Geek of Oz

Tom Cruise is arguably at his best and most likeable in sci-fi action films. I love a good Tom Cruise sci-fi and Edge Of Tomorrow is no different, delivering a satisfying journey which is chock full of thrills with an overall sense of fun. Minority Report was brilliantly thought-provoking and emotionally affecting, Equilibrium was a pleasant surprise with some engaging new concepts and visions of a future dystopia and Edge Of Tomorrow is like a sci-fi cross between Groundhog Day and Saving Private Ryan, with a hero who keeps on perishing and “resetting” his day.

An important aspect to enjoying these "repeating" scenario type films is the element of surprise, so without telling too much, Edge Of Tomorrow takes place in a futuristic world war. Most of Europe has already been seized and the Americans, British and we assume other countries are allied once again as the United Defence Force, but this time they are fighting an alien enemy called Mimics. The film follows Major William Cage (Cruise) as he is pressed into fighting in a battle on the front lines of a beach in Normandy, France, where all hell breaks loose and he is killed … only to have his day reset, starting again the day before at base camp before flying out to battle on the beach again.

Like with the best of Doug Liman’s films, The Bourne Identity, the action in Edge Of Tomorrow is thrilling and well orchestrated. The beach battle scene is very much like the scene in Saving Private Ryan, except we have soldiers in heavy, mechanised armour fighting scorpion-like aliens. You get a real sense of the orientation and geography of the battle without the cameras throwing you around too much. There is a physicality that comes across with Cruise's action scenes, obviously coming across from his love of performing stunts himself. It is really refreshing to watch action films where you get a sense of actually feeling the effort and some of the pain. The editing of the film is also very clever. You enter into these “repeating” scenario films expecting to have to deal with fair load of repetition but Edge Of Tomorrow breaks about midway, revealing that we don’t know all the times that Cage has reset and it’s a welcome feeling to be thrown back and engaged with the territory of unknown plot points.

Maybe Tom Cruise is more appealing in his sci-fi roles because he has to take a step back from being Mr Ultra Cool and Confident. I get sick of that guy and it feels too close to the coolly, immaculate public-persona Cruise. In a Tom Cruise sci-fi he is more natural, a fish out of water and struggling to deal with his situation and surroundings. In Edge Of Tomorrow, we get this plus something new for Cruise. US Major William Cage is essentially just a PR media figurehead and no real soldier at all, in fact he’s a coward. The role really suits Cruise and allows him to display some spin-doctor suave as well as relatable weakness and fear, better still he’s also funny. There are some real laugh-out-loud moments in Cage’s journey to master his one day and it’s a welcome addition to the usually, very serious Tom Cruise sci-fi. It's like Tom Cruise is your video game character, continually making the wrong move in the game, getting knocked off in often amusing and stupid accidents and then resetting to the start of the level, which is very fun to watch. The best scene is watching him attempt a commando roll on a military base, with rather hilarious results. Eventually we get action man Cruise but I enjoyed the journey from un-coordinated, cowardly klutz to human extension of a machine gun.

Emily Blunt (Looper, The Adjustment Bureau) is excellent and convincing at playing professional, battle-hardened soldier Rita Vrataski. Vrataski is a dame who will accept no rescuing and has a few names which people call her, the nicest of which is “The Angel of Verdun” after her pivotal win in a battle against the enemy. She is a kick-ass, formidable, lean piece of warrior muscle with intelligence who provides much needed support to Cage. The film also features solid performances from an amusing Bill Paxton (Apollo 13 , Aliens) as a puffed up philosophy-spouting Sarge and Brendan Gleeson (The Guard, Harry Potter) as a very stern, unpredictable general. The rest of the cast, including Noah Taylor (Game Of Thrones, Red Dog) as a doctor and all the infantry of J-Squad are an oddball group of the slightly screwed loose. They are rather funny but you don't feel much for them.

The action, battle scenes, aliens and European locations look fantastic. The aliens have a unique look, and reminded me of the scorpion-like Transformer in the first Transformers film crossed with Edvard Munch’s painted figure in “The Scream” yet are way cooler. The battle torn beach and ravaged Paris in particular are awesome vistas. The 3D viewing experience is without the usual gimmicky tricks and was very smooth and clear without the blurriness you so often get with heavily layered scenes in 3D.

All in all, Edge Of Tomorrow is a thoroughly enjoyable and thrilling sci-fi action flick that you can enjoy in full 3D cinema extravagance. My only qualm is that it is not as thought-provoking or gritty as I personally prefer my sci-fi and yet I still had a blast.

Edge Of Tomorrow is in cinemas Thursday 5th june. If you check it out, please share your thoughts below and tell us what you think .

- Emily

Maleficent, is a clumsy attempt by Disney to pull the old switcheroo with one of their iconic villains, I’m trying pinpoint when it started, but villains nowadays, seem to require sappy back stories pertaining to when they were actually good guys, who through some kind of personal tragedy turned the evil. Needless to say, Wicked has been arrested and is currently being interrogated. Maleficent, is a frustrating kind of affair, in that Angelina Jolie is so deliciously wicked, I wish she had a better sandbox of a film to play in. Sadly this falls closer to Snow White and the Huntsman when It needed to be Pan’s Labyrinth.

Billed as “The story you never knew” behind Sleeping beauty, Maleficent is set in a far off land which is divided rather crudely into the world of men and that of magical critters. We meet Maleficent, a fairy child who pretty much frolics about, appreciating the wonders of life and generally being a super positive pain in the ass. Her world is forever changed when she meets Sebastian, a runaway lad from the human world. Despite being from different worlds, the two fall in love and get with the making out (still not sure about the cross species stuff). Maleficent is crushed when Sebastian turns out to be a less than savoury chap, who eventually savagely attacks Maleficent leaving her physically and emotionally violated. Maleficent has apparently no choice but to morph into the evil Queen that we know and love wreaking havoc on all mankind.

This is Robert Stromberg’s directorial debut and sadly the film feels aimless for the most part. Since Stromberg has a long career in visual effects, it’s possible his influence bled into the film by way of the action set pieces which looked great, sadly though they were let down by the relatively weak connective tissue that is the plot. Given that this is no more than a CGI extravaganza from Disney it’d take a far stronger director to leave much of a lasting impression. Hopefully Stromberg gets a smaller film to show off what he is capable of.

Angelina Jolie steals the show with her performance as the Evil Queen. Those razor sharp cheekbones of hers seem almost genetically engineered for this film. I’m struggling to think of any other actresses that could have brought what Jolie did to the character. She’s menacing yet at the same time delivers the trickle of warmth that is required. Sharlto Copley, who unfortunately drew the short straw when it comes to characters growth, does what he can with the one dimensional King Stefan. Elle Fanning is passable as Aurora (Sleeping Beauty) yet doesn’t appear overly challenged by the material. All of the performances are left in Jolie’s wake, which is both testament to her efforts and a slight on everyone else.

Ultimately this felt like a misstep for Disney, who of late have been rekindling that magic of yesteryear. This isn’t exactly a bad film by any means, it just falls well short of what Disney has been producing of late. I wish Disney poured the resources into establishing a new franchise rather than tinkering with a classic.

Maleficent, is currently in cinemas, if you see the film and agree or disagree with my thoughts feel free to drop a line below.

