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Moody, Author at GeeksHaveGame - Page 2 of 137

AEW ALL IN LONDON vs. ALL OUT [Reviews] – Which Event Were You ‘ALL’ About?

What a week for All Elite Wrestling. By far the biggest roller coaster ride of Owner Tony Khan’s career, AEW went from All In London at Wembley Stadium with the most tickets sold for any pro wrestling show ever(!!) to All Out on arguably the promotion’s single biggest star in CM Punk. Not only did they hand Mr. Brooks his walking papers mere seconds before landing in his hometown, AEW overperformed on the back-to-back PPV as they usually do when everyone questions the card on paper.

All Out was a fantastic show in the squared circle, while All In London was a spectacle unlike any other. But which was the better event? Our Moody man breaks it all down.



ZERO HOUR

-ALL IN-

ROH Tag Titles: Aussie Open vs. Better Than You Bay Bay – A mostly fantastic 7-minute pre-show match to kick off the 81,000 PAID with some fire, highlighted by a Kangaroo Kick and DOUBLE CLOTHESLINE(!!!!) to give the main event another added element. New champs in a quick, yet fun one. – 3.25/5

FTW Title: Hook vs. Jack Perry – A brainbuster on the entrance ride limo kicks off another quick, but fun title match. Perry teases a high spot coast-to-coast but flips the fans the bird. Hook eventually gets his revenge with the redrum. – 3.25/5

-ALL OUT-

Over The Budget Charity Battle Royal (Hangman Page vs. a bunch of midcard crappery): A ring full of mostly job guys besides Hangman, Daniel Garcia, Best Friends and Aussie Open, and not one of the better battle royals from a company that typically excels at them. Garcia’s dancing was the best part, especially his hip-shaking all the way back up the entrance ramp after being eliminated. Just fantastic. Otherwise, pretty typical stuff although I liked Cage skinning the cat following a hurricarana from Page, who won after some difficulty with the Swolverine on the apron. – 2.25/5

Hikaru Shida/Willow Nightingale/Skye Blue vs. Athena/Mercedes Martinez/Diamante – Just a way to get another women’s match on the show after people criticized AEW for having just one female bout a week early at All In. Sky Blue rocked Chi-Town gear and won to many fan’s delight, while Athena needs to move up to the main roster. She’s way overdue for that call-up! – 2.5/5

Trios Titles: Jeff Jarrett/Satnam Singh/Jay Lethal vs. Acclaimed/Billy Gunn – This was all about Rodzilla and his return to Chicago. Damn, Dennis is looking OLD. He did get in an awesome chairshot on Singh in a battle of former NBA players. Sonjay did a mockery of the whole classic Chicago bulls starting line-up segment. The best thing about all of this was that it was just 6-minutes. Acclaimed retain with Mic Drop. – 2.25/5

Better Zero Hour: ALL IN.


YO JOE!

-ALL IN-

Real World Title: Samoa Joe vs. CM Punk – Shame that what happened.. happened, because this was the best of the two Joe/Punk matches in AEW and a promise for some BIG TIME Punk matches in the future — including another one with Joe. Punk pulled out a hilarious Five Moves of Doom into a Hulkster Legdrop on Joe. And later, we did see The Pepsi Plunge — a middle-rope pedigree finish that was a deep cut to Punk’s old ROH days. Regardless, this would be Phil’s last match in the promotion. – 3.5-3.75/5

-ALL OUT-

Ring Of Honor TV Title: Shane Taylor vs. Samoa Joe – Going into Sunday there were some questionable matches on the card and this was certainly one of them. SHANE TAYLOR!!!??! REALLY??!!? Hey, it wasn’t bad. I mean, you had Joe there. And it was only 6-minutes. Taylor is a decent hand, but how many folks who follow AEW really know of dude? ROH needs to be on TV… maybe to replace Rampage? So we have an idea who’s at Ring of Honor besided the champs who are also AEW superstars? Just a thought… – 2.75-3/5

Better Samoa Joe Match: ALL IN.


BULLET CLUB GOLD VS. THE ELITE

-ALL IN-

Golden Elite vs. Bullet Club Gold/Konosuke Takeshita – Great match besides the sad fact that Kota Ibushi has lost a few steps. While he looked better here than Blood ‘N Guts in Beantown, the Golden Star is not the world class worker we salivated over in New Japan. In the 6-Man, Kota struggled/slipped on the ropes when attempting to match moonsaults with Kenny to the outside. Above that, this was all about setting up Kenny & Takeshita with Don’s new “son” getting the sneak roll-up on Omega for the win. Tons of action here and the crowd ate it all up. – 3.75-4/5

-ALL OUT-

Bullet Club Gold vs. FTR/Young Bucks – So The Gunns pinned The Gun With The Gun! Because of the weekend’s circumstances, because it was in Chicago at the United Center, because there is the interesting dynamic of Punk’s worst enemies tagging with his best friends the day after he was fired, there was a lot more intrigue in this match than the Gold vs. Golden stuff at Wembley — especially for an 8-man tag that was thrown together last minute. I absolutely adored seeing FTR and the Bucks mix and match their finishers together (Shatter Machine, BTE Trigger), and The Gunns have really stepped up from being in comedy tags in the past. – 4/5

Better Elite/Bullet Club Match: ALL OUT, barely.


TAG TEAM BACK AGAIN

-ALL IN-

Tag Team Titles: FTR vs. Young Bucks – Arguably the best pure wrestling match from a show that sat over 90,000 folks, a rubber match between the two best tag teams in wrestling today and perhaps all time. Of course the mix of finishers when they super-squaded up at All Out were callbacks from this match last week, as FTR hit a BTE Trigger and the Bucks nailed the champs with their own Shatter Machine. Also kudos to the EVP’s for giving FTR the rub in the biggest match of their life. Even if you hate the Bucks, you’ve got to love this. – 4.25-4.5/5

-ALL OUT-

Ring Of Honor Tag Titles: Dark Order vs. Maxwell Jacob Friedman/Adam Cole – A highly questionable match coming into the card that wound up a hot opener… Look. You know Silver and Reynolds are a dynamic team, maybe the best with double team dexterity in the business. Dark Order really just isn’t a hot act ATM, but Better Than You Bay-Bay is; maybe this was TK’s proof that you could basically mix MJF & Cole with anyone and it would go over. It did, it was incredibly hot for what it was, with MJF playing babyface who gets more cheers the more he heels up (Piper all the way), Kangaroo Kicks, Double Clothesline chants (and one even from the D.O.), a returning MJF from the lockeroom (ala Hulk Hogan) following some deep neck pain, and a terrific D.C. finish with the champs retaining. – 3.25/5

Even better: After the match, Max even gets shoved on the entranceway from Joe (a deep cut to his days when he was a security extra for the big man in the WWE), turning into a brawl with Joe laying the guillotine (*cough* Hi, Punk *cough*) on Max. This sets up an obvious title match, and All Out certainly needed to set up some fresh angles for the promotion moving forward.

Better Tag Title Match: ALL IN.


MORTAL COMBAT!!!

