News Blips:
[aditude-amp id="flyingcarpet" targeting='{"env":"staging","page_type":"article","post_id":678713,"post_type":"story","post_chan":"none","tags":null,"ai":false,"category":"none","all_categories":"games,","session":"A"}']EA has renamed the Taliban in Medal of Honor's multiplayer to "Opposing Force" to appease those offended by the use of the Taliban in a video game. Greg Goodrich, executive producer on the title, said this change comes as a result of his team's respect for America and those who serve to protect it. "While this change should not directly affect gamers, as it does not fundamentally alter the gameplay, we are making this change for the men and women serving in the military and for the families of those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice," Goodrich said. "This franchise will never willfully disrespect, intentionally or otherwise, your memory and service." To me, all this does is grant the Taliban the Voldemort treatment, rendering them "those who must not be named."
Epic Games announces Gears of War 3 will be delayed until next holiday season. Originally slated for an April 2011 release, Epic has decided to push Gears 3's release back to take advantage of the annual end-of-year sales rush, labeling it "the marquee title for the holiday season." I can wait a few more months to find out whether or not Carmine dies, but think of the poor guy's family! [1UP]
Blizzard bans and suspends over 5,000 Starcraft 2 players in violation of the Battle.net terms of use. On its website, Blizzard said these actions weren't just to promote fair play, "Cheating and hacking can lead to stability and performance issues with the service. Maintaining a stable, safe, and secure online-gaming experience for legitimate players is a top priority for us, and we'll be continuing to keep watch on Battle.net and take action as needed." Remember: Cheaters never win…except for when they do.
Nintendo's stock drops nearly 10 percent following its announcement of the 3DS's price and 2011 launch date. Gamasutra claims this comes as a result of the market previously expecting a 2010 holiday release of the handheld to increase Nintendo profits. Nintendo also announced it expects to make ¥110 billion less than originally planned this fiscal year. Sometimes, I think they say this stuff because they love hearing those "it prints money" jokes so much.
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