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Tag: THQ

  • WWE 2K16 Apparently Getting The Tokyo Dome In Next DLC Pack

    WWE 2K16 Apparently Getting The Tokyo Dome In Next DLC Pack

    At a couple different points tonight, the official WWE Games Twitter account tweeted these animated GIFs to hype Tuesday’s release of the Hall of Fame downloadable content pack for WWE 2K16, which is out this Tuesday:

    It was already known that 1991 versions of Ric Flair and Tatsumi Fujinami plus a relevant match replay mode were in the Hall of Fame pack, but they had two matches that year. It seemed like it made more sense for 2K to base it off their match from Superbrawl in St. Petersburg, Florida, but from the above footage, it looks like they didn’t. Instead, 2K picked the OTHER Flair-Fujinami match, from the NJPW Tokyo Dome show that year, which is known as both WCW Japan Supershow and NJPW Starrcade ’91 In The Tokyo Dome. So that means that the arena that comes in the pack is an ersatz Tokyo Dome, faithfully recreated by 2K Sports. They can’t call it that (and I don’t believe WWE games ever name real venues), but 2K does a great job with the presentation of the arenas and this should be no exception.

    Here’s the full lineup for the DLC pack, which, if this is any indication, should also include at least two more WCW arenas and some early ’90s WWF arenas along with period appropriate versions of the wrestlers:

    • “Macho Man” Randy Savage vs. Jake “The Snake” Roberts
    • Rikishi vs. The Rock
    • Alundra Blayze vs. Paige
    • Larry Zbyszko and Arn Anderson vs. Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat and Dustin Rhodes
    • Tatsumi Fujinami vs. Ric Flair
    • The Bushwhackers (Butch Miller and Luke Williams) vs. The Natural Disasters (Typhoon and Earthquake)
    • The Outsiders (Kevin Nash and Scott Hall) vs. Harlem Heat (Booker T and Stevie Ray)

  • Take-Two To Acquire WWE Video Game License From THQ

    According to Bloomberg News, Take-Two Interactive Software Inc. will acquired the WWE video game license from the bankrupt THQ Inc.

    THQ’s contracts with WWE and Yuke’s Co., a Japanese- based game-developer that was helping THQ produce the WWE video games, will be terminated and the companies will be allowed to enter into new agreements with Take-Two.

    According to court documents file this week, Take-Two will agree to hire several THQ’s employees that worked on WWE games and WWE will drop its pre-bankruptcy claim against THQ for $45 million, which was for annual royalty advances that ran through 2017. THQ will pay WWE $650,000 in royalty payments for WWE games that were sold while under bankruptcy protection.

  • Take Two Acquires WWE Video Game License, THQ Dissolving

    IGN.com is reporting that the WWE video game license is expected to be acquired by Take Two, the parent company of 2K:

    “The era of THQ wrestling games is over. Sources have indicated to IGN that the WWE game franchise will be sold to Take Two, parent company of 2K. Terms of the sale are unknown at this time, as details have not been finalized. These negotiations appear to have taken place outside THQ’s formal auction process.”

    THQ, the former developer of WWE’s video game franchise, will be officially dissolving, with its studios, staff, licenses and other assets sold off at auction today.

  • WWE Owed $45 Million By Bankrupt Video Game Publisher THQ

    WWE sent out the following statement on Friday regarding this week’s bankruptcy filing by their video game publisher THQ.

    WWE Responds To THQ Filing

    STAMFORD, Conn.–(BUSINESS WIRE)– WWE (NYSE:WWE) is listed in THQ, Inc.’s recent bankruptcy filing as an unsecured creditor holding a claim of approximately $45 million reflecting the entirety of the existing multi-year agreement.

    Any impairment of a current THQ account receivable would be immaterial to WWE’s financial statements. Even if the impact of THQ’s bankruptcy were detrimental to WWE, the Company does not believe that the ultimate economic impact for financial statement purposes would materially and adversely affect the results of operations or financial position of WWE in light of the strength of the WWE brand and the historical performance of WWE’s video game business.

    * Rumored ROYAL RUMBLE Winner Revealed & Who He Will Challenge At WM29

  • The Rock Teasing Another Match With Cena, WWE Comments On THQ Bankruptcy

    – WWE has commented on the news of their video game publisher, THQ, filing for bankruptcy:

    “WWE is following the developments of THQ’s bankruptcy filing today and proposed sale under Bankruptcy Code Section 363. The Company anticipates actively participating within this proceeding.”

    – With all the talk of The Rock and John Cena heading for a WrestleMania rematch in April, The Rock says the idea of another showdown with Cena has a “good ring to it.”

