into a more dynamic experience.

"Since its first conception in 1987 on SEGA Master System, PHANTASY STAR has been one of the most renowned gaming franchises in the world. In PSO2, SEGA has developed exciting, unique and polished online action RPG experience," says Sherman Tan, Chairman of Asiasoft. "On behalf of Asiasoft, we are proud to carry on the legacy of PHANTASY STAR franchise to the current generation of gamers and to provide the best online service for this exciting title in Southeast Asian countries."

As part of the collaboration between the two giants of the industry, Asiasoft has also proudly promised to prepare and provide localised content that will "appeal to the market in said countries". Though localised content are great, it can sometimes become a little too cheesy, though we have to give it to Asiasoft for still being one of the most consistent and easily-likable content provider.

Phantasy Star Online 2 has been slated for an early 2014 release; meanwhile, do check out some of their latest blockbuster titles as well, especially if you're an avid football maniac.

Taking a look at Plants vs Zombies 2, officially launches on iOS

noreply@blogger.com (X) — Fri, 16 Aug 2013 14:48:00 +0000

Having such a successful launch 4 years ago, Pop Cap decided to continue Plants vs Zombies with a sequel that was supposedly set to be release earlier in July.

After releasing the beta version only in Australia and New Zealand, people worldwide were anticipating the official release of Plants vs Zombies 2. Good news is, as of 15th August, PvZ2 have finally made their worldwide launch and is finally out of beta. Claps for them, maybe?

However, the game is only available for iOS devices for now. The game is free-to-play with in-game purchases. Android users will still have to wait for its release until further notice. There could even be possibility of the game being charged for a certain amount on Android devices.

Similar to their first game, PvZ2 employs a similar format, a strategic game of planting plants defending your lawn from zombies munching on that brain of yours with a limit of 5 lanes, but definitely with some additions here and there to spice things up.

For example, PvZ2 features different types of terrain on your “lawn”. Not only that, PvZ2 also introduces a whole new bunch of plants to be used to defend your lawn. Though, new plants, there has to be new zombies. Zombies with specific abilities are also introduced as you enter different terrains.

Graphics on the other side has not much difference from their first game. Players who have played the first game and also, look at the graphics of PvZ2 closely will then only realize the slight improvements in graphics. Engines used in the game are of better quality than the first game, as the movements in the game are much smoother.

Overall, PvZ2 is definitely a game worth trying if you miss the old good PvZ and would like to experience it with the new surprises. However, if you were hoping for well, superior graphics considering that it is after all the next generation, just a note that you might be disappointed. Also, don't forget that Pop Cap will be unleashing Plant vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare in spring 2014!

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by Marcus Heng

Football Club Manager by Asiasoft officially launches in SEA

noreply@blogger.com (X) — Sat, 20 Jul 2013 03:05:00 +0000

Asiasoft Online, publishers of blockbuster onlines like Maple Story, Chaos Online and Alliance of Valiant Arms (AVA) launched a new Closed Beta Testing title Football Club Manager (FCM) and will be downloadable and playable in 5 countries around the region, namely Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and the Phillipines.

FCM, a free-to-play football management game is developed in Korea by HanbitSoft and T3 Entertainment and will allow players and especially diehard football fans to bring their dream team alive and bring home all the winning titles.

"Football is possibly the most popular sport in most Southeast Asian countries and we believe football management has been one of the most exciting aspects of the game for avid fans," says Sherman Tan, Chairman of Asiasoft Online. "We are looking forward to providing the ultimate football management experience in gaming with FCM to our users in this region!"

FCM will feature more than 5,000 FIFPro licensed professional players from world class leagues around the world, few examples include the obvious England's Premier League, Spain's La Liga and German's Bundesliga.

Football Club Manager's CBT have effectively begin from date of post and will last through the 30th of July 1100 (+8GMT), while its Open Beta is slated to unfold on the 6th of August 2013 in which in-game cash shops and optional experience enhancements would be made purchasable.

