Monthly Archives: December 2020

New Among Us Airship Map Playable on Switch Through Glitch

A glitch is letting Nintendo Switch Among Us players try the new Airship map early. As we can see in this GameXplain video, there's a trick Nintendo Switch players can use to tour the new map early, even though it isn't necessarily in a playable state. Here's how to do it, step-by-step:
  • Hit 'Local' on the main menu and create your own game
  • Select the 'Airship' map via the laptop
  • Exit the lobby, then hit 'Online' and host a room without choosing a map
  • You can then load into the Airship map once four players join
[ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2020/12/11/among-us-toppat-airship-map-reveal-trailer"] Given that the Airship map is currently scheduled for Early 2021, a lot of the new map is not feature-complete, and you may experience glitches when you're touring it. Even so, it might be worth a look before it gets patched out, so you can learn the unfinished layout and get an advantage on your friends next year. Among Us launched on Nintendo Switch on Monday as part of Nintendo's Indie World presentation. For the full rundown of all the games revealed during the show, check out our handy roundup, which features Spelunky 2, Cyber Shadow, and more. For more details on the Airship map, you can check out our coverage of the trailer from The Game Awards 2020. [poilib element="accentDivider"] Jordan Oloman is a freelance writer for IGN. Follow him on Twitter.

Hades Now Has Cross-Save Between Switch and PC

Supergiant Games has announced that Hades now supports cross-save between PC and Nintendo Switch. In an announcement tweet, the developer revealed that the system is now live and allows both to and from saves between platforms, meaning you can interchange between Switch and PC at will and continue playing the same save file. When quitting the game, your PC client (Steam or Epic Game Store) or Switch will sync your save with the cloud, allowing it to then be used on another platform. It has been noted that if you have separate saves on PC and Switch, and they are both in the same slot, then it would be wise to transfer your PC save to a different slot. This is to prevent one save overwriting another and deleting one of your progress files. You can transfer your PC save to a different slot by renaming the save file, for example from Profile1.sav to Profile2.sav. These files will be stored in a folder on your PC - usually the Saved Games folder in Documents - but this may vary depending on how you customized your installation. Full details are in the Help & Info section of the cross-save menu. [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2020/09/17/hades-review"] If you've not begun your descent into hell in Hades, then we highly recommend it. Our Hades review gave it a big 9/10, and we love it enough for it to be in the running for IGN's Game of the Year 2020. [poilib element="accentDivider"] Matt Purslow is IGN's UK News and Entertainment Writer. 

Google Stadia Is Now Playable on iPhone and iPad

Google Stadia is now playable on iPhone and iPad through the Safari web browser. iOS users with the latest system firmware can head to Stadia.Google.com, log in to their account and start playing, regardless of whether they are on a free or paid subscription to Google's game streaming service. On the Stadia homepage in Safari, it's recommended that users tap the share button and then tap 'Add to Home Screen' so that it functions more like a web app and less like a browser page when you open it from the home page of your iOS device. [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2020/12/15/cyberpunk-2077-21-minutes-of-google-stadia-gameplay-1080p-settings"] This is the first time Google Stadia games have been playable on iOS devices since the launch of the service in November 2019. The Stadia app has been available on iOS for some time, but it only lets users set up an account or manage settings while they play. Google has been hamstrung by Apple's App Store Game Streaming Services policy, which is why it is using a web app as a workaround, rather than delivering functionality to the app itself. In other Google news, Gmail, YouTube, Pokemon GO, Google Docs, Stadia and more Google services briefly suffered an outage earlier this week. If you're interested in checking the service out, Cyberpunk 2077 is available on Google Stadia right now. Here are 21 minutes of gameplay at 1080p. [poilib element="accentDivider"] Jordan Oloman is a freelance writer for IGN. Follow him on Twitter.