    On Tuesday, The Rock tweeted, “When you succeed – embrace & enjoy it. When you fail – honor & respect it. #OurFailuresLeadUsToOurSuccesses.” John Cena re-tweeted the message, saying, “Can’t believe I’m doing this but couldn’t say it better myself ”

    Today, The Rock commented on John Cena endorsing his tweet and dropped another hint that we could see them back in the ring one day:

    * The Latest On WWE’s Plans For The Top Matches at WRESTLEMANIA

  • Dolph Ziggler Hosting WWE YouTube Show, THQ Stock In Trouble

    – Forbes.com is reporting that WWE video game publisher THQ is at risk of having their stock delisted from the NASDAQ stock exchange.

    The company, which has seen profits plummet in recent years and has laid off a large portion of its staff in hopes of stabilizing business, has been trading at less than $1 over the past 30 days.

    The stock is currently valued at 70 cents and THQ now has 6 months to get back above $1 per share for 10 consecutive days, or else they’re delisted.

    – Dolph Ziggler will be hosting one of the 9 new shows on WWE’s revamped YouTube channel. Ziggler will host “WWE Download” where he’ll select random YouTube clips and essentially make fun of them. The official description for the show says:

    “WWE Superstar Dolph Ziggler dissects YouTube videos like an alien autopsy. Picking apart the digital disasters from an array of tools and fools who provide countless head-spinning moments for the world to share.”

    Here’s a video preview of Dolph Ziggler hosting WWE Download:

  • THQ Comments On Rumors It Is Shutting Down

    THQ

    There were reports over the weekend that viedeo game publisher THQ, had canceled would be closing up shop – that it was scrapping its planned 2014 release schedule and were making plans to sell the company.

    THQ is denying these reports, touting the their business and the strength of WWE’s video game franchise in particular. Here’s THQ’s official statement, issued to gaming blog Kotaku.com:

    “THQ has not cancelled its 2014 line-up, and has not made any decisions regarding the planned MMO. As part of the ongoing review of our business, we have made decisions to ensure that the company is strategically addressing the most attractive markets. As we have previously announced, we have dramatically reduced our commitment to the kids’ boxed games sector which leads to a significantly more focused release schedule moving forward. Our slate for calendar 2012 and beyond is focused on high-quality core games and continues to build our digital platform and business. We are excited for our pipeline of original and high-quality content along with our relationships with some of the best talent in the industry.

    Additionally, we are thrilled with the great performance of Saints Row: The Third, which on a like for like period in North America has tripled in sell-through from Saints Row 2. In addition, WWE ’12’s worldwide sell-through sales are up almost 40% year-over-year for the same sales period with fewer platforms. According to NPD, for the month of December and the 2011 year, THQ was the #5 publisher overall, #4 third party, with reported sell through growing over 18% in a market that was down almost 6%. And coming up next, we have two great titles for the first half of the year including UFC Undisputed 3 and Darksiders 2.”

  • THQ At WWE HQ, New WWE Video Games Planned (Video)

    – Representatives from THQ are at WWE headquarters in Stamford, CT today to discuss future WWE video games.

    – It was revealed during Thursday’s WWE investor conference call that THQ is currently working on a new WWE game that will be playable exclusively on Facebook.

    – THQ is teaming with Trish Stratus for a WWE ’12 give-away contest. Fans can enter at Trish Stratus’ Facebook Page an- with the winner receiving a copy of WWE ’12, Trish’s FitGloves and Stratusphere Yoga DVD.

    – WWE’s All Stars video game will be coming to the Nintendo 3DS soon. Here’s the first preview from THQ:

  • THQ & WWE Announce New Integrated Marketing Deal

    WWE and video game publisher THQ sent out the following press release on Monday:

    THQ and WWE(R) Announce Integrated Marketing Agreement

    THQ Expects to Reach More WWE Fans by Aligning Marketing with WWE’s Full Range of Products and Events Throughout the Year

    AGOURA HILLS, Calif., Nov 01, 2010 (BUSINESS WIRE) — THQ Inc. and World Wrestling Entertainment today announced a new, comprehensive marketing agreement. THQ-developed, WWE-branded video games will be integrated into domestic and international events, pay-per-view and television sponsorships, magazines, WWE.com, WWE DVDs, and more. In addition, for the first time, THQ will host interactive gaming kiosks at 40 WWE live events. This significantly expands THQ’s previous marketing efforts concentrated around the launch of individual WWE video games.

    “This strategic marketing agreement reflects the benefits of working more closely with WWE to maximize the interactive entertainment experience for fans of this leading sports entertainment brand,” said THQ President and CEO Brian Farrell. “We expect to increase awareness of our games through this new integrated program. Beyond that, we are expanding our WWE video game offerings with social applications and brand extensions to help WWE fans enjoy different interactive experiences throughout the year.”