Asiasoft have also sneak peaked a few lineup of FCM offline community activities in the coming weeks especially during the FA Community Shield matches, more details will be posted up soon.

Meanwhile, visit them at fcm.playpark.com/EN/microsite or fb.com/PlayFCM

PAX Australia 2013 in photos: Day 1

noreply@blogger.com (X) — Sat, 20 Jul 2013 01:44:00 +0000

More to come!

World of Tanks announced as official title of World Cyber Games 2013

noreply@blogger.com (X) — Fri, 19 Jul 2013 16:28:00 +0000

Come every end of the year, the World Cyber Games dawns on us and while some may start questioning its significance in today's growing world of the eSports industry, it ultimately still signal a united world of gamers from all background and that truly is the essential spirit.

Last year saw the debut of critically-acclaimed World of Tanks in the annual Games, and this year we will again see its continued allegiance as a global official title. “Tank squads have improved on their skills since the last year, and we expect harsh competition at WCG 2013," said Global eSports Director at Wargaming Jonghyuk Baak. "Following the launch of the Wargaming.net League, World of Tanks has come a long way in professional gaming, and we’ll continue to evolve both the competitive and spectator elements of the game, providing viewers with a quality experience, introducing new eSports features, and supporting pro-teams.”

As global as the game has been, preliminary events will be held in North America, Europe and Asia. Winning teams from these online qualifying rounds will then be rewarded with an all-expense paid trip and the glory of representing their nation in the 2013 WCG Grand Finals in Kunshan, China, held all through November 28th till December 1st.

Despicable Me: Minion Rush Update

noreply@blogger.com (X) — Fri, 19 Jul 2013 15:20:00 +0000

It's probably as popular as over-the-top hype Candy Crush now, or maybe just a little bit more, but nevertheless Minion Rush seems to have taken over the market as the sequel to one of the most popular animation by Universal Pictures and also Illumination Production, Despicable Me. Focusing on everyone’s favorites, the Minions.

With the concept of Temple Run and Subway Surfer, Minion Rush have been more popular than the origins of the genre of the game and made players put aside Temple Run and Subway Surfer.

Generally, players used to play as the Minion, Dave running around Gru’s Lab and also the Residential collecting bananas as “coins” while running over your minion friends help you score higher. With the advantage of various power-ups like riding Gru’s rocket, Fluffy the unicorn and also being an XXL Minion to trample over your minion friends.

Having the first update after 2 months of release of the game, Minion Rush has one of their biggest update that includes a great leap of improvements.

First and foremost, having the sequel in the cinemas right now, the new update releases a new map where it is taken from the movie. The new map features the lair of El Macho, the new villain in Despicable Me 2. Not only that, in the lair, you have to privilege of running over evil minions rather their own friends.

Besides that, transitions during power up such as Gru’s Rocket and also the XXL Minion are smoother and one more notable addition is the ability to collect bananas while riding on Gru's Rocket.

All in all, the latest update (as of date of post) for the new Minion Rush is a big improvement and expansion to the game. However, the update is currently only on the iOS while Android players would still have to wait until further notice. Though meanwhile, you could still queue at mcdonalds to get a minion toy, perhaps?

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by Marcus Heng

Na'Vi flips tournament to emerge champions of Alienware Cup

noreply@blogger.com (X) — Fri, 12 Jul 2013 13:37:00 +0000

Nothing is evidently impossible. Na'Vi, after succumbing to a bad start and even finishing last in their group stage, managed to dramatically flip the whole tournament to emerge from the losers bracket to champions of this year's Alienware Cup after a lengthy 5-game final.

Known for their top talents in the game but also most importantly the unprecedented chemistry the team holds together, Na'Vi once again turned heads and proved that it haven't lost its touch despite finishing second in last years's The International 2.

