NO GTA 6 ANYTIME SOON, FABLE CANCELLED FOREVER, & MORE

TL;DR

The March 2016 gaming news highlights releases, company strategies, and upcoming projects.

Transcript

hello folks today is Friday March 11 2016 welcome to the untitled Friday gaming news show my name is Jake Baldino and really happy to finally be back in a normal setting here thank you guys so much for bearing with us but we got a new set going on hooray we got to talk about video games Oh a lot going on this week some weird stuff first off let's t... Read More

Key Insights

• 👾 The episodic model for games like Hitman is meeting mixed reactions, emphasizing the ongoing debate about release strategies in gaming.
• 😀 Take-Two's strategic decision not to overload production schedules reflects a growing trend toward sustainable franchise management in an industry facing consumer fatigue.
• 👶 The excitement around Bethesda's new RPG project highlights the community’s high expectations for future Elder Scrolls developments as they explore new titles.
• 🎮 The potential casting of Daisy Ridley as Lara Croft can be seen as a boon for cinematic adaptations of popular video games, sparking interest among diverse audiences.
• 📰 Fans are relieved by news that Dead Island 2 is moving forward with new development efforts, showcasing ongoing community interest despite previous setbacks.
• 👾 Blizzard’s dedication to updating and supporting classic games like Diablo 2 exemplifies the company's commitment to its gaming heritage.
• 🆕 The announcement of Azmodan's skin in Heroes of the Storm showcases Blizzard’s creativity in keeping character designs fresh and culturally relevant, engaging players in new ways.

Questions & Answers

Q: What are the main concerns from fans regarding the new Hitman game?

Fans are primarily worried about the episodic release model of the new Hitman game, which has delayed its full launch on disc to 2017. Many have expressed their reluctance to invest in a segmented release, preferring to wait for a complete version. The ongoing frustration reflects a broader concern about the implications of episodic gaming.

Q: Why is Take-Two's approach to franchise management considered refreshing?

Take-Two's management has decided against the frequent release of new installments in popular franchises, focusing instead on long-term franchise value and avoiding product fatigue. This strategy contrasts with many companies that push out annual sequels, allowing their titles to retain quality and player interest over time, which has been increasingly welcomed by gaming communities.

Q: What did Todd Howard say about Bethesda's upcoming projects?

Todd Howard mentioned that Bethesda is actively hiring for a new RPG project, generating speculation about potential new titles, such as Elder Scrolls VI. However, he later downplayed the timeline for these projects, suggesting no significant updates would be coming soon. This cautious approach implies a focus on quality development rather than rapid releases.

Q: What recent developments occurred regarding the Tomb Raider movie franchise?

Reports indicated that Daisy Ridley, known for her role in Star Wars, is in talks to play Lara Croft in a new Tomb Raider movie. This casting has generated excitement among fans of the franchise, as Ridley is considered a strong fit for the role. Nevertheless, some fans feel that the actress who performed the mocap for Lara Croft in the games should rightfully receive the opportunity.

Q: What updates were shared about Dead Island 2 during the news segment?

Contrary to previous rumors, Dead Island 2 is not canceled; instead, it has a new developer on board. The new team, which has worked on titles like LittleBigPlanet 3, aims to revive interest in a game that has been long-awaited but faced multiple development challenges. This news reignites hope among fans eager for the sequel.

Q: How did Blizzard show their ongoing support for Diablo 2?

Blizzard updated Diablo 2 with a new patch that improves compatibility with current Mac OS and Windows 10 systems. This proactive approach demonstrates Blizzard's commitment to preserving its classic titles, ensuring that older games remain functional and enjoyable for new and returning players even years after their original release.

Q: What sparked the excitement about Heroes of the Storm's new character skin?

Blizzard released a trailer introducing a basketball-themed skin for the character Azmodan in Heroes of the Storm, called "Azmodan Dunk." Its humorous references to NBA Jam and Space Jam, along with its unique design, caught the attention of fans and players alike, driving buzz around the game.

Q: What were the reasons for the cancellation of Fable Legends?

Fable Legends was canceled due to the game's lackluster reception, with many players and critics expressing that it failed to capture the essence of earlier Fable titles. Additionally, there were talks about closing Lionhead Studios, which has struggled to deliver compelling games, marking a disappointing turnaround for a once-celebrated studio.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The new Hitman game is facing delays with its physical release pushed to 2017, frustrating fans waiting for the full experience.

• Take-Two's management indicates a shift in strategy, focusing on quality over annual releases in franchises like Grand Theft Auto and Red Dead Redemption.

• Bethesda is hiring for a new RPG project, sparking excitement about potential future titles, while other game news includes updates on movies and game cancellations.