    THQ Marketing Agreement Key Features:

    THQ video game kiosks featuring WWE(R) SmackDown(R) vs. Raw(R) 2011 and WWE(R) All Stars(TM) hosted at 40 WWE live events from Tuesday, October 26, 2010 through Saturday, April 16, 2011. High profile sponsorship of WWE pay-per-views and television programming, with greater in-program integration of THQ video games. Significantly increased online presence, including year-round participation on WWE.com. Integration of video game launches with WWE international events. Cross-promotion in 15-20 WWE DVDs.

    “We are pleased to move our partnership forward in a broader, more comprehensive way,” said WWE Chie Operating Officer Donna Goldsmith. “Working together, we plan to give our fans more access to all of the great interactive entertainment being created by THQ, as well as develop robust promotions to increase awareness of all WWE platforms.”

    In addition to working more closely with WWE from a marketing perspective, THQ is developing an array of products built around the WWE brand. This suite of products includes social media, iPhone and iPad applications, console brand extensions, and a powerful community site. The goal is to enable WWE video game fans to stay connected all year long.

  • Game Developer Talks About SmackDown vs. RAW 2011

    BUY IT HERE: SmackDown vs. RAW 2010 (Amazon.com)

    The hosts of the Monday Night Mayhem Internet radio show sent in the following recap with THQ’s Bryan Williams, a developer of the new Smackdown vs. RAW 2010 video game:

    THQ’s Bryan Williams Discusses The Release Of WWE’s SmackDown vs. RAW 2011, The Changes & Improvements From Last Year’s Game (Highlighted By The All-New “WWE Universe” & “Road to WrestleMania” Modes), The Feedback Received From WWE Superstars Thus Far, Which Match Was Focused On The Most (From A Game Designer’s Perspective), Taking The Royal Rumble Online For the First Time Ever, & Which Potential Additions Could Be Made As Part Of The Forthcoming DLC Release Later This Fall

    THQ’s Bryan Williams was a featured guest on this week’s live edition (10/25/10) of the award-winning Monday Night Mayhem. You can feel the “MNM Fall Tour ’10” every Monday night (at 7PM ET/6PM CT).

    • Listen Here: THQ’s Bryan Williams/Monday Night Mayhem Interview

    Interview highlights courtesy of The Mayhem’s official correspondent, Paterson from New Jersey:

    The changes & improvements that THQ made from last year’s game (SmackDown vs. RAW 2010) to this year’s game (SmackDown vs. RAW 2011) & why the Hell in a Cell Match, from a game designer’s perspective, was focused on the most:

    “Where do you start? We’ve added so much new content to 2011, which is a major feat, because SmackDown vs. RAW 2010 had a wealth of content as well. We added dynamic physics into the game for the first time and added it to all the objects in the game: tables, chairs, & all the objects that reside under the wrestling ring. It makes all the matches, like TLC or Chairs Match, or any match involving weapons that much more lifelike & representative of what you see on Pay-Per-View or weekly television. We also revamped the Hell in the Cell Match. Fans have been asking us for years to update that experience and for good reason. It was the match that needed the most attention. We enlarged the cell and made it more of the scope of the structure.”

    Taking the Royal Rumble Match online for the first time ever:

    “We redid the Royal Rumble match in 2010, and this year we brought it online. You could have up to 12 human players in the match, and I gotta tell you, it’s fun as hell. Even if you get eliminated, you’ll still be able to control a Superstar coming in from the 30, so you never have that feeling like you’re just watching the match and waiting to play.”

    The feedback THQ has received from SmackDown vs. RAW 2011 thus far from the WWE superstars & which ones in particular will go as far to play the game as themselves:

    “Yes, they play as themselves. That’s why they get so upset when their attributes are on the lower side of things. There’s a couple of guys that I know for a fact play the game, Kofi Kingston plays the game a bit, Dolph Ziggler plays the game, Evan Bourne plays it. Those are the guys I know for a fact plays the game, and Kofi is pretty good at it.”

    Which potential additions could be made as part of the DLC (downloadable content) for SmackDown vs. RAW 2011, in addition to what’s being released later this fall & which one superstar he would love to see sooner vs. later into the game itself:

    “I can’t really say. There has been some talks about maybe doing another one, but a decision hasn’t been made one way or another. I think what we’re gonna do is take a wait & see approach and see how the first couple of packs do, and if there’s success, and we get a lot of people downloading the DLC’s, I think that will definitely help & urge us to do a fourth pack. I would like to do another so we could get Daniel Bryan in the game, but all these decisions are not mine to make. I could only voice my decisions and hope & pray.”