This result is particularly significant as Alienware Cup brought together all 10 out of 17 teams before the highly-anticipated, annual The International 3 (TI3) where the world will once again be held together to witness the top teams around the world in one global stage competing for up to 2.5 Million worth of total prize pool and most importantly the famed glory of championing Dota 2.

Malaysian Dota 2 teams Neolution Orange and Invasion.MUFC finished 5th/6th and 9th/10th bringing home USD3,000 and USD1,000 respectively.

Final placings:

1st: Natus Vincere - USD25,000
2nd: LGD.cn - USD12,000
3rd: Invictus Gaming - USD7,000
4th: DK - USD5,000

Starcraft 2 Malaysia Vengeance Cup Finals set to be held on June 29

noreply@blogger.com (X) — Wed, 26 Jun 2013 17:50:00 +0000

Starcraft 2 is a globally-known eSports title and there is no question of its massive fanbase here in SEA and in particularly Malaysia as well. Local teams are getting stronger and more importantly disciplined to further their level into the international scene, and this weekend will mark an important date for all aspiring professional Starcraft 2 players in Malaysia.

En route to the South East Asian Regional Vengeance Cup officiated by Blizzard themselves, the top teams of the country will be fighting it all out in the Malaysian finals to take the glory of nationally representing us in the upcoming regional tournament, set to be held in Thailand from the 31st of August to the 1st of September.

The Malaysian Vengeance Cup Finals will be held on the 29th of June at Autosurf Cafe, Subang starting from 1pm. As mentioned, the champions will hold the rights of representing Malaysia, along with RM1500 and Razer gears. Though both 2nd and 3rd placings will unfortunately not make the cut, they too will be generously rewarded with Razer gears along with RM1000 and RM500 respectively.

Chaos Online Cash Shop opens, announces first Malaysian Invitational Tournament

noreply@blogger.com (X) — Wed, 26 Jun 2013 08:53:00 +0000

You might have heard of Asiasoft's latest blockbuster title, but don't mistake it for yet another of their MMOs. Instead, it's the new kid off the block when it comes to MOBAs (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena) and yes, we're talking about Chaos Online here. Featuring over 80 heroes at launch, which is actually very impressive itself already, Asiasoft has evidently from their streams of advertising push, already set their eyes to expand Chaos Online in this region.

Asiasoft has recently officially launched the Chaos Online's Cash Shop and will also therefore put Heroes up for permanent purchase, along with the likes of Potions, Skins, and Charms for improved performance. With this announcement, only 30 Heroes will be available for play for free based on a rotation basis, as with other MOBA counterparts League of Legends.

At the same time, Asiasoft has also announced that the first Chaos Online Invitational Tournament will be held from 6 - 7 July with up to RM4,800 worth of prizes up for grabs. This tournament will be held at FTZ Subang Jaya so for all MOBA enthusiasts who wish to get a first look at how the elites get their hands on this new title in town, do check them out or visit chaos.playcybergames.com/main/en/invitation.

Riot to grow League of Legends eSports scene with inspiration from Olympics

noreply@blogger.com (X) — Tue, 25 Jun 2013 09:58:00 +0000

As one of the largest game around the world currently, League of Legends has undeniably garnered and won over a massive fanbase throughout the years since its first debut, and has grown from strength to strength continuously improving and enlarging the set of lineup it offers. Being huge is also being one of the most popular titles in the world of global eSports, and one of the most famous lines in the industry's history is by Brandon Beck, the co-founder of its founding company Riot Games.

“eSports will be an Olympic event in my lifetime”

True enough, Riot Games has taken the bold step to take League of Legends and more essentially pushing the eSports industry forward to move up the ranks and incorporate the industry with elements inspired by the Olympics.

"We looked at the more traditional sports like baseball, football, basketball, soccer", vice president of eSports and special projects at Riot, Dustin Beck pointing out to Edge, "and a big thing that we'd never seen done before is an all-star game"

To proposition eSports to a level of Olympics quality (or so to say), not only should the technical abilities be improved or only the community-engagement level be pulled up, but it should also ultimately front a sense of meaning and fulfilled experience.

