IGN's Summer of Gaming Award Winners

IGN's first-ever Summer of Gaming is over and it's time to choose the winners. Who had the best announcements? The best trailers? What moment stuck out the most? IGN editors have voted and chosen the best of the best from the monthlong celebration for all things gaming. Although this is normally the month for an E3, the real-life COVID-19 pandemic has created a unique situation for us and our fellow gamers. But that didn't stop the video game industry to get together and put together a month of surprise announcements, highly-anticipated reveals, and a bunch of trailers. With that in mind, this year's awards will be a little different from past years where IGN awarded the best in show from events like E3. Check below for a full list of nominee and winners from IGN's Summer of Gaming.

Best New Game Announcement

[ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2020/06/11/spider-man-miles-morales-announcement-trailer-ps5-event"] Winner: Spider-Man: Miles Morales Nominees: Metal: Hellsinger Spider-Man: Miles Morales Horizon Forbidden West Ratchet & Clank Rift Apart Skate Pragmata Returnal Bloodstained: Curse of the Moon 2 [poilib element="accentDivider"]

Best Trailer

[ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2020/06/11/deathloop-gameplay-trailer-ps5-reveal-event"] Winner: Deathloop Nominees: Deathloop Horizon Forbidden West Bugsnax Stray Demon's Souls Pragmata Mortal Shell Cyberpunk 2077 Star Wars: Squadrons Little Devil Inside [poilib element="accentDivider"]

Biggest Comeback

[ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2020/06/17/new-pokemon-snap-official-switch-trailer"] Winner: New Pokemon Snap Nominees: Pokemon Snap Demon's Souls Skate Ratchet & Clank Rift Apart XIII Kingdoms of Amalur: Re-Reckoning [poilib element="accentDivider"]

Best Gameplay Demo

[ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2020/06/25/cyberpunk-2077-braindance-gameplay-trailer"] Winner: Cyberpunk 2077 Nominees: Star Wars: Squadrons Mortal Shell Baldur's Gate 3 Rustler Hardspace Shipbreaker System Shock Marvel's Avengers Cyberpunk 2077 BioMutant Deathloop [poilib element="accentDivider"]

Best Overall Moment

[ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2020/06/11/playstation-5-official-console-reveal-ps5-reveal-event"] Winner: PlayStation 5 Console Reveal Nominees: Pokemon Snap Reveal PlayStation 5 Console Reveal Skate Announcement Demon's Souls Reveal The Bugsnax Song

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Kena: Bridge of Spirits Developers Share New Gameplay Details

Kena: Bridge of Spirits is an upcoming, next-gen action-adventure game that premiered at the PlayStation 5 reveal event. Developer Ember Labs appeared on IGN’s Summer of Gaming to offer a more in-depth, developer’s commentary for the debut trailer with additional gameplay and lore details. Kena (pronounced kay-na) is a spirit guide who lives in a dense world filled with mystical creatures. Her primary tools in her journey to guide spirits are her staff, which she uses for combat, spells, and shields, and the Rot. [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2020/06/30/kena-bridge-of-spirits-developer-commentary"] The Rot are little spirits who can help Kena by moving heavy objects or help her purify certain sections of the land. Kena begins her adventure with zero but can collect more Rot along the way. Sort of like Pikmin. Ember Lab says they designed the world of Kena to be dense and explorable so that players can discover more of the world’s story, as well as any Rot that might be hiding. Once an area has been cleared of its corruption, players can go back and experience the area with new elements of it unlocked. [widget path="global/article/imagegallery" parameters="albumSlug=kena-bridge-of-spirits-playstation-5-screenshots&captions=true"] Kena: Bridge of Spirits will be released sometime later on the PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, as well as PC via the Epic Games Store. Check out IGN for more from Summer of Gaming. [poilib element="accentDivider"] Matt Kim is a reporter for IGN.

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The Mandalorian: Lucasfilm Announces New Books and Comics

The world of The Mandalorian is about to get much bigger. Not only is the Star Wars series returning for a second season on Disney+ this fall, Lucasfilm Press has revealed a new publishing initiative aimed at further fleshing out the characters and worlds of The Mandalorian. This new Mandalorian-centric publishing initiative was announced on StarWars.com, with the site revealing a number of new fiction and nonfiction books. Among these is The Art of Star Wars: The Mandalorian (Season 1), written by Phil Szostak and featuring a wealth of concept art and behind-the-scenes details from the series. You can check out the cover to The Art of Star Wars: The Mandalorian (Season 1) below: [caption id="attachment_2374249" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] Art by Doug Chiang. (Image Credit: Lucasfilm Press)[/caption] This publishing initiative will include several new stories tied to the events of The Mandalorian. Among these is an untitled novel from The Burning Dark writer Adam Christopher and new comic book series from both Marvel Comics and IDW Publishing. Lucasfilm will also release several YA and junior reader books, along with The Mandalorian: The Ultimate Visual Guide by Lucasfilm Story Group member Pablo Hidalgo. Currently, no plot details have been revealed for these new fiction projects, and it's unclear when these stories will take place and whether they'll explore the show's main protagonist, bounty hunter Din Djarin, or other characters like ex-Rebel trooper Cara Dune or Imperial warlord Moff Gideon. No doubt more announcements will be coming later in 2020, particularly as we get closer to the release of The Mandalorian: Season 2. This news comes as Lucasfilm Press is also gearing up for an ambitious publishing initiative called Star Wars: High Republic. Set 200 years before the Star Wars movies, The High Republic will showcase the Jedi at the height of their power and explore the impact of an instigating event known as The Great Disaster. You can read an exclusive excerpt of Charles Soule's novel Star Wars: The High Republic - Light of the Jedi. No doubt The Mandalorian: Season 2 will pave the way for even more companion books. Season 2 will reportedly include Clone wars favorites like Rosario Dawson's Ahsoka Tano and Katee Sackhoff's Bo-Katan Kryze. If you need a recap, here's Ahsoka's story leading up to the era of The Mandalorian. Will you be picking up any of these new Star Wars books? Let us know in the comments below. [poilib element="accentDivider"] Jesse is a mild-mannered staff writer for IGN. Allow him to lend a machete to your intellectual thicket by following @jschedeen on Twitter.

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Dreams Will be Playable in VR Next Month

Dreams is getting a free update to make it compatible with PlayStation VR. The update will arrive on July 22 and will include tutorials on how to start making new creations in PS VR. Media Molecule’s latest project, Dreams, is less of a game and more of a creation tool where players can make their own games, movies, images, music, and much more. In July, the range of tools available to players in Dreams will be expanded with a new VR update that lets players create and enjoy VR content. [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2020/06/30/dreams-ps-vr-update"] Dreams VR will let players use the PlayStation Move Controllers and begin sculpting VR creations. The update will come with a variety of how-to’s so players can learn new skills and some of the more next-level techniques in VR. Media Molecule has also created its own set of VR experiences for Dreams players as a showcase of what the update can do. One of those experiences is Box Blaster which is a VR shooting experience inside Dreams. Players won’t need VR to create PS VR experiences. Non-PS VR users can access the same update as VR owners. [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2020/02/20/spyro-in-dreams"] Alongside VR updates, there will also be a new slate of accessibility features like comfort mode, vignette strength, static sky, and more. Dreams VR will arrive on July 22. Check out IGN’s Dreams review for more coverage. [poilib element="accentDivider"] Matt Kim is a reporter for IGN.

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Seth Rogen Producing Animated TMNT Movie Reboot

Seth Rogen is among the producers bringing the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles back to the big screen. A CG-animated feature film reboot, titled simply Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, was announced Tuesday by Nickelodeon. Point Grey Pictures -- the production company run by Rogen, Evan Goldberg and James Weaver -- will produce along with Nickelodeon Animation Studio in the latter's first-ever CG theatrical production. Paramount Pictures will distribute the film. [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2019/11/07/9-facts-one-lie-teenage-mutant-ninja-turtles"] Rogen is no stranger to producing adaptations of comic book properties, as he has also brought Preacher and The Boys to life on the small screen. This animated TMNT movie reboot will be directed by Jeff Rowe (Gravity Falls, Connected, Disenchantment) and written by Brendan O’Brian (Neighbors, Sorority Rising, Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates). Created in 1984 by Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles began as an indie comic book series before becoming a beloved animated TV series. [widget path="global/article/imagegallery" parameters="albumSlug=tmnt-the-last-ronin&captions=true"] The comics beget a live-action TV series and, on the big screen, a slew of feature films since the 1990s. The last CG-animated TMNT feature film was released in 2007, with a pair of Michael Bay-produced live-action movies released in 2014 and 2016. No word yet on a release date for this Rogen-produced TMNT movie.