- Stu

Why wait until October to get your fill of Japanese cinema? From the 9th to the 13th of July 2014, the fine folks at Japan Foundation Sydney will be presenting the JFF ENCORE - JAPAN ACADEMY AWARDS EDITIONwhich allows audiences to revisit some of the most critically acclaimed Japanese films in recent memory.

Tickets can be booked ahead of time or at the venue for $18 for adults, $15 for concession and $13 for JPF members.

Films in the inaugural JFF ENCORE - JAPAN ACADEMY AWARDS EDITION include:

Departures (2008)

Always - Sunset on Third Street (2005)

Rebirth (2011)

Tokyo Tower - Mom & Me, and Sometimes Dad (2007)

Confessions (2010)

Key of Life (2012)

The Kirishima Thing (2012)

When the Last Sword is Drawn (2003)

Tickets will be available to purchase from japanesefilmfestival.net and at Event Cinemas, George Street, Sydney from June the 11th.

ABOUT JFF ENCORE

JFF Encore is a new addition to the Japanese Film Festival event calendar, featuring contemporary classics from past JFF screenings. It debuts this July in Sydney with the Japan Academy Awards Edition, a prelude to the 18th JFF which will be held nationally from October to December this year.

ABOUT THE JAPANESE FILM FESTIVAL

The Japanese Film Festival (JFF) started in 1997 with three free film screenings by Festival Director Masafumi Konomi. Last year, the Festival celebrated its 17th year with an audience of approximately 25,000 nation-wide, quickly taking its place as one of the largest Japanese Film Festivals outside of Japan. The Festival has enjoyed great success, with the opportunity to showcase a vast variety of cinematic delights from classics to newly released films currently screening in Japan. The 18th Japanese Film Festival is scheduled to run between October and December 2014 on a national scale.

ABOUT THE JAPAN FOUNDATION

The Japan Foundation, Sydney is the Australian arm of the Japan Foundation, which was established by the Japanese government to promote cultural and intellectual exchange between Japan and other nations. The Japan Foundation, Sydney runs a diverse range of programs and events, including exhibitions, talk events, grant programs and Japanese language courses for all levels from beginner to advanced. The Japan Foundation was established in 1972 with a global network of 22 offices in 21 countries. The Australian office was founded in 1977.

My early pick for game of the year 2015, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt has been confirmed for release on the 24th of February 2015. Details have also been released including developer CD PROJEKT RED's special edition releases including a WILD HUNT BOX and an even more content rich release, the COLLECTOR'S EDITION BOX.

Also, with E3 just around the corner, the brand new (and utterly glorious) "Sword of Destiny" trailer has dropped.

Renowned for releases that delight gaming collectors, Adam Badowski, Head of Studio, CD PROJEKT RED said, “Behold, the Collector’s Edition of The Witcher--over two kilograms of the most badass monster slayer, ready to bring your desktop figure collection to a whole new level”.

The game is due for release on PC, PS4 and Xbox One with pre-orders available now.

The WILD HUNT BOX contains:

- A Blu-ray™ Disc with the game (DVDs on PC)
- An exclusive CD with the official soundtrack
- The official, developer-created "Witcher Universe - The Compendium"
- A beautiful, detailed map of the in-game world
- A set of unique stickers
- A stylish, protective sleeve

The COLLECTOR'S EDITION BOX contains:

- All the contents from the standard edition of the game
- A giant, 33x24x26 cm (10”), 100% hand painted, Polystone figure of Geralt of Rivia battling a Griffin
- An exquisite, collector-grade Witcher medallion
- A one-of-a-kind SteelBook™ box
- A two-hundred-page artbook, containing breathtaking art from the game
- Huge outer and inner Collector’s Boxes you can store your Witcher merchandise in!

ABOUT THE WITCHER 3: WILD HUNT

The sword of Destiny has two edges. You’re one of them.

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is a story-driven, next-generation open world role-playing game, set in a graphically stunning fantasy universe, full of meaningful choices and impactful consequences. In The Witcher, you play as Geralt of Rivia, one of a dying caste of monster hunters, and embark on an epic journey in a war-ravaged world that will inevitably lead you to confront a foe darker than anything humanity has faced so far—the Wild Hunt.

The world burns as the Empire of Nilfgaard pierces through the heart of the kingdoms in the north. Geralt of Rivia is pursued by an enemy devoid of mercy—the Wild Hunt, a mythical cavalcade of ghastly riders, harbingers of doom and destruction, capable of destroying entire settlements overnight. Driven by a deeply personal agenda, Geralt must navigate a maze of hostile forces to find and protect the one described in an ancient prophecy. Gritty and merciless, the world the adventure plays out in sets new standards in terms of size, ecosystem complexity and meaningful non-linearity. Experience realistic day and night cycles, observe weather changes that influence gameplay, and conquer the lush environment using arcane witcher lore.

Evolve unique witcher skills to tailor gameplay to your liking; hunt bloodthirsty monsters and develop your signature fighting strategies; use potent battle magic, and slay your way to victory in a truly limitless open world. Stroll, swim, ride and sail; embark on legendary quests and collect epic bounties. Take control: go anywhere, do anything!

Thanks to our pals at Oz Comic-Con, we've got 2x double weekend passes to Oz Comic-Con Melbourne on the 5th and 6th of July 2014.

That's right! You and a friend could have the ultimate geeky weekend at Australia's newest, and most exciting pop culture convention.

Whether you're into Star Trek, Stargate, Game of Thrones, Doctor Who or just about anything else, Oz Comic-Con has got something for you!

All you have to do is fill out the form below and you're in the running to win yourself a weekend double pass. Don't forget, you can get yourself a bonus entry just by following us on Twitter or liking us on Facebook!

Entries close 11:59pm on Sunday 22nd June 2014. This prize includes 1x double weekend pass to Oz Comic-Con Melbourne, flights, accommodation and other costs are not included. Your details will not be used in any way other than for the delivery of your prize. Geek of Oz and Oz Comic-Con do not take any responsibility for the loss, damage or delay of/to prizes sent to winners (blame Australia Post for that one). The judges decision is final and no correspondence will be entered upon. One entry per person, subsequent entries will be void. Incorrect answers will be void. Prizes are not redeemable for cash or any other kind of trading currency such as creds, latinum, sen, kan, zeni, double dollars or Ankh Morpork dollars. Geek Of Oz take no responsibility for head explosions caused by utter awesomeness. This competition is only open to Australian residents. Any questions or queries can be submitted through the comment section at the bottom of screen. Good luck!

Announced during the Ubisoft E3 panel, Assassin's Creed Unity has been announced for release on the 28th of October 2014 in the US on PS4, Xbox One and PC. Interestingly, no mention of Xbox 360 nor PS3.

Preorders are already being accepted on the Ubisoft Online Store and Amazon with details for the Collector's Edition also announced. Ubisoft have consistently released great quality collector's editions and this one looks equally as awesome.

As yet there's been no announcement regarding an Australian release date but we've reached out to Ubisoft Australia for clarification.

EDIT: The following Ubisoft Australia press release indicates that the previously stated release date will include Australia and New Zealand.

SYDNEY — June 10, 2014 —Today, at the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3), Ubisoft announced that the next instalment of the 76 million unit-selling Assassin’s Creed franchise, Assassin’s Creed Unity, will be released worldwide on October 28. Assassin’s Creed Unity will be released on Xbox One video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PlayStation^®4 from Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. and PC.