"We’ve hired people with experience at the Olympics. Our head of global content is a three-time Emmy Award winner. We’ve also added some other core elements that I think have been missing from eSports," he explains, "we do a really good job of storytelling behind the scenes. We want to know who Dyrus is. We want to know who Dyrus’ dad is."

How the community has always been responding to League of Legends as a globally-known, globally-respected eSports title have been exceptional to say the least, but as Beck pointed out, it really is time for eSports to start showcasing and to start developing the individuals of the sports and up, up beyond their current fame. Their potential is already known by avid fans, gamers alike, but it's also time to bring his story, his choices, and his growth to another level where it becomes mainstream.

And that's what eSports desperately needs, becoming anything but mainstream.

Dota 2 confirmed for full release this summer but not in Asia

noreply@blogger.com (X) — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 05:10:00 +0000

Though officially still in beta, Dota 2 has long established its name as the successor to arguably the first and renown MOBA title Defense of the Ancients. Valve has made Dota 2 as tightly-sealed as possible a few years ago when it first started. Beta keys used to be traded at quite a premium price (you can still buy one now at $30), but in the past 2 years Valve has since genuinely opened it up to anyone and almost everyone with a dozens or so beta keys flying around the globe like nobody's business.

Speaking to GameSpot, Doug Lombardi Marketing VP of Valve has recently confirmed that Dota 2 will be fully released in the wild this summer but more specifically we speculate before the religiously annual The International 3. It is also rumoured that this will come after the launch of both highly-anticipated heroes Abaddon and Legion Commander.

However, Lombardi also clarified that this will first only be opened in North America and Europe leaving Australia and more particularly Asia where some of top teams reign from, in the dark for now. This is actually understandable as we've known that Valve is still bulking up to work on their server infrastructure in order to ensure a truly smooth experience once the doors to its cult opens up to the public. But once again, it really doesn't make a wow difference once it opens up as most of us are probably gaming on it right now. Well unless,Valve do have something in store for us, something they have been known for.

Microsoft confirms Xbox One game prices

noreply@blogger.com (X) — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 05:17:00 +0000

With both the Xbox One and PS4 officially and entirely unveiled (well almost), a new console war has also been started. Many factors come into mind when we compare both next-gen consoles and price in particular holds a huge power in influencing what we as gamers buy and use.

With this in mind, Microsoft in a statement by one of its representatives to Polygon has revealed that they will be selling first-party Xbox One games at $59.99 (RM189), which is a reasonable price as with current-gen game prices.

However, it is also important to note that third-party games may be priced at a slightly higher rate, especially considering that with such a big leap into hardware capabilities, developers will have more work to perfecting and enhance every single bit of graphic details in-game.

Opinion: World of Tanks to launch on Xbox 360, here's what we think

noreply@blogger.com (X) — Mon, 17 Jun 2013 17:04:00 +0000

My eyebrow frowned, my face, tight. My eyes, sharp and searching, my breathing controlled. The announcement of world of tanks for the Xbox 360 console system brought mixed feelings to me. How mixed? Well, let’s just say that I myself don’t understand what’s coming out of my mouth. I’m not saying that I disapprove of it, but I will say, it brought up certain concerns, yet, at the same time, brought excitement.

First of all, let’s start with the good part of this news. Well, as we all should have known by now, world of tanks is a hugely successful online game on the PC. It’s already a tried and tested game that has managed to grow exponentially within a short space of time. So it coming into the Xbox 360 would only help to improve its success.

But, in terms of features...

“The title will feature revamped controls, matchmaking, a new user interface and other features to take advantage of the Xbox 360’s technological capabilities and online features.”