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Crash Bandicoot 4 Has No Microtransactions, Devs Say

After a notice on the Microsoft Store indicated Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time would feature "in-app purchases," discussion began about whether that meant Crash 4 would include microtransactions at launch. According to developer Toys for Bob, there won't be, and it seems the culprit behind the "in-app purchase" moniker may be the free cosmetic skins that will be available as a preorder bonus. Toys for Bob has confirmed Crash 4 will have "no microtransactions" in a new statement, saying:

"Hey Crash fans! We saw that there is confusion about #MTX in Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time and wanted to clarify. There are NO MICROTRANSACTIONS in the game. As a bonus, the Totally Tubular skins are included in all digital versions of the game."

[ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2020/06/29/crash-bandicoot-4-new-gameplay-shows-new-tricks-returning-moves"] The "in-app purchases" moniker led many to assume there would be DLC, either cosmetic or gameplay-wise, that Activision could charge players for from day 1. According to the developers, however, there are no microtransactions at this time. While, of course, DLC could be added down the line or more cosmetics made available via in-game purchases — Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled did add microtransactions with the ability to buy Wumpa Coins with real-world money after its launch — the developers appear to want to assuage fans' concerns that Crash 4's launch will be held back by additional content that has to be purchased on top of the base game. For more on Crash Bandicoot 4, check out our latest deep dive on exclusive Crash 4 gameplay, all of the first Crash 4 gameplay and story details, and a look at every Crash Bandicoot IGN review below. [widget path="global/article/imagegallery" parameters="albumSlug=every-ign-crash-bandicoot-game-review&captions=true"] Crash Bandicoot 4 hits PS4 and Xbox One on October 2.

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These Upcoming Timex Pac-Man Watches are Double the Retro

In the age of smartphones and Apple Watch, a classic digital watch is retro without even trying. Timex has combined two great retro flavors together in a limited-edition run of its classic T80 line by combining it with the 1980s gaming goodness that is Pac-Man. The Timex T80 x PACMAN line comes in three different styles, each with stainless steel watchbands and water resistance up to 50m. Originally introduced at ComplexCon in Long Beach, CA last November, the watches go back on sale July 7 in the US, with global distribution coming sometime in August. Check out the gallery below to see this doubly-retro watch. [widget path="global/article/imagegallery" parameters="albumSlug=timex-t80-x-pacman-limited-edition-watch&captions=true"] The watch comes in three different colors: black, silver, and gold, and the face is decorated to celebrate 40 years of Pac-Man. There's a pixelated Pac-Man chasing a ghost monster embossed in the clasp of the stainless steel band. In addition to all the normal features you find in the Timex T80 watch, like stopwatch, Indiglo lighting, and an alarm, this special-edition watch plays the "iconic PAC-MAN melody" too. You'll be able to order your own from Timex on July 7 for $79 in the US. If you're curious: yes, I am setting a reminder on my phone so I can order one for myself. I just can't decide which color. [poilib element="accentDivider"] Seth Macy is Executive Editor, IGN Commerce, and just wants to be your friend. Find him on Twitter @sethmacy.

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RDO: Claim Triple RDO$ in Showdown Modes, Free Resupplies, and More

This week in Red Dead Online, claim free resupplies for Moonshiners and Traders, triple payouts in Showdown Modes (including Gun Rush), and more.

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Nintendo Formally Apologizes For Joy-Con Drift

Nintendo has made a formal apology for Joy-Con dirft issues frequently experienced with the Nintendo Switch’s controllers, although is unable to provide further comment due to the problem being the subject of a current class-action lawsuit. [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2020/05/11/joy-con-drift-is-still-a-huge-problem-3-years-later"] The apology was made during Nintendo’s latest financial Q&A. “Regarding the Joy-Con, we apologize for any trouble caused to our customers,” said Shuntaro Furukawa, the company’s president, as reported by Kotaku. “We are continuing to aim to improve our products, but as the Joy-Con is the subject of a class-action lawsuit in the United States and this is still a pending issue, we would like to refrain from responding about any specific actions.” Joy-Con drift has been an issue hounding Nintendo Switch users for three years and counting. Since the console launched many players have found that their analogue sticks ‘drift’, meaning movement can be seen on-screen even when you are not touching the sticks at all. Last year Nintendo began to offer Joy-Con repairs for free and refunded those who had paid in previous years, but regardless it is still a huge issue in 2020. [widget path="global/article/imagegallery" parameters="albumSlug=a-history-of-nintendo-hardware-1977-to-now&captions=true"] Last year US law firm Chimicles Schwartz Kriner & Donaldson-Smith filed a class action lawsuit against Nintendo, stating that the Joy-Cons violate "various consumer protection statutes as well as various warranty and common law claims." It’s angled against not just the standard Joy-Cons, but the analogue sticks on the Switch Lite, too. [poilib element="accentDivider"] Matt Purslow is IGN's UK News and Entertainment Writer.

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Ozark Returning for Two-Part Fourth and Final Season

Netflix has announced that its Emmy Award-nominated family crime drama, Ozark, will return for a fourth and final season that will be split into two parts. Season four of Ozark will be 14 episodes long, with each part consisting of 7 episodes. It’s a finale format previously used for big critical hits such as Breaking Bad and Mad Men. [widget path="global/article/imagegallery" parameters="albumSlug=ozark-season-3-photos&captions=true"] The final season will once again be executive produced by showrunner and writer Chris Mundy and star Jason Bateman. Laura Linney, Julia Garner, Sofia Hublitz, Skylar Gaertner, Charlie Tahan, and Lisa Emery will all reprise their roles. In our review of Ozark Season 3, we noted that it’s still one of TV’s best crime dramas, with Jason Bateman and Laura Linney offering consistently excellent performances. Hopefully this final season will give the Byrde family the send-off they deserve. [poilib element="accentDivider"] Matt Purslow is IGN's UK News and Entertainment Writer. 

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Hamilton: Behind-the-Scenes Documentary to Debut Alongside Film

A special documentary featuring the original cast of Hamilton will debut alongside the filmed version of Lin-Manuel Miranda's musical phenomenon, which arrives on the Disney+ streaming platform on July 3. According to Entertainment Weekly, Hamilton In-Depth With Kelley Carter will reunite the Broadway show's creators and stars for a virtual roundtable discussion to examine the production's origins and legacy. [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2020/06/22/hamilton-official-trailer"] "The story and subject matter that Hamilton covers, and the creative vision of its architects and actors, are more timely than ever," said Jimmy Pitaro, President of ESPN and Co-Chair, Disney Media Networks. "The Undefeated, and Kelley L. Carter, are uniquely positioned to help connect audiences – whether they have never seen the show, or have seen it 10 times – to the creative process, people and significance of Hamilton as it debuts on Disney+." The behind-the-scenes feature, produced by The Undefeated, ESPN+, and Disney+, will be hosted by Kelley L. Carter, an award-winning journalist who will explore a wide range of topics in conversation with Hamilton director Thomas Kail and the musical's stars, including Lin-Manuel Miranda, Daveed Diggs, Leslie Odom Jr., Christopher Jackson, Phillipa Soo, and Renée Elise Goldsberry. [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2020/06/24/hamilton-alexander-hamilton-official-clip"] The talented team will come together to reveal some theater tidbits and insider secrets about the show's collaborative creative process, including details about the musical's early stages of development to its groundbreaking opening on stage, as well as the deeper significance of the story and its meaning in the context of ongoing conversations about systemic racism and social injustice. "The cast of Hamilton didn't come to play," said Carter. "They are accomplished performers who created genre-shifting art, but they also understand this unprecedented time in history and why their voices matter. This special isn't just about one of the most important pieces of work to ever play on Broadway. This is about how art inspires activation. And, well, how activation inspires great art." [widget path="global/article/imagegallery" parameters="albumSlug=hidden-gems-on-disney-plus-11-classic-movies-to-watch&captions=true"] Hamilton is a dramatization of the life of Founding Father and Treasury Secretary Alexander Hamilton, tracing his story from his arrival in New York City at the dawn of the Revolutionary War through to his ill-fated duel with rival Aaron Burr in 1804. The musical features a unique combination of hip-hop, R&B, soul, and show tunes to help examine Hamilton's story through a modern lens. Hamilton In-Depth With Kelley Carter premieres on Disney+ and TheUndefeated.com on July 3, 2020, alongside the filmed recording of Lin-Manuel Miranda's musical about Alexander Hamilton, rated PG-13 by the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA). [poilib element="accentDivider"] Adele Ankers is a Freelance Entertainment Journalist. You can reach her on Twitter.