Assassin’s Creed Unity is being developed by the veteran Assassin’s Creed team in Ubisoft Montreal with support from nine Ubisoft studios around the world*. Set in a once-magnificent Paris, Assassin’s Creed Unity plunges into the terror of the 1789 French Revolution and features the most dense and immersive Assassin’s Creed city ever created. Through the streets of Paris, the starving inhabitants are set to take up arms for freedom and equality. In this time of chaos and brutality, a young man named Arno, wounded by the loss of those he loved, sets on a deadly path of redemption. Arno’s pursuit throws him into the middle of a ruthless struggle for the fate of a nation, and transforms him into a true Master Assassin.

Assassin’s Creed Unity reinvents the franchise, starting with the core game-play pillars that have defined the series from the beginning: navigation, stealth and combat. Players will carve their way through a stunning, full-scale open-world Paris, thanks to the power of the new Anvil engine, rebuilt from the ground up for new generation consoles. Assassin’s Creed Unity gives players full control parkour mechanics, a reinvented fighting system for a richer combat experience, a new stealth mode, cover system and crowd manipulation techniques. Players can channel their inner Assassin, customising weapons, equipment, outfits and specialised skills to match their play style.

In addition to the sprawling single-player campaign, players can join with up to three friends and take part in story-driven online co-op missions designed specifically for Assassins to play together. Skills and unique gear acquired in the single-player missions will be accessible in co-op and will define a player’s personalised Assassin’s style, whether emphasising brute force, agility or stealth. Players also will select a unique co-op skill that will help the team survive, evade or fight more effectively to the benefit of the team.

Players who pre-order Assassin’s Creed Unity will receive two bonus offers. The first is an exclusive single player mission, The Chemical Revolution, offering 30 minutes of additional game-play. During this mission the player will help Lavoisier, the "Father of Modern Chemistry", to escape from his kidnappers and recover his poison bomb formula.

In addition, players who pre-order via the Uplay shop or at EB Games will access the exclusive Unite pre-order program. By entering their unique pre-order activation code on www.assassinscreed.com/unite, players will have access to additional rewards by creating a team and inviting up to three friends. For more information on Unite program, please visit: http://assassinscreed.com/unite.

Three collector’s editions are available for Assassin’s Creed Unity. The Guillotine Collector Case is available exclusively via the Uplay shop and features the Guillotine Collector box, including the Arno Guillotine figurine, an Art book, a customised Tarot game and other unique items, as well as extra in-game content, and can be pre-ordered on the Uplay shop by visiting: http://shop.ubi.com/ACUnityGuillotine.

Also available are the Notre Dame Edition, exclusively available at EB Games and including the Arno Gargoyle figurine with other bonus content, and the Bastille Edition including the Artbook Soundtrack, lithographs and in-game content in an exclusive Jumbo Steel case. Pre-order at JB Hifi to receive 2 exclusive ULC’s.

Two unique Assassin’s Creed Collectibles will also be available across in Australia and New Zealand. A new high quality figurine, The Fearless Assassin, featuring Arno, includes bonus in-game Fearless Assassin Outfit and will be exclusively on sale from October 14. The second premium collectible is a life-size replica of Arno’s new signature weapon, the Phantom Blade. Designed by the award-winning McFarlane Toys, this limited-run collectible will be available on October 28.

Attack on Titan has to be one of the biggest manga/anime franchises in recent memory. Sure, One Piece is still the king of sales but Attack on Titan is swiftly showing itself to be a great money spinner and, if it keeps going the way that it is, will undoubtedly find itself as one of the most popular anime and manga series of all time. You can quite often judge the popularity of a franchise based on the volume of merchandising and product tie-ins that hit shelves. In this case, we've seen Lawson stores completely decked out in Attack on Titan regalia, bad-arse iPhone covers suitable for any Survey Corps member, titanic tea making equipment and even a colossal burger set which is all but guaranteed to bust an artery... or two. Hell, even car-maker Subaru got in on the action by showing that the only way to out run a horde of titans is behind the wheel of a Forrester.

So, with that in mind, is Attack on Titan really all that good? In short.... hell yeah.

There's something refreshing about the story in Attack on Titan which doesn't seem to come along all that often. What we get is a glimpse at humanity at its most hopeless. Under constant siege from outside forces, they finally have a glimmer of hope from an unlikely source. Without giving too much away, parallels could be drawn between Neon Genesis Evangelion in this respect. What we get is a main character who is the last bastion of freedom, the champion that the people so desperately need. Unlike Shinji, however, Eren is up to the task and relishes every moment. He's less of a "I mustn't run away" and more of a "I will kill them all" kind of guy. That said, although Eren is the last bastion of hope, he's sure as hell not a sure bet and the ever looming menace of complete destruction remains. It's this unknown, high stakes, fast paced nature of Attack on Titan that makes for a refreshing watch. You can never be certain that the good guys will win, or even that the good guys are, in fact, good guys.

Following closely to Hajime Isayama's original manga source material, anime writer Yasuko Kobayashi (CLAYMORE) has done a great job of conveying a suitable sense of desolation which instantly gives a sense of gravity to the entire series. Peoples lives are literally on the line in every minute of the series and unlike many other series, life is treated as though it's something precious with characters treated like they have a purpose, their lives have meaning. While this may seem like a grim situation, it makes for a real edge of your seat viewing experience, particularly in the last couple of episodes in this first of two collections. Be forewarned, there will be blood.

Kobayashi's realisation of Isayama's source material is all brought together by director Tetsuro Araki (Guilty Crown, High School of the Dead) who ensures not only that the pacing of the series has the force of a car crash, but also that the animation quality is as great as any recent feature film. The animation is of ridiculously good quality and it's quite obvious that Production I.G. subsidiary, WiT Studio, weren't short on funding.

When reading the Attack on Titan manga series, I felt as though the art style, while stylistically unique, was a little unpolished with many characters looking similar and some rather awkward proportions. These minor quibbles have been well and truly rectified in the animation. Not only do all of the characters look great, as do the backgrounds, but the action sequences are a thing of frenetic beauty. Watching the characters fly through the air attempting to, and sometimes failing, to dodge the grasp of those horrific titans is a thing of beauty. WiT have blended CGI and traditional cel animation to great effect with action sequences conveying a sense of speed with the titans looking suitably otherworldly. Each of the bumbling, bulbous titans are wonderfully brought to life. The fact that they kill with a certain sense of joy, but not malice, makes them all the more terrifying.

Quickly becoming one of my favourite composers, up there with Yoko Kanno and Joe Hisaishi, Hiroyuki Sawano delivers another fantastic soundtrack. Like with Blue Exorcist, Kill la Kill and Guilty Crown, he delivers a seamless melding of rock, electronic and orchestral sounds in a total package which is perfectly matched to Attack on Titan. This is yet another soundtrack that makes me long for the day when anime soundtrack distribution is an economically viable option for local distributors. In the meantime, I'm off to Amazon Japan to get myself a copy.

This will most certainly be one of Madman's best selling releases of the year and it deserves no less. Not only is the animation quality gorgeous but it positively POPS on Blu Ray. Sharp and broad character outlines, vibrant colours and a real sense of scale make for a damn good looking watch. The only negative that I can possibly think of is that I don't have Collection 2 in my hands right now. Is it really as good as the buzz would have you believe? Yeah. Yeah it is.

- Ryan

Attack on Titan Collection 1 will be available on Blu Ray and DVD from Madman on the 18th of June 2014.

Attack on Titan is also available on the Playstation Network, Google Play, iTunes and

For those hardcore fans among us, there's a very special Limited Edition on offer.