This was the first thing that I noticed as I read through the press release. I am pleased to know that they are making all sorts of effort into making the conversion as efficient as possible, and to hopefully make it perfect the first time around (Hats off to wargaming). This would also make it very interesting and appealing. Never have I thought of playing world of tanks on a 52 inch LCD screen TV with a xbox 360 controller. And never have I imagined inviting my Xbox Live friends to join in on the pure steel carnage (although I don’t own a Xbox 360).

But, what I eagerly look into would be the possibility of playing it split screen with a friend beside you. Just imagine it, you playing split-screen with a friend, then he decides to push you out of cover with his big arsed KV5, and so naturally, you get killed. You would then hear him sneer in laughter and grin at your face, and then suddenly, SLAP! You slapped the grin out of his face. Just the thought of this is irresistible, and is making me froth in my mouth (no, I don’t have rabies). These are moments that are almost priceless, and if they do pull this off, it would be a great milestone of an achievement, thus cementing their future in multiplayer games.

However, what worries me most is that first of all, Wargaming was a PC exclusive. This means that all their game titles was released for the pc, and pc only. And so they are entering a new, hostile environment that is filled with landmines here.

Trying to break into the Xbox console environment will be very difficult. They need to watch their step, and take measured, calculative decisions if they don’t want to fail. I will admit, this is a very bold action, and one that worries me, but if they do pull this off, and hopefully they do, then it will be a huge success.

If they do this right, it will be very big for Wargaming. They have the capabilities, they have the resources and they have the motivation. But the biggest question would be, how far are they willing to go? As they say, the sky has no limits. But for Wargaming, the clouds are blocking out the horizon. Will they succeed and go through the clouds? Or will they falter and get lost in the dark horizon? Only time will tell. And so until then, I shall sit here on my chair, continuing the painful grind for the top tier French medium. And hopefully by then, it would have been released.

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Written by: Kautsar / Malaysian Rep

Metro: Last Light PC Review

noreply@blogger.com (X) — Fri, 14 Jun 2013 16:45:00 +0000

The heavy Russian accent. The unmistakeable comradery and bravado atmosphere. The utter terror of running out of battery for your flashlight, and frantically trying to pump this device that you carry with you to power it back on. Yes, that is anti-climatic, but welcome to Russia.

And with that said, I welcome you to the much awaited, and much anticipated, Metro: Last Light. A game based on the best seller Metro:2034 by Dmitri Glukhovsky, and a direct sequel to Metro:2033. Although, not many people seem to know about this game, if you happen to have a copy sitting around collecting dust on your shelf (no matter which metro, 2033 or this new one), then follow these simple, easy to follow steps:

1. Install it
2. Get a Russian Ushanka (google it if you do not understand)
3. Turn off the lights in your room (if you’re outside, blow the sun up)
4. Play at maximum volume

So, what makes it such an awesome game that I require you to blow the freakin’ sun up? Is it the graphics? Is it the story? Is it the unique gameplay? Well, lets just say, its all of the above.

Top-notch Graphics

Let'start with its graphical capabilities. We all know what metro 2033 was like right? (waits for a show of hands) Well, Metro: Last Light is a leap forwards in terms of graphics. It employs tessellation, which means the tiling of a plane using one or more geometric shapes, thus, a more realistic looking object. But, the most noticeable improvement is in the lighting. My god, I can’t remember how many times I shot at a shadow, thinking it was a target, wasting precious ammo then slowly facepalming myself. Only to turn around then get my face clawed out, again.

And when this happens, you know the lighting was fantastically done, the shadows move according to the light source smoothly, something that some games fail to deliver. And the lighting in itself sets a very eerie atmosphere, you’d see light as a source of hope, but in this game, it slowly becomes something that you fear, and it does make you paranoid.

