All of us gamers (including myself) have our fav platform to play video games on.

From console to mobile, PC to handheld, we all have our preferences and mostly, we keep it to ourselves, with only close friends and family knowing.

One New Zealand gamer has taken his love of Xbox to the extreme rounding up every Xbox One game he can get his hands on.

Thomas Wilkinson from Christchurch has amassed hundreds upon hundreds of Xbox games, ranging from Xbox Classic, Xbox 360 through to Xbox One.

Thomas sat down with Shane from STG for a Q and A Session.

Shane: Hi Thomas, thanks for talking with us here at STG. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and what inspired you to collect only Xbox games?

Thomas: Your welcome,  anytime. I’m 30 years old and work any where from 40-80 hours a week. I have a 6 year old son who plays games as well and I’ve been playing games since i was 5..what inspired me now that’s a hard one. I would have to say Joel Hopkins as of late, as hes the record holder for the largest game collection in the world. But also having games on hand to play at any time.

Shane: Why only Xbox games and how many have you amassed so far?

Thomas: Most of my mates play on Xbox, its a great community and we are able to play against eachother. If we are talking about all Xbox games (e.g. Xbox, Xbox 360 and Xbox One), 15 + 190 + 299… I’m sure you can figure out what’s numbered to which console.

Shane: Is it only Xbox that you play?

Thomas: Surely not. I also own a PS4 Pro, Nintendo Switch and I still have and game on a Gameboy Advance.

Thomas Wilkinson’s Xbox Collection

Shane: Favourite Xbox Game, ever?

Thomas: Hard to say what my favourite Xbox game ever is, but my Top three Brands would be, in any order; Assassins Creed, NBA2K, LEGO (franchise).

Shane: What does the future hold for you game collecting, will you pursue other consoles, or stick with Xbox?

Thomas: Well, I’ve started collecting PlayStation games for the exclusives and I’ll continue to do that, and the same thing for Switch as my son enjoys it. What does the future hold… well hopefully I’ll gain the largest physical collection of Xbox One games in New Zealand, then the world… but as i tell everyone watch this space.

Thomas continues to scour around for elusive and hard to find Xbox titles for all three consoles (mostly Xbox One) and we feel that he is on his way to wearing the Collector’s Crown of the largest video gaming library in New Zealand.

The post Interview w. Thomas Wilkinson – The Ultimate Xbox Collector appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

Konami Digital Entertainment will release PES 2018, the latest edition of its highly regarded football series on September 14th, 2017. The publisher has also pledged that the new game aims high and will unveil a wide-range of improvements to award-winning series.

Having established the PES series as the most realistic and intuitive football title for home systems, Konami has set its stall early with an extensive range of new elements that build upon the previously laid foundations. Centred on the concept that PES 2018 is “Where Legends are Made”, the new game hits the floor running with new features, new ways to play, a PC version to the standard of the leading console iterations, and an unrivaled gameplay experience.

PES 2018 features more new additions than any other PES title in the last 10 years, and no part of the game has been left untouched. At its heart remains the famed gameplay where users enjoy complete control over the on-field action, using players that behave, move and react just like their real-life counterparts. New additions to the control systems add more fluidity to the game, while a new user interface makes accessing the many facets of PES 2018 a simpler process.

Control is everything in a football game, and PES 2018 retains the immediacy and total control the series is famed for alongside new refinements that hone its authenticity. Matches are played at a more realistic pace, while a new strategic dribbling system offers greater close control, including contextual shielding to protect the ball. Similarly, simple movements of the control stick can be used to initiate shimmies designed to wrong-foot defenders. Konami has also implemented a REAL Touch + process, wherein players will react to receiving a ball using permissible parts of the body, such as chest, head and legs to bring a pass under control dependent on the height and pace of the incoming ball. All set piece routines have also been totally reworked, notably the way penalty kicks are taken and a one-player kick off routine as well.

