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‘Borderlands 2’ Ultimate Vault Hunter DLC Out Now

Gaming
News

Chris Hare

-

Apr 3, 2013

‘Borderlands 2’ Ultimate Vault Hunter DLC Out Now

Borderlands 2‘s Ultimate Vault Hunter Upgrade Pack DLC is now available to download.

The DLC adds a new ultimate vault hunter mode setting for a more challenging campaign, which can be played after completing the game’s true vault hunter mode.

Playing in ultimate vault hunter mode will also raise the level cap from 50 to 61, letting users continue to advance their character during a third playthrough of the campaign.

Also added through the DLC pack is a new pearlescent grade for weapons and new items in the game’s black market.

The Ultimate Vault Hunter Upgrade Pack is included for users who purchased the Borderlands 2 season pass, and is also available as a standalone download for $4.99 or 400 Microsoft Points.

2K Games also recently announced that the sixth playable character Krieg will be available with the ‘Psycho Pack’ DLC in May.

Borderlands 2 is available for PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 and PC now.

New Update V1.4.0 For Borderlands 2 for PS3

Chris Hare

-

Apr 3, 2013

0

A new update for Borderlands 2 begin rolling out on 2nd April.

Release Notes for the PlayStation 3 Version of Borderlands 2.

4/2/2013 Update
General

Added a new playthrough called Ultimate Vault Hunter Mode, unlocked for a character once they have completed the main story missions in True Vault Hunter Mode and reached level 50!
- In this mode, you will always start in Southern Shelf at Cleaning Up the Berg and may reset your playthrough progress as often as you like without losing any items, levels, or stats. All enemies are significantly more difficult in this playthrough, but the loot quality has increased accordingly. Rumor has it there is an entirely new rarity of loot out there for high-level players.
Added new items to the Black Market:
- One additional ammo upgrade for each ammo type, at 50 Eridium each.
- Two more backpack storage space upgrades, at 50 and 100 Eridium respectively.
- Two more bank storage space upgrades, at 50 and 100 Eridium respectively.
Increased the maximum amount of Eridium players can hold from 99 to 500.
Fixed a bug that was causing some users to crash on startup or when loading into a level after choosing their character.
Fixed a bug where profiles would refuse to save when they were already corrupted on startup.
Fixed a bug where profile restoration code would sometimes trigger inappropriately.
Deathtrap can no longer restore an enemy’s shields, even though it was hilarious.
Fixed a bug that could cause hosts to become invulnerable if they were being revived by a client who disconnected mid-revive.
Fixed an issue that could cause players to crash or freeze when fighting BNK-3R.
Fixed a bug that could cause Deathtrap’s Robot Rampage audio to not stop playing after killing an enemy until Deathtrap despawned.
Fixed a bug that could stop the Gunzerker’s Keep It Piping Hot skill from functioning as intended.
Covered an area of the world near Claptrap’s ship where the player could fall in and be unable to get out.
Fixed an issue where a Siren could revive a player and make another player invulnerable under specific circumstances.
Addressed instances of audio distortion tied to Axton’s turret and kill skills.
(Mr. Torgue DLC) Critical hits against Midgets now register properly.
(Mr. Torgue DLC) Rat Thief enemies are no longer allowed in Pete’s Bar due to patron concerns regarding excessive theft.
(Captain Scarlett DLC) Fixed an issue with the “Shady Dealings” challenge where a purchase could sometimes not count toward its completion.
(Sir Hammerlock DLC) Fixed a bug that could cause networking issues when players are killed by being run over by fanboats.
Fixed a bug that caused some visual effects to appear to be lower fidelity than intended.

Missions

Fixed an issue where players could be unable to interact with the menu when a mission that granted experience but not items was completed and not handled by the player before saving and quitting.
Fixed an issue where players could cause the round to not fail in a Slaughter mission if a surviving player disconnects while all others are out.
Fixed issues with the following missions that could cause players to get stuck or not be able to complete them:
- Wildlife Preservation
- Medical Mystery
- (Captain Scarlett DLC) Let There Be Light
- (Mr. Torgue DLC) Eat Cookies and Crap Thunder
- (Mr. Torgue DLC) A Montager
(Sir Hammerlock DLC) Thermitage is now friendlier and will no longer refuse to come play with some players.
(Sir Hammerlock DLC) Arizona no longer refuses to spawn if players are too far away.
(Sir Hammerlock DLC) Fixed a bug causing Dexiduous the Invincible’s health bar appearing incorrect on clients.

