At Star Wars Celebration this year, developer Respawn Entertainment held a panel for Jedi Fallen Order, its upcoming third-person action game. During the event, Respawn finally discussed details about the game’s story, revealed the game’s protagonist, the state of the universe he exists in, and the struggles he’s fighting to overcome.

As detailed during the panel, Star Wars: Jedi Fallen Order takes place shortly after the events of Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith. Having branded the Jedi as traitors to the Galactic Republic, the Emperor issued Order 66, which meant Jedi were hunted down and killed. The protagonist of Jedi Fallen Order, a Padawan named Cal Kestis–played by Cameron Monaghan–is a survivor of Order 66. He is on a journey to pick up the pieces of his tragic past while trying to complete his Jedi training. At the same time, he must stay one step ahead of the Empire and its Inquisitors, who are seeking to kill him and his kind.

Players are introduced to Cal on Bracca, which is described as “a brand-new Star Wars planet and one of several new locations introduced in the game.” There, Cal is attempting to hide from the Empire in plain sight, but after exposing his Force powers ends up on the run again. According to Respawn, as Cal, players will make a number of new friends over the course of the game, one of which is a companion called Cere. There will be “some familiar faces” that make an appearance too, though the studio stopped short of saying exactly who.

“Many Star Wars fans, ourselves included, are really interested in the Dark Times, so we wanted to explore that mysterious, dangerous period,” said game director Stig Asmussen. “The team at Lucasfilm have been amazing collaborators, helping us explore and further develop this part of the timeline where the Empire is at the height of its power and any remaining Jedi are in hiding.”

“When Respawn approached us with the idea for this game, we were immediately supportive. A single player, story-driven title in the Star Wars universe was exactly what we were looking for, and we know the fans have been eager for one, as well,” added Lucasfilm’s Steve Blank. “Focusing on Cal stepping back into the shoes of a Jedi post Order 66 opens up a lot of gameplay opportunities and rich story threads to develop for this new character and his backstory.”

It wouldn’t be Star Wars without a droid companion, and joining Cal is BD-1. The little droid was featured in a piece of Jedi Fallen Order artwork that was leaked by Amazon. BD-1 can be seen standing next to Cal, scanning a rock face.

On the Empire side is Second Sister, who is described as “one of the Empire’s elite Inquisitors” and, as such, is hunting down Cal to extinguish him. Alongside her are Purge Troopers, which are described as “terrifying special Imperial forces trained to seek out Jedi and aid the Inquisitors.”

Respawn will no doubt be giving us more details about the game’s story soon, especially since its launch is not far off. During the panel the developer confirmed Star Wars: Jedi Fallen Order’s release date as November 15, 2019. The game will be available for PS4, Xbox One, and PC through publisher EA’s Origin service.

Jedi Fallen Order is a third-person action game, which is something of a departure from the first-person shooters Respawn is known for doing. However, it is directed by Stig Asmussen, who previously worked at Sony Santa Monica and directed God of War 3. You can find out more about how the game plays in our Jedi Fallen Order gameplay overview.

If you’re after more Star Wars news, you can now watch the first trailer for Star Wars Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker. Make sure to keep an eye on our Star Wars Celebration hub too, as we’ll be updating that regularly with news and fresh reveals as they happen.

from GameSpot – Game News https://www.gamespot.com/articles/star-wars-jedi-fallen-order-story-cal-kestis-purge/1100-6466232/

Father’s Day can be one of the hardest holidays to shop for–after all, what do you get the man who has everything? Fortunately, if your dad or husband is into games, there’s practically an endless list of games-related products he’d probably enjoy, especially with new games coming out for PS4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, and PC all the time.

Feeling a bit overwhelmed with all the choices out there? We’ve got you covered–here are some of the best gift ideas for gamer dads this Father’s Day, including consoles, accessories, merchandise, tabletop games, and more. Plus, check out the best video games available for each console below in case you’re shopping around for a title he doesn’t own.