PES 2018‘s visual acuity has also improved. A new REAL Capture system provides true-to-life lighting across day and night games, while over 20,000 components have been faithfully recreated to recreate the turf, tunnels, and the surrounding areas of stadia such as Camp Nou and Signal Iduna Park. The individuality of how players move, shape to shoot and make passes is also closer to real life, with Konami motion-capturing players within realistic environments in a complete overhaul of the in-game animation system. Core movements such as walking, turning, and posture have been reworked also, while the player models now have greater variety, with attention paid to the way kits fit differing physiques. Konami’s agreements with partner teams will also see tattoos recreated on players as well.

With the renowned gameplay and visuals upped in every respect, PES 2018 also allows more ways for people to enjoy the match day experience. Full 11-Vs-11 online options and the eternally popular myClub challenge where players build a team from scratch, are joined by co-operative 2-Vs-2 and 3-Vs-3 modes with support for local guests. The much-requested ‘Random Selection’ match returns with all new content, while the Master League implements pre-season tournaments, a new transfer system and pre-match interviews and an insight to the changing rooms.

The continuing success of the PES series as an eSport staple has also been reflected with the PES LEAGUE fully integrated into the main game. With 16 of the world’s greatest PES players set to gather ahead of June’s UEFA Champions League final to compete for a $200,000 prize, PES 2018 will allow for easy entry to next year’s competition, and add related PES LEAGUE modes surrounding myClub, Online Co-Operative matches and the Random Selection matches.

“PES 2018 is a title that finds the series at the very top of its game,” commented Masami Saso, President of Konami Digital Entertainment B.V. “It is a game that builds on the foundations of the resurgent series and has taken on board requests from our growing fan base. It is also a game with an eye on the future. As eSports continue to develop as a worldwide force, PES 2018’s inclusion of a dedicated PES LEAGUE mode removes any barrier to entry to die-hard fans and newcomers alike. KONAMI is committed to breaking new ground with the PES series, and PES 2018 sees us enter the field more confident and determined to excel than ever.”

PES 2018 will be released for PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360. The game will also be available via Steam in a version that has undergone substantial improvements in terms of aesthetics and content, ensuring the game enjoys parity with the current gen formats. Pre-order the digital FC Barcelona Special Edition on PlayStation 4, Xbox One or Steam now and receive additional content at launch:  including 1,000 myClub coins and 5 myClub player agents – guaranteeing a top UEFA Champions League player, as well as a top club and LEGEND player from FC Barcelona, will be added to your winning eleven!

The post Konami to Cement PES 2018 as Definitive Football Title appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

Racers, start your engines! Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, Disney and Interactive Media have announced details about Cars 3: Driven to Win, the world-class competitive racing game that features beloved characters from the upcoming Disney | Pixar Cars 3 film in an entirely new interactive experience. 

“It’s been an amazing experience to work with the team at Pixar once again for this new game for the beloved Cars franchise,” said John Blackburn, Vice President and General Manager, Avalanche Software. “With Cars 3: Driven to Win, we wanted to create a game that allows fans to extend their experience with this great film, and also feel the thrill of speeding through the tracks, participating in races, and mastering tricks and techniques for fun with the whole family.” 

Picking up after the final big race in the film, Cars 3: Driven to Win extends the storyline of Cars 3 with all-new action packed adventures and takes players through a high-speed competition that is filled with both familiar and new faces. Players will be able to join Lightning McQueen and Cruz Ramirez as they prepare to take on rival racer Jackson Storm. The game features more than 20 customisable playable characters including popular heroes from the Cars franchise and next generation racers. Players can also select their favorite race environments from a series of iconic settings from the film, such as Radiator Springs and Florida International Speedway, with over 20 unique tracks to choose from across 13 different locations.

Cars 3: Driven to Win is a game that empowers players to master their driving skills for the ultimate competitive racing experience. With six thrilling modes for gamers to learn and advance their abilities, players can progress their character through training and tests of racing proficiency that unlock new modes, tracks, characters and more. Players can hone a wide variety of skills and abilities including Drifting, Turbo, Two-wheel Driving, Driving Backwards and Side-Bash. Each unique mode and ability allows players to explore the deeper gameplay mechanics and earn rewards for their expertise. Cars 3: Driven to Win provides an exhilarating, action-packed experience where training and skill give players an edge in a racing experience that anyone can win. 