Attack on Titan Collection 1 Limited Edition

Great news coming out of E3 is that Lara Croft will return in 2015 following her triumphant return in one of the best games of 2013.

Crystal Dynamics have shown a short teaser which adds more depth to an already well known character and promises to offer a great balance between story and action. Rise of the Tomb Raider looks to expand upon the legend of one of gaming's most enduring characters and one thing is for certain; more Lara Croft can only be a good thing.

CRYSTAL DYNAMICS UNVEILS RISE OF THE TOMB RAIDER

Sequel to Critically Acclaimed and Top Selling Action-Adventure Coming in 2015

SYDNEY (June 10, 2014) – Crystal Dynamics, a Square Enix studio, today announced its latest title in the critically acclaimed and award-winning Tomb Raider series, Rise of the Tomb Raider. The game will redefine survival action in 2015.

Watch the ‘Rise of the Tomb Raider’ announcement trailer at: http://youtu.be/IDUwiu4tmtg

In her first adventure, Lara Croft was forged into a true survivor, but she glimpsed a deeper, secret world. In the next chapter of her journey, Lara must use her survival skills and wits, learn to trust new friends, and ultimately accept her destiny as the Tomb Raider.

“With the power of the new generation, and our proprietary Foundation engine, our high octane action moments will be even more epic. Multiple locations around the world will be filled with exploration spaces that are some of the most beautifully hostile places on earth and over three times larger than we could achieve before,” said Darrell Gallagher, Head of Product Development and Studios at Square Enix. “Our digital actors will rival CG quality, and after hearing the cry from our fans loud and clear, we will put the tombs back into Tomb Raider, all in our gritty survival-action style.”

Rise of the Tomb Raider builds upon the formula that made Tomb Raider a success, and features the return of Camilla Luddington as Lara Croft. Camilla will take character performance to new heights as Lara pushes herself beyond human limits and is confronted with what it means to become a hero. Once again, Crystal Dynamics is proud to have the award-winning author Rhianna Pratchett as a key member of the writing team, helping craft a story that delves into Lara’s inner turmoil and motivations in this critical second act of her journey.

For more information on Rise of the Tomb Raider, please visit the official website and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

Related Links
Official Homepage: www.TOMBRAIDER.com
Official Twitter: @TOMBRAIDER
Official Facebook page: http://facebook.com/TOMBRAIDER
Official Tumblr: http://officialTOMBRAIDERblog.tumblr.com/
Official YouTube Channel: http://youtube.com/TOMBRAIDER

You could be forgiven for thinking that this is the latest in the SWAT franchise but SIEGE marks the return of yet another fan-favourite franchise with TOM CLANCY’S RAINBOW SIX SIEGE revealed for PS4, Xbox One and PC. The gameplay trailer shows some interesting developments in the series although looks a little like a Machinima video complete with professional voices.

Regardless, this looks to be a heart pounding return of an FPS legend.

TOM CLANCY’S RAINBOW SIX® RETURNS WITH TOM CLANCY’S RAINBOW SIX® SIEGE

Latest Installment of Acclaimed First-Person Shooter Franchise Being Developed Exclusively for
PlayStation 4, Xbox One and PC

SYDNEY – June 10, 2014 – Today, Ubisoft announced the development of Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege, the latest in the best-selling Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six franchise. Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege will be available in 2015 on PlayStation®4 computer entertainment system, Xbox One, the all-in-one games and entertainment system from Microsoft and Windows PC.

Development of Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege is being led by Ubisoft Montreal. Inspired by real world counter-terrorist organisations, Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege puts players in the middle of lethal close-quarters confrontations. For the first time in a Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six game, players will engage in sieges, a new style of assault where enemies have the means to transform their environments into modern strongholds while Rainbow Six teams lead the assault to breach the enemy’s position. Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege gives players unprecedented control over their ability to fortify their position -- by reinforcing walls and floors, using barbed wire, deployable shields and mines, and more -- or breach the enemies’ using observation drones, sheet charges, rappelling, and more. The fast pace, lethality and uniqueness of each siege sets a new bar for intense firefights, strategic game-play and competitive gaming.

Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege also features a technological breakthrough that redefines the way players interact with a game environment. Leveraging Ubisoft Montreal’s proprietary Realblast engine, Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege incorporates procedural destruction that is realistic and unscripted, meaning the environment reacts authentically, distinctively and dynamically, based on variables like the calibre of bullets or the amount of explosives used. This advance allows players to leverage destruction in meaningful ways. Walls can be shattered, opening new lines of fire. Ceilings and floors can be breached to create new access points. This ability to modify the level design in real time enables players to create new game-play opportunities directly within the game level.

“As fans of Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six and tactical shooters in general, we set out to create the game we always wanted to play within the counter-terrorism universe. We asked ourselves ‘how could we capture the incredible tension and unique tactics of these confrontations?’ We found the answer in the Siege game-play and procedural destruction.” said Xavier Marquis, creative director at Ubisoft. “Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege is the game that Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six fans have been waiting for, and first-person shooter players will be drawn to its unique game-play.“

From more information on Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege, please visit: www.rainbowsix.com

©2014 Ubisoft Entertainment. All Rights Reserved. Tom Clancy’s, Rainbow Six, The Soldier Icon, Ubisoft and the Ubisoft logo are trademarks of Ubisoft Entertainment in the U.S. and/or other countries.

Remember how much fun it was playing cops and robbers in the backyard, well now you can do it in your lounge room with Battlefield Hardline.

Sure, it looks a bit like a cheesy Hollywood action movie.... actually, there's no negative to be found in that sentence. The trailer below looks like an AWESOME Hollywood action movie! Guns, cars (apparently bikes too) and gadgets are going to make for a damn fun game.

How fun? Sign up for the closed PS4 and PC beta to find out for yourself.

CLOSED MULTIPLAYER BETA AVAILABLE NOW ON PLAYSTATION 4 AND ORIGIN FOR PC

Brand New Series Takes Battlefield to an All New Playground
Coming October 23 in Australia, October 24 in New Zealand

Sydney, Australia. – June 10, 2014 – Visceral Games™, an Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: EA) studio and makers of the critically-acclaimed Dead Space series, today unveiled Battlefield™ Hardline, taking the award-winning Battlefield franchise to a new world filled with new ways to play. Coming October 23 in Australia and October 24 in New Zealand, Battlefield Hardline puts players right in the middle of the war on crime in the gritty and glamorous streets of Los Angeles and Miami, allowing gamers to live out their fantasy of being a cop or a criminal. The fantasy begins today in a bold move – Visceral Games is making Battlefield Hardline playable now for the public in a closed multiplayer beta on the PlayStation®4 computer entertainment system and on Origin™ for PC. Players can sign up for a chance to play at www.battlefield.com/beta.

Delivering an all-new canvas for the best-in-class first person action gameplay the Battlefield franchise is known for, Battlefield Hardline sees Visceral Games bring its critically-acclaimed single player storytelling pedigree to provide an engaging story in a setting reminiscent of modern TV crime dramas. In multiplayer, fans will feel the thrill of the heist or the satisfaction of the ultimate bust with new twists including new modes, weapons, vehicles and gadgets.

"This is an awesome opportunity to take one of gaming’s most exciting franchises in a new direction,"said Steve Papoutsis, Vice President and General Manager of Visceral Games. "The cops and criminals fantasy is a great new backdrop for Battlefield and allows us to introduce an impactful story, while still maintaining that intense multiplayer action that fans expect. Best of all, the beta allows lots of fans to jump in and play immediately."