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Pokemon Go Creator Niantic and Immersive Theater Company Punchdrunk Form Partnership

Pokemon Go creator Niantic and immersive theater company Punchdrunk have announced "a multifaceted partnership" that may be using mobile augmented reality capabilities to place immersive theater performances in the real world. An announcement press release doesn't mention specifics about what that partnership is working on, but it makes clear that the result will combine augmented reality and theatrical performance "on a scale not seen before". The release continues: "This revolutionary collaboration will lead to new advances in tech-empowered audience experience that will redefine gaming, inspiring audiences for generations to come." [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2019/12/26/pokemon-go-buddy-adventure-feature-trailer"] In a statement, Punchdrunk artistic director Felix Barrett specicially mentions mobile gaming, and mentions taking the sense of adventure from his company's work "into the real world", implying that this will take the form of an AR app of some kind: "At Punchdrunk we create richly cinematic 3D worlds where audiences can explore, touch and smell the environment; where the boundaries between reality and fantasy are indistinguishable. Those that have seen [Punchdrunk show] Sleep No More often liken the experience to how it might feel to walk into a video game. What happens if you take that sense of adventure into the real world? Tear down the walls and the world becomes your stage. "I believe that Punchdrunk and Niantic can create something that has never been done before. They do it in AR, we do it in real life. Collide the two and I think we will blow people's minds; bend the rules of genre and redefine the norms of mobile gaming.” [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/pokemon-go-remote-raid-passes-trailer"] Punchdrunk is an influential theater company that has eschewed traditional stages and audiences, instead creating explorable spaces filled with actors, where the audience become part of the story, discovering it at their own pace. Perhaps the company's most famous work is Sleep No More, an adaptation of Shakespeare's Macbeth set in a film noir world. Niantic CEO John Hanke says the teams have been working together for "many months" on projects that meld the virtual and real worlds. He says he believes the potential for their work to be "global and massive". We'll update you as we learn more. [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.

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Fortnite Ditches Early Access Label, Slows Development Of PvE Mode

Fortnite is finally shedding its early access status, and as a result, development of its original Save the World PvE mode will slow down. [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2020/04/24/full-fortnite-x-travis-scott-astronomical-concert"] The news arrives after three years of development, during which the game has become quite the phenomenon after it pivoted from its initial horde mode to battle royale. Recent months have even seen it boasting virtual concerts and Star Wars collaborations, something only one of the world's most popular video games could carry off. In a post on the Epic Games blog, the development team revealed that Save the World's main story "is complete," but that it will endure as a "premium experience" instead of being free to play. Fortnite players considered to be "Founders" - those who purchased the game at full price - will have their Founder's Packs upgraded as a result. Save the World mode won't be able to support all upcoming Battle Royale cosmetics, but existing player libraries will remain in-tact. [widget path="global/article/imagegallery" parameters="albumSlug=games-that-came-back-from-the-brink-of-disaster&captions=true"] As Save the World winds down, its content will rotate for replayability purposes. A new Ventures mode is coming to the game too, which will feature new season-long excursions in zones with "new and unique modifiers to tackle." Players can take part in these ventures to progress through the levels, pick up venture-specific rewards and upgrade the items in their personal collection. In other Fortnite news, the game recently hosted a series of Christopher Nolan movie screenings as part of the Movie Nite at Party Royale's Big Screen event. [poilib element="accentDivider"] Jordan Oloman is a freelance writer for IGN. Follow him on Twitter.

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PSVR Patent Filed For Advertisements Displayed Within The Headset

A new PlayStation VR patent filed by Sony Interactive Entertainment suggests that the company is working on technology that will allow advertisements to be displayed within the headset. The patent listing  from Sony, published on June 25, shows drawings that offering an example of how a virtual reality advertising model may look in practice. It appears that the advertisements will show up in the periphery parts of your vision, in the top corners of the display or as a banner in the top middle of the screen. [caption id="attachment_2374000" align="alignnone" width="1280"] A technical drawing from the Sony patent.[/caption] According to the text of the patent, the way advertisements will be displayed depends on the position of the user's head within the head-mounted display and their line of sight. The patent describes the advertisements as "additional content" for "promoting recognition of a given thing or service." One example used in the text is of the user watching a concert with a set of performers appearing at the same time. The technology claims to be able to "detect on which performer the user is focusing his or her attention and then change the advertisement in accordance with the performer of interest." [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2020/04/23/the-10-best-psvr-games"] It should be noted that patents are no guarantee of end results, just that the company in question is researching and developing such technologies. As such, we can't say if Sony is definitely bringing advertising 'pop-ups' to PSVR. It is certainly working on the concept, though. In other weird patent news, here's another bit of Sony technology discovered in April which suggests that in the future we might get fuzzy robotic gaming companions that react to our emotions. [poilib element="accentDivider"] Jordan Oloman is a freelance writer for IGN, excited to be sold Lightspeed Briefs when he's playing Bloodborne Kart in VR. Follow him on Twitter.

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Crysis Remastered Launch Details And Trailer Leaked

The launch trailer and details about Crysis Remastered have been leaked ahead of the game's official reveal on July 1. The leaks appear to stem from a Microsoft Store listing for the game, which was picked up by Twitter user Wario64. According to the Microsoft Store page, the game will launch in just a few weeks on July 23. The trailer for the remaster has also found its way onto Reddit. All of the remastered footage on display has been captured on a PC. [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2011/10/10/crysis-video-review"] According to the listing, which is still live as of writing, Crysis Remastered will land on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Switch, and PC, and will offer remastered graphics, bringing the 2007 original into the current-generation. This will be the first time a Crysis game will launch on a Nintendo console. The official Crysis Remastered reveal is still set for July 1, so look out for more details tomorrow. The game is being co-developed by Saber Interactive, and the initial reveal also suffered an unfortunate leak thanks to a set of sleuths who checked the Crysis website's cookie policy to find a blurb about the now-official remaster. We recently uploaded the first 21 minutes of the 2007 original in 1440p, if you're looking to sate your excitement. [poilib element="accentDivider"] Jordan Oloman is a freelance writer for IGN. Follow him on Twitter.