Additionally, players will be able to experience Cars 3: Driven to Win with their friends or on their own to perfect the various racing styles and modes available to them. Available for pre-order now, the game will include local split-screen cooperative play, allowing players to compete or team up and play at home together, making it easy for friends and family members to join the race – and the fun – at any time. 

Cars 3: Driven to Win is being developed by Avalanche Software, newly re-opened under Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, and will be available for the PlayStation 4, PlayStation 3, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Nintendo Switch and Wii U beginning in June 2017.

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The post Cars 3: Driven to Win Announced appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

2K have announced to us at StG that NBA 2K17, the latest iteration of their NBA video game simulation series, will kick off an in-game music series dubbed Park After Dark tipping off on November 27th, 2016 in Australia and New Zealand. Park After Dark will transform NBA 2K17’s MyPARK mode into a high-energy music destination with special performances from music icons, including Future, Snoop Dogg AKA “DJ SNOOPADELIC”, DJ Premier and more to be announced. These one-of-a-kind performances are open to anyone with NBA 2K17 on PlayStation 4, Xbox One and Windows PC.

“As the world’s greatest NBA 2K17 player, it’s only right that I get to Snoopify the Park After Dark,” said Hip-Hop legend Snoop Dogg, who DJ’S under the name “DJ SNOOPADELIC”, and was recently scanned into NBA 2K17 for the appearance. “I’m going to set off the park with a SNOOPADELIC set that’s going to have house parties around the globe JUMPING OFF.”

Park After Dark will feature an eclectic nighttime setting reminiscent of today’s biggest music festivals, complete with a center stage for the performance featuring a superstar avatar, glowing décor and MyPLAYER apparel, and light shows to make this the most lit NBA 2K experience ever. Players who attend can compete in traditional MyPARK games while they soak in the ambiance or opt for exclusive Park After Dark 3Pt Shoot-Out and Dunk Show-off challenges.

“Music is such a big part of the NBA 2K franchise and greater basketball culture, so taking such an innovative approach demonstrates our commitment to evolving the game into a destination for more than just hoops,” said Alfie Brody, VP of Marketing for NBA 2K. “Park After Dark is something we hope further connects our community and elevates their NBA 2K17 experience.”

The NBA 2K17 Standard Edition is now available in both digital and physical formats on Xbox One, Xbox 360, PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 3, and Windows PC platforms.

The post Tune In and Turn it Up with NBA 2K17! appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

2K today announced that NBA 2K17, the latest iteration of the top-selling and top-rated NBA video game simulation series, has partnered with Fitbit, the leader in the connected health and fitness market, to reward healthy activity amongst gamers through in-game rewards. In a first of its kind integration, gamers who achieve 10,000 steps in a day tracked with their Fitbit device will receive a temporary attribute boost to their MyPLAYER in NBA 2K17, enhancing their MyPLAYER’s performance on the court.

“Any athlete will tell you a healthy lifestyle is a major key to success, and by rewarding gamers for healthy lifestyle habits we hope to help motivate them to achieve their goals in life and in-game,” said Alfie Brody, VP of Marketing for NBA 2K. “Our brand has never shied away from breaking down boundaries of what a game can achieve, and we are thrilled to continue that tradition through this Fitbit integration.”

“It’s exciting to see Fitbit and 2K working together to reward gamers like me in a unique way,” said Harrison Barnes, Fitbit Ambassador and professional basketball player for the Dallas Mavericks. “It’s an extra incentive to get my target steps per day because not only am I getting a physical edge, but a gaming edge, too in NBA 2K17. Now my friends and family will have to step up their game to keep up with me.”

The all-new NBA 2K17 feature makes it easy for players to boost their MyPLAYER by keeping active in the real world. Once users connect their Fitbit tracker with NBA 2K17 on Xbox One and PlayStation 4, their real-world step activity can start working toward the 10,000 steps per day goal for receiving in-game boosts. After users reach the steps milestone, the game will prompt them to apply temporary +5 attribute boosts and success rate to their MyPLAYER in categories like agility, layups and dunks, and more that will significantly improve performance for the next five games played that day.