Karl Magnus Troedsson, Vice President and Group General Manager of DICE and Visceral, added,"We’re always looking for new, exciting directions to take the Battlefield franchise, but it has to be a great experience that’s driven by passion and stays true to the heritage of Battlefield. Visceral has a great track record of creating emotionally charged stories with unforgettable atmosphere and we’re excited to see them bring this approach to single player and to see how they add to Battlefield’s best in class multiplayer action. Hardline is fun, fresh and yet still very much a Battlefield game."

Powered by DICE’s award-winning Frostbite 3 game engine, Battlefield Hardline lets players trigger jaw-dropping Levolution events as they shoot out subterranean grow-labs, blow open bank vaults, or tear apart the streets of Los Angeles. Introducing a new arsenal of guns and gadgets, including stun guns, zip lines, and grappling hooks, players take on a bold new level of strategy as both cops and criminals on every map. Maintaining the epic vehicular combat fans have come to expect from Battlefield, Battlefield Hardline ushers in a fast and fresh urban approach to vehicles with loot-laden getaway motorcycles and nimble police choppers to navigate sprawling skyscrapers.

Coming October 23 of this year in Australia, Battlefield Hardline will be available for the PlayStation®4 computer entertainment system, Xbox One®, the all-in-one games and entertainment system from Microsoft, PC via Origin™, the PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system, and the Xbox 360® videogame and entertainment system from Microsoft. Battlefield Hardline will be available in New Zealand on October 24.

Players looking to head into this new playground with some extra gear can pre-order the Battlefield Hardline Deluxe Edition. With three in-game content packs as well as an additional 10 Battlepacks*, the Battlefield Hardline Deluxe Edition ensures players will hit the streets ready for whatever comes at them. For more information on the Battlefield Hardline Deluxe Edition as well as all pre-order offers please visit http://www.battlefield.com/en_AU/hardline/buy.

To join the conversation on Battlefield Hardline, please www.facebook.com/battlefield, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/battlefield, or sign up for the official Battlefield newsletter at www.battlefield.com/au.

For ease of convenience here's the full gamut of trailers released by EA in the last 24 hours by E3 including Battlefield Hardline, Dragon Age: Inquisition, The Sims 4, NHL 15, NBA Live 15, FIFA 15 and EA Sports PGA Tour.

With 2 more days left of E3 goodness, we'll be keeping you up to date with all of the news which comes to hand (our hands, at least).

Follow on after the jump for trailers galore including an extended look at one of our most anticipated game, Dragon Age: Inquisition.

Just as with EA, here are all of the trailers from Ubisoft's E3 presentation. Without a doubt some of the most exciting games to be announced over the next 12 months are coming from Ubisoft.

Just a small word of warning, the trailer for The Division is just as depressing as it is incredible! Can't wait for it!

There's no such thing as too much, or too little, when you're talking about Batman. As such, Warner Bros Interactive Entertainment have just released a look at the Batmobile in "Battle Mode".

The absolute worst thing about watching this trailer is knowing that the game has been pushed back to next year. That said, hopefully it will just result in an even more polished product.

WARNER BROS INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT PRESS RELEASE:

Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment and DC Entertainment have just released the first Battle Mode gameplay footage for the upcoming Batman: Arkham Knight videogame. Scarecrow has returned to unite the Rogues Gallery and has enlisted the Arkham Knight and his immense military force to bring all-out War to Gotham City and destroy the Batman once and for all. The Dark Knight must utilise the Batmobile’s newly-revealed Battle Mode, as well as his full arsenal of abilities, to protect his city from complete destruction.

Batman: Arkham Knight is based on DC Comics’ core Batman license and will be available for the PlayStation®4 computer entertainment system, Xbox One, the all-in-one games and entertainment system from Microsoft, and PC.

Batman: Arkham Knight brings the award-winning Batman: Arkham trilogy from Rocksteady Studios to its epic conclusion. Developed exclusively for New-Gen platforms, Batman: Arkham Knight introduces Rocksteady's uniquely designed version of the Batmobile. The highly anticipated addition of this legendary vehicle, combined with the acclaimed gameplay of the Batman: Arkham series, offers gamers the ultimate and complete Batman experience as they tear through the streets and soar across the skyline of the entirety of Gotham City. In this explosive finale, Batman faces the ultimate threat against the city that he is sworn to protect, as Scarecrow returns to unite the super criminals of Gotham and destroy the Batman forever.

For more information, please visit www.batmanarkhamknight.com or https://www.facebook.com/BatmanArkham.

One ofthe highlights of just about every E3 is an appearance by Hideo Kojima, the legendary writer, producer and director best known for creating the Metal Gear franchise.

This year at E3 he released a trailer which he directed to showcase the upcoming METAL GEAR SOLID V: THE PHANTOM PAIN, his most ambitious venture yet.

E3 2014: Playable demonstration, new trailer

and assets for Hideo Kojima’s magnum opus

Konami Digital Entertainment B.V. has announced that it will premiere a live gameplay presentation of the highly anticipated METAL GEAR SOLID V: THE PHANTOM PAIN at this year’s Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) event in Los Angeles.

E3 is the focal point of the interactive entertainment industry, taking place at the Los Angeles Convention Center between June 10^th- 12^th. Located at Booth #701, KONAMI will host a series of presentations by invitation only that will mark the first in-depth demonstration of Hideo Kojima’s latest, and most ambitious, addition to the METAL GEAR SOLID universe.

Concluding the METAL GEAR SOLID V experience, METAL GEAR SOLID V: THE PHANTOM PAIN focuses on the hero of the series, Snake, and follows the events of the recently released prologue, METAL GEAR SOLID V: GROUND ZEROES. The presentation highlights series Creator and Director Hideo Kojima’s ground-breaking vision of creating the largest and most technically accomplished title in the series’ history.

The gameplay presentation will showcase approximately 30 minutes of gameplay, focusing on new features and a short walkthrough of one of the game’s major locations. Members of the Kojima Productions team will be playing the game live in real-time, showing key elements of the expansive open-world environment, highlighting the sheer attention to detail, and demonstrating the freedom offered to players in the game.

The presentation will also illustrate how the dynamic environment, including the changing weather and the differences between night and day impacts the famed stealth-based gameplay. The freedom of movement, use of various modes of transport and key infiltration techniques will also be shown in their many forms. Attendees will also witness how specific actions have a marked affect on the game’s story.

In addition to the gameplay presentation, KONAMI has also revealed a new trailer for METAL GEAR SOLID V: THE PHANTOM PAIN. The exclusive new footage, fresh from its acclaim at Sony’s E3 showcase, highlights the fall of Snake as the series takes on a darker, more serious tone. The cinematic trailer depicts the harsh realities of war and its many casualties.

METAL GEAR SOLID V: THE PHANTOM PAIN is the focal point for KONAMI’s E3 presence this year. Visitors to the booth will be able to experience the evolution of the METAL GEAR SOLID series, leading up to the new game, and how the franchise has grown in scale and style over the years.