Equipment

Fixed a bug where players were able to do far more damage than intended by exploiting a buff from the Evil Smasher.
Clients are now able to see explosions caused by Norfleets in multiplayer.
Fixed an issue causing Relics to sometimes not show the Favorite indicator.
Fixed an issue that caused E-tech weapons to not be able to hit the Mechromancer’s ‘One Two Boom’ orb.
Seraph Gear from Captain Scarlett and Mr. Torgue DLC re-balanced to be more powerful.
Fixed class mods that increase the skill grade of Axton’s Metal Storm, Onslaught and Quick Charge skills to function as intended.
Fixed an exploit involving Vladof rocket launchers that could result in having infinite ammo for any weapon.
Fixed an issue where weapon cards would sometimes not display how many bullets they consumed per shot.
Mechromancer’s Prodigy class mod now correctly increases reload speed.
Fixed an issue causing impact sounds from users with The Bee shield to not be audible on clients.
Adjusted Mechromancer’s Sweetheart class mod to correctly increase team health.
Assassin’s “Slayer of Terramorphous” class mod no longer includes Gunzerker skill bonus.
(Mr. Torgue DLC) Torgue vending machines can now stock legendary weapons above level 48.
Chere-amie sniper rifle and transfusion grenades no longer cause audio distortion.
Assigned price to Anshin ‘Evolution’ shield so that players can sell it for money if desired.
Fixed a bug causing head customizations from the Mr. Torgue DLC to not unlock properly for Sirens and Mechromancers.
Fixed a bug that caused off-hand weapons to sometimes deal improper damage while Gunzerking.
Addressed an issue where shotguns did not receive full damage boosts from skills and gear.
Fixed a bug which could cause a player to lose inventory when swapping items with a full bank or stash while having a full inventory.

This update contains the new Ultimate Vault Hunter Mode and more storage space along with a variety of bug fixes. These include some changes that were previously available as hot fixes.

Also available beginning April 2 will be the Ultimate Vault Hunter Upgrade Pack which allows characters to gain 11 additional levels and skill points as well as pick up new Pearlescent-tier weapons and “Ancient” E-Tech relics.

Exactly when the update and Ultimate Vault Hunter Upgrade Pack will begin rolling out depends on the platform, region and the timing of that particular service.

New Update V1.4.0 For Borderlands 2 for Xbox 360

Chris Hare

-

Apr 3, 2013

0

A new update for Borderlands 2 begin rolling out on 2nd April.

Release Notes for the Xbox 360 Version of Borderlands 2.

4/2/2013 Update
General

Added a new playthrough called Ultimate Vault Hunter Mode, unlocked for a character once they have completed the main story missions in True Vault Hunter Mode and reached level 50!
- In this mode, you will always start in Southern Shelf at Cleaning Up the Berg and may reset your playthrough progress as often as you like without losing any items, levels, or stats. All enemies are significantly more difficult in this playthrough, but the loot quality has increased accordingly. Rumor has it there is an entirely new rarity of loot out there for high-level players.
Added new items to the Black Market:
- One additional ammo upgrade for each ammo type, at 50 Eridium each.
- Two more backpack storage space upgrades, at 50 and 100 Eridium respectively.
- Two more bank storage space upgrades, at 50 and 100 Eridium respectively.
Increased the maximum amount of Eridium players can hold from 99 to 500.
Fixed a bug that was causing some users to crash on startup or when loading into a level after choosing their character.
Fixed a bug where profiles would refuse to save when they were already corrupted on startup.
Fixed a bug where profile restoration code would sometimes trigger inappropriately.
Deathtrap can no longer restore an enemy’s shields, even though it was hilarious.
Fixed a bug that could cause hosts to become invulnerable if they were being revived by a client who disconnected mid-revive.
Fixed an issue that could cause players to crash or freeze when fighting BNK-3R.
Fixed a bug that could cause Deathtrap’s Robot Rampage audio to not stop playing after killing an enemy until Deathtrap despawned.
Fixed a bug that could stop the Gunzerker’s Keep It Piping Hot skill from functioning as intended.
Covered an area of the world near Claptrap’s ship where the player could fall in and be unable to get out.
Fixed an issue where a Siren could revive a player and make another player invulnerable under specific circumstances.
Addressed instances of audio distortion tied to Axton’s turret and kill skills.
(Mr. Torgue DLC) Critical hits against Midgets now register properly.
(Mr. Torgue DLC) Rat Thief enemies are no longer allowed in Pete’s Bar due to patron concerns regarding excessive theft.
(Captain Scarlett DLC) Fixed an issue with the “Shady Dealings” challenge where a purchase could sometimes not count toward its completion.
(Sir Hammerlock DLC) Fixed a bug that could cause networking issues when players are killed by being run over by fanboats.