-ALL IN-

Stadium Stampede: Best Friends/Orange Cassidy/Eddie Kingston/Penta El Zero Miedo vs. Blackpool Combat Club/Ortiz/Mike Santana – The Eddie vs. Claudio rivalry has been one of the most underrated in AEW, and this wild-as-expected bloodbath only enhanced that long narrative. This was a blast, and I’m real happy for the former LAX/Proud and Powerful to get the return pop in front of so many. Umbrellas, tables, ladders, barbed wire bats, boards and chairs, BBQ skewers, cookie sheets, and minivans! It was all here. Thank you, Sue! The then International Champ surprisingly pins the ROH Champ following an Orange Glass Punch, which now may mean something with Mox taking his title 8 days later. – 4-4.25/5

-ALL OUT-

Eddie Kingston/Katsuyori Shibata vs. Claudio Castagnoli/Wheeler Yuta – The Saga continues, sans the aforementioned main event Mox vs. Cassidy, this time adding Shibata to the mix. The Pure Champ looked outstanding in yet another hastily thrown together match. What I liked, the tag slowed down the tempo after a furious classic strap match; but it def felt like something they could have easily had on TV. Hell, most of All Out felt that way until we saw how greatly almost everyone performed. The flat euro-uppercut finish from Claudio on Eddie prevented a higher rating. – 3.5/5

Better Eddie/BCC match: ALL IN.


HEY LADIESSSSS

-ALL IN-

Women’s Title: Saraya vs. Britt Baker vs. Toni Storm vs. Hikaru Shida – Many complained that there was only one women’s match on the show, but without Jamie Hayter, they really had no choice. At the end of the day, you’ve gotta put out the best show possible and, unfortunately, the women’s division at AEW — while deep on paper — just hasn’t lit it up in the promotion. Not having Thunder Rosa around doesn’t help either, and Tony has given countless women chances to get over. Very few have. Maybe it’s the AEW audience.

The British audience didn’t seem like a great place to showcase female talent unless they were from the UK either, so having a fatal four-way here (with Tony & the former Paige present) for the title was the right move. Putting the strap on Saraya at this moment was the right move, too. While I wanted to see a deeper run from Shida, you just had to do it in London, in front of 90,000, and in front of Saraya’s notable wrestling family. – 3/5

-ALL OUT-

TBS Title: Kris Statlander vs. Ruby Soho – Let’s face it: After the surprise comeback and beating Jade, Kris has cooled off a ton. A unification seems like the right move until they can strengthen this roster. Skye Blue seems in line for something, so they could go there, or call Athena up… so there are options. This match was real good, as Soho is an excellent worker when spray paint doesn’t get in the way, and I like the story they’re telling with Toni and her (former?) Outcasts. – 3.25-3.5/5

Better Women’s Title Match: ALL OUT.


FATHER OF THE YEAR

-ALL IN-

Coffin Match: Sting/Darby Allin vs. Christian Cage/Swerve Strickland – Hearing Metallica’s “Seek And Destroy” at Wembley was mindblowing. Sting used a cricket bat. There were matching thumbtack jackets. Allin Coffin Drops.. the Coffin. OUCH. I really wish they would stop beating Swerve, one of the absolutely best talents in the company in all aspects; but with the direction for All Out I understand why you can’t beat the TNT “champ” either. This was super fun. – 3.5-3.75/5

-ALL OUT-

TNT Title: Luchasaurus vs. Darby Allin – Maybe the best Luchasaurus singles match we’ve seen yet. AEW certainly has their version of “Kane” with the big Lucha man, and the co-champs thing with Christian is both hiliarious and worthy of nuclear heat. Allin’s best matches are with bigger dudes and this def worked. While Lucha’s tombstones looked weak, I give credit for the big man for protecting the little one, and seeing how Darby was all banged up from All In, Luchasaurus retaining was the right choice. This overachieved. – 3.5-3.75/5

Better Darby/Christian Match: TIE.


THE CALLIS FAM

-ALL IN-

Chris Jericho vs. Will Ospreay – The Entertainment G.O.A.T. vs. The Star Rating G.O.A.T…. Great story here with Callis, and while folks wanted another Omega/Ospreay at Wembley, the tickets were already sold and they had stories to tell–both concerning the Callis Family, which will obviously LEAD to another Omega/Ospreay match. No need to rush to it. This was fantastic because you had the former self-professed BITW keeping up with arguably the current BITW. 15-minutes, all action, few mistakes and the former Painkiller outdid himself. – 4/5

-ALL OUT-

Kenny Omega vs. Konosuke Takeshita – Another banger in a stretch of bangers at All Out, my current favorite wrestler Omega battled my future favorite wrestler Takeshita. If you like knees, this was the joint for you. Moreover, Konosuke, like Starks, shot himself to another galaxy with this match — and victory — with an explosive performances that saw a DANGEROUS belly-to-back, outside brainbuster, a wicked Blue Thunder Bomb, and, later, a SUPER Blue Thunder, a massive dive on chairs and a gazillion knees. For those not keeping track, Omega is 1-5 in his last 6 on PPV; nearly the same record as the Young Bucks… – 4.5/5

Better Match With Don Callis Present: ALL OUT.


SUNDAY MORNING’S MAIN EVENT

-ALL IN-

AEW World Title: Maxwell Jacob Friedman vs. Adam Cole – When announced on paper, this didn’t seem like the best title match to have for such a show this big, but it wound up one of the greatest story-driven matches of all time. As I expected, there were so many twists and turns worthy of a Hollywood script (not conjured up by AI!) with newly embraced babyface MJF entering the match in a grandiose devil mode, playing the lighter side of Piper to Cole’s babyface HBK. Lots of callbacks to their own matches, many classic WWF moments of the 80s/90s, including a self-inflicted DOUBLE CLOTHESLINE (Hogan v Warrior).

Instead of 5 more minutes after a double pin, they went into Sudden Death; they have fun with the classic Eddie Guerrero chair/possum spot; we see a Panama Sunrise on the cement; MJF conflicted about the use of Dynamite Diamond Ring; Cole not accept Roddy’s interference and so forth. MJF retains, but, wow, what a ride. A hug after the bell sends almost 100,000 peeps to the mean streets of London with ultra glee. – 4.5/5

-ALL OUT-

International Title: Orange Cassidy vs. Jon Moxley – O.C. has had arguably the greatest title run in AEW history; he’s also been the most featured pro wrestler in the promotion, wrestling on all 3 shows most weeks, defending his title nearly every time in the process. The All-Atlantic thing Pac had was a weird title with a weird name and stranger purpose, and there’s no doubt that Orange has solidified the International strap as the “worker title” ala what the Intercontinental Continental championship has traditionally meant for the WWE.

Lots of odes to Terry Funk from Moxley, while Orange is the one who bleeds and keeps Jon’s head clean. This match had great pacing, awesome submission grapple work/reversals, lots of brawling and a Beach Break on the cement floor! Just me or Cassidy hitting a spear followed by his Orange Superman punch either a shot/ode to Roman? Also, awesome finish with Moxley nailing not one but two Death Riders followed by a pair of heavy lariats that nearly took Orange’s head off. What a match! – 4.5/5

Better Championship Main Event: TIE, for completely different reasons.


A’THANG ELSE

-ALL IN-

Trios Titles: House Of Black vs. Acclaimed/Billy Gunn – These two teams never really had chemistry from the jump, and it was the breather before the big one, so it just kinda happened. There was some solid action, lots of love for the returning Bad-Ass and a feel-good moment with the new trios champs getting in that beloved “scissor me” once again. It’s time for these teams to move on. – 3/5

-ALL OUT-

Powerhouse Hobbs vs. Miro – I knew this would be a fun hoss match, but the Chitown faithful getting behind these two felt like magic. Miro really needed a big moment here and he got one, with Hobbs showing why he’s got so much fucking promise for the company as the company’s best young big-man. The Game Over break up and exhange of spinebusters was awesome, and the two goliaths had a furious pace for 15-minutes. Lots of fun Big Meat chants from the crowd. This was awesome, and saw the debut of CJ Perry and an intriguing storyline for Saturdays thrown in with it. – 4.25/5

Strap Match: Bryan Danielson vs. Ricky Starks – One of the greatest substitutions in wrestling history! Thanks to Punk, we get a faster return of The American Dragon and A-E-Dub found a nifty way to utilize Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat in an angle with Starks on Collision to build this up in, essentially, 24 hours. It worked in spades, as Danielson gives us yet another classic with one arm not quite ready for return. Bryan admitted in the presser afterwards that there were a lot of “smoke and mirrors” to hide any weaknesses and he put over Starks in the best way ever, even in victory. This was a gem, and Starks elevated to the moon–especially with that great facial as he passed our from the LeBell Lock Choke via leather strap. – 4.75/5

Everything else: ALL OUT (by miles).


