It wasn’t just the progenitor of the MOBA genre (which still exists in a thriving state), it also rules as a standalone strategy game. Its marriage of RTS army macro-management and hero micro-management made it an instant hit from a purely mechanical standpoint.
That’s to say nothing of the aesthetic value of the fantasy setting itself, which has far evolved from the original “Orcs versus Humans” conceit. That test of time has only done Warcraft III: Reforged favors.
Warcraft III: Reforged (PC [rig]) Developer: Blizzard Entertainment Publisher: Blizzard Entertainment Released: January 28, 2020 MSRP: $29.99
The very first thing I noticed when opening up Reforged and kicking off a campaign mission? That World of Warcraft influence shines through, baby! The units have a little more pep in their step, and the difference between the individual races (it’s still Humans, Orcs, Night Elves and Undead) feels more pronounced. Yet, the new coat of paint respects the core while adding to its legacy.
That legacy, mind, still holds up. The old cinematics, now touched-up, pop just as much as they did years ago. While some of the overarching story is just borrowed Tolkien material, the characters are really the ones who are front and center here, and Arthas’ journey from Paladin to Death Knight is just as harrowing as it was the first time around. In fact, the entire campaign, from the perspective of all of the races, still rules.
I have to say though, I would have liked to have seen the original plan come to fruition: full-on reworks of the campaign with new dialogue and story beats. That idea was squashed by Blizzard (allegedly due to fan outcry), but given that the original release still exists (and is fully available to view on YouTube for free), I’m of the mind that a new touch from new blood wouldn’t have hurt anything.
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As a reminder, Reforged packs in the full campaigns from the original release and the Frozen Throne expansion, along with an expanded multiplayer component and new map creation tools (that could subsequently birth a whole new subgenre). Custom games are still a hell of a lot of fun to play through though: which is great, because they originally provided me with thousands of hours of entertainment throughout the lifetime of Warcraft III.
Some of my favorites (the original “jail” Blizzard Tower Defense and Azure Tower Defense) are already included, just like they were with the original Frozen Throne. Given that I’ve spent a couple hundred hours with just the former map with various friend groups, and still play it occasionally to this day, I appreciate that there’s an easier way to acclimate people. But not everyone is going to love this extra $30 entry point. Yes, Reforged is basically just Warcraft III remastered, so if you’re cool with the original, just stick with it.
Matchmaking is not consistent right now (classic day one Blizzard!), and a lot of online functionality has been rolled back like ladders and clan support, and standard modern features like in-game hotkey customization are not in. If you’re in this solely for competitive online play, wait until it’s fixed. Some players are also reporting bugs: I haven’t encountered any major issues or crashes since the last beta patch, so I can’t speak to that. One aspect of the art style that didn’t translate? Menus. Man, the menus need to be completely redone.
Time will tell if Reforged manages to stay relevant for another few decades, but for now, I’m enjoying it quite a bit. Stay tuned for a full assessment as I work my way through the campaign and dip more into multiplayer.
[This review is based on a retail build of the game provided by the publisher, and roughly 50 hours of beta experience.]
CHICAGO (AP) — United Airlines has struck a deal with Elon Musk’s SpaceX to offer satellite-based Starlink WiFi service on flights within the next several years.
The airline said Friday the service will be free to passengers.
United said it will begin testing the service early next year and begin offering it on some flights by later in 2025.
Financial details of the deal were not disclosed.
The announcement comes as airlines rush to offer more amenities as a way to stand out when passengers pick a carrier for a trip. United’s goal is to make sitting on a plane pretty much like being on the ground when it comes to browsing the internet, streaming entertainment and playing games.
“Everything you can do on the ground, you’ll soon be able to do on board a United plane at 35,000 feet, just about anywhere in the world,” CEO Scott Kirby said in announcing the deal.
The airline says Starlink will allow passengers to get internet access even over oceans and polar regions where traditional cell or Wi-Fi signals may be weak or missing.
Sony has made it easy for Canadian consumers to preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada directly from PlayStation’s official website. Here’s how:
Visit the Official Website: Go to direct.playstation.com and navigate to the PS5 Pro section once preorders go live on September 26, 2024.
Create or Log in to Your PlayStation Account: If you don’t have a PlayStation account, you will need to create one. Existing users can simply log in to proceed.
Place Your Preorder: Once logged in, follow the instructions to preorder your PS5 Pro. Ensure you have a valid payment method ready and double-check your shipping information for accuracy.
Preorder Through Major Canadian Retailers
While preordering directly from PlayStation is a popular option, you can also secure your PS5 Pro through trusted Canadian retailers. These retailers are expected to offer preorders on or after September 26:
Best Buy Canada
Walmart Canada
EB Games (GameStop)
Amazon Canada
The Source
Steps to Preorder via Canadian Retailers:
Visit Retailer Websites: Search for “PlayStation 5 Pro” on the website of your preferred retailer starting on September 26.