After a week off we are back to bring you our picks from Image comic's new releases. I check out Southern Bastards #2 and C.O.W.L #1 from last weeks stack, whilst my partner in crime Billy gives us his take on Five Weapons #9 which came out this week - Christof

Southern Bastards #2

Written by Jason Aaron

Art by Jason Latour

Christof: I’ve been surprised by how much I've been enjoying Southern Bastards. Even though it's geographically and culturally grounded in America's deep south, in the wonderfully named Craw County, there’s something so universal about the story that Jason Aaron and Jason Latour are weaving. It's about trying to forge your own path, about home coming, and of course it's about hillbillys.Can't have the deep south without hillbillys.

This second issue sees Earl Tubb come face to face with Coach Boss (yes that is his name), the big bad crime boss who's been slowly taking over Craw County. As well as beginning to hint at how deep Boss' influence runs this issue begins the hard work of justifying why Earl would choose to stay in Craw county, a place he is clearly keen to leave.

At it's heart this is a character driven affair. The plot all seems to stem from Earl's troubled relationship with his now deceased father and it all feels so real and authentic. This is a series with a lot of emotional intensity, the last page in particular delivering a gut punch of an ending.

The brilliant art work from Latour brings it all to life. It's guttural and primal yet detailed enough to show us every bit of spit flying from an angry football fan's mouth. His rickety figures with crooked teeth and bags under their eyes bring Aaron's dialogue to life.

Southern Bastards has in two short issues become a must read series for me. It's oozing with personality, has a kick-ass creative team and most importantly, it's got a fierce authenticity to it. Seriously, do yourself a favour and check it out.

C.O.W.L #1

Written by Kyle Higgins and Alec Siegel

Art by Rod Reis

Christof: C.O.W.L #1 is an impressive book. Not only is it penned by Kyle Higgins, fresh off his run on Nightwing for DC, and aided by fellow scribe Alec Siegel, it also features the distinct artistic style of Rod Reis. Set in the 1960's C.O.W.L could easily be compared to 'Madmen' in terms of its theme and visual style. It very much feels like a period piece only with superheroes.

What immediately impressed me was how deliberate Higgins has been in making sure C.O.W.L is distinct from Nightwing, given that both these notable series are more or less superhero comics. If nothing else this introductory issue proves Higgins is certainly no one trick pony.

The distinctive feel of the book, although evident in the writing, is very much brought to bear through the stunning art of Rod Reis. His art has a vivid water color quality utilizing splashes of paint, flowing lines and a muted palette. Its all breathtaking stuff, although it does lack the precision of 'tight' pencils and inks, I don't really think any other artistic style would fit as well as his.

C.O.W.L #1 makes for a strong debut. It has a strong visual style, is impeccably themed and has a great premise. Definitely worth picking up if you like your superheroes on the alternative side.

Five Weapons #9

Written by Jimmie Robinson

Art by Jimmie Robinson

Billy: Last year ‘Bomb Queen’ creator Jimmie Robinson put out a limited series called Five Weapons, a story about a teenager who was attending a school of assassins. The series offered much appeal for its all ages feel. Earlier this year it was announced that the series would become ongoing through Image’s Shadowline imprint.

Issue #9 is the penultimate issue of the current storyline “Back to Class”. The story quickly gets up off its feet from the shocking climax at the end of last issue, and weaves its way through suspense with lead character Enrique solving the mystery of who poisoned the schools nurse.

Jimmie Robinson continues to produce amazing work as he handles both the writing and art duties. The only partial fault I did have is that the heavy dialogue driven aspect of the issue felt similar to book 4 which was the penultimate issue for that particular storyline.

Other than that, I felt the issue did develop the series more with amazing artwork and suspenseful character development. This is a must for fans of the series, but casual readers will feel lost.

As always, head to your local comic store to grab a physical copy of these and the rest of the releases this week, or grab a digital copy from comixology or the Image Comic's digital store.

Thanks to our pals at Paramount Pictures we've got 5x copies of Paranormal Activity: The Marked Ones on Blu Ray to give away!

Available on DVD and Blu Ray from 11 June 2014, Paranormal Activity: The Marked Ones follows two best friends, Jesse and Hector. When their neighbour mysteriously dies, further investigation results in an unwelcome presence and Hector is faced with trying to save his friend Jesse. Story links back to franchise with familiar themes, scenes, and characters.

All you have to do is fill out the form below and you're in the running to win yourself a copy of Paranormal Activity: The Marked Ones on Extended Cut Blu-ray. Don't forget, you can get yourself a bonus entry just by following us on Twitter or liking us on Facebook!

Paranormal Activity: The Marked Ones. On Extended Cut Blu-ray™, DVD and Digital June 11.
© 2014 Paramount Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

Entries close 11:59pm on Sunday 22nd June 2014. Your details will not be used in any way other than for the delivery of your prize. Geek of Oz and Paramount Pictures Australia do not take any responsibility for the loss, damage or delay of/to prizes sent to winners (blame Australia Post for that one). The judges decision is final and no correspondence will be entered upon. One entry per person, subsequent entries will be void. Incorrect answers will be void. Prizes are not redeemable for cash or any other kind of trading currency such as creds, latinum, sen, kan, zeni, double dollars or Ankh Morpork dollars. Geek Of Oz take no responsibility for head explosions caused by utter awesomeness. This competition is only open to Australian residents. Any questions or queries can be submitted through the comment section at the bottom of screen. Good luck!

Way back in my single-digit years, I watched Neon Genesis Evangelion. On reflection this might not have been the best idea for a neophyte child, especially when the Angel-eating and everybody-turns-into-lemonade bits came up.

Re-watching it as a teen with a modicum of analytical discourse, one big thing struck me about it – innovation. Near as I could tell, nothing had been done like it before. It was groundbreaking on its own, juxtaposing a giant robot story against an intense interpersonal saga of character development, black comedy and psychological deconstruction, but as a popular release during the early-to-mid ‘90s period of anime gaining burgeoning attention in the Western market – alongside luminaries like Ghost in the Shell and Akira – it was damn near revolutionary.

I would go so far as to brazenly offer that Attack on Titan is to the current anime generation as Evangelion was to the earlier one. Love it or hate it, it’s an experience.

You’ve probably already read Ryan’s in-depth and much more interesting review, but allow me to offer a second opinion: it really is that good. It really is that unique. It really is that revolutionary.

On paper, the plot goes thus: humans live inside walls, get attacked by giant naked people lacking both genitalia and table manners, and in turn attack said naked people with wall-harpoons while wielding absurdly-large Stanley knives. If that over-simplification of the plot doesn’t immediately grab you, either I’m doing it wrong or you should majorly reassess your standards in life.

While, as Ryan put it, the story is fast-paced and action-oriented (though I’d substitute “with the force of a car crash” to instead read “with the rush of skiing down Everest with rocket boots”), quite a bit of it is still devoted to character development. This is an area where the anime excels over the still-very-excellent manga; the latter devoted entire chapters to character ruminations and internal debates which, in many cases, swiftly ground the plot to a halt. In contrast, the anime still features those moments but rather during action than on its own whilst maintaining the pacing, which is definitely a positive step.

On the flipside, the action is bolstered greatly by both the in-action animation and an absolutely rockin’ soundtrack courtesy of Hiroyuki Sawano. Seriously, those looking for a new album to burn the calories with at the gym should follow Ryan’s example and hit up Amazon. (Note: those looking for “Guren no Yumiya”, the excellent anthem in the opening credits, should look for Linked Horizon’s “Jiyu e no Shingeki” EP, featuring both that song and the one that opens the anime’s second half – neither song are on the Attack on Titan soundtrack proper)

It’s clear screenwriter Yasuko Kobayashi and director Tetsuro Araki respect the original material to do justice to it in the anime, since many sequences from the manga are recreated shot-for-shot and characters presented largely as they are on-page (and quite beautifully for both, courtesy of WiT Studio and the absolutely gorgeous Blu-Ray presentation). Both the Japanese and English dubs do not disappoint, with the latter expertly handled by director Mike McFarland. Special mention has to go to Matthew Mercer’s portrayal of Captain Levi in the English rendition; his surefire delivery of dialogue and badass baritone turned a character I didn’t much care for in the manga into, well, a badass.