OVERALL

ALL IN LONDON

Presentation = 4.5/5
Matches = With Zero Hour = 3.5-3.75/5; Without =  3.75-4/5
Overall = 4.25/5 Johnnie Walker Blue Label Whiskeys.

ALL OUT

Presentation = 4/5
Matches= With Zero Hour = 3.5/5; Without =  4/5
Overall = 4/5 Mikkeller Whiskeys.

Better Presentation – ALL IN 
Better Matches – ALL OUT

WINNER: ALL IN LONDON.

-Travis Moody

MORTAL KOMBAT 1 [Beta Review] – From NetherRealm to Comic-Con, IT HAS BEGUN.

Mortal Kombat 11 was a fantastic time. It’s Krazy to think that it’s already been over 4.5 years since the critically-acclaimed release of the last MK title, and there was only one way to follow up on all that greatness: start over again.

Thankfully, Mortal Kombat 1 also serves as a sequel of sorts following the triumph of now Fire GOD Liu Kang over the “Keeper of Time” Kronika — with the help of a very selfless Raiden, now mere mortal saint. Kang rewrites the universal timeline (and, no, I’m not talking about that Kang — however ironic in the name) and delivers peace to the 6 realms, and ay’thang in MK land is reset, refreshed and ready to Kontinue…

That brings us to a seemingly perfect amalgomation of sequel and reboot and kharacters from games like MK4, MK: Armageddon and MK: Deadly Alliance have returned. I’m excited since I Kompletely missed the MK lore from games four through eight and all the spin-offs in between. Tanya, Li Mei, Darrius, Khameleon, and Kountless fighters from the 3D era are all new to my eyes, but the fact they have a history with longtime diehards makes them all the more fascinating.

Are you playing the Mortal Kombat 1 Beta? In a smart “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” vibe, MK1 plays so much like MK11 and that pleases me deeply. Enter the all-new Kameo system and now we have a shake of the dice that doesn’t shake up the quality. But the Kameo system does shake up the balance, and there’s no doubt it’s going to take even the Maximillion Dudes, EVO Pros and GVO Joes plenty of practice, especially since the fighter movement feels slower here than in MK11 but the Kombo system is so much faster. Strange dichotomy there.

For those not in the know, Kameo fighters are just that; they don’t completely tag in like Tekken Tag or Marvel vs. Capcom and your Kameo kombatants are called in for a special assist. There is a timed limit to using your Kameo again, so there is definite strategy behind the helping hands & feet. Chuck fire as Liu from the bottom and call upon Sonya to soar across the skyline with her Square Wave kick. Good luck avoiding either. Enter the returning Kenshi with his trusted spirit slicing low and throw a Kano kniving high into the mix and you’re basically *&^#%$! Each Kameo has 3 special moves with the addition of a charge or cancel.

Speaking of GVO, I’ve hosted plenty of hotly Kontested gaming sessions with buddies and our most recent prime time fighter choices have been Kombo-heavy (Guilty Gear -Strive-, Street Fighter 6, King of the Fighters XV, etc.). Mortal Kombat once again has that element in spades with Mortal Kombat 1! In the Beta, you can also change your Kontrol settings so your Kameo can appear with either bumper button your little Kano’s klenching heart desires. The timely Kameo can help you juggle the opposition with bombastic kicking and puncing sequences (i.e. you can Kombo Kitana’s fan blades with OFFSCREEN BLADES from Kano; insane!). Timing is definitely going to be the throughline in both MK1‘s narrative and gameplay.

Graphically, Mortal Kombat 1 Kontinues the superb visual performance of MK11 with pure development for current/now-gen (i.e. PS5, Xbox Series). Kinda. There is a Nintendo Switch version Koming later and I don’t see how that is possible, but I’m definitely Kurious. So far we only have two stages to gawk at, but the new Johnny Cage Mansion setting is gorgeous in all its Malibu sunset view glory — the beautiful lighting, the moving fire pit, the windy palm trees, the bobbing ducky float in the pool, flocks of seaguls in the background, traffic on the PCH. It’s Kolorful, and even has a Day/Night sequence.

Another thing super worthy of note: no more Kharacter variations. While I loved learning the different versions of, say, Sub-Zero and altering mah dude with upgrades and Kustom looks, I’m cool with learning THE ONE.  In MK11, many of my MK fighters were turned into DC superheroes/villains and it was a blast. But with NetherRealm deciding to keep things simplified this time around with their Kombatants, it’s Klear that what you’re getting in MK1 is the best possible version of every fighter on the roster.

Finally, my biggest disappointment with the Beta isn’t the slower movement or Kameo spamming or netcode or anything game-related, really… it’s the fact that, barring the inclusion of Li Mei and Johnny Cage, this Beta is literally the same as the Stress Test from one month ago. Major bummer. My excitement for the Beta almost had me throwing another GVO! You Kan’t Kouch Ko-Op. The only options are the Towers and Online play, which I’m very MID at so I just take turns with the fighters in the towers. Yeah. Li Meh is right.

Gameplay/Visuals/Music = 4.75/5
Options/Kharacters = 2/5

Overall = 3.25/5 NetherRealm Lights.


Some of the news from the Resetting Mortal Kombat: A New Beginning With Mortal Kombat 1 SDCC panel held a few weeks ago:

MK1 spurns an intriguing new narrative that sees former friends now bitter enemies Li Mei and Tanya as friends now turned foes, with new Edenia, now princess of Umgadi, Mileena and Baraka now affected by a mutant-disabling disease called Tarkat. Series creator Ed Boon referred to this Tarkat as “Hulking out”, with Baraka suffering from this viral detriment longer than the still kinda sexy Mileena.

-More narrative beats in the panel included a lengthy clip that expaanded upon the Lin Kuei trailer, showcasing Smoke going full on trios/six-man tag with Scorpion and Sub-Zero. That said, I don’t expect this dream team to last forever, especially with Subzy wanting to lead EarthRealm rather than defend it, the old tradition style that Scorp prefers. Smoke chose a hot stove plate over a frozen TV dinner with these idealogies, so Kount me intrigued.

-Speaking of story, Boon and Kompany promised a new, far more expansive single player experience for “those who get sick of getting their butt kicked online”. We already have the Kampaign Tower experience, which you can try now in the current Beta (if you pre-ordered and/or dealt with shenanigans from some of WB’s retail partners *cough* GameStop *cough*), and this SP mode should also be different than the usual Story Kampaign.

-If you haven’t been living under a molten lava shrine the past few weeks, then you already know about the Kombat Pack reveal with the likes of Omni-Man (voiced by J.K. Simmons!), Highlander and Peacemaker joining the Premium & Kollector’s editions of the game. Quan-Chi and Ermac are the less celebrated but no less important additions to the Pack.

-Joining Darrius and Khameleon as Kameos is the wildly popular Goro, back from the dead of MK9, and Ferra, Johnny Cage (yes, classic JC), Mavado & Tremor. As far as the armored Shao Kahnesque Reiko and the Minotaur Motaro, both shown in the clip concerning Li Mei and Liu Kang, it’s YTBD if they will be full-fledged fighters or Kameos moving forward.

-Lastly, The Living Forest will make a return. Stage Fatalities are unknown at this point, but Boon confirmed that we will see some “alities” — be it the returning Babalities, Animalities, Friendships, etc.

SDCC Panel = 4.5/5 Whoopsies.

-Travis Moody

HASBRO 100TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION [SDCC 2023] – Panel & Booth Stuff!

San Diego Comic-Con International

Revealing an Amazing Brand Lineup Through Dazzling New Products, Experiences, Programming and More Surrounding Fan-Favorite Brands: TRANSFORMERS, Dungeons & Dragons, Magic: The Gathering, NERF, G.I. JOE, Power Rangers and Premier Collaboration Brands: Star Wars™, Indiana Jones and Marvel

Visit Hasbro Booth #3213 for Talent Meet & Greets, Signings, Product Showcases, Photo Opportunities, Contests, and Giveaways, Among Other Fun-Filled Branded Activities

Select Hasbro Pulse Products and Convention Exclusives Will Be Available to Purchase at The VAULT: A Hasbro Pulse Store in Downtown San Diego, CA

PAWTUCKET, R.I. — July 17, 2023 — Celebrating its centennial anniversary this year, Hasbro, Inc., a toy and game company, is returning to San Diego Comic-Con International, showcasing an incredible lineup of branded activities based on fan favorites, including TRANSFORMERS, Dungeons & Dragons, Magic: The Gathering, NERF, G.I. JOE and Power Rangers, as well as products from premier collaboration brands, Star Wars™, Indiana Jones and Marvel from The Walt Disney Company.

“We are absolutely thrilled to celebrate our 100th anniversary with our fans at San Diego Comic-Con,” said Kim Boyd, Head of Toy at Hasbro. “With ten decades of unforgettable history, Hasbro has been instrumental in enabling generations of families to create lasting memories through imaginative play and storytelling. Along with new product launches at San Diego Comic-Con, fans can expect to experience their favorite products and entertainment in innovative ways, featuring iconic brands like TRANSFORMERS, G.I. JOE, and NERF.”

HASBRO BOOTH #3213 

Convention Exclusives – Hasbro is offering the following four San Diego Comic-Con 2023 exclusive products: Transformers: Legacy Evolution – Deluxe Class War Dawn 2-Pack, Star Wars: The Vintage Collection Krrsantan action figure, Marvel Legends Series Deadpool and Bob, Agent of Hydra and G.I. JOE Classified Series Philip “Chuckles” Provost. Attendees can visit the Hasbro Pulse Desk at the Hasbro Booth (#3213) to receive a one-time use code, which can be scanned to pre-order. One code, per product, per customer. Limited quantities will be available to pre-order on HasbroPulse.com after the convention. While supplies last. Additional product information and photos can be found here.

Programming – In addition to hosting several insightful brand panels at San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC), Hasbro has a powerhouse programming schedule planned at its booth to help attendees have a memorable convention experience. Fans can look forward to a variety of activities, brand displays, and giveaways across the multi-day event, such as signing opportunities with Larry Hama (G.I. JOE), Gregg Berger (TRANSFORMERS), Marcelo Matere (TRANSFORMERS), Daniel Warren Johnson (TRANSFORMERS), David Nakayama (Marvel), and Harry Moore (Marvel). Other highlights include the Hasbro 100th Archive Product DisplaysRobosen Product DemostrationsTransformers: EarthSpark – Expedition video game panel with Outright Games, and Transformers: EarthSpark 1-Step Flip Toy Challenge to win awesome themed prizes and much more.

Transformers: EarthSpark – Expedition Video Game Demo Station – Fans young and old can walk up and play a brief demo of the single-player action-adventure game starring Bumblebee. The game, produced by partner Outright Games, officially releases globally this Fall across PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch. The announcement trailer can be viewed here.

NERF Pro Gelfire Demo Station  NERF is also returning to SDCC to bring back its popular NERF Pro Gelfire blaster booth so competitive, active play fans can demo the hottest blaster drops from the line: NERF Pro Gelfire Ghost, Raid and Dual Wield Pack.

Hasbro Selfie Series  Convention attendees will have the opportunity to digitally re-imagine themselves and become a premium one-of-a-kind action figure based on characters from G.I. JOE, Ghostbusters, Power Rangers, and more.  The Selfie Series team will be unveiling an updated version of the Selfie Series App that now includes more ways to customize.  The updates include eyeglasses, sculpted beards and mustaches as well as several new hairstyles. Fans at SDCC will have the opportunity to become an action figure using the updated app at the Selfie Series booth.  They will also receive a unique package sleeve commemorating the convention, and a branded figure stand as a gift with purchase.  The stand and sleeve are exclusive to purchases made at the SDCC booth.

TRANSFORMERS MIRAGE Porsche 911 Photo Opp – In celebration of the home entertainment debut of the hit film TRANSFORMERS: RISE OF THE BEASTS, fans will have the opportunity to pose for a photo with the MIRAGE Porsche 911, receive a free, limited-edition poster designed by Orlando Arocena aka “Mexifunk” (while supplies last), and win digital codes to watch the adrenaline-fueled blockbuster at home!  At the Hasbro booth on Saturday, July 22, from 6-7PM, “Mexifunk” will also be signing a select number of the exclusive Comic-Con posters.

In celebration of the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers 30th Anniversary, visit our partners at the Entertainment Earth booth (#2343) for a morphinomenal time! We are excited to share that the Power Rangers Lightning Collection Remastered Mighty Morphin Black Ranger will begin pre-orders exclusively at Entertainment Earth and Hasbro Pulse for the duration of San Diego Comic-Con. Limited quantities available are available for purchase at the Entertainment Earth booth. Stay tuned to @EntEarth and  @HasbroPulse for additional pre-order details.

Show-goers are encouraged to check the schedule posted in Hasbro’s information booth each day for updates and follow @Hasbro on Twitter, as well as @Hasbro & @HasbroPulse on Instagram for the latest happenings.

THE VAULT: A HASBRO PULSE STORE

Hasbro is hosting The VAULT: A Hasbro Pulse Store at the Sparks Gallery (530 Sixth Avenue) so fans can purchase Hasbro Pulse’s best-selling products and select convention exclusives. To purchase the SDCC convention exclusives, you must present a valid convention badge. Limit two per customer. While supplies last. Also, view displays of some of the most iconic products to celebrate Hasbro’s 100th Year Anniversary. The shop will be open to the public on the following days (times subject to change):

  • Thursday, July 20: 11AM – 6PM
  • Friday, July 21: 11AM – 6PM
  • Saturday, July 22: 11AM – 6PM
  • Sunday, July 23: 11AM – 5PM

TRANSFORMERS: RISE OF THE BEASTS SDCC TAKEOVER

Celebrating the digital and streaming release of Transformers: Rise of the Beasts film on Paramount+, fans can visit the Petco Interactive Zone (58 11th Ave) for giveaways and photo opportunities with Optimus Prime, Optimus Primal and Mirage statues. Additionally, The Lodge: A Paramount+ Experience at Happy Does Bar in downtown San Diego (340 Fifth Ave) will be decorated with the film’s 90s-themed aesthetics and offer airbrush tattoos of Autobot and Maximal icons.

HASBRO BRANDS, PARTNERS, AND PINS: A SCAVENGER HUNT ADVENTURE

For the first time this year, Hasbro collaborates with licensing, publishing, and retail partners on a free pin scavenger hunt, allowing fans to collect pins featuring iconic Hasbro brands. Visit the Hasbro booth (#3213), offsite pop-up shop, and partner booth locations, including BOOM! Studios, Diamond Select, Entertainment Earth, Icon Heroes, Kotobukiya, Mezco, Skybound Entertainment, Super7 and Super Impulse to collect the 21 different pin designs while supplies last (quantities are limited). More information about pins and locations is available in each participating booth.

BRAND PANELS

What’s more, attendees can dig deeper into Hasbro’s wondrous brands TRANSFORMERS, Dungeons & Dragons, Magic: The Gathering and G.I. JOE, along with premier collaboration brands, including Star Wars and Marvel, through engaging brand panels where they’ll get first looks at never-before-seen product and toy innovations, along with other major brand news!

Thursday, July 20 

  • Secrets of D&D Dungeon Mastering Panel: Thursday, July 20 at 12:30PM – 1:30PM | Room: 29CD – Chris Perkins (Principal Game Design Architect, Dungeons & Dragons), Dungeon Master extraordinaire is here to answer, “How do you do THAT?!” and give you advice on how to level up your Dungeon Master game! All are welcome, from DM-curious to experts!
  • Hasbro TRANSFORMERS Generations Toy Panel: Thursday, July 20 at 1:30PM – 2:30PM | Room: 29CD – LET THEM COME! Screenwriter, game designer and novelist Flint Dille joins the TRANSFORMERS team as Ben (Hasbro Marketing) Delaney (Hasbro Marketing) and Evan (Hasbro Design) take attendees through some ALL-NEW TRANSFORMERS Action Figures – Studio Series: Rise of the Beasts, the FIRST Studio Series Commander, and Generations Exclusive toy reveals! The team will also hold a Q&A to discuss all things CYBERTRONIAN! So, get ready for a panel that’s…More Than Meets The Eye.
  • It’s Morphin Time with BOOM! Studios; Thursday July 20 at 2:00PM – 3:00PM | Room: 25ABC – BOOM! Studios and Hasbro celebrate 30 years of Mighty Morphin Power Rangers storytelling in comics! Join Melissa Flores (Mighty Morphin Power Rangers), Meghan Camarena (Power Rangers HyperForce), and series editors Allyson Gronowitz and Dafna Pleban for a roundtable discussion on the history of the series, an exciting look at what’s next, and some special surprises
  • Magic: The Gathering Goes to Universes Beyond Panel: Thursday, July 20 at 7:00PM – 8:00PM | Room: 7AB – Magic: The Gathering’s Universes Beyond lineup is bringing the game to exciting new places, crossing over with your favorite books, games, and shows! From The Lord of the Rings to Doctor Who, Gavin Verhey (principal game designer, Magic: The Gathering) will share the secrets behind bringing these sets to life, and some sneak peeks of the future!
  • All A-Bot Transformers: EarthSpark Panel: Thursday, July 20 at 5:30PM – 6:30PM | Room: 24ABC – Prepare for more Autobots, more Decepticons, and more Terrans! From Paramount+, Hasbro’s Entertainment One, and Nickelodeon, Transformers: EarthSpark is an original animated series based on the iconic global franchise. Catch this exclusive panel and screening of never-before-seen content. Attendees will also be treated to a sneak peek of behind-the-scenes visuals from upcoming new episodes, including the special one-hour season finale slated to debut exclusively on Paramount+ later this summer. Plus don’t miss the chance to participate in a Transformers-themed trivia contest– study up and come prepared to win awesome franchise swag.

Friday, July 21 

  • Hasbro Toys Panel for Marvel: Friday, July 21 at 12:30PM – 1:30PM | Room: 5AB – Dwight, Ryan and Dan (Hasbro) plus Jesse (Marvel) share exciting news for Hasbro’s popular Marvel Legends product line. They will give a sneak peek of upcoming, never-before-seen items and hold a Q&A session for attendees.
  • Hasbro Star Wars Panel: Friday, July 21 at 2:00PM – 3:00PM | Room: 7AB – Join Patrick and Jing from Hasbro Marketing and Chris and Eric from Hasbro Design as they discuss the popular Hasbro Star Wars line, including the Black Series and The Vintage Collection. Attendees will get an in-depth look at Hasbro’s latest action figure and premium roleplay offerings from throughout the saga. Word on the Holonet is there may also be a few surprises.

Saturday, July 22

  • Hasbro G.I. JOE Classified Series Panel: Saturday, July 22 at 12:00PM – 1:00PM | Room: 9 – Joes and Cobras don’t agree on much, but even they can see that G.I. JOE’S Classified Series toy line is an absolute hit. Join Emily, John, Lenny, and Tony from the development team to learn never-before shared behind-the-scenes info, get a sneak peek into the future of Classified Series, and learn more about the most recent HasLab project. Make sure to attend because knowing is half the battle!
  • You Got Your Pop Culture in My D&D! Panel: Saturday, July 22 at 3:30PM – 4:30PM | Room: 29CD – Chris Perkins (Principal Game Design Architect, Dungeons & Dragons) and Josh Herman (Principal Art Director, Dungeons & Dragons) talk pop culture’s invasion of Dungeons and Dragons! Learn how the folks who make D&D are teaming up to bring some of your favorite media sensations to your gaming table!
  • Magic The Gathering Panel, Blogatog Live: Saturday, July 22 at 6:30PM – 7:30PM | Room: 24ABC – Magic head designer Mark Rosewater presents this one-man program in which he re-creates his daily blog, answering the audience’s questions about the making of the popular trading card game.

# # #

About Hasbro

Hasbro is a toy and game company whose mission is to entertain and connect generations of fans through the wonder of storytelling and exhilaration of play. Hasbro delivers engaging brand experiences for global audiences through toys, consumer products, gaming and entertainment, with a portfolio of iconic brands including MAGIC: THE GATHERING, DUNGEONS & DRAGONS, Hasbro Gaming, NERF, TRANSFORMERS, PLAY-DOH and PEPPA PIG, as well as premier partner brands.

Hasbro is guided by our Purpose to create joy and community for all people around the world, one game, one toy, one story at a time. For more than a decade, Hasbro has been consistently recognized for its corporate citizenship, including being named one of the 100 Best Corporate Citizens by 3BL Media, one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies by Ethisphere Institute and one of the 50 Most Community-Minded Companies in the U.S. by the Civic 50. For more information, visit https://corporate.hasbro.com.

© 2023 Hasbro, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

TRANSFORMERS © 2023 Hasbro. TRANSFORMERS EarthSpark © 2023 Hasbro/Viacom.

STAR WARS and related properties are trademarks and/or copyrights, in the United States and other countries, of Lucasfilm Ltd. and/or its affiliates. © & TM Lucasfilm Ltd.

© 2023 MARVEL

 

Transformers Legacy Evolution War Dawn 2-Pack

(HASBRO / Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $49.99/ Available: Summer 2023)

Witness the dawn of the Cybertronian war with the Transformers War Dawn 2-Pack! From the iconic animated series, The Transformers, this multipack comes with 5.5-inch Cybertronian Erial and Dion action figures with 2 blasters, missile launcher, and Energon canteen accessories.

Each figure converts from robot mode to vehicle alt mode (convert Cybertronian Erial robot to Cybertronian motorcycle mode in 19 steps; Cybertronian Dion robot to Cybertronian truck mode in 20 steps).

The package art is inspired by the scene in The Transformers where dockworkers Orion Pax, Erial, and Dion are struck down during a Decepticon raid at the docks. Available exclusively at San Diego Comic-Con. Attendees can visit the Hasbro Pulse Desk at the Hasbro Booth (#3213) to receive a one-time use code, which can then be scanned to pre-order. One code per customer. Limited quantities will be available to pre-order on HasbroPulse.com after the convention. While supplies last. 

Star Wars: The Vintage Collection Krrsantan

(HASBRO / Ages 4 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $39.99 / Available: Summer 2023)

A former gladiator turned deadly bounty hunter, Krrsantan is a towering black-furred Wookiee who made a name for himself in the criminal underworld with his intimidating presence and raw strength.  Fans can celebrate the legacy of Star Wars, the action-and-adventure-packed space saga from a galaxy far, far away, with this premium 3.75-inch scale Star Wars: The Vintage Collection Krrsantan figure inspired by Star Wars: The Book of Boba Fett live-action series. This figure features premium detail and design across product and packaging inspired by the original Kenner line, as well as the entertainment-inspired collector grade deco. Includes figure and 14 entertainment-inspired accessories including two additional sets of hands.

Available exclusively at San Diego Comic-Con. Attendees can visit the Hasbro Pulse Desk at Hasbro’s Booth #3213 to receive a one-time use code, which can then be scanned to pre-order. One code, per customer. Limited quantities will be available to pre-order on HasbroPulse.com after the convention. While supplies last.

Marvel Legends Series Deadpool and Bob, Agent of Hydra

Includes 2 figures and 28 comics-inspired accessories fit for the Merc with a Mouth, including an alternate head and a bunch of his favorite weapons. Attendees can visit the Hasbro Pulse Desk at Hasbro’s Booth #3213 to receive a one-time use code, which can then be scanned to pre-order. One code per customer. Limited quantities will be available to pre-order on HasbroPulse.com after the convention. While supplies last.

G.I. JOE Classified Series Philip “Chuckles” Provost

(HASBRO / Ages 4 years & up / Approx. Retail Price: $41.99 / Available: Summer 2023)

The G.I. JOE CLASSIFIED SERIES is inspired by the characters fans know and love. This G.I. JOE CLASSIFIED SERIES PHILIP “CHUCKLES” PROVOST action figure is detailed to look like the classic G.I. undercover agent featuring classic design, premium detailing, and articulation.

Includes 6-inch figure, a briefcase, top secret folder, sunglasses, cassette player with headphones, binoculars, 2 sets of handcuffs, an alternate head with bruised face, alternate hands with brass knuckles, and 2 weapon accessories. The figure and accessories come in collectable packaging with original artwork and unique digital rendering that tells the story of Chuckles’ undercover mission to Cobra Island.

Available exclusively at San Diego Comic-Con. Attendees can visit the Hasbro Pulse Desk at Hasbro’s Booth #3213 to receive a one-time use code, which can then be scanned to pre-order. One code, per customer. Limited quantities will be available to pre-order on HasbroPulse.com after the convention. While supplies last.

 

 

G.I. Joe T-Shirts

All times are GMT -4. The time now is 1:01 PM.

Thank you hisstank.com for the info!

AEW: FIGHT FOREVER [Review] – A Fine, First Fyter Fest.

@TravMoody

I feel like a genius for requesting a Nintendo Switch review code for AEW: Fight Forever. A major wrestling game with the throwback feels of WWF No Mercy for on-the-go use? I’m All In. Despite a surplus of flaws, AEW’s debut entry on consoles is the ultimate pro wrestling game for casuals who don’t require super glossy 4K visuals, a zillion modes and wrestlers on the roster, or a deep customization suite.

Fight Forever should only hope to have the continuous update life of, say, Fire Pro Wrestling to withstand any sort of longevity. Right out of the box, the game feels super MID (*MJF voice*) as FF is severely lacking in replayability – unless, of course, you’re just treating it like the casual pick-up-and-play game that it should. If allowed, Fight Forever can be a wonderful alternative to the WWE 2K series and has a whole other quirky charm going for it. With that said, let’s break down the 4 pillars of this All Elite Wrestling video game section by section.

REVOLUTION

While most squared circle marks are tuning into Titan Tower every week – especially with the Triple H Era giving fans a solid, watchable product on TV and Premium Live Events on Peacock that remind us more of the “Black and Gold” era of NXT – All Elite Wrestling has offered an edgier, more “hardcore” alternative over the past 3-4 years, an amalgamation of WCW/ECW/ROH/NJPW/PWG/AAA fantasy booking. Matches in AEW don’t have one particular style, and there is a rotating door of new characters and athletes in the company week in and week out. With Fight Forever, the in-ring gameplay definitely reflects that wild mix of old and new – from the arcadey design of classic Yuke’s Nintendo 64 wrasslin’ games of yesteryear to current day animation that does an admirable job capturing its TV counterpart. Here, female talent is treated equal to men with no “Superstar” ratings in sight, and they can even capture the AEW World Title. Mixed tag matches are fun, too, and Britt Baker can chuck around the former “Big Show” Paul Wight around like a ragdoll.

You guessed it: a sim, this is not. Most of AEW:FF‘s charm comes from the cartoony character models that, aesthetically, still look very much like the wrestlers it portrays. The multitude of delays certainly looked like it helped character model render development. Kenny Omega, Abadon, Eddie Kingston, and company come off as slightly exaggerated, almost Def Jam Vendetta versions of themselves. While not aiming for 2K’s level of realism, that animated/comic book stylization is still believable and far from the retro/pixelated stylings of RetroMania and super-bloated bobblehead of WWE Battlegrounds. Since I have the Switch version, I can’t compare how FF looks on a PS5 or Xbox Series X in comparison to the gorgeous visuals of 2K23 – and, for that, I’m actually thankful.

DOUBLE OR NOTHING

The animations are smooth on the Switch, with the biggest issue being some heavy lag during matches. While far from a gamebreaker, the slow responsiveness and awkward movement when your opponents are lying on the mat, bumping into barricades outside the ring, clustering up too close to each other, etc. desperately needs some smoothing out in a future patch. Omega, Yukes’ chief consultant on Fight Forever, admitted in an interview that there was no way that the game could compete with 2K in terms of production polish and there was absolutely no intention of trying to. Fight Forever does do a bunch of small things great. Malakai Black can squat down “Yoga style” to avoid attacks; he can also spit black mist that will stutter your opponent for a few seconds. There are a lot of smaller, cool moments like these and Orange Cassidy’s sloth-motion hands-in-pockets power, Adam Cole can remove his kneepad and Penta can remove his glove, MJF’s signature play-dead eye-poke that diehard AEW fans will really appreciate.

The match pacing is great, if you’re up for a relentlessly frantic style that is 100x more Here Comes The Pain than the more schematic sim of 2K. It’s all about momentum, mixing up your combat and offering a blend of unique offense and well-timed defense to get that victory. Signature and Special moves are super easy to accomplish, you can obtain these sequences fairly early in the match if your momentum is right, and the animation captures these moments greatly. Fight Forever has absolutely no shame in going over the top, and captures an awesome balance between being cartoonishly arcade and STILL feeling REAL TO ME DAMN IT. You can toss gas cans for some wild explosions, ride around in Darby’s skateboard, and splatter tons of blood via barbed wire brooms, bats, fire extinguishers, and the like. There are over 40 weapons in all! The Exploding Barbed Wire Death Match is super thrilling with a friend and so Fire Pro, even offering a hidden option to recapture the infamous dud explosion from AEW Revolution 2021.

ALL OUT

When it comes to presentation, AEW Fight Forever is not that Dynamite. Maybe that’s the point. THQ/Yukes saves a few bucks by having the four main voices of All Elite say very few things, and, surely, Excalibur, Good Ol’ JR, Schiavone and Taz digitally mail this one in. Hell, Ross sounds like he recorded his bits half asleep on a plane whenever he welcomes the players to an AEW show (“It’s Sunday and you know what that meanzzz…zzz…zzz…). Somebody ought to give this guy a slobberknocker shot of whiskey in his barbecue sauce. Come on, Jim! On the contrary, I’m starting to see a lot of feedback on social media that gamers prefer not having any commentary anyway, judging how the play-by-play and color commentary in WWE 2K has been mundane for years. It’s a shame that wrasslin’ games haven’t been able to live up to the level of NBA 2K or even Madden NFL’s outstanding booths.

Entrances are seven seconds long, deeming the Create-An-Entrance mode worthless. What’s the point of overpowering your hello with pyro for.. seven seconds? Again, it’s one of those things where the smaller budget for FF went to other things than a 40-second plus entrance that most players will eventually skip anyway. That said, Fight Forever’s seven second entrances are great for the seven seconds. You’ve also got to love the Austin Aires/Kenny Omega/Ultimo Dragon ALL DA BELTS pose possibilities. It’s cute, little things like this that give Fight Forever the charm it needs to help separate it from the wealthier competition.

Sadly, you essentially can’t create anyone. The creation suite, particularly create-a-wrestler, is an absolute stinker, incredibly underwhelming, bare-bones, and whatever other adjectives you want to describe what a travesty this mode really is. I even tried to make everyone’s favorite pro wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer and he has no other choice but to look 35 instead of 63, which I’m sure would make him thrilled. So no face morphing, aging, changing colors of accessories, etc. Worst yet, you can’t download anyone’s creations. A lot of gamers buy 2K JUST to download the amazing work of Dre41, Iconic 2K, Defract, WhatsTheStatus, etc. Maybe this was a heavy copyright thing that AEW didn’t want to deal with; then again, you can still make a Big Lots Cena and Ross Reigns and post video of your creations up on YouTube, so likely just another budgetary thing.

FULL GEAR

Not quite, Adam. Sans the incredibly fun (but still limited) Barbed Wire Death Match and Lights Out matches, Fight Forever offers very few match types and even lesser modes. For a company that has had 100 Ladder Matches with the Lucha Bros, you can’t have a tag team Ladder Match. For a company that often apes the 8 and 10-person tags of New Japan, you can’t have more than 4 wrestlers in a ring. For a company that has Trios TITLES, you can’t have a 6-person tag match. Yeah, there’s hardly any variety here.

I had the most fun with FF’s eccentric little single player career mode, Road To Elite. Because the menus are somewhat clunky, I had no idea I could even take a CAW into the career. Thus I opted for Jungle Boy, who, at the time – but has since gone full-on Luke Perry rogue – appeared like the most white meat babyface guy to start a fresh career path with, and it was a blast getting involved in a “Blind Eliminator” tag team with Eddie Kingston (before that term even became a thing), taking selfies and talking scrap at some tourist sights with Hangman Page, and getting into a love affair turned ugly with Jack’s real life beau Anna Jay. The fact I got to accomplish this all in one single night on the clock at work? “Oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-ohhhh-ohhhh” is right! I’m telling y’all, portable play will have you forgiving a lot of things about Fight Forever.

RTE will bury you, too. There are several paths, stories and even characters to unlock during this mode and it will take you a few times before you get it all. In a way, that’s great; but what happens to our “career” once we complete it? There’s no Universe we can set up once we become “Elite”. There’s just a bunch of exhibition matches. That said, I’m expecting a ton of expansion with Fight Forever; word from THQ Yukes and AEW is that there will be a lot of post-launch support for this one ala FPW, maybe even for years, compared to the annual cranking of WWE entries from 2K. While that would definitely be best for business, I’m wondering if $60 might have been too high for a game that’s admittedly incomplete – especially if you have to pay an extra $20 for DLC. It felt so strange to try to put the FTW title on Hook, the AEW Women’s Title on Toni Storm, and the AEW World Tag Titles on FTR, only to find that none of these real life champs were in the game on day one. Heck, Storm didn’t even make the first wave of DLC that features Cash, Dax, Taz’ kid and Keith Lee, Danhausen and The Bunny.

FORBIDDEN DOOR

The general consensus is here: AEW Fight Forever is a fine start, a solid core wrestling title with lots of kinks to work out, yet a foundation reminiscent of the good ol’ days of games like WCW/nWo Revenge and WWF SmackDown: Here Comes The Pain with lots of promise in the future. Can it ever truly be Elite? Well, that all depends on what you want from a wrestling video game. Old school/arcade fans will eat this up, but for how long? We need an additional GM or Career Mode. We need to download other gamers’ creations. We need to import logos (especially for Create-An-Arena). We need more than 4 wrestlers in the ring. We need more wrestling match types (a future Stadium Stampede mode is confirmed!). Mini-games are fun, but for how long?

Longtime 2K heads will definitely be disappointed by the depth, especially once the nostalgic joy of Road To Elite starts to fade. But, if Kenny & his homies at Yukes (I mean, he brought back Geta!) follow the FPW & Virtua Pro Wrestling formula over the next 2-3 years, we may be in for a lengthy Elite treat without having to essentially buy the same game year in and year out. That’s a whole lot of hope, but if anyone can deliver on the promise it’s The Cleaner – the sweeping brain behind all the silly Mario Partyesque mini-games, international meals and sights that only a Yakuza-loving Best Bout Machine could offer.

P.S. Change all of the music in the Jukebox option immediately to the 8-bit tribute versions of entrance themes. You can thank me later.

Gameplay = 4.25/5
Visuals/Animations = 3.5/5
Presentation = 3/5
Matches/Modes = 3/5
Creation Suite = 1.5/5
Switch Portability = 4.5/5

Overall = 3.25/5 Whiskeys.

-Travis Moody

THQ Nordic/Yuke’s AEW: Fight Forever is available now on the Nintendo Switch, PS4, P5, Xbox One, Series S/X, and PC.

INDIANA JONES AND THE DIAL OF DESTINY [ScreenX Review] – One More Time.

Travis Moody
@TravMoody

ScreenX is a tricky format. To the casual moviegoer it seems as if the 270-degree panoramic view isn’t adding a whole lot to the experience, seeing how 99.5% of the action is front and center. But it’s about the feel. Indiana Jones And The Dial of Destiny is my surprise movie hit of the summer (chiefly due to how shitty the early word was about the film; more on that later), and ScreenX isn’t a bad way to experience all of the thrills.

Based on the great — or make that startling reaction — I’ve experienced twice watching the 4DX trailer for Indy 5, I was shocked that the CJ 4DPLEX company would opt to screen the long-awaited Indiana Jones sequel in ScreenX instead. Now, having watched the panoramic motion-theater presentation on Wednesday night, I can understand why with a “but”. The Dial of Destiny has a surplus of exotic locales you’d expect from an Indy movie, and capturing that on three screens is better than one. I’m assuming other critics, “influencers” and ScreenRant guests felt the same — just ever so subtly. Of course, with 4DX your seats crash and burn, air is shot to your ears and ankles and there are weird smells whenever you’re somewhere.. exotic. But, having experienced some heavy motion with Transformers: Rise of the Beasts and The Flash, I had no issue sitting comfortably in a theater for 2-plus hours this time.

The most memorable ScreenX scenes, however, were moments where I — or Dr. Henry Walton Jones Jr., to be more apropos — felt the most closed in. Cheeky scenes of Indy taking the subway (the train, not the sandwich) or finding himself traversing a suffocating ancient ruin tunnel worked well within the triple-screen format. Like most ScreenX flicks, the side panels aren’t utilized for maybe 40-50% of the duration. But there is a lovely moment when Indiana and Helena (the absolutely terrific Phoebe Waller-Bridge, an absolute scene-stealer) arrive under a splendidly shot, gorgeous bridge landscape. ScreenX really captures this moment profoundly and many more time-lapsing moments well, especially with the abundant number of chase scenes, particular one menacing 3-wheeler wild ride(!), throughout Tangier and other numerous epic lands.