Missions

Fixed an issue where players could be unable to interact with the menu when a mission that granted experience but not items was completed and not handled by the player before saving and quitting.
Fixed an issue where players could cause the round to not fail in a Slaughter mission if a surviving player disconnects while all others are out.
Fixed issues with the following missions that could cause players to get stuck or not be able to complete them:
- Wildlife Preservation
- Medical Mystery
- (Captain Scarlett DLC) Let There Be Light
- (Mr. Torgue DLC) Eat Cookies and Crap Thunder
(Sir Hammerlock DLC) Thermitage is now friendlier and will no longer refuse to come play with some players.
(Sir Hammerlock DLC) Arizona no longer refuses to spawn if players are too far away.
(Sir Hammerlock DLC) Fixed a bug causing Dexiduous the Invincible’s health bar appearing incorrect on clients.

Equipment

Fixed a bug where players were able to do far more damage than intended by exploiting a buff from the Evil Smasher.
Clients are now able to see explosions caused by Norfleets in multiplayer.
Fixed an issue causing Relics to sometimes not show the Favorite indicator.
Fixed an issue that caused E-tech weapons to not be able to hit the Mechromancer’s ‘One Two Boom’ orb.
Seraph Gear from Captain Scarlett and Mr. Torgue DLC re-balanced to be more powerful.
Fixed class mods that increase the skill grade of Axton’s Metal Storm, Onslaught and Quick Charge skills to function as intended.
Fixed an exploit involving Vladof rocket launchers that could result in having infinite ammo for any weapon.
Fixed an issue where weapon cards would sometimes not display how many bullets they consumed per shot.
Mechromancer’s Prodigy class mod now correctly increases reload speed.
Fixed an issue causing impact sounds from users with The Bee shield to not be audible on clients.
Adjusted Mechromancer’s Sweetheart class mod to correctly increase team health.
Assassin’s “Slayer of Terramorphous” class mod no longer includes Gunzerker skill bonus.
(Mr. Torgue DLC) Torgue vending machines can now stock legendary weapons above level 48.
Chere-amie sniper rifle and transfusion grenades no longer cause audio distortion.
Assigned price to Anshin ‘Evolution’ shield so that players can sell it for money if desired.
Fixed a bug causing head customizations from the Mr. Torgue DLC to not unlock properly for Sirens and Mechromancers.
Fixed a bug that caused off-hand weapons to sometimes deal improper damage while Gunzerking.
Addressed an issue where shotguns did not receive full damage boosts from skills and gear.
Fixed a bug which could cause a player to lose inventory when swapping items with a full bank or stash while having a full inventory.

This update contains the new Ultimate Vault Hunter Mode and more storage space along with a variety of bug fixes. These include some changes that were previously available as hot fixes.

Also available beginning April 2 will be the Ultimate Vault Hunter Upgrade Pack which allows characters to gain 11 additional levels and skill points as well as pick up new Pearlescent-tier weapons and “Ancient” E-Tech relics.

Exactly when the update and Ultimate Vault Hunter Upgrade Pack will begin rolling out depends on the platform, region and the timing of that particular service.

New Update V1.4.0 For Borderlands 2 for PC

Chris Hare

-

Apr 3, 2013

0

A new update for Borderlands 2 begin rolling out on 2nd April.

Release Notes for the PC Version of Borderlands 2.