    Much more is included in Bryan’s highly-anticipated Mayhem return, including his thoughts on the game’s all-new “WWE Universe” mode, what fans can expect in this year’s “Road to WrestleMania” mode, the creation upgrades from SmackDown vs. RAW 2010, plus much more! Follow The Mayhem right now on Twitter (at www.Twitter.com/FeelTheMayhem), as one lucky Mayhem follower/listener will score a copy of the game for the Nintendo Wii this coming weekend! Eight more giveaway copies are coming your way throughout the rest of the “MNM Fall Tour ’10” leading through our “2010: Year In Review” special on December 27th. Log on to the official website of SmackDown vs. RAW 2011 (located at community.smackdownvsraw.com), and be sure to follow the “SD vs. RAW” franchise on Facebook & on Twitter right now (located respectively at www.Facebook.com/WWEGames & www.Twitter.com/WWEGames).

  • Jim Ross Blogs About SummerSlam, Brock Lesnar, WWE All Stars

    WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross has updated his blog once again at JRsBarBQ.com.

    Here are some highlights of what JR said about:

    Missing SummerSlam: “Because of the short work day re: West Coast time this Sunday and with Summer Slam starting in LA at 5 Pacific, I won’t be traveling to the event. I will watch it on PPV from the old, La-Z-Boy and, like any die hard fan, expect plenty of bang for my PPV dollar in the form of surprises, shockers, and stout bouts. “

    Brock Lesnar’s Next Fight: “Brock’s next fight vs. Cain Velásquez is going to be massive and likely will garner over 1M PPV buys. Velásquez, the Hispanic superstar, has a spotless record and according to Herschel Walker is one of the best conditioned athletes on the planet. At 240, Cain is built to go 25 minutes if necessary. I’m still a solid, Lesnar guy but even those close to Brock know that this fight will be a huge challenge for the UFC Heavyweight Champion. The good news for Lesnar fans, based on my past relationship with the former Golden Gopher, is that Brock loves a challenge. He actually thrives on them. “

    SummerSlam Main Event: “It will be interesting to see what bout closes the show Sunday. my money is on the Team WWE vs. Nexus tag. That bout has gotten by far the most significant, TV time.”

    WWE’s New “All Stars” Video Game: “We recorded over 400 lines of copy in a little over two hours today for the WWE All Stars video game. I really feel that THQ and WWE will field a hit with this concept. It’s a fantasy bookers dream and will be out prior to WM27 in Atlanta sometime in early 2011.”

    * VIDEO: Gameplay Footage of “WWE All Stars” (Cena vs. The Rock)

  • JR Blog: Lesnar vs. Carwin, JBL, WWE All Stars Game

    WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross has updated his blog, which you can read in its entirety at JRsBarBQ.com. Here are some highlights of what JR said about:

    Brock Lesnar vs. Shane Carwin This Weekend: “This one could very end when the first guy lands his best right hand but I’m sticking solidly with Brock to leave the Octagon as the undisputed Heavyweight Champion of the World. I’ve said all along that this will be Lesnar’s toughest fight especially with so many unanswered questions about Brock’s long inactivity and what affects suffering from diverticulitis may have had on the athletic beast of a man.”

    “I know that Shane Carwin is a fabulous athlete and his record speaks for itself. However, I do know Brock Lesnar on a personal level and I also know that his intensity and focus are amazing traits and that he is at his best when he is either doubted or forced into a corner. Many MMA insiders feel that Brock’s layoff due to illness will be his downfall in Saturday night’s main event on pay per view. I happen not to share in that opinion and am counting the down the hours as this is one airplane trip with which I’m anxiously looking forward.”

    Bryan Danielson: When I said Daniel Bryan had become relevant in the 13 or so weeks that he had been on WWE TV I meant that in a positive light and stand by the statement as many outside the WWE world had no familiarity with the talented grappler before he appeared on NXT no matter his exposure on Ring of Honor which does not have a large TV audience.

    JBL’s To Wrestle Again? “Emailer…No…I do not expect JBL to EVER wrestle again. Last time John and I talked he was playing golf in St. Andrews, Scotland which is a helluva lot better gig than traveling up and down the road with ‘the boys.’ Sorry…but that’s a fact.”

    The New WWE All Stars Video Game: ” I started the THQ voice overs today for the WWE All Stars video game which will be released in early 2011. I’m really enjoying the process and will hit it hard two more days this week to get us rolling and will be staying busy with this project throughout July. The King and I will be the announcers on the game with the Fink handling the ring announcing.”