• The Best Xbox One Games Available Now
• The Best PS4 Games Available Now
• The Best Nintendo Switch Games Available Now

1. NES Classic and SNES Classic

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If dad has been playing games since the ’90s, he probably remembers the original NES and SNES and has fond memories of their now-iconic games. These mini versions of Nintendo’s retro consoles come pre-loaded with dozens of games (the NES comes with 30 games, the SNES comes with 21), and each system takes up so little space, even the most crowded living room can accommodate them.

2. PlayStation VR Headset

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If he owns a PS4, then a PlayStation VR headset is the next logical addition to his gaming setup. Despite being more affordable than many VR headsets on the market, PSVR produced some of the best VR games of 2018 and was our top choice for VR gaming last year. He’ll be able to buy and download PSVR games right away, or you can also get the headset as part of a bundle that includes games, like this Borderlands 2 and Beat Saber PSVR bundle.

3. Nintendo Switch Protective Case

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Nintendo’s newest console was built to be portable, but that large, precious screen is especially vulnerable to scratches if you ever take it outside the house (and most of us do, at some point). If he travels frequently and likes to play his Switch on the plane, train, bus, or elsewhere, this hard case will protect the console and also provides handy storage for all its games and accessories.

4. Razer Man O’War Wireless 7.1 Gaming Headset

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Compatible with PC, Mac, and PS4, Razer’s Man O’War is one of the best gaming headsets you can buy in terms of price, performance, and comfort, particularly if you’re looking for a wireless option. If he plays online multiplayer games, he’ll appreciate this comfortable, surround-sound headset, which has a retractable microphone and crisp sound quality.

5. The Legend of Zelda Encyclopedia

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The Legend of Zelda is a powerhouse franchise that isn’t slowing down anytime soon, as Breath of the Wild proved with its critically acclaimed release. If he’s a Zelda fan, he’ll appreciate this 320-page guide to the Zelda universe, from the 1986 original to Twilight Princess (BOTW isn’t included here, but there’s another book completed dedicated to it). This encyclopedia is a fascinating look at the making of the games, including their art and lore, and makes the perfect gift for any hardcore Zelda enthusiast.

6. Logitech G900 Chaos Spectrum Gaming Mouse

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With 4.5 stars on Amazon and over 1,000 reviews, the Logitech G900 Chaos mouse is a solid bet if he’s a dedicated PC gamer. This mouse, which can be used wired or wirelessly, will stay charged for up to 30 hours and has a highly responsive sensor for quick, precise movements. And with its customizable button layout, it can be used whether he plays with his right or left hand.

7. Poké Ball Waffle Maker

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Listen: It’s hard to argue with Pokémon and waffles. What’s not to like? Particularly if he’s a big breakfast person or enjoys cooking for the family, he’ll love using this waffle maker to make warm, fluffy Belgian waffles with a nerdy theme.

8. Xbox Wireless Controller – Phantom White Special Edition

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The newly released Phantom White wireless controller for Xbox One is gorgeous, with a translucent design that fades to white and reveals the controller’s inner workings. The Bluetooth-enabled controller has a comfortable, textured grip and will be a prized addition to any Xbox collection.

9. Space Invaders Polo

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You can’t go wrong with a nice T-shirt or polo, and this ThinkGeek exclusive shirt is both classy and subtle with its design so he can feel comfortable wearing it anywhere. If he’s a fan of classic arcade games like Space Invaders, this officially licensed top is perfect–but if not, ThinkGeek has a ton of other apparel inspired by various video games, movies, TV shows, and more.

10. The Witcher 3 Original Soundtrack Exclusive Vinyl Set

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If he’s a dad who still enjoys listening to vinyl records, surprise him with a deluxe set featuring the official soundtrack from his favorite game or movie. (Even if he doesn’t own a record player, vinyl records look quite nice as decor on a shelf.) This stunning deluxe vinyl set featuring The Witcher 3 soundtrack would make a great gift for any fan of the critically acclaimed RPG, and Think Geek has other vinyl options too, from Undertale and Dark Souls II to Spider-Man Homecoming, Stranger Things, and more.

11. The Legend of Zelda Triforce Cufflinks and Tie Clip

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Cufflinks and tie clips are subtle ways of adding personality to an otherwise traditional suit, and this silver set made from high-quality metal makes an excellent gift for any Zelda fan. You can also get the same set in gold, if that’s his preference.

