As usual, the PC gaming community's thoughts on the lack of server browsing for the PC version of Battlefield 3 divide into negative and positive camps. What do you think?
News Blips:
EA bucks the trend and dispenses with in-game server browsing for the PC version of Battlefield 3. Evidently disregarding a PC mainstay existing since the dawn of forever, DICE Senior Designer Alan Kertz confirmed on Twitter that PC gamers select servers by actually closing the game, launching the browser-based Battlelog system, and choosing a server from there. Kertz claimed the entire process "starts up REAL fast," an instantly legitimate statement considering the fully capitalized "real." As a final twist, the Xbox 360 and PS3 versions of the game will both support server browsing. Battlefield 3 has a planned October 25 release date for the PC, Xbox 360, and PS3.
And yet, a ray of light dawns: Bethesda confirms the PC version of The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim uses Steamworks. The game's official Twitter account assuaged PC gamers vexed by intrusive DRM systems with the integration of Steam's built-in anti-cheat measures, authentication tools, and voice communication for the upcoming open-world RPG. No info yet on whether Steamworks will magically soup up my PC with enough power to handle Skyrim's frighteningly beefy graphics. The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim ends your social life on November 11 for the PC, Xbox 360, and PS3.
The iPad 3 could arrive in 2012. The Wall Street Journal cites "people familiar with the situation" reporting that Apple has commenced ordering components for the next iteration of the tablet computer, including an apparent 2048×1536 resolution screen. Further details of the rumored early 2012 launch are unknown, probably because Apple's busy typing out an announcement for the iPad 4 as you read this.
Gears of War 3 goes gold. Epic Games Design Director Cliff Bleszinski tweeted a triumphant message heralding the conclusion of the sci-fi shooter trilogy, complete with a GOW-themed Xbox 360 cake and a Portal nod. The final score of Bleszinski's gaming culture reference triple-combo awaits a final tally. Gears of War 3 saws open your wallet on September 20 for the Xbox 360.
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