“As a former video game industry executive, I’m excited to help shape the first-of-its-kind integration between a wearable and a console video game, motivating gamers of all ages to be more active throughout the day by giving them in-game rewards for their real-world fitness activity,” said Tim Rosa, Senior Vice President of Global Marketing at Fitbit. “This partnership speaks to the long history of innovation from both of our brands. We think it’s just the beginning of what’s possible as we create new ways to keep our community engaged and motivated to be healthier and more fit.”

With this integration, 2K is added to the growing list of brands that are part of the Works with Fitbit program, which lets developers, brands and users seamlessly connect the Fitbit platform to popular health and wellness apps, services and hardware products, and now games and interactive entertainment making it easier for consumers to achieve their wellness objectives.

The NBA 2K17 Standard Edition is now available in both digital and physical formats on Xbox One, Xbox 360, PlayStation 4 and PlayStation and Windows PC platforms. The integration between NBA 2K17 and Fitbit will be enabled for all users later this month.

The post NBA 2K17 Steps Up its Game with New Fitbit Integration appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment at San Diego Comic-Con revealed details around six highly collectable expansion packs for LEGO Dimensions, the LEGO toy and videogame hybrid, that will be available in the Wave 7 product release on November 18, 2016.  Led by the Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them Story Pack and the Sonic The Hedgehog Level Pack, the new packs broaden the selection of the world’s most popular entertainment brands allowing players to customise their experience by mixing and matching favourite characters and universes with full compatibility.  LEGO minifigures included in all of the wave 6-9 expansion packs will come with special, golden Toy Tags which unlock a Battle Arena within the Adventure World of the corresponding entertainment brand. All-new Battle Arenas will offer first-to-LEGO videogames competitive split-screen local gameplay for up to four players. Each Battle Arena has four gameplay modes and comes with its own traps, special powers and interactive environments that make every battle arena unique.

The Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them Story Pack will provide a complete movie-based gameplay experience with six action-packed levels and new LEGO Gateway bricks to build the Magical Congress of the United States of America (MACUSA) atop the LEGO Toy Pad.  Players can build the Newt Scamander LEGO minifigure and help him find his escaped magical creatures in New York City and use a variety of spells, including Diffindo, Reparo and Lumos.  The pack will also come with a 3-in-1 Niffler which can be rebuilt into the Sinister Scorpion and Vicious Vulture. The Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them Story Pack will be the exclusive construction toy offering this holiday for the exciting expansion of J.K Rowling’s Wizarding World.

Fans can also add the Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them Fun Pack with a Tina Goldstein LEGO minifigure. She can cast Aguamenti to help solve puzzles and Protego to keep her safe from enemies. Players in need of rescue can build the 3-in-1 Swooping Evil which can be rebuilt into the Brutal Bloom and Crawling Creeper.

The Sonic The Hedgehog Level Pack includes a complete level of Sonic The Hedgehog gameplay where players can race as the Blue Blur at lightning speeds through some of his most iconic locations including Green Hill, Emerald Coast, Labyrinth and many more. Players can build the Sonic the Hedgehog LEGO minifigure and use his Acrobat ability to swing off poles and avoid the Badniks, then use his famous grind rails move to make a quick escape.  The pack also includes a 3-in-1 Sonic Speedster which can be rebuilt into Blue Typhoon and Motobug, and a 3-in-1 The Tornado which can be rebuilt into Crabmeat and Eggcatcher.

Players wanting to bring Gremlins to life in LEGO Dimensions can add the Gremlins Team Pack which includes popular rivals Gizmo and Stripe LEGO minifigures. Gizmo’s Combat Roll and Dash Attack abilities can be used to get him out of sticky situations and Stripe uses his claws with his Vine Cut ability. Players can rebuild the 3-in-1 R.C. Racer vehicle into the Gadget-o-matic and Scarlet Scorpion and the 3-in-1 Flash ‘n’ Finish into a Rampage Record Player and Stripe’s Throne

The E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial