Author: Derek Kraneveldt

Derek Kraneveldt is Geekscape's managing editor. A media, comic, and technology enthusiast, he's happy to call Geekscape home. Looking for more from Derek? Keep up with him on twitter or email him here!

Geekscape Mobile: Square-Enix Has Just Released Its First Apple Watch Game!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Briefly: The next title in Square-Enix’ celebrated Chaos Rings series is finally here!

Except… the game is called Cosmos Rings, and it’s available exclusively for Apple Watch.

Square-Enix notes that the title “features nostalgia-evoking visuals, simple touch screen controls and intuitive gameplay providing a unique experience to the Apple Watch. The time travel system in the game utilizes the device’s Digital Crown and messaging feature that operates according to the number of daily steps taken. The title also features automatic battles supplemented by the Active Chain Skill (A.C.S.) system, allowing players to unleash powerful skill combinations.”

I know that fans of the mobile-only series have been clamouring for a new Chaos Rings game for some time now, and I don’t think that many would have expected this.

Square-Enix mobile titles are typically priced as premium products, and Cosmos Rings is no different. The game is on sale for $5.99 for the first 30 days of availability, and it’ll then jump up to its regular $8.99 price. This makes it one of the priciest Apple Watch games that I’ve seen thus far.

You can take a look at the game’s trailer below, and be sure to let us know if you’ve been a fan of the series thus far. You can give Cosmos Rings a download right here.

Watch The First Trailer For Zhang Yimou’s ‘The Great Wall’!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Briefly: Well this is a fantastic trailer for a film that I’d somehow never heard of until now.

Legendary Pictures and Universal Pictures have just dropped the first trailer for Hero and House of Flying Daggers director Zhang Yimou’s net project, The Great Wall.

The film tells the story of an elite force making a valiant stand for humanity on the world’s most iconic structure.

It’s a insanely interesting premise that had never even crossed my mind before: what if the Great Wall of China was built to keep something out?

The film stars Matt Damon, Jing Tian, Pedro Pascal, Willem Dafoe, and Andy Lau, and was actually the largest film ever to be entirely shot in China.

Take a look at the trailer below, and be sure to let us know what you think! The Great Wall hits theatres on February 17th, 2017.

‘Gilmore Girls: A Year In The Life’ Just Got A Premiere Date!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Briefly: Welcome back to Stars Hollow!

Well, that’s what we’ll be saying in a few months, anyways.

Netflix has finally announced just when we’ll be able to watch their upcoming Gilmore Girls revival, and all four 90-minute parts (one each for Fall, Winter, Summer, Spring) will debut on November 25th.

I have never seen an episode of Gilmore Girls in my life, and for some reason I’m really, really excited for this.

Take a look at the hilarious date announcement trailer below, and be sure to let us know what you think!

https://youtu.be/fTnU5MG5Edw

Here’s your first look at Lorelai and Rory in 2016. Seasons change, but some things never will. Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life, a four-part event, premieres November 25. Only on Netflix. Welcome back to Stars Hollow!

Gilmore Girls: A Year In The Life includes four 90-minute chapters, each spanning one of the four seasons: Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall. Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life is created by Amy Sherman-Palladino, who executive produces, writes and directs the four 90-minute chapters with Daniel Palladino. The project is from Dorothy Parker Drank Here Productions in association with Warner Bros. Television.

Watch The First Freaky Teasers For The Next Season Of ‘American Horror Story’

by Derek Kraneveldt

Briefly: It’s about time.

Following last week’s San Diego Comic-Con, FX has finally debuted the first creepy, short teasers for American Horror Story‘s upcoming sixth season.

Just like every year, these teasers don’t actually have much to do with the upcoming episodes, but instead offer a terrifying reminder of just when the series will return, in this case, it’s September 14th.

In previous years, of course, we’d have already known full well the setting of the upcoming season. This time around, the theme and setting of American Horror Story is just as mysterious as these teasers.

In any case, you can take a look at the teasers below, and be sure to let us know what you think this season will be about!

https://twitter.com/gagamonster96/status/758339683013230593

A ‘Life Is Strange’ Series Is Coming From Legendary Digital Studios!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Briefly: This I did not expect to read this morning.

Hot on the heels of making the first episode of Life is Strange free for everyone, DONTNOD has just revealed that they’ve teamed up with Legendary Digital Studios and dj2 to develop a digital series based on my favourite video game of 2015.

DONTNOD stated that “Much like many of you, both Legendary and we here at Square Enix & DONTNOD agree that Life Is Strange lends itself perfectly to live-action imaginings. While we can’t wait to see what Legendary will do with the digital series we don’t have any further details to share at this point in time.”

“Life is Strange is one of those rare properties that combines incredibly developed characters and storylines with deeply engaging gameplay,” said Greg Siegel, Senior Vice President of Development and Production for Legendary Digital Studios. “It lends itself perfectly to live-action imaginings. We couldn’t be more excited to partner with Square Enix, DONTNOD Entertainment and dj2 to bring the world of Arcadia Bay to life in an exciting new way.”

As it says above, no information about the series has been revealed at this point, but I’m so freaking excited.

Who would you like to see as Max and Chloe? Be sure to sound out in the comments below!

SDCC 2016: Watch Shane Lose It Playing ‘Paranormal Activity: The Lost Soul’!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Possibly the highlight of my trip down to San Diego for this year’s Comic-Con is not something that I did… but something that I watched someone else do.

Before the convention floor opened for preview night on Wednesday, Shane, Juan, and I traversed over to the Hilton Gaslamp hotel to checkout a media preview of VRCon. We all had an amazing time speaking about the latest VR camera rigs, but the most memorable moments of the offsite event were experiencing VRWerx Paranormal Activity: The Lost Soul.

The Lost Soul is set to launch this Summer for HTC Vive, a little later on for the Oculus Rift, and will even head to consoles with Sony’s Playstation VR headset. The demo that we experiences was about 4-7 minutes long depending on just how you played, but a VRWerx representative said that the full experience should take gamers about 10 hours.

The demo had you traversing through a dimly lit house while the terrors around you begin to unfold. We used the HTC Vive headset to look around the house, and two controllers that acted like hands, which would allow us to grab objects, open doors and cupboards, and try (and fail) to cover our virtual eyes when something in this world terrified us.

The demo was a blast. I jumped a few times, and so did Juan. It was a tense and scary environment, and I sensed some P.T. inspirations as soon as the demo booted up. This is probably the coolest VR experience I’ve had thus far, as instead of simply watching the action unfold and having the opportunity to look around it, you were fully in control, and at the centre of it. It’s incredibly immersive, with some fantastic sound design that simply never lets you calm down.

But like I said, the highlight of this year’s SDCC was not doing something, but watching someone else do something. Shane O’Hare played The Lost Soul first, and while the journalists that played before us all had appropriate, moderate reactions, Shane went completely off the rails to the point where people were leaving other booths to watch and laugh at him. There was a pretty substantial crowd waiting for him when he took the headset off.

But, don’t take my word for it, watch Shane lose it playing Paranormal Activity: The Lost Soul below.

https://youtu.be/vQ_3MtTrQxo

SDCC 2016: Square-Enix Makes The First ‘Life Is Strange’ Episode Free!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Briefly: If you’re yet to experience the magic that is DONTNOD’s Life is Strange, you need to drop everything that you’re doing, head to your console (or PC), and download the first fantastic episode now.

During the just-concluded pop culture celebration that is San Diego Comic-Con, Square-Enix changed the price of the game’s first episode to a cool $0.00, so if you’ve been ignoring our begging and pleading for you to play the game for the year plus that we’ve been doing it, you’re pretty much out of excuses.

OS X or Linux gamer? The game is now available on your platform as well, so please, please give it a shot, and report back to let us know just how much you love it.

SDCC 2016: Brie Larson Is Officially ‘Captain Marvel’!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Briefly: Yes!

Captain Marvel still doesn’t have a final script or a director… but it now has its Carol Danvers.

Naturally, it’s the actress that many outlets have been speculating we’d see in the role, and the actress that  fans have been clamouring for: Room‘s Brie Larson.

What a perfect choice, don’t you think?

Captain Marvel hits theatres on March 8, 2019.

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SDCC 2016: ‘Kong: Skull Island’ Gets An Epic First Trailer!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Briefly: Another bombshell trailer just dropped at the Warner Bros. panel during San Diego Comic-Con (though this one we definitely expected).

The studio has finally revealed the first trailer for Kong: Skull Island, which comes to us from The Kings of Summer director Jordan Vogt-Roberts, stars Tom Hiddleston, Brie Larson, Samuel Jackson, John Goodman, and John C. Reilly, among others.

There have been heavy rumours since Skull Island was announced that this film would mark the launch of a new, shared monster universe that would later tie-in with Godzilla (and potentially other creatures). We don’t see a Monarch logo (or anything of the sort) in this first look, but we’re damned sure that it would be cool as hell to see the two creatures fight.

For now, take a look at this first trailer, and be sure to let us know what you think of it.

SDCC 2016: Zack Snyder Surprises Fans With The First Trailer For ‘Justice League’!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Briefly: This we did not expect.

Earlier today in the still-ongoing Warner Bros. panel in Hall H, the studio finally screened the first, impressive trailer for next Summer’s Wonder Woman.

Now, director Zack Snyder himself has debuted the first footage for Justice League.

The trailer re-introduces us to each member of the League, and begins with Ben Affleck’s Batman in search of Aquaman.

The tone looks starkly different than the dark and brooding Batman v. Superman, and offers a much more lighthearted feeling. As one would expect, it’s a gorgeous trailer with a bunch of slow motion… and the oft-questioned ‘The Flash’ effect actually really cool.

Take a look at the trailer below, and let us know what you think!

SDCC 2016: Watch The First Trailer For ‘Wonder Woman’!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Briefly: Following the incredibly gorgeous first poster revealed last night, Warner Bros. has just debuted the first trailer for next year’s Wonder Woman solo film.

This marks a great first look at the anticipated film, and we’re extremely glad that Gadot’s Batman v. Superman performance silenced the internet haters, as she looks even more at home in her own solo film.

Before she was Wonder Woman, she was Diana, princess of the Amazons, trained to be an unconquerable warrior. Raised on a sheltered island paradise, when an American pilot crashes on their shores and tells of a massive conflict raging in the outside world, Diana leaves her home, convinced she can stop the threat. Fighting alongside man in a war to end all wars, Diana will discover her full powers…and her true destiny.

Take a look at the trailer below, and be sire to let us know what you think! Wonder Woman hits theatres on June 2nd, 2017.

SDCC 2016: The First Poster For ‘Wonder Woman’ Is So Freaking Beautiful!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Briefly: Wonder Woman herself, Gal Gadot, has just revealed the very first poster for next year’s Wonder Woman solo film… and it’s probably the best poster that we’ve seen in recent memory.

It’s an extremely simple image that simply shows Diana, standing sternly with her sword, but it’s the silhouette, contact, and colouring of the poster that makes it truly outstanding. This looks more like art than a piece of marketing material, and I’m sure I’m not alone in saying that I would love to get my hands on one.

Before she was Wonder Woman, she was Diana, princess of the Amazons, trained to be an unconquerable warrior. Raised on a sheltered island paradise, when an American pilot crashes on their shores and tells of a massive conflict raging in the outside world, Diana leaves her home, convinced she can stop the threat. Fighting alongside man in a war to end all wars, Diana will discover her full powers…and her true destiny.

Wonder Woman hits theatres on June 2nd, 2017.

SDCC 2016: Adam Wingard’s ‘The Woods’ Is Actually A New ‘Blair Witch’!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Briefly: We’ve all been punked.

Adam Wingard’s The Woods, which has been garnering major (positive) buzz all around the internet, is not the film that it’s been pretending to be.

It’s actually a new Blair Witch film.

In the movie, a group of college students venture into the Black Hills Forest in Maryland to uncover the mysteries surrounding the disappearance of James’ sister who many believe is connected to the legend of the Blair Witch. At first the group is hopeful, especially when a pair of locals offer to act as guides through the dark and winding woods, but as the endless night wears on, the group is visited by a menacing presence. Slowly, they begin to realize the legend is all too real and more sinister than they could have imagined.

It’s tough to know just why Lionsgate would have kept this under wraps for so long, but the internet is absolutely blowing up about it, which is like a huge, probably inexpensive way to market the film. In any case, it’s interesting as hell reveal, and I can’t wait to hear more about it.

You can take a look at the trailer below, and be sure to let us know what you think! Blair Witch hits theatres on September 16th!

SDCC 2016: Headed To The Petco Interactive Zone? Here’s What You’re In For!

by Derek Kraneveldt

We’ve been having a ton of fun covering some of the many offsite events at this year’s San Diego Comic-Con, including the Amazon Village, FXHibition, and AHS: Fearless VR.

If you’re looking for a more diverse offsite, which includes a batch of installations from various companies and sponsors in a wide open, public, no badge necessary space, you’ll definitely want to take a look at the always fun Petco Interactive Zone.

I spent some time at the interactive zone during Thursday’s sweltering afternoon, and took some photos of the installations and opportunities that you can expect to see if you decide to visit. The Zone is decidedly smaller than it’s been in previous years, but I didn’t have to wait in line for more than ten minutes to experience anything that the booths had to offer.

Here’s what you’re in for if you decide to visit this year:

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There’s a pretty simple Geico booth, where you can take your photo with a GIANT Geico lizard, and also have an opportunity to win a $500 gift card. There was no line for this almost the entire time that I was present at the Petco Interactive Zone.

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The Yo-Kai Watch booth was pretty awesome. You’ll notice a giant, photo-op ready Jibanyan as soon as you step foot in the interactive zone, and as a full-grown adult surrounded by children, it was unexpectedly hard not to hug the thing.

The booth was offering face painting for kids, Dance lessons (followed by a dance party) throughout the day (also for kids I’d assume), demo 3DS units where you could try out the game. A Nintendo representative was there to show you some of the newest Yo-Kai Watch toys, and offered up a ‘Stamps of Fury’ game card, where you could win some cool prizes just by obtaining all of the stamps in the booth.

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You can also take a ride on a ferris wheel, which I imagine could garner some pretty sweet photographs of the busy San Diego downtown. This ferris wheel didn’t actually seem to have anything to do with SDCC, and is $2 per rider per ride.

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Snickers and TBS are hosting a ‘Satisfaction Station’, where you can put on some silly clothing and be featured on your very own comic book cover.

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Jack In The Box and The Walking Dead: Road To Survival were hosting a pretty awesome photo-op. Attendees have the opportunity to pose with Lucille at a dilapidated Jack in the Box restaurant, completed with a walker ready to take your order.

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As in the past few years, virtual reality is king at Comic-Con. Razer is hosting virtual reality demos in their booth, and attendees also have the opportunity to win some cool prizes.

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Ash vs. Evil Dead probably had the coolest (and quickest) installation at Petco. After waiting in line, you walk through a small, destroyed cabin. Inside, you’ll see bugs crawling all over the floor, pots and pans rattling, a few bodiless heads (that are still talking) and more. There are some great photo ops at the installation, and when you emerge you’ll receive a ticket which will net you a foam chainsaw, beer-coozy, t-shirt, or poster.

As always, there are a ton of themed food options available in the interactive zone as well, so if you’re looking for some quick grub without the long lines (that you’ll unfortunately have to eat in the heat), this may be a good option.

It’s definitely worth the visit to the Petco Interactive zone. There are some neat installations, and some awesome prizes to be had, just down expect the vast amount of options that have been present in previous years. The plus side to this fact, though, is that the crowds seem far smaller as well.

Already visit? What did you think!?

SDCC 2016: Finally, ‘The Walking Dead’ Season 7 Trailer Is Here!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Briefly: Finally, the moment of San Diego Comic-Con that everyone seems to be waiting for.

Nope, not some new Marvel news (that Luke Cage trailer though), some insane exclusive, or the first teaser trailer for some movie that we won’t be seeing for two or three years.

Following the key art from last week, and the Fear the Walking Dead trailer from earlier this morning, AMC has officially debuted the trailer for The Walking Dead’s seventh season during its Comic-Con panel today.

Naturally, the mystery over who met Lucille in the season six cliffhanger has not been solved, and we’ll have to wait until October to find out. During the panel, Kirkman noted that “You’ll see who was at the end of that bat and what happened from there.” And that the Negan’s victim is “beloved to everyone.”

Without further adieu. Here we go:

The Walking Dead returns on Sunday, October 23rd!

SDCC 2016: The ‘American Horror Story: Fearless VR’ Is One Of The Scariest VR Experiences Yet!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Briefly: Shane already shared just what you’re in store for if you visit the fantastic FXHibition art installations outside of the Hilton Bayfront at this year’s San Diego Comic-Con.

This morning, we returned to the now familiar territory to experience the one attraction that we missed out on yesterday, and it was definitely worth the wait.

We’re talking about the American Horror Story: Fearless VR, an intimate experience that FX didn’t really detail in the press release, didn’t allow us to take photos of, and an experience that was encompassed in a foreboding, plain black silo. Creepy, creepy stuff.

SAN DIEGO, CA - JULY 21: A general view of atmosphere at FXhibition during Comic-Con International 2016 at Hilton Bayfront on July 21, 2016 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Michael Kovac/Getty Images for FX)
SAN DIEGO, CA – JULY 21: A general view of atmosphere at FXhibition during Comic-Con International 2016 at Hilton Bayfront on July 21, 2016 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Michael Kovac/Getty Images for FX)

If you’re looking to experience the AHS: Fearless VR without spoilers, just know that it’s totally cool, extremely well done, and quite freaking terrifying. I attended the experience with our own Shane O’Hare, and upon completion of the VR, Shane noted that what he had witnessed terrified him, gave him intense feelings of claustrophobia, and that he would not go through it again… after also stating that it was one of the best VR demos he’d experienced thus far.

SPOILERS BEYOND THIS POINT!

Alright, now that we’ve got that spoiler warning out of the way, let’s talk about just how cool this experience was.

Six people enter the silo at a time, and the experience takes five or six minutes to enter and exit (so you can gauge your place in the sure-to-be-long line). Inside the silo, it’d be hard not to notice the sleek, white walls and semi-translucent ceiling, which all marks a start contrast from the smooth, black ‘bed’ that those in attendance will lay on.

SAN DIEGO, CA - JULY 21: Guests enjjoy the AHS Fearless VR Experience at FXhibition during Comic-Con International 2016 at Hilton Bayfront on July 21, 2016 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Michael Kovac/Getty Images for FX)
SAN DIEGO, CA – JULY 21: Guests enjoy the AHS Fearless VR Experience at FXhibition during Comic-Con International 2016 at Hilton Bayfront on July 21, 2016 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Michael Kovac/Getty Images for FX)

The FX ‘doctors’ cover you with a white sheet, help you put on your VR headset and headphones, help you become oriented, and once everyone is set up, the experience begins.

Everything is pitch black when an ominous voice warns you that you’re about to experience some of your deepest, darkest fears. The image fades in, you’re looking down towards your feet and laying on a gurney, and at that point it’s painfully obvious that you’re a corpse in some sort of gruesome morgue.

You spend a moment looking around and almost everything is off. The corpse on the gurney beside you has no head, you can see a body on the floor, everything is a Silent Hill level of dirty, you hear flies flying around you. Nothing about this is comfortable, and you quickly feel your skin begin to crawl.

A door opens in front of you, and a silhouette begins to approach. After a moment, she comes in to focus, and it’s the terrifying American Horror Story nun walking towards you, coming inches away from your face before beginning to push your gurney. You’ll notice heads and other body parts in jars as she pushes you down the hallway, and if you turn your head, something that you just saw may no longer be there. The gurney begins to move faster and faster, and you feel your stomach become unsettled due to the high-speed that your brain thinks that you’re moving at.

At this point, things become a little foggy, and I’m not quite sure what order the events take place in.

The nun continues pushing you, and eventually places you in a tiny, claustrophobic as hell cold chamber. It’s extremely dark, and turning your head will only let you see just how enclosed you are. After a moment of extreme silence, your perspective begins to shift and the gurney is suddenly falling into a foggy forest. You hear wildlife calling out, and it’s not long before three hooded figures appear from the fog, and as they approach you it becomes clear that they’re not walking, but floating ever closer.

The figures lift you up with some sort of telekinesis, and then literally burn you at the stake.

A hard cut, and a terrifying clown is standing stationary, just staring at you. It gets closer and closer before finally snapping. He then throws several dangerous objects at you, which are nearly impossible to not attempt to dodge.

The third object hits you in the face, another hard cut, and your gurney is again moving (on its own this time around). You’re now travelling through the halls of the Hotel Cortez. After a moment the ominous voice returns, warning you not to look down. An instant later, and the gurney enters, and begins to fall, down one of the hotel’s many elevator shafts. Though you’re stationary, you feel your stomach churn as you freefall down the shaft, gurney turning and flipping as it hits the walls.

You think that this must be it, but then the elevator races towards you. It stops just long enough for you to see the sharp, metal spikes protruding from its bottom, before it crushes you underneath it.

The ominous voice returns, letting you know that ‘The experience is now over. Please remember that everything you have seen was just a simulation.”

Then the nun comes back for one final jump scare, and the experience ends.

Holy hell that was freaky.

The FXHibition can be found across from the Hilton Bayfront, and is open Friday 10AM – 6PM, Saturday 10AM – 6PM, Sunday 10AM – 4PM.

SAN DIEGO, CA - JULY 21: A general view of atmosphere at FXhibition during Comic-Con International 2016 at Hilton Bayfront on July 21, 2016 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Michael Kovac/Getty Images for FX)
SAN DIEGO, CA – JULY 21: A general view of atmosphere at FXhibition during Comic-Con International 2016 at Hilton Bayfront on July 21, 2016 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Michael Kovac/Getty Images for FX)

SDCC 2016: Watch The Trailer For Season 2B Of ‘Fear The Walking Dead’!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Briefly: We’re expecting to see the full trailer for The Walking Dead proper’s seventh season any time now, but for now you’ll just have to settle with a good look at season 2B of AMC’s Fear The Walking Dead.

The series takes us back to the beginning of the zombie apocalypse – a time when the world was changing rapidly for reasons unknown, before anyone understood exactly what was happening, when life as everyone knew it was upended and altered in ways no one could have ever imagined. The series also stars Frank Dillane as Nick, Alycia Debnam-Carey as Alicia, Ruben Blades as Daniel, Mercedes Mason as Ofelia,and Lorenzo James Henrie as Chris.

I’m avoiding the video myself, as I’m not quite up to date with Fear at this point and time. In any case, you can take a look at the trailer below, and be sure to let us know what you think!

Fear the Walking Dead returns to AMC on August 21st!

SDCC 2016: Watch The Official Trailer For ‘Transformers: Combiner Wars’!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Briefly: Finally, after four weeks of prelude, the official trailer for Transformers: Combiner Wars is finally here.

The trailer was revealed earlier today during the official Transformers: Combiner Wars panel at SDCC, where panelists also revealed a ton of information about the just-around-the-corner series.

The trailer shows gives us our first look at the fantastic animation for the series, which will debut all 8 episodes exclusively on Go90 on August 2nd.

In the series, the Autobots and Decepticons have disbanded and returned to Cybertron. With the days of Optimus Prime and Megatron over, Cybertron is now ruled by a triumvirate. However, an ancient technology has enabled a new threat, the power for multiple Transformers to combine into one massive, dangerous form: Combiners. Who will stand-up to this threat to ensure that the fragile peace that was 4 million years in the making remains?

Take a look at the trailer below, and read on further to learn about the impressive, diverse voice cast for Combiner Wars.

https://youtu.be/Dtaws91dGs4

– ANNA AKANA, Victorion. With her 1.8M followers across YouTube, Twitter, and Instagram, Akana is a social media powerhouse. As an actress, she has had roles in Marvel’s Ant Man, Hello, My Name is Doris, and Freeform’s The Fosters.

 

– JON BAILEY, Optimus Prime. Otherwise known as the “EpicVoiceGuy,” Bailey is perhaps most recognizable as the current narrator of Honest Trailers.

 

– CHARLIE GUZMAN, Menasor. Known best to his 2.6M YouTube subscribers as, “DashieGames,” Guzman has made a career out of gameplay videos. He’s built his impressive fan base by taking games like Grand Theft Auto and Mario Kart, and adding comedic commentary to his gameplay.

 

– RICKY HAYBERG, Computron. Ricky is an actor, writer, and the host for Machinima’s franchise show, ETC.

 

– AMY JOHNSTON, Maxima. Best known for her work with the production company, Bat in the Sun, Johnston has also cameoed in Machinima’s recent Street Fighter: Resurrection series.

 

– JASON MARNOCHA, Megatron. Marnocha is an actor and writer known best for his work on Throne of Atlantis, Deathstroke: Arkham Assassin, and Justice League War Abridged.

 

– LANA MCKISSACK, Mistress of Flame. McKissack is perhaps most well known for her YouTube channel, thanks to her comedy sketches. She also has an extensive list of acting credits that includes Four Rooms, The Magic Pearl, and The Passing.

 

– BEN PRONSKY, Rodimus Prime. Pronsky is a voice actor with various TV and video game credits. He’s provided the voice to characters in shows like Aldnoah.Zero, and Magi: The Kingdom of Magic, and for games such as Dynast Warriors 8 and D4: Dark Dreams Don’t Die.

 

– PATRICK SEITZ, Devastator. With over 200 credits to his name, Seitz has provided voices for a variety of well-known films, TV shows, and video games. His work includes Inside Out, Monsters University, and Resident Evil: Damnation.

 

– FRANK TODARO, Starscream. Todaro is a voice actor with various video game credits. They include, Shardlight, Technobabylon, andLittleBigPlanet 1 & 2 where he was the voice of the Buzz Lightyear.

 

– ABBY TROTT, Windblade. Trott is a voice actress with credits that include the TV series The Seven Deadly Sins and Miss Monochrome, as well as the video game Killer Instinct.

After watching Machinima’s Prelude series, I cannot wait to see what Combiner Wars has to offer. Be sure to let us know if you’re looking forward to the series in the comments below!

SDCC 2016: Yep. The Trailer For ‘Luke Cage’ Is Insanely Bad-Ass!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Briefly: Aw yiss.

We were all expecting to see some footage from Marvel / Netflix’ Luke Cage during the San Diego Comic-Con panel, but I certainly didn’t expect to be blown away by the footage that was shown.

Yeah, it’s definitely a teaser, and doesn’t reveal much at all about what we’ll see in the series, but I’ll be damned if it isn’t a blast to watch. The sound track and the slow-motion action fit together perfectly, and we cannot freaking wait for the September 30th debut.

After a sabotaged experiment leaves him with super strength and unbreakable skin, Luke Cage (Mike Colter) becomes a fugitive who attempts to rebuild his life in modern day Harlem, New York City. But soon he is pulled out of the shadows and must fight a battle for the heart of his city – forcing him to confront a past he had tried to bury.

Take a look at the trailer below, and be sure to let us know what you think!

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SDCC 2016: Do The Time Warp With The First Trailer For Fox’s ‘The Rocky Horror Picture Show’!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Briefly: I see you shiver with antici… pation.

That’s right! Finally, finally, finally, Fox has debuted the very first trailer for its upcoming 2-hour The Rocky Horror Picture Show event.

The remake stars Orange Is The New Black‘s Laverne Cox as Frank-N-Furter, and we’ll also see the likes of Victoria Justice, Ryan McCartan, Adam Lambert, Christina Milian, Annaleigh Ashford, Ben Vereen, Ivy Levan, Reeve Carney and Staz Nair during the production,

THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW, a brand-new reimagining of the cult-classic midnight movie 40 years in the making, is set to air October 2016. Sweethearts JANET (Victoria Justice, “Victorious”) and BRAD (Ryan McCartan, “Liv & Maddie,” “Heathers the Musical”) stumble upon flirtatious mad scientist DR. FRANK-N-FURTER’s (Emmy Award-nominated actress Laverne Cox, “Orange is the New Black”) bizarre abode during his annual Transylvanian science convention. The two-hour event also features Emmy Award nominee Tim Curry, the original Frank-N-Furter.

Take a look at the trailer below, and be sure to let us know what you think! The Rocky Horror Picture Show will debut this October!

SDCC 2016: ‘Thunderbirds Are Go’ And ‘Man In The High Castle’ Take Centre Stage At The Amazon Village!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Early this morning, Shane O’Hare and I had the opportunity to visit the Amazon Village offsite event at this year’s San Diego Comic-Con.

The Amazon Village is open today (Thursday) from 9AM to 7PM, Friday from 9AM to 7PM, Saturday from 9AM to 8PM, and Sunday from 9AM to 5PM at 301 1st Ave (1st Ave. and Martin Luther King Promenade).

As you’d probably imagine, an offsite event from one of the most progressive companies at the convention is bound to be a must visit, and we would certainly recommend jumping in line for this one.

Two Amazon exclusive properties are front and centre at SDCC this year, being Thunderbirds Are Go and Man in the High Castle. Both of these properties look freaking fantastic, and both of these properties made me sad to be a Canadian resident, where I can work on Man in the High Castle (it’s filmed in my current home base of Vancouver), but cannot legally watch it.

Two separate, well air conditioned (thank you Amazon) test house the themed installations, and first we visited the Thunderbirds Are Go tent, where fans will have the opportunity to take photos with larger than life versions of their favourite Thunderbirds Are Go characters (including a neat green screen experience), sit in the cockpit of a nearly 1:1 scale Thunderbird 2 (and of course take photos), and learn about all of the sweet, sweet Thunderbirds characters along the way. Several televisions throughout the installation repeated trailers from the Thunderbirds Are Go series, which offers a neat mix of miniatures and stop motion, along with some slick CGI, and it made me seriously want to binge the series during my short time in the United States.

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Next up, we moved into the Man in the High Castle installation, which was developed by NVE. This impressive tent featured props and artwork from the series, a neat virtual reality experience powered by the HTC Vive, and an ‘Amazon Passport’ game, in which you could receive stamps from the Amazon employees and trade them in for a sweet, sweet lithograph. During the Man in the High Castle demonstration, Shane and I were actually able to live stream the experience, which you can watch right here:

As someone who has spent some time on and around the Man in the High Castle sets, it was tough to look at the intricate costumes and props, and hear of the exceptional plot of the series while knowing that it’s a series that I won’t have the opportunity to watch any time soon.

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The photos really don’t do the experience justice. If you’re a fan of the series, or even someone who is lightly curious about it, this is an offsite that you should be standing in line for.

Did you have a chance to visit the experience? Be sure to let us know in the comments below!

SDCC 2016: Starz Debuts The First Poster From ‘American Gods’

by Derek Kraneveldt

Briefly: Preceding the official American Gods panel tomorrow (from 3:15-4:15PM in room 6BCF), Starz has debuted the first official poster for its upcoming, incredibly anticipated American Gods.

The series posits a war brewing between old and new gods: the traditional gods of mythological roots from around the world steadily losing believers to an upstart pantheon of gods reflecting society’s modern love of money, technology, media, celebrity and drugs. Its protagonist, Shadow Moon, is an ex-con who becomes bodyguard and traveling partner to Mr. Wednesday, a conman but in reality one of the older gods, on a cross-country mission to gather his forces in preparation to battle the new deities.

I’m actually not overly familiar with the book myself, but based on that description, it’s definitely jumped to the top of my must-read list.

You can take a look at the poster below, and be sure to check back for more SDCC and American Gods coverage as it’s announced!

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SDCC 2016: The ‘Resident Evil 7’ Kitchen Demo Just Sold Us On Playstation VR!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Walking the San Diego Comic-Con floor this year, it’d be impossible not to notice the insanely intricate booth-work that companies like WETA, Alex Ross Art, Adult Swim, and Capcom (among others) have brought with them from all over the country to impress the hundreds of thousands of attendees that will walk the show floor over the next four days.

The best looking booth this year? After walking KM after KM on the convention floor (trying to see all of the slick booths and also trying to hatch some Pokémon eggs), it’s pretty clear that Capcom’s Resident Evil 7 installation is the most striking both of 2016. Seriously, this thing looks like it’s straight out of the village from Resident Evil 4, which is an exciting throwback to the last time that Resident Evil was truly terrifying.

The booth features a series of small rooms. In each dilapidated, cobweb-infested, barely lit space (again, really selling the whole ‘terrifying’ aspect) was a single chair, a television, and a Playstation 4 unit with a Playstation VR headset attached.

Inside the room, we sat down and were set to experience the Kitchen demonstration, which is a short but intense PlayStation VR demo that serves to set up events that lead up to Resident Evil 7.  The Capcom representative let us know that this demo has only been shown a handful of times, and was completed about a year ago (well before Resident Evil 7 was announced) to show the level of immersion that the team would strive for with the finished product.

This was the first time that I’d ever actually put a Playstation VR headset on my head, and I was beyond surprised with just how good looking, comfortable, and easily adjustable the headset was. A single button on the back of the unit allows you to adjust how tight the headset is on your head, while a button on the front allows you to move the display closer or further away from your eyes. Seriously, this is far and away the most comfortable VR headset that I’ve had the opportunity to wear thus far.

As soon as the demo begins, another thing that shocked me is just how fluid movement is on the Playstation VR. I had just completed an HTC Vive demonstration a few hours before, which I was seriously impressed with (look for the video soon), but the virtually 1:1 tracking of the Playstation VR system absolutely blew me away, and exponentially added to the already incredible immersion that VR brings to the table.

The demo is fairly short, but definitely had me jump (and Shane scream) more than a couple of times throughout its duration. Kitchen fades in from black, and has you looking around a disgusting kitchen (obviously) setting, hands and feet tied to a chair, with seemingly no knowledge of how you got there or what is happening. Turning and moving the Dualshock 4 controller will turn and stretch your wrists in an eerily-lifelike manner, and after a moment you’ll notice an unconscious body on the floor. Get his attention, and he’ll wake up and try to help you… and that’s when shit hits the fan.

I had a blast experiencing Kitchen. It was immersive as hell, but not great looking, and not the most interactive demo that I’ve experienced even today. Jaggies were prominent (though the framerate seemed very smooth), textures seemed fairly muddy (though we’re not sure if this is from the VR headset, or because of this being an older demo), and you only really need to complete one or two actions, and for the rest of the demonstration you’re just along for the (scary) ride.

The Resident Evil 7 booth is a must-visit, and you can head to the booth (#215) as soon as the floor opens in order to get your free ticket to experience the event. Tickets are limited, so you’ll want to get there fast.

Overall, Kitchen made me really excited for the Resident Evil 7 VR experience, and really excited for a Resident Evil game for the first time in a long time.

Resident Evil 7 hits Windows, PS4, and Xbox One on January 27th, and I can’t wait to check it out.

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Shane’s Thoughts

The thing I noticed first about the RE7 demo was how much I liked the Playstation VR headset.

It stretched out easily to fit my rather large head, and the lenses were the easiest to focus: VR and I haven’t really gotten along, and a lot of it looks really grainy and pixelated. From what I’ve been able to gather, it’s because of my 20/10 vision not working well with focal points/lenses designed for 20/20 vision and below with corrective lenses. It’s always been a chore to find the right focus for any of the VR experiences I’ve been able to check out. The Samsung Gear is my least favorite, as the lenses top out at an incredibly short distance.

The Playstation VR headset had an incredible range of focus with the lenses, and the rubber shroud around the goggle portion cut out any and all light coming from the inside.

Once in the demo, I instantly noticed how quickly everything moved. The refresh rate felt very high, and the tracking didn’t have any of the normal “lag” I was used to with things like Oculus and Vive.

The demo itself was very instense. As I was stuck in the chair, I was trying to move around and get a better look at the kitchen. I accidentally knocked over the camera that was filming the player, and it spooked the hell out of me.

When the “zombie” came and attacked me, I physically reacted. I cringed and leaned back as she pointed the knife in my face, and when she stabbed my leg my whole body twitched. My heart rate climbed and I was getting nervous.

The end has her coming from behind you, putting her hands over your face then leaning over and stabbing you. Seeing these bloodied fingers come around my face really disturbed me, and made me really uncomortable.

All and all I am very excited to see what Capcom is going to bring to the table with Resident Evil 7 and I can safely say this came will be amazing in VR. Just from the short demo I got to experience today, I can tell you I will be getting this VR setup.

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TurnStyle And Geekscape Announce Huge ‘Pokémon Go’ NYC Meetup On August 5th!

by Derek Kraneveldt

We are so, so excited to be announcing this.

San Diego Comic-Con has not even started yet, and the Geekscape team is down in San Diego preparing to bring you some HUGE coverage of some of the hottest events, movies, comic books, and more from the show floor.

But that’s this week, and as excited as we are to be experiencing Comic-Con once again, we’re always looking forward to the future.

Naturally, Nintendo and Niantic’s Pokémon Go is ruling most of our lives (and the entire world) right now. Heck, I’m just as excited to be in San Diego catching different Pokémon than I’d see in Vancouver, as I am to see the sights that Comic-Con brings this year. So that future that we’re looking toward? The TurnStyle and Geekscape Pokémon Go meet up in New York on August 5th.

This is an ALL AGES event that will run from 5-9PM on Friday, August 5th. There will be music, discounts and deals specifically for Pokémon players at TurnStyle’s retail and dining locations, limited edition collectable giveaways and exclusive Pokémon tips and tricks from some of the best players in the industry. Of course, there will also be ever-handy Lures placed all over.

We really can’t wait to see this event come to life. Jonathan will be there in the flesh, and you’ll probably see other notable Geekscapists like Eric Francisco, BigYanks, and more! Jonathan is beyond excited for the opportunity, noting that “I’m thrilled to be partnering with TurnStyle to host a Pokémon Go Meet Up in August. As a huge Pokémon Go player myself I can’t wait for my friends in the gaming community, Pokémon themed cosplayers and also casual mobile gamers to get together and catch Pokémon in New York’s coolest underground shopping and dining experience. We have some fun things planned for fans of the game.”

TurnStyle is New York City’s leading lifestyle hub, an underground marketplace proving that there is an upside to down. Located within a completely renovated 325-foot-long passageway leading from 57th Street and Eighth Avenue to the subway platforms, TurnStyle has reimagined the subway experience by creating a Main Street-esque destination under Columbus Circle. With 39 local small businesses, nationally recognized brands and rotating pop-ups from designers, artisans and artists, TurnStyle brings choice, convenience and a modern, clean design to the 90,000+ daily commuters who frequent this Midtown Manhattan destination. From hats to flowers, dumplings to doughnuts, cell phone cases to sunglasses, and much more in between, TurnStyle brings a unique and accessible selection to change the commuting experience.

We still have a few weeks until this event takes place, and if it’s physically possible for you to show up, we want you there. If you can’t make it, be sure to share with your friends and Pokémon Go team members, so that we can make the TurnStyle and Geekscape Pokémon Go Meet Up the best. meet up. ever.

Any questions? Be sure to let us know in the comments below, and we’ll see you under Columbus Circle on August 5th! Are you excited? We’re SO excited.

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SDCC 2016: Headed To SDCC? You’ll Definitely Want To Visit VR Con As Well!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Briefly: As a huge fan of all of the virtual reality experiences that I’ve had the opportunity to try thus far, and as someone who does not have the computing power to run a virtual reality headset, you better believe that I’m excited to check out VR Con during this year’s San Diego Comic-Con.

VR CON was created to celebrate the boldest and coolest in the exploding areas of Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), Mediated Reality (MR), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Wearable Computing.  VR CON, which will travel to cities around North America and beyond, covers entertainment, gaming, education, travel, design and more.

VR CON @ COMIC-CON is Comic-Con International’s officially-sanctioned event that showcases the latest from the leading equipment makers, film studios, television networks, game builders, publishers, brands, designers, influencers and innovators. The event will be held at the Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter hotel, which directly faces the San Diego Convention Center, home of Comic-Con International.

An early sneak preview of world renowned astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson’s upcoming game Space Odyssey is expected to be a highlight attraction for attendees. The multiplatform game will allow players to travel through space, build their own spacecraft, and explore the cosmos. The game will include virtual reality missions, available on home and mobile devices – and eventually at museums, space centers, and classrooms.

Here’s a rundown of everything happening at VR Con, which begins tonight (Wednesday, July 20) with a preview day, which includes a media reception in the space from 3-6 p.m. PST, allowing international media and blogging communities a first experience of this premiere event. A public preview follows from 6-9 p.m. on Wednesday, and regular days and hours are: Thursday & Friday (July 21-22) 9 a.m.-8 p.m.; Saturday (July 23) 9 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sunday (July 24) 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

– Thursday – Saturday (July 21-23), VRLIVE, the first VR and 360-degree live-action network, will live stream host Mark Kassen’s interviews planned with Randal Kleiser, Director of Grease and Defrost; Guy Shelmerdine, Catatonic Director Tony Kaye, American History X Director; Andrew Shulkind, VR DOP for The Strain’s Comic-Con VR Experience with Headcase VR; and others leaders in the field.

– Thursday (July 21) panel: “Dent the Future VR” – 2-3pm in the San Diego Convention Center Expo Hall Room 23A-B. This panel expands on the Dent team’s  “Building the Holodeck” VR/AR panel from last year, with an update titled “State of the Holodeck.”  Panelists scheduled include: Tony Christopher (CEO and President, Landmark Entertainment Group), Mary Jesse (Chief Strategy Officer, ‎VRstudios), Julian Reyes (VR Producer, FUSION), Chanel Summers (Co-Founder, Syndicate 17), Michael Licht (Co-Founder and Creative Director, Emblematic Group), and Mark Murphy (Co-Founder and Creative Director, Neil deGrasse Tyson Presents Space Odyssey).

– Friday (July 22) panel: “Creating Your Own Universe” – 7:30-8:30 p.m. at the San Diego Convention Center, Expo Hall Room 5 A-B. Leading creative voices will discuss the development of a multi-platform universe that engages in the VR and AR spaces as well as the traditional animation and gaming markets. Moderated by Len Wien (co-creator of Wolverine, Nightcrawler, Colossus, Swamp Thing and Wolverine), the panel also includes Peter Beagle (creator, The Last Unicorn), Bob Rafei (CEO, Red Button Entertainment), Sinclair Fleming (Director or Engineering/VR, Radiant Images), Russell Naftal (Co-Managing Partner, VR Werx), and Mark Murphy. The event will be live streamed by VRLIVE in partnership with Radiant Images (airing via the Comic Con HQ Channel and YouTube360).

– Saturday (July 23) panel: “Creating Universes” – 11:30am-12:30pm at the Horton Grand Theater. Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson hosts an A-List panel of creators, including Len Wein, and Bill Prady (co-creator, writer, executive producer, The Big Bang Theory) who will discuss how universes are formed with the imagination and with science. Renowned artist Rob Prior (Game of Thrones, Star Wars) will provide a live painting exhibition during the panel. VRLIVE will live stream the event.

In addition to Space Odyssey, other projects and developments on display will include:

– Columbia Memorial Space Center – This Los Angeles-area space learning complex will provide space artifacts to complement Space Odyssey.

– Mars 2030 / NASA – Backed with support from NASA, Fusion Media’s Mars 2030 is underscored by a singular mission: do everything possible to make the player feel like they’re actually on Mars.  That includes starting with a massive, detailed recreation of an actual part of the planet’s surface.

– Paranormal Activity: The Lost Soul in VR – VRWERX previews its “scary as hell” VR attraction based on Paramount Pictures’ movie franchise.

– Time Zombies – VRstudios’ gaming and entertainment division, VRcade, takes players through the dark and ominous streets and back alleys of an abandoned English town in 1910, where Zombies lurk in every corner and hiding place ready to attack.

– Tiltbrush – Tiltbrush is one of the truly cool experiences to emerge in the VR space. Some of the top creators in comics and animation will be playing with this unique tool and sharing their creations on site.

– Pure McCartney – Rock out at a concert by the incomparable Sir Paul McCartney, presented by Jaunt.

– Circle of Life 360 Experience / The Lion King on Broadway – Get enveloped in the world of one of Disney’s epics, by “being” on stage of the hit Broadway musical.

– Defrost – VR series written and directed by Randal Kleiser and featuring Carl Weathers, Bruce Davison and Harry Hamlin. It was shown at the Sundance Film Festival and the Cannes Film Festival in 2016.

– New York Times and other VR stories – Experience war in Syria and life in other places in the world through VR stories filmed by Emblematic Group, whose founder Nonny de la Peña has been named the “Godmother of virtual reality” by the Guardian.

– 360 Portal – A unique, immersive, mind-blowing experience utilizing a globe.

– Visions of China – A fully immersive tour of some of the most beautiful and exotic landscapes and venues of this enchanting nation.

– Heavy Metal – The iconic sci-fi/fantasy anthology magazine is expanding across multiple media platforms including immersive entertainment, and will spotlight their upcoming projects including VR/360.

– Phoenix Rising / Captain Power reboot – The 1980s sci-fi TV series Captain Power and the Soldiers of the Future is coming back from the past, with the space drama now titled Phoenix Rising.

–  Pokemon Go – VR CON is an official Poke Stop, and will be dropping Poke lures throughout the show.

– VR LIVE Studio – Radiant Images and partner VRLIVE, the first VR and 360-degree live-action network, are setting up VR LIVE STUDIO at VR CON, and will live stream host Mark Kassen’s interviews

– Comic-Con HQ Channel – A live-stream from VR CON will be filmed and appear on this new digital channel from Comic-Con International and Lionsgate Studios.

Sounds like an action-packed event. Better block off a whole day for this one.

Are you planning to hit up VR Con while in San Diego this week? Be sure to let us know!

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SDCC 2016: Marvel Debuts 13-Foot Captain America Statue To Celebrate 75th Anniversary!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Briefly: Captain America fan? You’ll want to make sure that you head to the Marvel booth (#2329) so that you can get your eyes on this incredible display.

Headlining the Captain America 75th anniversary celebration, Marvel has collaborated with high-end collectibles maker Comicave Studios to create a one-of-a-kind Captain America statue that will be displayed at the Marvel booth #2329 at Comic-Con International on July 20. Comicave Studios worked closely with Marvel artists in New York and a Brooklyn-based sculptor to design the bronze tribute, standing at over 13 feet and weighing 1 ton. The statue will continue to stand tall on the show floor throughout San Diego Comic-Con for photo ops with fans, and 1/12-scale bronze replicas of the statue will be available for purchase. Plus, a custom comic book was created by Marvel Publishing writers and artists to integrate the statue into new storytelling. This one-of-a-kind comic will be available in limited quantities at San Diego Comic-Con and future Captain America events.

Following SDCC, the commemorative statue will journey via truck across the country to Brooklyn, NY – the hometown of Steve Rogers – for a limited engagement in Brooklyn’s Prospect Park. Fans can follow the truck along its cross-country route through photos on social media sites like Marvel and StyledByMarvel Instagram. The statue will be on display in the Children’s Corner of Prospect Park for a two-week temporary installation, kicking off with a dedication ceremony and community event on August 10th from 1-3pm. In the evening, a special viewing of the recent blockbuster film, Marvel’s Captain America: Civil War, will take place in Prospect Park as part of the culmination of the Brooklyn Borough President Eric L. Adams’ “A Summer Movie Under the Stars” program, which will be airing four Captain America-focused movies every Wednesday from July 20th to August 10th.

“To the rest of America and the world, he’s Captain America; to us, he’ll always be Steve Rogers, ‘just a kid from Brooklyn,’” said Borough President Adams. “Brooklyn is proud to be the base of celebrations for Cap’s 75thanniversary, which will be capped by a larger-than-life statue traveling around our borough — befitting of this larger-than-life character. Prospect Park is the place to be this summer to enjoy the Captain America!”

After the half-month stop in Prospect Park, the Captain America statue will move to the plaza outside Barclays Center on Atlantic and Flatbush Avenues for September, during which several Marvel fan activations take place. From late October through the remainder of the year, the statue will adorn the soon-to-be-opened Bed Bath & Beyond® in Sunset Park, Brooklyn. Fans of all ages will enjoy a specially re-designed statue base, for heightened interactivity and photo opportunities with Captain America, as well as see and shop for a variety of unique Marvel items, including limited quantities of scaled replicas of the bronze statue itself.

“Since 1941 Captain America has remained one of the most influential Super Heroes in comic book history,” said Paul Gitter, senior vice president, licensing, Marvel at Disney Consumer Products. “He has evolved as a character throughout the years, but remains constant as a moral compass within the Marvel Universe and leader of the Avengers. The tribute statue and other activations are the perfect way to honor 75 years of this iconic Super Hero and to celebrate the borough of Brooklyn in New York City.”

Also joining the 75th celebration at San Diego Comic-Con are Marvel’s leading merchandise partners including Hasbro, Funko, and Jakks Pacific who will be commemorating “Cap” through new collectibles. As previously announced, Comicave Studios will also be offering different scales of replicas of the bronze statue itself at San Diego Comic-Con.  Additional licensees including Mad Engine, Mighty Fine, Freeze, C-Life, Her Universe, What’s Your Passion, Nick Graham, Café Press, Jay Franco, Kiddesigns, HJC Helmets and more will all feature new Captain America merchandise at major retailers this Fall.  These collections will highlight Captain America’s iconic shield and cover categories including apparel and accessories for kids, women and men, home goods, electronics, and toys. There will even be new Brooklyn-themed artwork available for a range of apparel and accessories.

Take a look at the first images of the statue below, and let us know if you’ll be checking this out on the show floor!

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SDCC 2016: Watch The ‘Too Gory For Comic-Con’ Trailer For ‘Ash Vs. Evil Dead’s Second Season!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Briefly: Starz Ash Vs. Evil Dead is by far one of the goriest properties that I’ve seen on television.

It’s so gory, that apparently the just released red-band trailer for the series upcoming second season has been banned from San Diego Comic-Con.

Of course, the series itself has a rather large presence at the convention, including an offsite event, a signing, screening, and panel. Here’s the schedule:

“Ash vs Evil Dead” Autograph Session

Saturday, July 23rd at 2:00 PM – “Ash vs Evil Dead” Cabin at Petco Park Interactive Zone

“Ash vs Evil Dead” San Diego Comic-Con Panel

Saturday, July 23rd at 6:45 PM – Room 6A in the San Diego Convention Center

“Ash vs Evil Dead” World Premiere Screening of Season Two Premiere

Saturday, July 23rd at 10:00 PM – Room 6DE in the San Diego Convention Center

The second season roars back into action with Ash leaving his beloved Jacksonville and returning to his hometown of Elk Grove, Michigan. There, he confronts Ruby. The former enemies have to form an uneasy alliance as Elk Grove soon becomes the nucleus of evil.

Take a look at the trailer below, and be sure to let us know if you’re excited for the return of Ash.

‘Rise Of The Tomb Raider’ Is Finally Coming To PS4 In October!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Briefly: The timed exclusivity of Square-Enix’s 2015 masterpiece is nearly up.

The publisher announced today that PS4 players can finally get their hands on the game when Rise of the Tomb Raider: 20 Year Celebration launches on October 11th.

The new package will contain a completely new story chapter entitled “Blood Ties”, a new co-op Endurance gameplay, PlayStation VR support for “Blood Ties”, all of the previously released DLC, more outfits, weapons, and Expedition Cards.  The Limited Edition of the game will also feature a limited edition art book.

“Blood Ties,” a new premium DLC, beckons players to explore Croft Manor in a new story mode; then defend it against a zombie invasion in “Lara’s Nightmare”. When Lara’s uncle contests ownership of the Manor, Lara must explore the estate to find proof that she is the rightful heir, or lose her birthright and father’s secrets for good. Players can then test their zombie-killing skills in the replayable “Lara’s Nightmare” mode: a haunted Croft Manor where players have new challenges and must rid the Manor of an evil presence.

Scot Amos, co-Head of Studio at Crystal Dynamics states that “The studio is celebrating with all Tomb Raider® fans, thanking them for being on Lara’s 20 year journey with us. The team has packed in surprises, new story, and the top-requested special features into this 20 Year Celebration edition.”

Square-Enix notes that all of the game’s previously released DLC will be included, including the three hour story addition Baba Yaga: The Temple of the Witch, Cold Darkness Awakened in which players must combat waves of infected predators, 12 DLC outfits, 7 DLC weapons, over 35 Expedition Cards, and more.

For the truly hardcore, 20 Year Celebration will also feature a brutal new “Extreme Survivor” setting. This new difficulty level takes the toughness of Survivor and ratchets it up several notches starting with all checkpoints being stripped out of the game. The only way to save the game is forage enough resources to light campfires.

That sounds… too hard.

I ended up buying an Xbox One just so I could play Rise of the Tomb Raider, and I’m pretty embarrassed to say that I’ve only put a few hours into it at this point. I guess I know the hard deadline for completing the game at this point…

Are you looking forward to Rise of the Tomb Raider on PS4? Sound out below!

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SDCC 2016: Watch The Fantastic First Trailer For ‘Batman – The Telltale Series’!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Briefly: We saw the gorgeous first screenshots for Batman – The Telltale Series back at E3 this June, and most of us here at Geekscape have been basically foaming at the mouth over the potential for this title ever since.

Today, on the eve of San Diego Comic-Con’s Preview Night, the company has released the first full trailer, and the only appropriate response is “Wow.”

It’s tough to guess at just what impossible choices are in store for us throughout the five episode series, but with the towering Gotham City on the line instead of, say, a group of survivors amidst the undead apocalypse, we can guarantee that none of your options will be easy ones.

Rendered to look like a living, breathing comic book, Telltale’s vision of Batman will feature an award-winning cast of talent, including Troy Baker in the role of Bruce Wayne, Travis Willingham as Harvey Dent, Erin Yvette as Vicki Vale, Enn Reitel as Alfred Pennyworth, Murphy Guyer as Lieutenant James Gordon, Richard McGonagle as Carmine Falcone, and Laura Bailey as Selina Kyle. Naturally, additional cast and characters will be revealed as the season progresses.

The first episode of the series, titled Realm of Shadows, is set to debut on August 2nd, and Telltale will be hosting an event at this week’s SDCC where they’ll be showing off gameplay for the very first time. Take a look at the game’s trailer below, and be sure to let us know what you think!

The Xbox One S Will Launch On August 2nd!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Briefly: Microsoft officially revealed the long expected, slightly more capable Xbox One S back at E3 this June, and the company just revealed when you’ll finally be able to get your hands on one.

The newly designed console is the most compact Xbox yet, 40 percent smaller than the original Xbox One, and includes a built-in power supply. One of the three USB ports and the pairing button have been moved to the front of the Xbox One S, and it also includes an IR blaster for increased accessibility. Of course, the Xbox One S will also be the first on-the-market console with 4K and HDR output, with HDR support coming to games like Gears of War 4, Forza Horizon 3, and Scalebound.

The console drops on August 2nd in Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, UK and United States, and is expected to hit more regions before the year ends.

It’ll cost you $399 US for a 2TB model, and is also available at $349 USD and $299 USD for 1TB and 500GB units respectively.

Sounds like a great deal if you haven’t already picked up an Xbox One… but then there’s also the far more capable Project Scorpio coming next year

Dare you planning to pick up the Xbox One S? Project Scorpio? Or are you happy with your original console?