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Christopher Nolan Doesn't Allow Chairs on His Movie Sets

Director Christopher Nolan is responsible for some of the biggest and most critically acclaimed blockbusters of recent years. Actress Anne Hathaway, who worked Nolan on The Dark Knight Rises and Interstellar, thinks she might have cracked the code to Nolan's success: he doesn't allow chairs on his movie sets. Hathaway revealed this unusual working method during a one-on-one interview with her Les Miserables co-star Hugh Jackman, spearheaded by Variety (via the Playlist). According to the Catwoman actress, Nolan's philosophy can be summed up this way: "If you have chairs, people will sit, and if they’re sitting, they’re not working." [widget path="global/article/imagegallery" parameters="albumSlug=87-images-from-christopher-nolans-tenet-official-trailer-2-2020&captions=true"] Hathaway continued, "I mean, he has these incredible movies in terms of scope and ambition and technical prowess and emotion. It always arrives at the end under schedule and under budget. I think he’s onto something with the chair thing." Nolan fans will remember Jackman also starred in a Nolan film (2006's The Prestige), but he doesn't reveal whether that "no chairs" rule was in effect back then. (It should be noted that film sets are very busy and often crowded and cluttered places with the most notable seating usually reserved for the video village where a bank of monitors allow for playback. Stars, of course, have trailers they can return to during downtime on set.) Nolan's next big screen epic is Tenet, an ambitious, time-bending spy movie starring John David Washington and future Batman Robert Pattinson. We're still not entirely sure what the movie is about, and even Washington admitted the cast was confused about the plot of Tenet. [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2020/05/22/tenet-official-trailer-2"] Unfortunately, it's also hard to say when exactly Tenet will arrive in theaters. Like many film and TV projects, Tenet's release date has already been pushed back multiple times due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Nolan was reportedly very adamant to release the film theatrically in July, but Warner Bros. has now pushed the release back to August 12. Accordingly, AMC Theaters has delayed its planned reopening until July 30. Do you think an anti-chair agenda is the secret of Nolan's filmmaking success? Let us know what you think in the comments below. [poilib element="accentDivider"] Jesse is a mild-mannered staff writer for IGN. Allow him to lend a machete to your intellectual thicket by following @jschedeen on Twitter.

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Everything Coming to Disney+ in July 2020

Disney+ in July features the debut of the X-Men franchise on the streamer, with X-Men: Days of Future Past dropping on July 10 and X-Men: Apocalypse on July 17. More titles set in the imaginative X-Men universe will be released in the coming months, including the original X-Men film on August 7, and The Wolverine on September 4. Other upcoming Marvel titles coming to Disney+ include Ant-Man and the Wasp on August 14 and 2005's Fantastic Four on August 28. Also premiering in July is the award-winning Broadway hit Hamilton on July 3. Subscribers will be able to stream the original Broadway production, which stars Lin-Manuel Miranda as Alexander Hamilton, Leslie Odom Jr. as Aaron Burr, and Phillipa Soo as Eliza Hamilton. Other notable titles coming to Disney+ in July include Ice Age: Collision Course on July 3, and Solo: A Star Wars Story on July 10. In our Solo: A Star Wars Story review, we say that the film "commits to being a charming and fun exercise in repackaging nostalgia and pre-owned protagonists." Read on to see the full list of shows and movies coming to Disney+ in July. [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2018/05/15/solo-a-star-wars-story-review"] [poilib element="accentDivider"]

New on Disney Plus - Friday, July 3

• Animal ER (Seasons 1-2)
• Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules
• Ice Age: Collision Course
• Ice Road Rescue (Seasons 1-4)
• Race to Witch Mountain (2009)
• The Big Green
• The Mighty Ducks
• Hamilton
• Pixar in Real Life - Episode 109 "UP: Balloon Cart Away"
• Disney Family Sundays - Episode 135 "Peter Pan: Shadow Box Theater"
• One Day At Disney - Episode 131 "Zama Magudulela: The Lion King Madrid, Spain"
• It's a Dog's Life with Bill Farmer - Episode 108 "Movie Star Dogs & Hounds and Horses"

New on Disney Plus - Friday, July 10

• X-Men: Days of Future Past
• Critter Fixers: Country Vets (Season 1)
• Gigantosaurus (Season 1)
• Secrets of the Zoo (Season 3)
• Solo: A Star Wars Story
• Disney Family Sundays - Episode 136 "Lilo and Stitch: Family Tree"
• One Day At Disney - Episode 132 “Marc Smith: Story Artist”
• It's a Dog's Life with Bill Farmer - Episode 109 "Movie Star Dogs & Hounds and Horses"

New on Disney Plus - Friday, July 17

• X-Men: Apocalypse
• A Pre-Opening Report from Disneyland
• Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul
• Disney Junior Music Lullabies
• Lost City of Machu Picchu
• Super Robot Monkey Team Hyperforce Go! (S1-2)
• The Mouseketeers at Walt Disney World
• Wild Chile (Season 1)
• Disney Family Sundays - Episode 137 "Moana: Tomato Photo Holder"
• One Day At Disney - Episode 133 "Mike Davie: Imagineering Project Manager"
• It's a Dog's Life with Bill Farmer - Episode 110 "Snake Search Dogs & Hawaiian Conservation Dogs"

New on Disney Plus - Friday, July 24

• Wild Congo (Season 1)
• Wild Sri Lanka (Season 1)
• Disney Family Sundays - Episode 138 "The Jungle Book: Finger Puppet"
• One Day At Disney - Episode 134 "Chris Cristi: Helicopter Reporter"

New on Disney Plus - Friday, July 31

• Alaska Animal Rescue (Season 1)
• Animal Showdown (Season 1)
• Best Job Ever (Season 1)
• Big Cat Games
• Cradle of the Gods
• Destination World (Season 1)
• Dr. Oakley, Yukon Vet (Season 8)
• Fearless Adventures with Jack Randall (Season 1)
• Hidden Kingdoms of China
• Hunt for the Abominable Snowman
• India’s Wild Leopards
• Jungle Animal Rescue (Season 1)
• King Fishers (Season 1)
• Lost Temple of the Inca
• Marvel Funko (Seasons 1-2)
• Surviving the Mount St. Helens Disaster
• Weirdest, Bestest, Truest (Season 1)
• What Sam Sees (Season 1)
• Muppets Now - Episode 101 - “Due Date”
• Disney Family Sundays - Episode 139 "Mickey and Minnie: Pillows"

[widget path="global/article/imagegallery" parameters="albumSlug=the-top-25-star-wars-the-clone-wars-episodes-and-story-arcs&captions=true"] [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.

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Cyborg Actor Ray Fisher Slams Justice League Reshoots Director Joss Whedon

Cyborg actor Ray Fisher was onstage alongside his fellow Justice League cast members at San Diego Comic-Con 2017 to promote Joss Whedon's reshot, reedited version of the DC movie that Zack Snyder had originally been hired to make. Fisher said at the time, "Joss is a great guy and Zack picked a good person to come in and clean up, finish up for him." That was then. On Monday, Fisher tweeted a video of him saying those very words at SDCC 2017 with this caption: "I’d like to take a moment to forcefully retract every bit of this statement."

I’d like to take a moment to forcefully retract every bit of this statement: pic.twitter.com/1ECwwu6TG1

— Ray Fisher (@ray8fisher) June 29, 2020

Fisher, a theater actor who made his big-screen debut in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice before segueing to Justice League, did not provide any further context for retracting his past praise of Whedon. It's unclear whether Fisher's slam is a personal beef with Whedon or simply about not liking the theatrical version of Justice League that Whedon shepherded. It's also worth noting Jason Momoa's stone-faced expression and seemingly half-hearted nod reacting to Fisher's praise. Fisher has long been a supporter of #ReleaseTheSnyderCut on his social media. Given that Snyder gave Fisher, whose sole credit since 2017's Justice League was a recurring role in Season 3 on HBO's True Detective, his start as a screen actor perhaps it's a matter of loyalty for him. However, actor Joe Morton, who played Cyborg's dad Silas Stone, told IGN in 2017 that Whedon's reshoots were in part to alter the tone of the Cyborg character, a creative shift that could get to the heart of Fisher's retraction of his past praise for Whedon. "Well, the stuff that I had to do were just really small little bits and pieces, nothing necessarily having to do with tone. I know that with Ray [Fisher], the young man who plays Victor, there were some adjustments that they made in terms of the tone of that character," according to Morton. "I think what I heard was that there was a need from the studio to lighten up the film in a way, that the film felt too dark. I don't know what that meant in terms of how it actually got translated in terms of the reshoots but that's what I heard. That's what I thought some of the reshoots were about." [widget path="global/article/imagegallery" parameters="albumSlug=the-flash-movies-possible-dceu-cameos&captions=true"] Zack Snyder's Justice League is being completed and is expected to debut on HBO Max in early-to-mid-2021. For more Snyder Cut coverage, watch the first Darkseid clip and find out about some of the visual changes the movie will have from Justice League's theatrical release.