12. Betrayal at House on the Hill

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If he’s a fan of board games, horror, and/or games with a strong narrative, he’ll get a kick out of Betrayal at House on the Hill, a board game for three to six players who play as a group of strangers exploring a haunted house. As they enter different rooms, they’ll stumble across mysterious objects and trigger certain events that will eventually lead to one player turning on the others, who must then fight for survival. Suspenseful and addictively fun, Betrayal has a ton of replay value with 50 unique scenarios that make the game different every time.

13. PlayStation Plus, Xbox Live Gold

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If he’s a dedicated console player who isn’t subscribed to PlayStation Plus or Xbox Live Gold, getting him a pre-paid membership is a solid gift any gamer would appreciate. The subscription services for each console grant access to online multiplayer, free monthly games, and exclusive discounts. A one-year membership generally sells for $60 on each platform, and one-month, three-month, and six-month passes are also available for cheaper.

14. Bluetooth-Enabled Media Remote for PS4

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If his PS4 is the main media device in your household–meaning he uses it to stream movies and TV and play DVDs as well as games–then this handy little device will be a small quality-of-life improvement for his entertainment space. For just $20, this officially licensed remote can quickly turn the PS4 on and off, navigate the PS4 screen, pause and play media, and more. While the capabilities are essentially the same as a PS4 controller, it saves your controller’s battery for gaming, and some people simply prefer the feeling of a traditional remote.

from GameSpot – Game News https://www.gamespot.com/articles/fathers-day-2019-best-gift-ideas-for-gamer-dads/1100-6466102/

While Nintendo UK is running a huge Eshop sale on Switch games right now, those of us in the States can still find some solid Switch deals of our own at Amazon, which is selling many first-party titles for $10 off and offering larger discounts on other games as well. It’s rare that first-party Switch games fall below $60, even at Amazon, so this is a rare opportunity if you’ve had your eye on any of these games. And of course, if you’re an Amazon Prime member, you’ll receive free two-day shipping, as nearly all of these deals are Prime-eligible.

The first-party Switch deals to claim include The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild for $50, Super Mario Odyssey for $50, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate for $49.89, and both Pokemon: Let’s Go titles for just under $50 each. Another can’t-miss deal: a bundle containing both Bayonetta 2 (physical) as well as the first game, Bayonetta (digital), for just under $50. Bayonetta 2 is one of the best games to own on the Switch–the game received a rare 10/10 in our Bayonetta 2 review for its incredible combat, gorgeous visuals, nonstop action, and more.

If you enjoyed Monster Hunter World’s core gameplay, consider picking up Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate on the Switch, as it’s over $20 off right now. The classic turn-based strategy game, Civilization VI, is also $20 off. Meanwhile, Elder Scrolls fans can grab Skyrim for Switch for just under $50.

Speaking of deals: GameStop’s massive spring sale also includes discounts on Nintendo Switch games, along with PS4 and Xbox One games, consoles, accessories, collectibles, and more. Be sure to check out that sale before it ends April 20, as there are some great discounts.

Amazon’s Nintendo Switch deals:

• Bayonetta 2 (physical) + Bayonetta (digital) — $49.94
• Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy — $30
• Dead Cells — $27.51
• Doom — $49.94
• The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim — $49.94
• FIFA 19 — $50.75
• The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild — $50
• The Lego Movie 2 Video Game — $20
• Mario Kart 8 Deluxe — $55
• Mario Tennis Aces — $49.94
• Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate — $36.56
• My Hero One’s Justice — $30
• NBA 2K19 — $30
• New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe — $55
• Pokemon: Let’s Go, Eevee — $49.75
• Pokemon: Let’s Go, Pikachu — $49.93
• Rocket League – Ultimate Edition — $41.50
• Sid Meier’s Civilization VI — $40
• Super Mario Odyssey — $50
• Super Smash Bros. Ultimate — $49.89
• Tales of Vesperia — $35
• Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus — $49.70
• Yoshi’s Crafted World — $56.97

from GameSpot – Game News https://www.gamespot.com/articles/zelda-botw-smash-ultimate-and-more-switch-games-on/1100-6466221/

Easter is just around the corner, and Niantic is celebrating by bringing back the annual Eggstravaganza event in Pokemon Go. The week-long Egg-themed event returns next week starting Tuesday, April 16, and this time around it’ll give players their first chance to capture Shiny Buneary.