On the technical side, those keen on specials features will definitely get their beaks wet. As well as commentary on select episodes, there’s an in-depth hour-long documentary on the creation of the English dub that’s got some great content with McFarland and the various voice actors talking about their respective processes. There’s also an ADORABLE series of shorts with cute chibi renditions of the characters that you should watch whether you’re into cute things or not.

At the end of all my rambling, I cannot recommend Attack on Titan enough. The fact I can’t give it a definitive genre speaks volumes towards its unique status, being a narrative roping in monster killer, war epic, horror story, character deconstruction and urban fantasy all at once. As I said, it’s as landmark and genre-busting as Evangelion was before it, and I’d bet money that one day people point to Attack on Titan being as formative to anime as they do to Evangelion now.

If nothing else, it is really freakin’ cool to see dudes flying on ropes and slicing up walking giants with oversize stanley knives. Personally, that’ll never get old for me.

- Chris

Attack on Titan Collection 1 will be available on Blu Ray and DVD from Madman on the 18th of June 2014.

Attack on Titan is also available on the Playstation Network, Google Play, iTunes and

For those hardcore fans among us, there's a very special Limited Edition on offer.

If there’s one thing I can’t stand, it’s people telling me Batman has no personality. It’s a commonly-fielded argument – “He’s really only into growling and hitting things” – that fails to acknowledge the deeper elements of the character’s psyche. Is there a reason he growls and hits things while seemingly devoid of emotion? Does a problem rooted firmly in his mind relate to this seeming two-dimensional representation of masculine heteronormativity and illegal violence?

The answer to the latter is yes, there is a problem: if he were to add more outward depth and emotion to kicking ass, you might get kinda what you see in “Requiem for Damian”. And lemme tell ya, it ain’t a rosy thing to see.

Following hot on the heels of Grant Morrison’s “Batman Incorporated” finale, the fourth volume of “Batman and Robin” follows Bruce Wayne coming to grips with the death of his son in the former. This leads to a five stages of grieving scenario that mostly involves beating the basmeezus out of anyone vaguely criminal, and even a few people who aren’t.

Racked with guilt for his apparent failure to protect Damian and wanting to emphasise to Gotham’s baddies that he ain’t as vulnerable right now as they seem to believe, Batman kicks a lot of ass. Trust me, that’s a real nice, much more polite way of saying “He puts more people in the emergency ward than a swine flu outbreak”.

At the same time, his erstwhile colleagues are trying to calm him down (or, at very least, stop Gotham City’s medical insurance premiums from going any further through the roof). This works with varying degrees of success, though it does highlight that most of the Bat-clan shouldn’t consider any kind of psychiatric work in future should the whole crime-fighting thing fall through.

“Requiem for Damian” is a beautiful dirge with a heart that’s both emotive and tragic. Batman is in pain, a tremendous amount, and the reader is guided not just through the literal five stages of grief – used as chapter names for most issues in the book – but also through a showcase of why Batman needs to keep the emotions tamped down sometimes. As if a man broken so badly by parental homicide that he wears a Chirotera costume each night to punch gangsters wasn’t tragic and psychologically damaging enough, now he’s dealing with the death of his only biological son at the hands of an implacable enemy. That doesn’t exactly make Batman feel ten feet tall.

It’s almost too much to read some pages, especially when Batman amps up the bloodshed (still without killing, of course) with the grief palpable in both his facial expression and the level of violence imparted on his foes. Writer Peter Tomasi uses a great script in both visual layout and dialogue (with the former deftly brought to life by regular artist Patrick Gleason) to push Batman further than normal using a tragedy more impactful than a doomsday weapon. This is particularly apparent in the books ‘silent’ opening issue, presented completely without dialogue and representing one of the most tragic Dark Knight chapters in recent memory.

Where the book falls down a few places is entirely in terms of canon; “Requiem for Damian” loses impact if you’re unfamiliar with the current Bat-story, and especially if you’ve not read the latter issues of “Batman Incorporated”. No summary or Marvel-style ‘Here’s what you missed in previous volumes’ catch-up is used at the start, and you might be a bit adrift at the sudden death of Damian, especially if you’re solely reading “Batman and Robin”, when the last volume didn’t play that card. I guess that’s what Wikipedia’s for.

As an exploration of tragedy, grounded in a very real and relatable catastrophe, “Requiem for Damian” hits the right emotional notes. The death of its eponymous son isn’t over or underplayed, and Batman’s reaction and struggle to deal with it is a fascinating journey of heartbreak and emotionally-unstable violence. It’s tragic, but the ending leaves hope for the future. Part of why Batman doesn’t display as much emotion as, say, Superman, is to give the illusion of the implacable man. He’s enduring, and can still get the job done and find a way to, at least on the surface, keep going – even if the worst possible thing happens to him. Isn’t that the kind of person we all want to be?

- Chris

If you weren't lucky enough to visit Supanova on the weekend or just didn't quite make it to the Madman panel, here's a run down on what you missed including general acquisition announcements, a new simulcast series and more!

BEN-TO

Every day, an epic struggle rages in grocery stores across Japan - the battle for half-priced bento boxes! Once the discount stickers go on, ravenous brawlers start throwing punches in a knockdown, drag-out war over who gets to take home the cheap eats.

When a young, broke high school student named Sato joins the ‘Half-Priced Food Lovers Club’, he proves to be a rising talent in the world of insane food fights. But does he have what it takes to become the king of clearance cuisine?

From the director of BLACK CAT comes a very different type of hunger games. Welcome to the world of Ben-To, where chopsticks are lethal weapons, the supermarket is a battleground, and there’s nothing more delicious than a deep-fried win.

BEN-TO comes to DVD, Blu-ray and Digital platforms in September

HETALIA Beautiful World (Season 5)

The Allied guys and Axis boys are back in HETALIA: THE BEAUTIFUL WORLD! It’s Season 5. As in high-five! And when we high-five, a tiny kitten appears with a wee banjo! And he’s playing a song about a cupcake and it’s freaking adorable! But then Prussia shows up and yells at the kitten. But the kitten doesn’t get sad, because, dude… Claaaassic Prussia.

HETALIA: THE BEAUTIFUL WORLD will be coming to DVD, Blu-ray and digital platforms from September

BLACK BUTLER (live-action movie)

A butler named Sebastian. Possessing a wealth of knowledge, unbelievable skills, perfect looks and grace, he is a butler without flaws. If one were to pinpoint any negative thing about him, it would be his troubling personality.

The live action adaptation of the BLACK BUTLER franchise will be coming soon to home video and digital platforms.

TOKYO GHOUL SIMULCAST

In modern day Tokyo, society lives in fear of ‘Ghouls’, mysterious creatures that look exactly like humans, yet hunger insatiably for their flesh. None of this matters to Ken Kaneki, a bookish and ordinary young man, until a dark and violent encounter turns him into the first ever ‘Ghoul’/human half-breed. Trapped between two worlds, Ken must survive the violent conflicts of warring Ghoul factions while attempting to learn more about Ghoul society, his newfound powers, and the fine line between man and monster.