But besides these, the most important feature is ultimately the level of detail that goes into each and every object in the game. You see a ragged cloth floating in the air? Go up to it (but whatever you do, do not sniff it, it might be a sick trap) and just stare into each and individual holes within that rag. You see a cave? Go into it, and look at the texturing of the rocks and how the water slowly drips down the wall of it. It is beautiful. And dare I say it? I don’t mind living in a post-apocalyptic world like this one. They put so much attention into each and every object in-game, although much of it is due to the tessellation technology they employed it to the maximum.

However, it isn't only all about the new toys and upgrades that they introduced this game, but more essentially how they seamlessly combined all of them setting the mood in a perfect balance. They don’t immediately shove it into your face shouting ‘HEY LOOK AT MY BRILLIANT GRAPHICS’ like some cheap prostitute in the middle of the streets that’s only wearing short skirt and a shirt that shows a cleavage that ends all cleavage. But instead, it slowly unravels itself as you play the game. You will constantly be in awe with what they do with the graphics, you would be amazed at how a ray of light looks as if its descending from the heavens and then gets blocked out by the clouds, you’d be amazed at how the water reflects a source of light, making it shimmer. It is just beautifully executed.
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Logitech Malaysia unveils revised G Series lineup, talks about local gaming scene

noreply@blogger.com (X) — Thu, 13 Jun 2013 14:48:00 +0000

Logitech Malaysia recently organised a gathering with some of the most influential tech/gaming writers in the local industry to talk about what's in and what's next for the local gaming community. (As a newcomer) we were fortunate enough to be invited over to join in the discussion along with a hands-on experience with the company's latest G Series gaming gears.

With its launch and a re-branding in their lineup, it is apparent that the company is now strongly-committed to invest in and to further develop a quality set of PC gaming gears aimed towards both the casual gamers and the more hardcore ones.

Regional Marketing Director for South East Asia Logitech, Kuah Hsiang Nung, demonstrating the effectiveness of choosing the ideal gaming mouse weight.

"Science Wins" will lead the re-branding of these gears with emphasis on how all the nitty-gritty details can essentially affect both gameplay performance and control. I personally do believe and after testing them out feel that Logitech's 'theory' behind their products do improve the experience overall.

While the gaming roundtable offered us an insight into all their G Series gaming gears, it soon became clear that not only is Logitech interested in product features like macro buttons and erm LCD screens, but also all the tech behind it as Kuah of Logitech SEA repeatedly pointed out that Logitech isn't just about making gaming gears, but more of "precision equipments".

With its official unveiling of the G Series in Malaysia, we were also treated to test their gears out with a generous few matches of FPS and MOBAs. One pretty important feature Kuah pointed out was the lineup's 'angle snapping' ability which basically means the equipment's stability and control while moving the mouse and this can be apparent as you stray across a straight line in a perfect motion.

One of my personal favourites the Logitech G700s rechargeable gaming mouse

This I feel is essential in today's gaming equipments as I believe that at the end of the day, one would only go for a piece of gaming gear if it provides the perfect control and therefore the trust and reliability it extends to gamers. To this, Logitech's high-end G700s (retailing at RM299) in particular has proven so far to have mastered that extend of control.

During the session, Kuah also notably expressed the company's interest in exploring the possibilities they can be part of in both the local and regional gaming community which most definitely includes the up-and-coming eSports scene. At the same time, he has also revealed that Logitech is working with certain game titles to develop certain exclusives, though details of that is understandably can not be revealed as of yet.

It's always good to see gaming (gear) companies like Logitech to show a deep interest in the Malaysian gaming industry especially for our eSports scene I talked about, that there really is a massive gap of potential for both industry professionals and even amateurs like our site to explore, contribute, and develop together.

If you are similarly passionate about our local gaming scene or have any ideas/upcoming events, do say hi! at hello@theshadowgamer.com

[E3 2013] Xbox One to only launch in Asia late 2014, Malaysia yet to confirm

noreply@blogger.com (X) — Wed, 12 Jun 2013 05:11:00 +0000

This year's E3 saw the official unveiling of Microsoft's version of next-gen consoles Xbox One. While it has been announced that it will be launching this November in 21 countries at a price of $499 in the US and $599 in Australia, it became apparent that countries in Asia will not be part of the 21 first-launch countries.

While the likes of Japan, Hong Kong and Singapore missing out might be a surprise, let's be honest, the rest of the Asian countries really didn't stand a chance. Nevermind, at the end of the day, we have also been pretty used to waiting, not only consoles but even for some of the more popular mobile gadgets.

However, in a rather disappointing news, Microsoft has revealed that not only will we get the second-in-line treatment, but any countries in Asia, or in particularly highlighted "Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, South Korea and India ", will need to wait till "late 2014" for its localised launch. This, again, is baffling for there has yet to be any word of an Xbox One launch in Japan, one of the most significant gaming market around the world as well.

And for Malaysia, well, we can't really say much as it has always been so even for the past two generations. But to be fair enough, the highlights and selling points of the Xbox One is not only about the games, but all the other online and TV services which ultimately requires a tight infrastructure and licensing issues to settle with localised industry players.

What's your take on this? Frustrated? Confused? Mind****ed? I am. But again, have this influenced your next-gen choice?

Xbox One to launch in 21 counties this November, will Malaysia make the cut? [Updated]

noreply@blogger.com (X) — Mon, 10 Jun 2013 21:41:00 +0000

It's time for the next-generation in video gaming and with Microsoft taking centre stage first in the globally largest video gaming convention E3, it's signature Xbox One has officially been unveiled. As with a whole lineup of massive blockbuster titles and sequels such as Forza Motorsport 5, Metal Gear Solid 5: Phantom Pain, a next-gen Halo and a significant new release Titanfall, Microsoft has also announced the console's availability and pricings.

The Xbox One is set to launch this November in 21 countries, but on which countries in particular have not been detailed, and will be sold at a launch price of $499 in the US, 499 Euros in Europe and $429 in the UK which then suggests a possible price of between RM1600-RM2200 in Malaysia or similarly converted in our neighbouring Asian countries.

Besides the US, UK and countries in Europe, some other countries that comes into mind that will also most likely make the cut for the November launch would be Australia, Singapore and Japan. I would most certainly hope that Microsoft will take into account Malaysia but as with recent trends on other Microsoft products (cue Surface Pro), there might be a little delay.

Nevertheless, if you still cant wait to get your hands on the console that will probably define the entire next 5-7 years of video gaming, Microsoft has opened up a pre-order page in the US and well, i'm pretty sure you can work your way around to get that shipped right here on our shores.

[Updated]

The Malaysian Guide to E3 2013

noreply@blogger.com (X) — Mon, 10 Jun 2013 10:50:00 +0000

(photo credits: gamespot.com)

Gamers unite. The largest and most significant gaming convention in the world is at the time of writing a few hours away from us. Held religiously in Los Angeles, there's always a degree of doubt and uncertainty when for most of us who live about half the world away comes to being part of this global event.

Sure, we would stay up all night long and glue our eyes to freaking press conferences for all the latest, next-gen reveals, but when and where the heck do we watch them online?

Here's the best part, if you're in Malaysia/Singapore (+8GMT) we've decided to help you dissect and compile (embed a few live videos as well!) all the information you need to follow E3 2013 online. For our neighbouring countries, well just do the maths and plus or minus a few hours.

Schedule: June 11

12.30am - Microsoft (Xbox One)
[http://www.xbox.com/en-US/hub]

4.00am - EA (Battlefield 4, Plants vs Zombies 2)
[http://www.ea.com/e3]

6.00am - Ubisoft (Watch Dogs, Assassin's Creed 4)
[http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=29uRvifupqQ]

9.00am - Sony (PS4)
[http://us.playstation.com/ps4/]

10.00pm - Nintendo (Wii U)
[http://e3.nintendo.com/]