Full Details on Cyberpunk 2077 Content For PC Version of Death Stranding

IGN can exclusively announce the full details about Kojima Productions' released free, PC-exclusive Cyberpunk 2077 content for Death Stranding, which is available in-game today – and it's more than just cosmetics. If you're running game version 1.05, you'll be able to access new missions, featuring Cyberpunk characters and lore (although we're not sure which ones right now), as well as access new equipment - both game-changing and cosmetic. Check out a trailer below, and read on for a full list of equipment additions: [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2020/12/17/death-stranding-cyberpunk-2077-pc-exclusive-update-trailer"]

Cyberpunk 2077 / Death Stranding Crossover Content

The crossover adds a new Hacking function that allows you to disable MULE sensor poles, stun enemies with Odradeks, and short circuit enemy vehicles. You'll also be able to unlock the following: • Cyberpunk 2077-themed Reverse Trike vehicle. • “Johnny Arm” modeled after Johnny Silverhand’s robotic arm that can be equipped and used in game. • New holograms and a “Trauma Team” floating vehicle hologram for certain constructions. • Several fashion items, including Johnny Silverhand’s sunglasses. Check out images of some of the new additions in the gallery below: [widget path="global/article/imagegallery" parameters="albumSlug=death-stranding-cyberpunk-2077-crossover-screenshots&captions=true"] This content is PC exclusive, and no indication has been given that it will arrive in the PS4 version of the game. It follows the Half-Life: Alyx crossover that came alongside the Death Stranding PC release earlier this year. The crossover is perhaps not a huge surprise, given that Cyberpunk studio CD Projekt Red scanned Hideo Kojima as an in-game model earlier this year - having him sir on the very bike design the legendary developer has now added to his own game, no less. [poilib element="accentDivider"] Joe Skrebels is IGN's Executive Editor of News. Follow him on Twitter. Have a tip for us? Want to discuss a possible story? Please send an email to newstips@ign.com.

Overwatch 2 Update Announced for BlizzCon Online In February

If you’re eagerly anticipating Overwatch 2 you’re only going to have to wait a few more months as Overwatch director Jeff Kaplan confirmed an Overwatch 2 update is scheduled for BlizzCon Online in February. In a quick, new developer update Kaplan confirmed that Overwatch fans will learn more about the upcoming sequel at BlizzCon Online which takes place on February 19th-20th. The two-day event is an all-digital replacement for the company’s annual BlizzCon, which is typically a live fan event in Anaheim, California. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Blizzard announced that it will skip its physical event in 2020, and host an all-digital alternative in 2021. Other conventions such as GDC and PAX also moved online this year as a result of the pandemic. [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2019/11/01/overwatch-2-gameplay-overview-trailer"] Overwatch 2 is a sequel to Blizzard’s competitive PvP shooter that will expand the lore and universe with a story-focused PvE mode. There will also be new competitive maps, modes, and heroes, but these additions will also be coming to the first Overwatch for free. The rest of Kaplan’s developer update is focused on a new free-for-all deathmatch map called Kanezaka. Based on a Japanese location, Kanezaka is a free map currently available for testing on the PTR. Overwatch’s Winter Wonderland 2020 event is also ongoing and will last until January 5. Read IGN's Overwatch 2 hands-on preview here. [poilib element="accentDivider"] Matt T.M. Kim is a reporter for IGN.

Everything Coming to Disney+ in January 2021

Kicking off the new year, Disney+'s January 2021 lineup includes the series premiere of Marvel's WandaVision on January 15. In case you missed it, Disney conjured up a new trailer for WandaVision during an investor call, along with the first trailer for Loki and the full trailer and release date for The Falcon and the Winter Soldier. For more, we have a rundown of every cast member and character in WandaVision right here. Plus, Disney+ is releasing another new series on January 8, titled Legends, which will showcase the "most iconic moments from the MCU, one character at a time," beginning with Wanda Maximoff (Elizabeth Olsen) and Vision (Paul Bettany). [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2020/12/11/wandavision-official-trailer-2"] The streamer is also dropping The Wolverine starring Hugh Jackman on January 1, Emily Blunt's Mary Poppins Returns on January 15, and all four seasons of the beloved '90s sitcom Dinosaurs on January 29. Check out the slideshow gallery below for a spotlight of some of the most notable January Disney+ releases, followed by the full list: [widget path="global/article/imagegallery" parameters="albumSlug=disney-spotlight-january-2021&captions=true"] [poilib element="accentDivider"]