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The Last of Us Part 2 Was Once More Open World in Development

The Last of Us Part 2 takes a lot of design cues and lessons from developer Naughty Dog’s recent games, including its direct predecessor and the Uncharted series. The final result is a linearly focused adventure, but one that often opens up into the studio’s biggest environments and levels. And at one point, it could have been an even greater departure from past games. Speaking to IGN ahead of The Last of Us Part 2’s release, director Neil Druckmann discussed how early ideas of the game had taken on an open-world design. Warning: Major spoilers for The Last of Us Part 2 follow. Turn back if you haven’t finished! [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/the-last-of-us-part-2-ps4-pro-limited-edition-unboxing"] [poilib element="accentDivider"] “The game initially was this open world thing. And you spent all this time in Jackson,” Druckmann, who also spoke to us about The Last of Us Part 2's ambitious story, explained. Jackson, Wyoming is the first major location for the sequel, which spends most of its time in the Pacific Northwest. In Jackson, though, we see where Ellie and Joel have been living in the ensuing years since the end of The Last of Us. There’s a full community here, and in the final release of the sequel, we meet other citizens like Dina, Jesse, Maria, and Seth, while hearing stories about others like Eugene. The more time players would have spent in Jackson also altered the way Abby, the main second playable protagonist, was introduced. “Abby joined the community and you were playing as this new character until she betrayed Joel later on,” Druckmann explained. “And it just didn't work because Joel dying is the inciting incident, and you want to get to the inciting incident as quickly as you can.” And so Abby’s introduction and quick playable levels comes early on, before Joel’s death sends Ellie on her revenge quest to Seattle. Druckmann explained how Abby’s role actually shrank from earlier iterations of the sequel’s story, but that ultimately the team settled on a playable portion that felt long enough to convey what was necessary. “Abby was the concept that made us want to make this game about empathy, interactivity; knowing we could use Joel and Ellie to create that feeling right at the beginning,” he said. “Her role actually kept shrinking and shrinking until we thought this is the right amount for what we need you to feel about Abby.” Stay tuned to IGN for more from Druckmann on the sequel, and if you haven't already be sure to check out IGN's The Last of Us Part 2 review. For more on the Naughty Dog sequel, read our dive into The Last of Us Part 2's accessibility features, how much The Last of Us Part 2 sold in its debut weekend, and why the sequel probably won't get DLC. And if you're playing, be sure to check out IGN's comprehensive The Last of Us Part 2 guide for help with collectibles, Trophies, and more. [poilib element="accentDivider"] Jonathon Dornbush is IGN's Senior News Editor, Host of Podcast Beyond!, and can't stop hearing Pearl Jam in his head now. Talk to him on Twitter @jmdornbush.

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AMC Theaters Reopening Postponed

UPDATE 2: AMC Theaters has pushed back its reopening date by two weeks due to the surge in new coronavirus cases. The theater chain giant will now reopen 450 of its 600 theaters on July 30 instead of July 15, according to Variety. That is, of course, unless COVID-19 numbers continue to spike. And when AMC Theaters does reopen, patrons will be required to wear face masks (see below). Our original report from June 19 follows. UPDATE: Following a public backlash, AMC Theaters has reversed course and will now require patrons to wear face masks once many of their theaters reopen July 15. The nation's leading theater chain had wished, as its CEO and President Adam Aron put it, to not to be “drawn into a political controversy" by requiring patrons wear face masks during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Read their full statement below:

It is absolutely crucial that we listen to our guests. With the full support of our scientific advisors, we are reversing course and are changing our guest mask policy. We now will require that all AMC guests nationwide wear masks as they enter and enjoy movies at our theatres. pic.twitter.com/DxS9pTjwSi

— AMC Theatres (@AMCTheatres) June 19, 2020

Our original report from June 18 follows. [poilib element="accentDivider"] AMC Theaters plans to reopen 450 cinemas in the US on July 15 -- and won’t require people to wear masks so as not to be “drawn into a political controversy." The reopening will be in time for major releases such as Mulan (July 24) and Tenet (July 31). The nation's leading theater chain had closed over 600 locations in March due to the novel coronavirus pandemic. AMC CEO and President Adam Aron told Variety: “There were some jurisdictions in some states such as Georgia and Texas that allowed people to re-open theaters in mid-May. We opted to remain closed, so we could give the country time to get a better handle on coronavirus. We wanted to use this time to figure out how best to open and how to do so safely.” Included among those safety measures will be limited seating capacity, social distancing, new cleaning procedures, hand sanitizer stations, and, as the trade notes, AMC is also "encouraging contact-less and cash-free concessions." Will filmgoers be required to weak masks? According to AMC's new safety measures, employees are required to wear PPE such as face masks. As for patrons, "Protect yourself and others by wearing a mask, available for purchase if desired. In some municipalities, guests will be required to wear masks." “We did not want to be drawn into a political controversy,” AMC boss Aron told Variety. “We thought it might be counterproductive if we forced mask wearing on those people who believe strongly that it is not necessary. We think that the vast majority of AMC guests will be wearing masks. When I go to an AMC feature, I will certainly be wearing a mask and leading by example.” [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/why-amc-is-banning-universal-movies-ign-now"] Other leading exhibition chains such as Regal and Cinemark are also reopening their theaters mid-July. Deeply in debt and recently downgraded by Wall Street analysts, AMC Theaters has suggested the pandemic could force it into bankruptcy. The chain also remains at war with Universal Pictures over the studio's willingness to put some of its movies -- including Trolls World Tour, The King of Staten Island, and You Should Have Left -- on premium VOD instead of delaying their theatrical release.

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Donald Trump's Official Twitch Channel Suspended

Twitch has suspended President Donald Trump’s official Twitch channel citing a violation of Twitch’s community guidelines against hateful conduct. A suspension is not the same as a ban, but it’s unclear when President Trump’s Twitch channel will be reinstated. In a statement provided to IGN, a Twitch spokesperson said, “Hateful conduct is not allowed on Twitch. In line with our policies, President Trump’s channel has been issued a temporary suspension from Twitch for comments made on stream, and the offending content has been removed.” [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2018/03/02/trump-to-meet-with-game-industry-execs"] Twitch defines Hateful Conduct on its platform as any “content or activity that promotes, encourages, or facilitates discrimination, denigration, objectification, harassment, or violence based on race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability or serious medical condition or veteran status, and is prohibited. Any hateful conduct is considered a zero-tolerance violation.” Trump’s Twitch channel rebroadcasted multiple rallies that Twitch cited as violations of this rule. One was a recent rebroadcast from his 2016 campaign rally where he said:

“When Mexico sends its people, they’re not sending their best. They’re not sending you. They’re not sending you. They’re sending people that have lots of problems, and they’re bringing those problems with us. They’re bringing drugs. They’re bringing crime. They’re rapists. And some, I assume, are good people. But I speak to border guards and they tell us what we’re getting. And it only makes common sense. It only makes common sense. They’re sending us not the right people.”

Twitch cited a second comment made during a Twitch stream from Trump’s Tulsa Rally:

“Hey, it’s 1:00 o’clock in the morning and a very tough, I’ve used the word on occasion, hombre, a very tough hombre is breaking into the window of a young woman whose husband is away as a traveling salesman or whatever he may do. And you call 911 and they say, “I’m sorry, this number’s no longer working.” By the way, you have many cases like that, many, many, many. Whether it’s a young woman, an old woman, a young man or an old man and you’re sleeping.”

Twitch told the President’s team when the channel was started last year that, “Like anyone else, politicians on Twitch must adhere to our Terms of Service and Community Guidelines. We do not make exceptions for political or newsworthy content, and will take action on content reported to us that violates our rules.” [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2018/03/08/president-trumps-violence-in-video-games-highlight-reel"] Several other politicians have Twitch channels, including Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders. Trump’s suspension from Twitch comes on the same day Reddit banned subreddits deemed as propagating hateful content, including the r/The_Donald subreddit which is not officially associated with the President. [poilib element="accentDivider"] Matt Kim is a reporter for IGN. Blogroll photo by Gage Skidmore via Flickr. Some rights reserved.