Update v1.4.0 (Released 4/2/2013)
General

Added a new playthrough called Ultimate Vault Hunter Mode, unlocked for a character once they have completed the main story missions in True Vault Hunter Mode and reached level 50!
- In this mode, you will always start in Southern Shelf at Cleaning Up the Berg and may reset your playthrough progress as often as you like without losing any items, levels, or stats. All enemies are significantly more difficult in this playthrough, but the loot quality has increased accordingly. Rumor has it there is an entirely new rarity of loot out there for high-level players.
Added new items to the Black Market:
- One additional ammo upgrade for each ammo type, at 50 Eridium each.
- Two more backpack storage space upgrades, at 50 and 100 Eridium respectively.
- Two more bank storage space upgrades, at 50 and 100 Eridium respectively.
Increased the maximum amount of Eridium players can hold from 99 to 500.
Fixed a bug that was causing some users to crash on startup or when loading into a level after choosing their character.
Fixed a bug that could cause hosts to become invulnerable if they were being revived by a client who disconnected mid-revive.
Fixed an issue that could cause players to crash or freeze when fighting BNK-3R.
Fixed a bug that could cause Deathtrap’s Robot Rampage audio to not stop playing after killing an enemy until Deathtrap despawned.
Fixed a bug that could stop the Gunzerker’s Keep It Piping Hot skill from functioning as intended.
Covered an area of the world near Claptrap’s ship where the player could fall in and be unable to get out.
Fixed an issue where a Siren could revive a player and make another player invulnerable under specific circumstances.
Addressed instances of audio distortion tied to Axton’s turret and kill skills.
(Mr. Torgue DLC) Critical hits against Midgets now register properly.
(Mr. Torgue DLC) Rat Thief enemies are no longer allowed in Pete’s Bar due to patron concerns regarding excessive theft.
(Captain Scarlett DLC) Fixed an issue with the “Shady Dealings” challenge where a purchase could sometimes not count toward its completion.

Missions

Fixed an issue where players could be unable to interact with the menu when a mission that granted experience but not items was completed and not handled by the player before saving and quitting.
Fixed an issue where players could cause the round to not fail in a Slaughter mission if a surviving player disconnects while all others are out.
(Sir Hammerlock DLC) Thermitage is now friendlier and will no longer refuse to come play with some players.
Fixed issues with the following missions that could cause players to get stuck or not be able to complete them:
- Wildlife Preservation
- Medical Mystery
- (Captain Scarlett DLC) Let There Be Light
- (Mr. Torgue DLC) Eat Cookies and Crap Thunder

Equipment

Fixed a bug where players were able to do far more damage than intended by exploiting a buff from the Evil Smasher.
Clients are now able to see explosions caused by Norfleets in multiplayer.
Fixed an issue causing Relics to sometimes not show the Favorite indicator.
Fixed an issue that caused E-tech weapons to not be able to hit the Mechromancer’s ‘One Two Boom’ orb.
Seraph Gear from Captain Scarlett and Mr. Torgue DLC re-balanced to be more powerful.
Fixed class mods that increase the skill grade of Axton’s Metal Storm, Onslaught and Quick Charge skills to function as intended.
Fixed an exploit involving Vladof rocket launchers that could result in having infinite ammo for any weapon.
Fixed an issue where weapon cards would sometimes not display how many bullets they consumed per shot.
Mechromancer’s Prodigy class mod now correctly increases reload speed.
Fixed an issue causing impact sounds from users with The Bee shield to not be audible on clients.
Adjusted Mechromancer’s Sweetheart class mod to correctly increase team health.
Assassin’s “Slayer of Terramorphous” class mod no longer includes Gunzerker skill bonus.
(Mr. Torgue DLC) Torgue vending machines can now stock legendary weapons above level 48.
Chere-amie sniper rifle and transfusion grenades no longer cause audio distortion.
Assigned price to Anshin ‘Evolution’ shield so that players can sell it for money if desired.

This update contains the new Ultimate Vault Hunter Mode and more storage space along with a variety of bug fixes. These include some changes that were previously available as hot fixes.

Also available beginning April 2 will be the Ultimate Vault Hunter Upgrade Pack which allows characters to gain 11 additional levels and skill points as well as pick up new Pearlescent-tier weapons and “Ancient” E-Tech relics.

Exactly when the update and Ultimate Vault Hunter Upgrade Pack will begin rolling out depends on the platform, region and the timing of that particular service.

CyberLink Launches PowerDVD 13

Andrew Edney

-

Apr 3, 2013

0

CyberLink have launched PowerDVD 13, the latest version of the market-leading media player for Blu-ray, 3D & HD content. With shipments of more than 100 million players annually, PowerDVD is the world’s pre-eminent movie and media player.