Throughout the Eggstravangaza, you’ll be able to hatch baby Pokemon like Pichu, Smoochum, and Magby from 2 km Eggs, and you’ll receive twice the typical amount of Candy for every Egg you hatch. On top of that, Incubators will be twice as effective for the duration of the event, while Lucky Eggs will last twice as long as normal.

Beyond that, Niantic will also be distributing special Field Research tasks revolving around Eggs at Poke Stops. Buneary will also appear in the wild much more frequently than normal, and if you’re lucky, you may come across its Shiny version. You can find more details about the event on the Pokemon Go website.

In the meantime, Pokemon Go’s second Legendary Lunch Hour event is set for April 10. Shortly after that, Niantic will host this month’s Community Day. The monthly event returns this Saturday, April 13, and will feature the rare Dragon Pokemon Bagon. Then, starting April 15, the Legendary Latios will make an encore appearance as part of a special week-long Raid event.

In addition to all of the upcoming events, Niantic has a couple of new features on the way for Pokemon Go, namely the Lucky Friends mechanic. Each day, you’ll have a chance to become Lucky Friends with a player you’ve become Best Friends with, which will guarantee you both receive a Lucky Pokemon in one trade. The developer is also adding avatar poses to Pokemon Go’s in-game store. These run for 500 coins apiece and let you customize your Trainer’s pose in the game.

from GameSpot – Game News https://www.gamespot.com/articles/pokemon-go-shiny-buneary-appearing-in-new-eggstrav/1100-6466138/

The Nintendo Switch may cost only $300, but the pricing of its accessories is no joke. The Pro Controller, which is an essential upgrade for the best Switch experience, can cost a whopping $70 on its own. It’s an excellent controller that’s worth the investment, but for those on a tight budget, there’s an alternative option that’ll save you some cash and add a little color to your gaming setup: PowerA’s officially licensed controllers for the Switch.

PowerA has been making third-party controllers for years and has released wired Switch Pro Controllers in the past, but the company recently started producing enhanced wireless controllers with Bluetooth connectivity that sell for $20 less than the first-party controllers.

The enhanced wireless controllers cost $50 and come with two AA batteries that provide up to 30 hours of gameplay. The officially licensed controllers have a similar ergonomic design to the first-party Pro Controllers, and they come in a range of stunning designs, with some featuring iconic Nintendo characters like Zelda, Link, and Mario. There’s no rumble or NFC reader, but the wireless controllers do have motion controls. PowerA also still sells wired Switch Pro Controllers for just $30, and those are available in various designs as well. You can buy some of PowerA’s Switch controllers on Amazon for slightly cheaper; others you can buy directly from PowerA’s website.

Buy Enhanced Wireless Controllers at Amazon ($43-$50) »

Browse the full Nintendo Switch collection at PowerA »

While we haven’t had a chance to review the enhanced wireless controllers, we tried out PowerA’s wired controllers when they first released in 2017 and found them to be a great, affordable alternative to the first-party Pro Controllers.

“I can’t say enough about how smooth the analog sticks are. They’re effortless to use and consistent in terms of resistance. It’s definitely a huge improvement over using the Joy-Cons,” said Michael Higham in our video review (above). “We tend to think that cheaper controllers means a cheaper build, but aside from the wired limitations and the lack of motion controls, PowerA’s controllers are the best option when you factor in price, and if you don’t mind being plugged in all the time.”

With wireless Bluetooth capabilities and motion controls, PowerA’s new enhanced controllers will provide a gaming experience that’s truly comparable to the first-party Pro Controllers (and still at a discount). And $50 (or less) for a licensed wireless controller designed for the newest console on the market? Can’t argue with that.

from GameSpot – Game News https://www.gamespot.com/articles/new-switch-pro-controllers-feature-stunning-ninten/1100-6466188/