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Call of Duty: Warzone Update to Add Limited Time 200-Player Matches

Call of Duty: Warzone will soon be getting a new limited-time 200 Player Battle Royale mode that will allow 50 Quads of Operators to fight for victory. This new mode will arrive alongside a brand new Season Four Reloaded update on June 29 at 11pm PT and on June 30 at 2am ET/7am BST that will also add a new weapon, map, operator, and much more. Warzone currently supports up to 150 players, and this new limited time Quads mode will allow for 50 more players. [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2020/06/11/call-of-duty-modern-warfare-warzone-official-season-four-trailer"] The update will have a download size of 22-36 GB for owners of the full version of Modern Warfare, with console owners needing a secondary 3.5 GB download. Free-to-Play Warzone players can expect a download of 22-30 GB. According to Activision, once these updates are finished, there will be "a reduction to the overall footprint on their machines." There will also be new Supply Run Contracts in Warzone. Once activated, your team will be directed to a nearby Buy Station. If it is reached in time, a discount on Buy Station purchases will be applied. Juggernaut Royale mode will also become available. In this mode, there will be airdropped care packages that will allow players to become the Juggernaut with a mini-gun and high armor. Once a Juggernaut is defeated, a new care package will drop, giving someone else a chance to become the fearsome soldier. [widget path="global/article/imagegallery" parameters="albumSlug=call-of-duty-modern-warfare-and-warzone-season-4-screenshots&captions=true"] A Spotter Scope will also be put around Verdansk. While sniper scopes can be spotted by other players by the glint of sunshine when they are used, this new scope has none of that. If found, players can can the environment and find enemies without as much fear as using a regular scope. Speaking of Snipers, the Rytec AMR will also make its way to Modern Warfare's multiplayer modes and is a ".50 caliber-chambered beast." It is "one of the deadliest semi-automatic anti-material rifles an Operator can get their hands on." On the multiplayer front, the Cheshire Park map will become available and allow players to travel to urban London, England to visit a "picturesque garden and conservatory." [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2020/06/11/call-of-duty-modern-warfare-warzone-season-four-battle-pass-trailer"] Lastly, Team Defender returns to multiplayer after being introduced almost 10 years ago and brings back the variant of Capture the Flag where there is only one flag between both teams. [poilib element="accentDivider"] Have a tip for us? Want to discuss a possible story? Please send an email to newstips@ign.com. Adam Bankhurst is a news writer for IGN. You can follow him on Twitter @AdamBankhurst and on Twitch.

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The Force Is Strong With These Minimalist Star Wars Posters

One of many reasons Star Wars has embedded itself in our collective consciousness is through its iconic imagery, made all the more recognizable by its clean, minimalist shapes that create instantly recognizable silhouettes (like the shadow of Darth Vader that made The Phantom Menace's teaser poster so effective), so it's no surprise that minimalist designer and illustrator S. Preston has drawn inspiration from a galaxy far, far away for his new line of artwork. IGN can exclusively reveal Preston's three latest designs, featuring R2-D2, Boba Fett, and Darth Vader, building on his previous work which showcased BB-8 and the Millennium Falcon. Check out the officially licensed designs in the slideshow below. [widget path="global/article/imagegallery" parameters="albumSlug=star-wars-minimalist-prints-by-s-preston&captions=true"] Preston is well known for creating minimalist takes on Major League Baseball's mascot designs and ballparks, and the artist shares a little of the inspiration in his work here: "Mascots are for kids. When I set about to create a collection of mascot art, I really wanted to capture the playfulness and joy that a young fan gets when they meet a mascot or character.  Partially inspired by Wilson, the neighbor in Home Improvement, my collection of minimalist mascots are meant to capture your attention by “peeking” over the art.  Over the years, thousands of sports fans have added my minimalist mascot artwork in their kids rooms and I’m crazy excited that LucasFilm decided to introduce my minimalist mascot artwork into a galaxy far, far away.” The prints are now available through Preston's website with a 10% discount for IGN readers using code IGN10. Get the details on the prints below: Open Edition Poster Prints - Officially licensed artwork of Lucasfilm, Ltd. - 11x17 on enhanced matte paper. - 12x12 on enhanced matte paper Both retail $30 Limited Edition Prints - Officially licensed artwork of Lucasfilm, Ltd. - Hand numbered and signed by the artist. - Certificate of Authenticity included. - Optional framing available. Medium - 14x20 print on archival fine-art paper. - Limited to 350 Large - 24x36 print on archival fine-art paper - Limited to 100 For more Star Wars goodies, check out Hasbro's new Mandalorian and Star Wars Rebels Black Series figures, see the Funko versions of Knights of the Old Republic villains Darth Revan and Darth Malak, and read the first chapter Star Wars: The High Republic - Light of the Jedi. [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2020/02/20/hasbros-baby-yoda-animatronic-figure-in-action"]

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Crash Bandicoot 4: New Gameplay Shows New Tricks, Returning Moves

After years and years of entries that tried but often didn’t quite capture the magic of the original trilogy, we’re actually getting a proper Crash Bandicoot 4. Crash 4: It’s About Time comes from developers Toys for Bob, who have a long history with platformers, most recently tackling the Spyro Reignited Trilogy. With our first look at Crash Bandicoot 4 gameplay and details, we saw some of the various time-hopping locales Crash and Coco will venture off to. Thanks to a bit of new, exclusive footage, which you can watch in the video breakdown above, we can also see how a level will flow, and many of the new moves, ideas, and returning gameplay tricks Crash 4 will bring later this year. [widget path="global/article/imagegallery" parameters="albumSlug=crash-bandicoot-4-its-about-time-first-screenshots&captions=true"] This pirate-themed level takes Crash from the seaside shore through a seeming pirate cove to a cavernous end-of-level treasure area. And, thankfully, a lot of the staples of the Crash experience appear intact, which Toys for Bob has said is a key component of why they called this Crash 4. Wumpa, Aku Aku, Nitro, and TNT crates all return as collectibles and hazards around the world. There’s also a few new crates thrown into the mix, including one that spits fire in several directions, as well as a golden Wumpa fruit crate at the end of the level. Speaking of the end of the level, in true Crash original trilogy form, we’ve got a crate counter tallying your success in aiming to 100% the level by smashing every crate in sight. It’s a familiar touchstone, but an important one. And another seemingly returning aspect is time trials, as a stopwatch appears at the start of the level. Toys for Bob’s Lou Studdert in an interview with IGN told us the team is focused on really enriching Crash 4 with replayability in the same way that players could find reasons to keep going back to levels in the original Crash games. [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2020/06/22/crash-bandicoot-4-first-gameplay-details"] Of course, this time, they’re working with modern console technology, and the impressive detail and design work proves it. There’s a great bit of character enemy behavior early on, as Crash spin-slaps a foe into one of these new enemies sporting whirlwinds around them, which causes that foe to arc on the wind and take out another enemy. Combo kills in Crash have always been a joy to discover, and this one hopefully hints at some intriguing combinations to come. The scope of the levels is also showcased in the middle, rope-sliding section, which offers a look at one of Crash’s main new techniques. But as he’s sliding and flipping around these ropes, you can see much more of the level unfurl below him. There’s a whole series of platforming challenges for Crash to face on the lower deck of this level, and it speaks to Toys for Bob’s efforts to offer expansive, larger levels than the original trilogy could. And last but not least, I just really wanted to point out this crate with a shark on it. Is there a shark in the crate, is it a crate that will eventually house a shark, or is it a crate filled with food, toys, or costumes for sharks? [caption id="attachment_2373606" align="alignnone" width="720"] What's in the shark box!?[/caption] Crash 4 will take the series to new worlds on October 2, when It’s About Time comes to PS4 and Xbox One. For more on Crash 4, check out the initial reveal trailer, and learn about other major gameplay details set for the sequel. [poilib element="accentDivider"] Jonathon Dornbush is IGN's Senior News Editor, Host of Podcast Beyond!, and lifelong Crash Bandicoot player. Talk to him on Twitter @jmdornbush.