Based on the manga series by Sui Ishida and produced by Studio Pierrot (BLEACH, YU YU HAKUSHO) TOKYO GHOUL is directed by Shuhei Morita, who received an Oscar-nomination at the 86th Academy Awards for his short film, Possessions.

TOKYO GHOUL episodes will simulcast in July, direct from Japan, on AnimeLab.com.
A home video release will follow at a date to be confirmed.

SWORD ART ONLINE EXHIBITION: ROUND 2

Madman Entertainment and Aniplex of America are proud to present the second installment of the SWORD ART ONLINE Exhibition Tour in Australia and, for the first time, New Zealand.

Featuring original artwork pieces from the show, including character designs, storyboards, key animation frames and more, the SWORD ART ONLINE Exhibition will to give fans a unique behind the scenes look at the creative process and how the hit anime series was created.

The exhibition will also feature a photo area where fans will be able to take photos with Kirito and Asuna, the heroes of SWORD ART ONLINE.

Additionally, we will be offering patrons the opportunity to purchase official SWORD ART ONLINE merchandise at the Madman booth.

The tour will be hitting the following events and cities:

Adelaide – AVCON 2014
Date: July 21-22
Venue: Adelaide Convention and Exhibition Centre
Tickets / Info: avcon.org.au

Sydney – SMASH! 2014
Date: August 10-11
Venue: Rosehill Gardens Race Course
Tickets / Info: smash.org.au

Auckland, NZ – Armageddon Expo 2014
Date: October 24-27
Venue: ASB Showgrounds, Greenlane
Tickets / Info: armageddonexpo.com/nz

Just when you thought there couldn't possibly have more free anime available, Hanabee announce that they too are entering the simulcasting ring ready to knock you out with a one, two punch.

Announced at this weekends Supanova in Sydney, Hanabee have launched an all new streaming service which has in turn completely changed their homepage experience.

Hanabee Entertainment steps into the Simulcasting Stage

Australia and New Zealand’s fastest growing anime company has added video on demand to their expanding list of anime services. The new BETA version of www.hanabee.com.au integrates three components in one space: watch anime, shop for anime, and interact with Hanabee.

President and CEO Eric Cherry states “The talent here is immense and it's allowed this young company to step into an area typically reserved for those with a lot more resources or simply acting illegally, and that’s a really rewarding accomplishment. We’re both excited to enter this space and humbled by the challenges it brings, which is why we’re chosen to launch in BETA form and on Friday the 13th; ensuring ample amount of excuses are place in the event the launch doesn’t go as planned.”

Hanabee’s initial VOD slate includes the already announced Beyond The Boundary, plus new programs No Game No Life, The Irregular at Magic High School, Black Bullet, Captain Earth and Chaika – the Coffin Princess, all currently airing on TV in Japan. Over the coming weeks and months Hanabee will be rolling out their back catalogue as well as adding new titles.

No Game, No Life

As urban legend would have it, siblings Sora and Shiro are gods amongst their fellow man when it comes to the gaming world. Blazing hot on the internet, their reputation precedes them as this bright brother and sister duo have made quite the name for themselves as NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) hikikomori (shut-in) gamers. Of course, they both question their happiness in the real world only to discover that there is a parallel world where everything is decided by a game. Homebound hermits, withdrawn from life, they are summoned to a fantasy world by a boy calling himself “God.” In this world, all armed conflict and violence have been banned and the races must resolve their disagreements through gaming. Now, the siblings find themselves as the would-be saviors of the human race. Will this dynamic duo be brilliant enough in this game world to be the salvation of all humanity? The deck might be stacked against them, but Shiro and Sora are determined to duel till the end in NO LIFE NO GAME! – Sentai Filmworks

The Irregular Magic at High School

The year is 2095 and magic has been scientifically broken down to highly advanced technology. Users are known as "magic technicians" and are highly valuable individuals in every country for their power and potential.

For the Shiba siblings, Tatsuya and Miyuki, they have just been accepted into the prestigious First Affiliated High School and quickly on their way to becoming well respected magic technicians. But when Miyuki is accepted into the well respected first course and Tatsuya is relegated into the second course for his lack of practical magic skill, a divide may quickly come between the pair.

Black Bullet

No longer a boy yet not quite a man, Rentaro has already led a tough life. It's the year 2031 and ten years have passed since his parents – along with most of mankind – were killed by an alien parasitical virus known as Gastrea. As a second year student at Magata High School, Rentaro, along with his childhood friends, Kisara Tendo and Enju Ahari, have formed the Tendo Civil Security to tirelessly fight against Gastrea. Born as one of the “Cursed Children” infected with the virus, giving her superhuman abilities and the power to control the virus, as well, Enju is Rentaro's Model Rabbit Initiator. Operating as a pair with Enju as Initiator, and Rentaro as Promoter, serving to lead the cursed children, they must together work as a team to dismantle evil brought on by Gastrea. Can this team save humanity as they take on a secret mission to prevent the Tokyo Area's destruction? We can only hope as we watch with anticipation in BLACK BULLET!

Captain Earth

The night before his summer vacation, second-year high school student Daichi Manatsu's life as he once knew it would be forever changed. An unusual round rainbow appears floating in the sky above and he knows he must follow it. With memories of his father's inexplicable death haunting him and a previous encounter of a mysterious boy and girl, Daichi follows the rainbow – one he has seen in his past - and travels to Tanegashima Island to investigate. Arriving on the island with mixed emotions, the home of Japan's Tanegashima Space Center, Daichi runs into a 17-year-old boy named Teppei Arashi who asks why Daichi has returned to this island. While he may not know or fully understand his fate, Daichi knows he's returned there to fulfill a promise. Now, with panic alarms sounding and an unruly force known as the Kill-T-Gang quickly approaching to attack, Daichi must suit up for the invasion in the mecha battle to end all mecha battles in CAPTAIN EARTH!

Chaika - The Coffin Princess

War has ended and 20-year-old retired soldier, Toru Acura, is left drifting through life with no direction. But through a chance encounter with a girl called Chaika and her coffin, Toru may no longer need to forage in the mountains for food.

Except the retired soldier has now become a thief and isn't this a complete direction change to life? Nevertheless Toru is prepared to follow this strange girl in the hopes of finding meaning even if it requires him to go and complete questionable actions.

Edge of Tomorrow - Review

Maleficent - Review

Japan Film Festival "Encore" Edition Tix on Sale Soon

The Witcher 3 Release Date, Special Editions Confirmed

Win a Double Pass to Oz Comic-Con Melbourne

Assassin's Creed Unity Announced for October 28 in US

Attack on Titan Collection 1 (Blu Ray) Review

Lara Croft Returns in Rise of the Tomb Raider

Rainbow Six returns with Rainbow Six: Siege

Cops and Robbers, Battlefield Style

All EA trailers from E3 in 1 Tasty Article

Ubisoft's E3 2014 Video Recap

Batman Arkham Knight Batmobile Battle Mode Revealed

Hideo Kojima Unveils the Definitive Metal Gear Solid Trailer

Image-ine all the Reviews (29th of May and 5th of June)

Win Paranormal Activity: The Marked Ones on Blu Ray!

Attack on Titan Collection 1 (Blu Ray) Review - Second Opinion

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