The world’s first and only cross-platform playback solution, PowerDVD 13 adds mobility to playback with support for leading tablets and smart phones. With improved TrueTheater enhancements, all content – even Blu-ray movies – can be enjoyed in a better-than original quality. New UltraViolet digital download support will provide cloud-based access to movies and TV shows in countries where the service becomes available. Offering unrivaled format support and instant startup, PowerDVD 13 meets all digitalmedia’s user needs

PowerDVD 13 Ultra comes with more than 60 new and enhanced features including new file playback in Cinema mode and CyberLink TrueTheater enhancements that let users improve quality of videos, beyond HD and even Blu-ray. Highlighted new capabilities include:

Video Beyond HD – CyberLink’s unique TrueTheater HD delivers advanced edge, color and lighting enhancement technologies to takeBlu-ray and HD digital movies well beyond their original quality. Consumers can now enjoy richer, sharper video, particularly on larger screens

Speed and Responsiveness with Industry-Leading Startup Times – Anew architecture and application optimization delivers the fastest, most responsive PowerDVD ever. Blu-ray movies now start up to 58% faster with CyberLink’s innovative BD-Live bypass option. Photo, video and music playback start instantly, eliminating the need for any other media player.

Universal player– PowerDVD supports all popularvideo, audio, photo and music formats from discs or files, including new AVCHD 2.0, lossless APE audio, 4K and MKV, and comes with a new mini player mode for music.

Across Devices- In addition to Apple and, Android smartphones and tablets, PowerDVD Mobile is now available for Windows 8 tablets – the only multimedia software to support MKV and DTS playback under Windows 8. PowerDVD 13 users can stream and copy content seamlessly across connected devices on home networks.

All New Movie Library – The new dedicated Movie Library enriches users’ movie collections with key information such as cover art, plot synopses and reviews curated from leading entertainment websites as well as CyberLink’s popular online community, MoovieLive.com.

Additional enhancements – PowerDVD 13 comes with a wide range of new and improved technologies – all designed to enhance the playback experience including: High DPI mode; auto TV’s refresh rate for DVDs; enhanced DLNA compatibility; a new subtitle rendering engine; folder drag-and drop support for starting playback; new playback controls and much more.

Availability
PowerDVD 13 is available today from the CyberLink online store on http://www.cyberlink.com

Versions and Pricing

PowerDVD 13 Pro: £ 59.99

PowerDVD 13 Ultra: £ 79.99

PowerDVD 13 Deluxe: £34.99

Upgrades from previous PowerDVD versions are available starting at £24.99.

PowerDVD Mobile and PowerDVD Remote can be found on the Apple Store and Google Play Store. PowerDVD Mobile for Windows 8 is available from the Windows Store.

PowerDVD Mobile

PowerDVD Mobile for Ultra (PowerDVD 13 Ultra users) FREE

PowerDVD Mobile (PowerDVD 13 Pro/Deluxe version users) iOS/Android £ 14.59

PowerDVD Mobile (PowerDVD 13 Pro/Deluxe version users) Windows 8 £ 10.99

PowerDVD Remote

PowerDVD Remote FREE (for PowerDVD 13 users): FREE

Grand Theft Auto V cover art revealed

Gaming
News

Andrew Edney

-

Apr 2, 2013

0

Rockstar have released the official cover art for Grand Theft Auto V.

Grand Theft Auto 5 from Rockstar Games will be released later in the year.

Are you going to buy it? Let us know by leaving a comment below.

TOMB RAIDER 1939 Multiplayer Map Pack Out Today

Gaming
News

Andrew Edney

-

Apr 2, 2013

0

Square Enix today announced the launch of the TOMB RAIDER 1939 Multiplayer Map Pack, out now on Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and Windows PC.

Additionally, all launch exclusive TOMB RAIDER downloadable content is now available on the PlayStation Store and Steam. Available from Tuesday, April 2^nd, the new content features a range of weapons packs and multiplayer characters, including the cunning Scavenger Scout and Hitman: Absolution themed weapons.

Multiplayer fans can also look forward to the Shipwrecked map pack, which will be available across all platforms from early May. Offering a range of hazardous multiplayer arenas, the upcoming map packs will include:

1939 Multiplayer Map Pack

Featuring two new maps; out now for Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and Windows PC.

· Dogfight: Dating back to the World War II experiments conducted on the island, this bunker is a deadly maze of brick and mortar that could easily become a tomb.

· Forest Meadow: This forest meadow is a hunting ground, filled with open spaces that can be advantageous and dangerous at the same time. Who is the hunter and who is the hunted?

Shipwrecked Multiplayer Map Pack

Featuring two new maps: released early May for Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and Windows PC.

· Lost Fleet: A massive beached ship serves as a dangerous battleground filled with twists, turns, and traps.

· Himiko’s Cradle: Danger lurks around every corner in this mountain top shrine. The area is sacred to the scavengers and will be your final resting place if you are not careful.