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Xbox Series S Will Reportedly Be Revealed in August

A new report claims the much-rumoured Xbox Series S (or Xbox Lockhart) will be revealed in August, after it was originally scheduled for an E3 announcement. According to Eurogamer's sources, Microsoft had originally pegged June as its announcement month for the alleged lower priced, lower powered version of the Xbox Series X, using an E3 showcase as a space to explain the console while showing it playing the same next-gen games as the more powerful console. The site now reports that Series S will get its own reveal - presumably in an Inside Xbox-like showcase - in August. That supports a previous Venturebeat report. [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2020/06/10/xbox-lockhart-seems-real-but-is-it-out-this-year-unlocked-447"] Some reports have suggested that the Series S reveal was originally planned to remain in June - to fit in as part of the monthly updates branded by Microsoft as Xbox 20/20 - before being pushed back. However, Eurogamer says its sources indicate that this month's series of technical updates on elements like Smart Delivery was always the plan for June. The next confirmed major beat for Xbox 20/20 is a July showcase of first-party games. Xbox Series S increasingly looks to be a reality, with the original rumours now supported by the discovery of Windows OS code that references its Lockhart codename. [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.

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Ghostbusters: Afterlife Leaves Open the Possibility of Sequels

Dan Aykroyd has suggested that Ghostbusters: Afterlife sets up a new generation that could potentially lead to more supernatural sequels in the future. Speaking to Entertainment Weekly, Aykroyd praised Afterlife director Jason Reitman, the son of original Ghostbusters director Ivan Reitman, for his care in "passing the DNA of the first two movies directly to the new generation" by introducing a fresh team of paranormal investigators to continue the legacy. [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2019/12/09/ghostbusters-afterlife-official-trailer"] "It's just a lot of fun to see these terrific young actors slinging the old Cadillac around and having the equipment in their hands," Aykroyd admitted. "The story that develops from that is scary and funny and heartfelt and also funny. And it feeds into the possibility of more follow-ups with this group and with others who want to join." While Ghostbusters: Afterlife largely focuses on handing the proton packs over to a new generation of 'busters, several members of the original cast are also said to be reprising their roles. In fact, Aykroyd said that the OGBs made sure that Harold Ramis, who died in 2014, was well represented in the new film. "To have that formation without that man standing right there on the line with us was a pretty serious adjustment," Aykroyd recalled of shooting without his former co-star. "He will be very well represented in the new film, I can tell you that. He's very honorably represented." [widget path="global/article/imagegallery" parameters="albumSlug=ghostbusters-afterlife-trailer-breakdown&captions=true"] Filmmaker Jason Reitman said that the forthcoming film will tie directly into the original movie from 1984. The new characters are a family made up of Carrie Coon, Finn Wolfhard and Mckenna Grace. The mother inherits a farm from a father she didn't know. However, the family soon discovers that this farm, which is tucked away in a small Oklahoma town, is littered with world-saving, ghostbusting equipment. Ghostbusters: Afterlife was originally set to haunt theaters on July 10, 2020, but the threequel has been pushed back to March 5, 2021, in light of the industry-wide shutdown due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. [poilib element="accentDivider"] Adele Ankers is a Freelance Entertainment Journalist. You can reach her on Twitter.

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The Last of Us Part 2: Director on the Sequel's Ambitious Story

By the end of the original The Last of Us, developer Naughty Dog asks players, as Joel, to commit morally challenging acts that, whether you agree they’re the right thing to do, you at least understand where the character is coming from. For The Last of Us Part 2, Naughty Dog aimed to achieve a similar sense of empathy through playing on a larger scale on the sequel. Massive spoilers for The Last of Us Part 2 follow. If you haven’t finished playing, turn back now! [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2020/06/12/the-last-of-us-part-2-review"] [poilib element="accentDivider"] Speaking to IGN ahead of The Last of Us Part 2’s release, director Neil Druckmann explained the philosophy the team took with the original game, and how it led to Part 2’s key goals. “You don't necessarily agree with what [Joel’s] doing, but we saw that the majority of people understood what he's doing and now they're role-playing as him,” Druckmann said. “'I might not do this but I understand why Joel would. So I'm going to see the world through his eyes.’ There's something unique about the empathy that is created in video games, it's wholly unique. “Can we build a whole experience around this concept,” Druckmann said, explaining what he and the team ventured out to do with Part 2. “Can we make you hate someone to such a degree that you want to hurt them in really horrible ways for what they've done to you? And then all of a sudden make you play as them and, the challenge was, can we get you to empathize?” [widget path="global/article/imagegallery" parameters="albumSlug=the-last-of-us-part-2-review-screenshots&captions=true"] Of course, Part 2 includes the dramatic gameplay shift of its second half, putting players in control of Abby, first introduced early in the sequel as someone successfully hunting Joel to kill him. The second half, both in the present and in flashbacks, explores Abby’s life and motivations, which Druckmann explained allowed them to dive into the themes of revenge from multiple perspectives. “I don't know if you're going to like [Abby] necessarily. We hope you do, but can we really get you to understand them? And that's where the second half of the game [goes], you're playing as someone that goes on their own journey of redemption. You get to see revenge from two sides,” he said. [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/how-long-is-the-last-of-us-part-2"] And moreso than just exploring revenge, which is what most of The Last of Us Part 2’s early marketing focused on, Druckmann explained how the dual perspectives allowed them to explore the flip side of that — forgiveness. “It's a game about empathy and forgiveness and getting past grief and seeing other people for the more complex human beings they are. That's what got us excited about making this,” Druckmann said. Stay tuned to IGN for more from Druckmann on the sequel, and if you haven't already be sure to check out IGN's The last of Us Part 2 review. For more on the Naughty Dog sequel, read our dive into The Last of Us Part 2's accessibility features, how much The Last of Us Part 2 sold in its debut weekend, and why the sequel probably won't get DLC. And if you're playing, be sure to check out IGN's comprehensive The Last of Us Part 2 guide for help with collectibles, Trophies, and more. [poilib element="accentDivider"] Jonathon Dornbush is IGN's Senior News Editor, Host of Podcast Beyond!, and can't stop hearing Pearl Jam in his head now. Talk to him on Twitter @jmdornbush.

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Super Nintendo World Theme Park Opening Delayed Indefinitely

The Super Nintendo World theme park's opening has been indefinitely delayed in Japan. Universal Studios Japan is planning to postpone the opening of its upcoming Nintendo-theme land in Osaka as a result of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, according to NHK World-Japan. The theme park, which is heavily based on Nintendo's Mario franchise, is nearly complete. This includes not just construction of the land, but themed rides and restaurants as well. [widget path="global/article/imagegallery" parameters="albumSlug=super-nintendo-world-press-conference-images&captions=true"] The park was originally set to open in July but because of COVID-19, the park's opening has been delayed indefinitely, likely to give Universal Studios time to review the pandemic landscape and determine a safer opening date. Because construction on the land is near complete, it's unlikely this delay was made in order to give the company more time to work on the park itself. Because of the popularity of Nintendo, Mario, and the idea of a new land opening within Universal Studios Japan, the company is expecting an increased number of visitors to the park. This poses an even larger threat to the safety of guests in the midst of a pandemic. As such, Universal Studios Japan said it is unsure of when the new Nintendo-themed land will open. The rest of Universal Studios Japan opened on June 8 to guests from the local Kansai area. It also limited guest numbers by half of its standard capacity. [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2017/06/08/super-nintendo-world-japan-teaser-trailer"] It may not be open, but there are still plenty of ways to get a glimpse of the park. Check out this new image that shows multiple areas of the land. After looking at that, read about how the Super Nintendo World theme park might expand beyond Mario in the future. The eastern US version of this Nintendo-themed land is coming to the new Epic Universe theme park planned for Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida. Here are some ways to help and stay safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. [poilib element="accentDivider"] Wesley LeBlanc is a freelance news writer and guide maker for IGN. You can follow him on Twitter @LeBlancWes.

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Hyper Scape: Ubisoft Reportedly Ready to Reveal New Battle Royale

Ubisoft is reportedly raring up to tease a new FPS Battle Royale game called Hyper Scape. The information arrives thanks to a thread from esports insider, Slasher, who has learned from sources that Ubisoft is reportedly prepared to tease the game later on Monday. According to Slasher's sources, the game was code-named Prisma Dimensions but will run with the title Hyper Scape, and is being developed by Ubisoft Montreal.