Create or Log in to Your Account: If you’re shopping online, having an account with the retailer can speed up the preorder process.
Preorder in Store: For those who prefer in-person shopping, check with local stores regarding availability and preorder policies.
3. Sign Up for Notifications
Many retailers and websites offer the option to sign up for notifications when the preorder goes live. If you’re worried about missing out due to high demand, this can be a useful option.
Visit Retailer Sites: Look for a “Notify Me” or “Email Alerts” option and enter your email to stay informed.
Use PlayStation Alerts: Sign up for notifications directly through Sony to be one of the first to know when preorders are available.
4. Prepare for High Demand
Preordering the PS5 Pro is expected to be competitive, with high demand likely to result in quick sellouts, just as with the initial release of the original PS5. To maximize your chances of securing a preorder:
Act Quickly: Be prepared to place your order as soon as preorders open. Timing is key, as stock can run out within minutes.
Double-Check Payment Information: Ensure your credit card or payment method is ready to go. Any delays during the checkout process could result in losing your spot.
Stay Informed: Monitor PlayStation and retailer websites for updates on restocks or additional preorder windows.
Final Thoughts
The PlayStation 5 Pro is set to take gaming to the next level with its enhanced performance, graphics, and new features. Canadian gamers should be ready to act fast when preorders open on September 26, 2024, to secure their console ahead of the holiday season. Whether you choose to preorder through PlayStation’s official website or your preferred retailer, following the steps outlined above will help ensure a smooth and successful preorder experience.
For more details on the PS5 Pro and to preorder, visit direct.playstation.com or stay tuned to updates from major Canadian retailers.
Since the PlayStation 5 (PS5) launched four years ago, PlayStation has continuously evolved to meet the demands of its players. Today, we are excited to announce the next step in this journey: the PlayStation 5 Pro. Designed for the most dedicated players and game creators, the PS5 Pro brings groundbreaking advancements in gaming hardware, raising the bar for what’s possible.
Key Features of the PS5 Pro
The PS5 Pro comes equipped with several key performance enhancements, addressing the requests of gamers for smoother, higher-quality graphics at a consistent 60 frames per second (FPS). The console’s standout features include:
Upgraded GPU: The PS5 Pro’s GPU boasts 67% more Compute Units than the current PS5, combined with 28% faster memory. This allows for up to 45% faster rendering speeds, ensuring a smoother gaming experience.
Advanced Ray Tracing: Ray tracing capabilities have been significantly enhanced, with reflections and refractions of light being processed at double or triple the speed of the current PS5, creating more dynamic visuals.
AI-Driven Upscaling: Introducing PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, an AI-based upscaling technology that adds extraordinary detail to images, resulting in sharper image clarity.
Backward Compatibility & Game Boost: More than 8,500 PS4 games playable on PS5 Pro will benefit from PS5 Pro Game Boost, stabilizing or enhancing performance. PS4 games will also see improved resolution on select titles.
VRR & 8K Support: The PS5 Pro supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and 8K gaming for the ultimate visual experience, while also launching with the latest wireless technology, Wi-Fi 7, in supported regions.
Optimized Games & Patches
Game creators have quickly embraced the new technology that comes with the PS5 Pro. Many games will receive free updates to take full advantage of the console’s new features, labeled as PS5 Pro Enhanced. Some of the highly anticipated titles include:
Alan Wake 2
Assassin’s Creed: Shadows
Demon’s Souls
Dragon’s Dogma 2
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
Gran Turismo 7
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
Horizon Forbidden West
These updates will allow players to experience their favorite games at a higher fidelity, taking full advantage of the console’s improved graphics and performance.
Design & Compatibility
Maintaining consistency within the PS5 family, the PS5 Pro retains the same height and width as the original PS5 model. Players will also have the option to add an Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc Drive or swap console covers when available.
Additionally, the PS5 Pro is fully compatible with all existing PS5 accessories, including the PlayStation VR2, DualSense Edge, Pulse Elite, and Access controller. This ensures seamless integration into your current gaming setup.
Pricing & Availability
The PS5 Pro will be available starting November 7, 2024, at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of:
$699.99 USD
$949.99 CAD
£699.99 GBP
€799.99 EUR
¥119,980 JPY
Each PS5 Pro comes with a 2TB SSD, a DualSense wireless controller, and a copy of Astro’s Playroom pre-installed. Pre-orders begin on September 26, 2024, and the console will be available at participating retailers and directly from PlayStation via direct.playstation.com.
The launch of the PS5 Pro marks a new chapter in PlayStation’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge gaming experiences. Whether players choose the standard PS5 or the PS5 Pro, PlayStation aims to provide the best possible gaming experience for everyone.
Preorder your PS5 Pro and step into the next generation of gaming this holiday season.