Friday, January 1

  • 700 Sharks
  • Dr. Seuss’ Horton Hears a Who!
  • Great Shark Chow Down
  • Mega Hammerhead
  • Mr. Popper’s Penguins
  • Wolverine, The (2013)
  • Earth to Ned (All 10 episodes)
  • Extras - Beyond the Clouds: A Firm Handshake

Friday, January 8

  • Disney Fam Jam
  • Ferdinand
  • Star Wars Forces of Destiny: Volume 1
  • Star Wars Forces of Destiny: Volume 2
  • Star Wars Forces of Destiny: Volume 3
  • Star Wars Forces of Destiny: Volume 4
  • Toy Story That Time Forgot
  • Extras - Beyond the Clouds: The Anatomy of Emotion
  • Marvel Studios: Legends

Friday, January 15

  • Disney Elena of Avalor (s3)
  • Doctor Doolittle 3
  • Isle of Dogs
  • Mary Poppins Returns
  • WandaVision, Episode 1
  • Extras - Beyond the Clouds: The Concert of a Lifetime

Friday, January 22

  • Wild Uganda
  • Pixar Popcorn
  • WandaVision, Episode 2
  • Extras - Beyond the Clouds: The Finishing Touches

Friday, January 29

  • Dinosaurs (season 1)
  • Dinosaurs (season 2)
  • Dinosaurs (season 3)
  • Dinosaurs (season 4)
  • Epic
  • The Incredible Dr. Pol
  • Ramona and Beezus
  • Texas Storm Squad
  • WandaVision, Episode 3
  • Extras - Beyond the Clouds: A Promise Kept
[poilib element="accentDivider"] David Griffin still watches DuckTales in his pajamas with a cereal bowl in hand. He's also the TV Editor for IGN. Say hi on Twitter.

PS5’s 2021 Lineup Has Us Excited

On this week's episode of IGN's PlayStation show Podcast Beyond! host Jonathon Dornbush is joined by Lucy O'Brien, Zach Ryan, and special guest Mick Abrahamson to discuss all the big Game Awards announcements, and how PS5 has an exciting 2021 lineup in store for players. Plus, we look at Cyberpunk's launch and CDPR's post-launch response to PS4 issues, and much more. Watch the new episode above! [widget path="global/article/imagegallery" parameters="albumSlug=returnal-game-awards-trailer-screenshots&captions=true"] Podcast Beyond! is live every Wednesday. For more on PS5, check out our PS5 console review, and our PS5 wiki guide if you're picking one up this week. [poilib element="accentDivider"] Jonathon Dornbush is IGN's Senior News Editor, host of Podcast Beyond!, and PlayStation lead. Talk to him on Twitter @jmdornbush.

HBO Max Is Coming to Roku Devices as Early as Tomorrow

WarnerMedia and Roku have finally reached an agreement that will bring HBO Max to Roku-enabled devices starting tomorrow, December 17. In a statement, WarnerMedia announced that, after a drawn-out negotiation, Roku owners can download the HBO Max app and gain full access to its library, including upcoming movie releases like Wonder Woman 1984. HBO Max has been unavailable on Roku devices for nearly seven months. WarnerMedia and Roku did not disclose the terms of their agreement but said the deal was “mutually beneficial” for both parties. [widget path="global/article/imagegallery" parameters="albumSlug=everything-coming-to-hbo-max&captions=true"] “We believe that all entertainment will be streamed and we are thrilled to partner with HBO Max to bring their incredible library of iconic entertainment brands and blockbuster slate to direct to streaming theatrical releases to the Roku households,” said Roku senior vice president of platform business Scott Rosenberg. Roku and WarnerMedia were engaged in drawn-out negotiations over a variety of issues, according to analysts, over revenue split and how much HBO content Roku could sell through the Roku Channel store. With a 43% market share, Roku is one of the biggest platforms for streaming services, but HBO Max went ahead without Roku for months. However, with a big push in 2021 to gain new subscribers, by releasing new movies on the streamer the same day as theaters, a deal now makes sense for both Roku and WarnerMedia. HBO Max is also arrived on PlayStation 5 today, as well as on Comcast platforms like Xfinity X1 and Xfinity Flex. HBO max is also available on Amazon Fire TV devices. [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/wonder-woman-1984-opening-scene-clip"] For more, check out IGN’s breakdown on HBO Max’s recent moves, including the pros and cons of releasing movies the same day as on the streaming app. This move has been criticized by directors like Christopher Nolan. Also, see IGN's Wonder Woman 1984 review and HBO Max review for further insight. [poilib element="accentDivider"] Matt T.M. Kim is a reporter for IGN.