Sources: today Ubisoft will tease a new game code-named "Prisma Dimensions", which is actually a new AAA multiplayer fast-paced FPS Battle Royale from Ubisoft Montreal (R6, AC) named Hyper Scape pic.twitter.com/2hza3P7rz1

— Rod "4475 SR & Immortal peak" Breslau (@Slasher) June 29, 2020

An image shown in the thread appears to offer our first glimpse of the game and its apparent "futuristic virtual world." The game will apparently be free to play for both PC and consoles, with crossplay functionality. The thread also notes that the game is set to enter a closed beta period next week, with a full launch planned on July 12. As detailed in the thread, Hyper Scape has reportedly been built in partnership with Twitch and one of the game's features allows Twitch chat to, "directly impact the game live with game-changing events." Ubisoft's digital summer showcase, Ubisoft Forward, is set to air next Sunday, July 12. [poilib element="accentDivider"] Jordan Oloman is a freelance writer for IGN. Follow him on Twitter.

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The Umbrella Academy: New Poster Includes Season 2 Easter Eggs

The Umbrella Academy Season 2 is coming in just over a month, and a new poster is offering us a few hints at what's to come. The poster (below), shows the seven members of the Academy, each sporting a pair of sunglasses, with each reflection offering a clue at Season 2's contents. From the looks of it, we'll be getting more looks back at the Academy's childhoods, as well as protests, a declaration of war, and more. The show will return to Netflix on July 31, and we've already seen a set of character posters and first-look images. Here's everything we know about Season 2 ahead of its release. An adaptation of Gerard Way and Gabriel Bá's comic book series ofthe same name, The Umbrella Academy follows the lives of a dysfunctional family of superheroes. It proved a huge hit for Netflix, which reported that 45 million households had watched the show, and quickly ordered a second season. We awarded the first season an 8.5 review, calling it "hilariously twisted, subversively stylish, and surprisingly poignant". We named it as one of the best new TV series of 2019, and one of the best comic book series - it was named the IGN's People's Choice in both categories. [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.

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Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World Director Plans to Revisit Story in 'Anime Form'

Edgar Wright has spoken about the possibility of revisiting Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World as an anime project, saying there are "plans" to expand the franchise, though nothing is official yet. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Wright revealed that he had been involved in ongoing talks with Scott Pilgrim comic creator Bryan Lee O'Malley and the film's executive producer Jared LeBoff about revisiting the material in "an animation way," as opposed to following up with a direct sequel to the 2010 film. [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2018/11/17/director-styles-movie-lists-cinefix"] "There's some plans — and there's nothing official yet — but there are some plans to revisit the material in an animation way," Wright admitted in the retrospective piece. "We've been talking with Bryan and with Jared for a while [about]: What if we did something with the books in anime form? It's being discussed as we speak." In the same interview, O'Malley expressed his interest in returning to the world of Scott Pilgrim, saying that he would "like to revisit the characters [in comic form] and see what they're up to." In fact, he said that he had already sketched an alternate version of Scott with "a huge beard" early in the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. [widget path="global/article/imagegallery" parameters="albumSlug=top-25-best-anime-series-of-all-time&captions=true"] Whichever format this new project could potentially take, it is highly unlikely to be developed as a direct big-screen follow-up to the Michael Cera-starring film adaptation, as Cera himself admitted that "when a movie doesn't really explode at the box office, it's hard for anybody to get behind a sequel." Critics and fans of the Scott Pilgrim graphic novel series raved about the film adaptation after its release, but that adulation didn't translate to high box office returns. On an estimated budget of $60 million, Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World took in a paltry $47.7 million worldwide. [poilib element="accentDivider"] Adele Ankers is a Freelance Entertainment Journalist. You can reach her on Twitter.

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Harry Potter RPG Reportedly Due in Late 2021

Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment's Harry Potter RPG is reportedly set to be released in late 2021 on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, although the developers are said to be "rattled" by such issues as the COVID-19 pandemic, J.K. Rowling's controversial comments, and the possible sale of the Warner Bros. video game publishing business. As reported by Bloomberg, this Harry Potter RPG has been long-rumored but never officially confirmed. While there was a supposed gameplay leak in 2018, Warner Bros. has yet to introduce this much-anticipated title to the world at large. This project is said to let players become wizards in a "vast, open world re-creation og Hogwarts and its surrounding areas." Two anonymous sources close to the project have revealed to Bloomberg that the project is "very real" and that it is in development by Disney Infinity studio Avalanche Software in Salt Lake City, Utah. [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2018/10/05/our-leaked-harry-potter-rpg-theories-beyond-highlight"] The sources have confirmed that that leak from 2018 was authentic, but many of the rumors that have come after are false. It was also said that, despite the COVID-19 pandemic, the possible sale of the Warner Bros. video game publishing business, and the "fierce backlash against the franchise's creator," the game still remains on track for its release next year. There is anxiety at the studio, however, especially due to the aforementioned comments by J.K. Rowling that are "widely viewed as transphobic." According to one person, the studio's management has still not addressed the controversial words by Rowling. Many spoke out against Rowling's comments, including Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson, two of the stars from the Harry Potter films. [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2018/11/24/best-25-harry-potter-characters"] Rowling is still very involved in most things Harry Potter, although one of the sources said that she has "very little direct involvement" in this project. Felicia Grady, the managing editor of the popular Harry Potter fan site MuggleNet wrote an e-mail to Bloomberg stating that this controversy is "likely to diminish some of the anticipation of the game." "Based on what I’ve seen from fans, I do believe that Rowling’s comments have had some effect on the level of excitement they have for the Harry Potter RPG or other upcoming content,” Grady wrote. “We’ve seen comments from fans who no longer wish to support Rowling or the brand financially.” [widget path="global/article/imagegallery" parameters="albumSlug=the-harry-potter-universes-most-fantastic-beasts&captions=true"] The possible sale of the Warner Bros. video game publishing business is also of big concern because, according to Bloomberg Intelligence analyst Matthew Kanterman, expensive projects can be the "most at risk of cancellation in the event of a sale," especially one that has been in development for so long. These issues have caused WB to shift its plans regarding the reveal of the project, which was originally going to appear during E3 2020. The new plan, according to those familiar with such things, is to unveil the new Batman game in August at the DC FanDome and then focus on the Harry Potter RPG at a later date. These plans, however, were made prior to Rowling's comments. [poilib element="accentDivider"] Have a tip for us? Want to discuss a possible story? Please send an email to newstips@ign.com. Adam Bankhurst is a news writer for IGN. You can follow him on Twitter @AdamBankhurst and on Twitch.

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Ubisoft CEO Promises to 'Personally Follow' Misconduct Reports, Two Execs Reportedly Placed on Leave

Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot has promised to "personally follow" each of the recent reports of sexual misconduct at the company, while two of its vice-presidents, among others, have allegedly been placed on leave as a result of the reports. In a letter to staff obtained by Business Insider, Guillemot writes that he has been "profoundly affected" by the multiple reports of sexual impropriety and abuse emerging from Ubisoft. "These actions are in total contradiction with our values ​​and with what I want for Ubisoft", Guillemot's letter continues. "The company we hold dear must offer a welcoming and respectful environment, allowing everyone to flourish. I will not accept anything less." Guillemot said the company was setting up a multidisciplinary working group (with an external partner) in order to "come up with better solutions and tools to detect, report and resolve any incident or serious problem without delay and in an impartial manner." [ignvideo url="https://www.ign.com/videos/2020/06/24/assassinss-creed-valhalla-creative-director-is-stepping-down-amid-cheating-allegations"] Separately, Bloomberg reports that vice-presidents Tommy François and Maxime Béland, as well as several other employees, have been placed on administrative leave as allegations of misconduct from multiple sources are investigated. Bloomberg reports that many Ubisoft employees have expressed skepticism over whether appropriate action will be taken, with some pointing out that some of these allegations are not new, and have been reported to HR in the past without result. Assassin's Creed: Valhalla creative director Ashraf Ismail has already stepped down from his role on the project after he was accused of engaging in extramarital affairs. It's unclear what his status as an Ubisoft employee is at this time. [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.

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