This is a James Mangold (Logan, 3:10 to Yuma) film, through and through, but definitely one more soaked with nostalgia. He clearly knew that following a legend such as Steven Spielberg would be a dangerous whip to swing from, so Mangold carefully curates each shot as an ode to the past within his own auteur sensibilities. To some critics, there’s little risk in that, which I get — but are you really set out to do an Indy legacy film fifteen years after the last (and mostly forgettable) sequel to change the dial (ah-ha!) or to recapture the essence of what made these films to enjoyably memorable in the first place? Kudos to Mangold for even giving this job a thought, and more props for coming close to the epic original trilogy. Even if this is, indeed, the fourth best Indy film, The Dial of Destiny absolutely fits within the confines of what made the o.g.’s so special in the first place.

Harrison Ford is outstanding, a true legend who doesn’t “mail in” his final performance as one of cinema’s most iconic characters. He’s still naturally stoic and gruffly handsome, even in all the digitized foundtain of youth CG. Don’t worry– there’s still plenty of “old Indy” with a slew of “aching back, bones are breaking” jokes that Ford banters with his co-stars as well as an elderly Indy could. It’s amazing that we got this type of performance from Ford at this stage of his career — the man is 80! Along with bringing back John Williams for the score, this is about as good an Indiana Jones sequel you’re going to get.

As far as format, it’s more of a debate here between ScreenX and 4DX than whether you should see Indy 5 in a premium format. At least in 2023 — a year where most folks have big screen TV’s and surround sounds powerful enough to enjoy a movie in the comforts of our own homes (with much cheaper popcorn and soda) — you should always see movies in premium formats, and the enhanced storytelling of ScreenX is a format you should chose if you’re not up for a little bump ‘n run of the fourth dimension, but still want some added oomph to the immersion.

Movie = 4/5
ScreenX = 3.5/5

-Travis Moody

Lucasfilm/Walt Disney Studios’ Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny takes off in theaters nationwide today.

AEW FIGHT FOREVER [News] – An Exploding Barbed Wire Match That Will ACTUALLY Explode!

THQ Nordic GmbH and AEW today unveiled the extremely punishing and often controversial Exploding Barbed Wire Deathmatch mode in AEW: Fight ForeverAre you ready to fight for your life in the Fight Forever ring?

Pre-order AEW: Fight Forever now on the following:

Xbox:

Sony PlayStation:
  • AEW: Fight Forever Standard and Elite EditionsPlayStation
Nintendo Switch:
  • AEW: Fight Forever Standard and Elite Editions: Nintendo
Steam – Wishlist:
  • AEW: Fight Forever Standard and Elite Editions: PC-Steam
Scheduled for release on June 29 across console and PC, AEW: Fight Forever’s nostalgic arcade feel already has wrestling game purists fantasizing about their finishers. AEW: Fight Forever presents fans with their first chance to pull off wrestling moves only seen on the wildly popular AEW programming. Online co-op wrestling is going completely next level with Tag-Team matches that feature sequences of team maneuvers performed with simple commands. Game modes include Ladder Match, Exploding Barbed Wire and Casino Battle Royale along with a stacked roster of popular AEW wrestlers. Fans can also enjoy career mode, wrestler customization, signature AEW arenas, and some good ol’ fashioned unsanctioned fun.

The AEW: Fight Forever ($59.99) “Matt Hardy” digital pre-order is available worldwide for PS4™/5, Xbox One and Series S/X, and Nintendo® Switch. It is also available at participating retailers throughout North America including:

The AEW: Fight Forever Elite Edition ($79.99), which will be available for both console and PC:
  • Early Access (24-hour/available Wednesday, June 28 – only for consoles)
  • Matt Hardy and Broken Matt Hardy roster additions
  • Six more amazing AEW in-game roster wrestlers: Dax Harwood, Cash Wheeler, The Bunny, Keith Lee, HOOK and Danhausen
  • PLUS four mini-games inspired by the biggest wrestlers in AEW
Follow @aewgames for AEW: Fight Forever for updates, and don’t forget to tune into All Elite Arcade on Twitch every Wednesday at 11 a.m. EST.

Watch the trailer here
https://youtu.be/XkICBGl54Ao
Download the assetshttps://bit.ly/3ScXTbo

For more info visit: https://aew.thqnordic.com/
Visit AEW on Twitch: http://twitch.tv/aewgames
Follow AEW on Twitter: https://twitter.com/AEWGames

Play button
About AEW: Fight Forever

Features:
Match Types

  • Single Matches
  • Tag-Team
  • 3-Way
  • 4-Way
  • Ladder Matches
  • Casino Battle Royale
  • Falls Count Anywhere
  • Unsanctioned Lights-Out (allows use of weapons)
  • Exploding Barbed Wire Death Matches
  • Career Mode
  • Wide Range of Customization Modes
  • Custom Wrestlers (attire and appearance)
  • Custom Move-Sets
  • Custom Entrances
  • Custom Teams
  • Custom Arenas
  • Online Multiplayer
  • Leaderboards
About THQ Nordic
Our official boiler plate can be found on our website:

THQ Nordic Website

About AEW
Founded by CEO, GM and Head of Creative Tony Khan in 2019, AEW is headlined by CM Punk, Jon Moxley, Thunder Rosa, Chris Jericho, Bryan Danielson, Claudio Castagnoli, Kenny Omega, The Young Bucks (Matt and Nick Jackson), Adam Cole, Sting, FTR, Jungle Boy, Jade Cargill, Dr. Britt Baker, Scorpio Sky, Hangman Page, Sammy Guevara, Matt Hardy, Samoa Joe, Swerve Strickland, Miro, Lucha Bros., PAC, Wardlow, Darby Allin, Nyla Rose, Red Velvet, Ruby Soho, Toni Storm, Hikaru Shida, Athena, Malakai Black, Andrade El Idolo, Christian Cage, Eddie Kingston, Ethan Page, Orange Cassidy, Ricky Starks, Powerhouse Hobbs, Luchasaurus, Lance Archer, Keith Lee and many more. For the first time in many years, AEW is offering an alternative to mainstream wrestling, with a roster of world-class talent that is injecting new spirit, freshness and energy into the industry.

“AEW: Dynamite” airs every Wednesday from 8-10 p.m. ET on TBS and attracts the youngest wrestling audience on television. The fight-forward show “AEW: Rampage” airs every Friday from 10-11 p.m. ET on TNT. AEW’s multi-platform content also includes “AEW Dark” and “AEW Dark: Elevation,” two weekly professional wrestling YouTube series, “Being the Elite,” a weekly behind-the-scenes YouTube series, and “AEW Unrestricted,” a weekly podcast series. For more info, check out:
Twitter.com/AEW
Instagram.com/AllEliteWrestling
YouTube.com/AEW
Facebook.com/AllEliteWrestling

All Elite Wrestling Website

About YUKE’S Co., Ltd.
After developing the world’s first 3D wrestling video game engine for the PlayStation, YUKE’S has continued to lead the world in fighting game technology. YUKES’ main expertise lies in having the foresight and planning ability to methodically research the subject matter of an upcoming title to be able to transform the product into the optimal consumer gaming experience, and having the technology at hand required to do so. YUKE’S has undertaken the planning & development of numerous game titles which have been released across markets worldwide. We will continue to provide entertainment, dreams, and profound inspiration to people around the world through the creative expression of innovative ideas.

YUKE’S Co., Ltd. Official Website