Myst Oculus Quest Review

If you've enjoyed having your brain teased by a video game in the last 20 years, or enjoyed the layered mechanical riddles of an IRL escape room, you have Myst to thank. Wildly popular when it launched in 1993, the narrative adventure was a pivotal moment for puzzle-solving in games. Now, 27 years later, the classic is reborn in virtual reality--rebuilt, but almost completely unchanged. Myst is and will always be a treasure. Even after all these years, its puzzles will still test, and maybe even stump, you. For returning fans, seeing it in VR for the first time is a powerful nostalgia trip. Being inside a world you’ve only seen through a screen before feels like diving into your own memory. When you get over that initial sense of wonder--or if you don't have the nostalgia that conjures it--Myst can’t hide its age, and its VR makeover exacerbates its blemishes.

Myst is a small uninhabited island dotted with odd buildings and unintuitive, free-standing switches. When you arrive, you have no idea why you're there or what you should be doing. As you poke around--opening every door, pressing all the switches, reading the books and notes you find--your situation starts to take shape. Trapped on Myst, you will need to unravel its puzzles to uncover its secrets and escape.

The content of Myst's places and puzzles do not follow any kind of unifying aesthetic--they are united in service of creating perplexing challenges that require you to be mindful of your surroundings and think creatively. At a glance, each puzzle seems completely obtuse, a hodge-podge of interactive puzzle pieces that don't easily fit together. More often than not, you'll need to take a good long look at your surroundings and figure out how the puzzle works before you can solve it.

Continue Reading at GameSpot

Myst Oculus Quest Review

If you've enjoyed having your brain teased by a video game in the last 20 years, or enjoyed the layered mechanical riddles of an IRL escape room, you have Myst to thank. Wildly popular when it launched in 1993, the narrative adventure was a pivotal moment for puzzle-solving in games. Now, 27 years later, the classic is reborn in virtual reality--rebuilt, but almost completely unchanged. Myst is and will always be a treasure. Even after all these years, its puzzles will still test, and maybe even stump, you. For returning fans, seeing it in VR for the first time is a powerful nostalgia trip. Being inside a world you’ve only seen through a screen before feels like diving into your own memory. When you get over that initial sense of wonder--or if you don't have the nostalgia that conjures it--Myst can’t hide its age, and its VR makeover exacerbates its blemishes.

Myst is a small uninhabited island dotted with odd buildings and unintuitive, free-standing switches. When you arrive, you have no idea why you're there or what you should be doing. As you poke around--opening every door, pressing all the switches, reading the books and notes you find--your situation starts to take shape. Trapped on Myst, you will need to unravel its puzzles to uncover its secrets and escape.

The content of Myst's places and puzzles do not follow any kind of unifying aesthetic--they are united in service of creating perplexing challenges that require you to be mindful of your surroundings and think creatively. At a glance, each puzzle seems completely obtuse, a hodge-podge of interactive puzzle pieces that don't easily fit together. More often than not, you'll need to take a good long look at your surroundings and figure out how the puzzle works before you can solve it.

Continue Reading at GameSpot