Caves and Cliffs Multiplayer Map Pack

Featuring three new maps: out now on Xbox 360, released mid-April for PlayStation 3 and Windows PC.

· Scavenger Caverns: A massive network of caves used by the scavengers as a prison area.

· Cliff Shantytown: This settlement was built high in the island cliffs. Its many layers hide some of the deadliest traps on the island.

· The Burning Village: A fire has erupted in an abandoned Japanese village. The burning buildings offer multiple ways to escape your enemies, but enter them at your own peril.

Flixster Adds Ultraviolet Movie Streaming to Windows 8/RT

Jim McCarthy

-

Apr 1, 2013

2

Flixster Adds Ultraviolet Movie Streaming to Windows 8/RT

Flixster released an update for its Windows 8/RT app that enables streaming of your Ultraviolet collection. Read on for details!

Flixster released an update for their Windows 8/RT app today that enables streaming of your Ultraviolet collection. Of course, the release notes do not mention this, but I was able to log into Flixster and see my Ultraviolet movies, and to stream one back. This is a welcome addition to the Flixster app, which also can show you movie times and allow you to buy movie tickets.

Ultraviolet is a streaming service that is bundled with Blu-Ray disks and allows you to stream back content over the internet if the studios grant you streaming rights. I find it to be a very handy adjunct to iTunes digital copies,

Here is a screen shot of the release notes:

I really wish that Microsoft required a real release note; these notes don’t mean much. However, I can confirm that this release now supports Ultraviolet streaming, at least for part of my collection!

Terraria coming to the PS Vita this Summer

Gaming
News

Andrew Edney

-

Apr 1, 2013

1

505 Games announced a few days ago that the block-building smash hit Terraria is headed to PlayStation Vita.

In development by Engine Software, Terraria for PS Vita will be available Summer 2013.

Originally released in 2011 for the PC by creator/developer Andrew Spinks’ Re-logic studio, Terraria has received universal, critical acclaim and over 2 million “Terrarians” have struck out on their own adventures and fallen for its mix of side-scrolling, action-adventure gaming and emphasis on crafting and exploration.

Tim Woodley, Head of Global Brand at 505 Games said “We’re all huge fans of Terraria and have been overwhelmed by the support we’ve received from the existing community since we began working with the property. And it’s been amazing to see how many of those fans have been asking for a portable version of Terraria so they can take their adventures with them on the go. The biggest challenge for us is how to give players the control they need to fully enjoy the experience and we’re really excited to explore the potential of the multiple input options that the PlayStation Vita affords us.”

Commenting on the announcement, SCEE’s Senior Business Development Manager Shahid Ahmad said “We are tremendously excited about bringing Terraria to PS Vita. It’s fantastic news for fans who have been begging for the game to be available on PS Vita and it’s fantastic news for us too, we are delighted about the addition to the platform. For us this is a real coup, the opportunity to bring such a loved game to one of our platforms is really exciting. We are also really confident about how much fans are going to love the PS Vita version; the touch screen will ensure a totally unique experience.”

Have you played Terraria yet on another platform? Let us know by leaving a comment below.

Soundtrack of Life – a night with SOL REPUBLIC and their headphones

Andrew Edney

-

Apr 1, 2013

0

Recently we were invited to experience an evening with SOL REPUBLIC, and we got to see and listen to some pretty cool headphones.

SOL REPUBLIC is global consumer electronics company dedicated to enhancing people’s lives through better-sounding headphones. Comprised of music fanatics, SOL REPUBLIC develops its products from the ground up to make headphones that look, sound and feel unlike anything else in the market. SOL REPUBLIC has offices in California, Oregon and New York City and is developing an army of followers, fans and dreamers in its worldwide social media communities.

This is the first time that SOL REPUBLIC has come to the UK, and according to them, they are here a little earlier than planned.

Master Tracks Headphones

Master Tracks are the ultimate manifestation of SOL REPUBLIC’s guiding philosophy to create headphones that have unmatched style and sound. With interchangeable headbands and cables, Master Tracks also allows users to change colours and styles for complete customisation. Like all SOL REPUBLIC headphones, Master Tracks are virtually indestructible. Constructed from SOL REPUBLIC’s proprietary polymer called FlexTech, headbands can be twisted, bent or dropped without worry. For the music fans who have amassed a collection of SoundTrack headband colours, Master Tracks X3 Sound Engines are retroactively compatible with current Tracks cables and headbands.

Continuing with SOL REPUBLIC’s dedication to enhance people’s lives through better sounding headphones, Master Tracks also feature SOL REPUBLIC’s new X3 Sound Engine which not only deliver super-deep bass that stays amazingly tight with smooth, controlled highs but also delivers crisp sounding vocals.

Master Tracks are available now for pre-order at SOLREPUBLIC.com and will be available at leading retailers in April for £169.99 in a choice of three premium finishes and optional separates in Ion Green, Progressive Purple and Fluoro Red SoundTrack headband colours. Master Tracks come with an MFi cable and an all-new reinforced nylon Ripstop Tracks carry case for easy portability and protection. Backed by a 1,000-day headband guarantee where SOL REPUBLIC will replace a band in the unlikely event that it is broken, SOL REPUBLIC continues to set the bar for headphone lovers everywhere.

There are even cool collaborations with the likes of deadmau5:

and TokiDoki:

And the cool thing is that you can change things around if you decide you want a different colour. Oh, and when you buy them you get to put them together yourself, which is rather cool.

The sound quality is really good on the headphones and I look forward to seeing, and hearing more from SOL REPUBLIC in the coming months.

You can learn more about SOL REPUBLIC from their website.

Painkiller Hell & Damnation Zombie Bunker DLC now available

Gaming
News

Andrew Edney

-

Apr 1, 2013

0

Nordic Games has released ‘Zombie Bunker’ the third Painkiller Hell & Damnation DLC developed by The Farm 51 for Windows PC.

The latest addition to the hugely popular demon-slaying shooter sees Daniel Garner forced into the hellish world of the Military. Players need to fight their way through to break him out of the chaotic and insane world where the American, Russian and German military have joined forces to create an all-powerful demonic army nightmare.

The Zombie Bunker includes a new single player map, The Bunker, which includes a new boss fight and also a new multiplayer map – DM Fragenstein. In addition, the Stalingrad map (formerly known as Leningrad) has been reworked to now include airstrikes, Zeppelin firebombs and airborne zombie troops.

DLC features include:

· Reworked map: In Stalingrad (former “Leningrad”) – Inbound airstrikes, airplanes and Zeppelins firebomb our hero and even deploy Zombie Soldiers from above!

· Area 51 and Cold War will hit you hard in the reworked map “Military Base” – Space Commandos, UFO boss fight and nuclear missiles

· Two new rocket launchers (environment weapons)

· One new Multiplayer map: DM Fragenstein, playable in various Multiplayer modes

· New enemies: Russian, American, and German Zombie Soldiers as well as their tanks!

· New melee weapon: The “Morgenstern” – Smite your enemies with its spiky ball at short distances, or deploy sticky mines to battle from afar.

· New Silver Tarot card: Armour Regeneration (recharging your collected armour)

The new content is available from: http://store.steampowered.com/app/229230

And here are some more screenshots to keep you going:

Let us know if you play Painkiller Hell & Damnation by leaving a comment below.

Relive the 80s with the Super Adventure Box for Guild Wars 2

Andrew Edney

-

Apr 1, 2013

0

NCSOFT and ArenaNet are delighted to continue the great tradition of larking about on 1^st April with the introduction of the “Super Adventure Box”.

The latest in a growing list of regular, free updates, the “Super Adventure Box” turns Guild Wars 2’s world of Tyria into a 1980s-style videogame. The update, arriving today, introduces players to a 3D land of pixelated rabbits, giant mushrooms and retro music.

“It started out as a fun side project idea”, laughed Colin Johanson, Game Director at ArenaNet. “Originally, we were going to have a laugh with a fake 8-bit update, but the more the team worked on it the more we realised we had something really cool on our hands. We figured; the gaming community are really going to love this, let’s expand on the concept of the Living World in Guild Wars 2 and make it for real”.

“We’ve turned the clock back 30 years”, joked Daniel Dociu, ArenaNet’s multi award-winning Art Director. “With retro-style videogames such a part of the Zeitgeist, we’re excited to marry Guild Wars 2’s cutting-edge gameplay with childhood nostalgia. The results are hilarious!”

The Super Adventure Box features:

Super-Hot Graphics: Featuring ‘cutting-edge’ graphics with more than 256 colours, the Super Adventure Box is a visual feast for the gaming connoisseur. Your character has never explored a world like this.
Awesome New Levels: Three levels full of pogo mushrooms, platform puzzles, bunny tornadoes, and more. Don’t worry about taking a tumble – we’ve turned off the falling damage and turned up the fun!
Big Fun, Big Rewards: You’ll earn “baubles” by slaying varmints and exploring the virtual world of the Super Adventure Box. Exchange baubles for weapons and skills by talking to the shopkeepers inside the Box, or redeem your baubles for special Super Adventure Box weapon skins from asuran inventor, Moto.

Here is the trailer:

Accessible in-game by visiting Moto, a crafty asuran inventor, in the asuran capital of Rata Sum, the Super Adventure Box will be available for one month from today, the 1^st April, 2013.

For more information on the “Super Adventure Box” or to learn more about Guild Wars 2, visit www.guildwars2.com.

We also recently interviewed Colin Johanson about Guild Wars 2, and you can watch it below:

Two Minute Review of the Griffin PowerJolt SE with Lightning Connector

Apple

Andrew Edney

-

Apr 1, 2013

1

When Apple released the iPhone 5 anyone who got one soon realised that many existing accessories were not going to work. Thankfully Griffin quickly released a car charging cable with a Lightning Connector called the PowerJolt SE and here is our two minute review.

Griffin’s PowerJolt SE sports a low-profile plug for your car’s 12 volt accessory outlet, and a powerful 10 watt charging circuit so your iOS devices with Lightning connectors can power up quickly and safely.

A durable captive coiled cable with Apple’s Lightning connector stretches from 23.5 inches (60 cm) to at least 48 inches (121.9 cm) in length – just right for the car. LED power indicator glows white when PowerJolt is properly connected and ready to charge. With its built-in, self-resetting SmartFuse, PowerJolt SE guards against power fluctuations as it charges.

Who are Griffin?

From their website:

Griffin Technology began designing and manufacturing technical solutions with an innovative flair in 1992. We’ve since grown to become one of the largest providers of accessories for personal computing and digital media.

We ask ourselves: What would you like to do with your computer, your TV, your stereo system, your MP3 players, your musical instruments… the technology that enhances your life?

Our approach has given birth to some of the best known accessories in the digital entertainment and personal computer markets, including the iTrip family of FM transmitters and the groundbreaking Evolve Wireless Sound System.

Today, Griffin designs, manufactures and delivers useful and fun solutions for digital entertainment and personal computing to people in the Americas, Europe, and Asia, through major retailers and online.

Features

Fast 10-watt car charger safely powers iOS devices with Lightning connector
Coiled cable stretches from 23.5″ (60 cm) to 48″ (121.9 cm) in total length
Charge iPhone 5, iPad mini, iPad (4th gen.), iPod touch (5th gen.) or iPod nano (7th gen.)
SmartFuse protects with a built-in circuit breaker; no fuses to replace
Certified Made for iPhone

Technical Specifications

Input: 12 to 16 volts DC @ 2 amps
Output: 10 watts (5 volts @ 2.1 amps)

What’s in the Box?

The box contains the 1.4 m cable.

A Closer Look

Final Thoughts

As I mentioned at the start of this review, when Apple released the iPhone 5 (and also the iPad mini) they had a new type of connector on them, called a Lightning Connector. It’s smaller than the connector on previous Apple devices and it also meant that pretty much every accessory you had, cables, cases, charges, etc., wouldn’t be compatible.

Thankfully Griffin stepped up and released a car charging cable with a Lightning Connector so that if you travel by car you can at least charge your iPhone.

The coiled cable is very sturdy – I’ve been using it almost daily now for a few months and it still looks and feels brand new.

The cable works perfectly and charges my iPhone while having enough length to have the iPhone sit nice and surely in my car whilst charging.

The Griffin PowerJolt SE with Lightning Connector retails for around £20, but as usual look around as there are deals to be had.

If you do a lot of driving and you want to keep your iPhone 5 charged this cable is a no brainer and does exactly what it says on the tin – go get one today.

Learn more from the Griffin website.

Xbox LIVE April 1st One Day Sale

Gaming
News

Andrew Edney

-

Apr 1, 2013

0

The Xbox LIVE April 1st One Day Sale with at up to 75% off is now on.

The following list of Xbox LIVE Content that will be on sale Monday 1st April 2013 only.

Is there anything on the list you are interested in? Let us know by leaving a comment below.

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DLC features include:

Relive the 80s with the Super Adventure Box for Guild Wars 2

Two Minute Review of the Griffin PowerJolt SE with Lightning Connector

Who are Griffin?

Features

Technical Specifications

What’s in the Box?

A Closer Look

Final Thoughts

Xbox LIVE April 1st One Day Sale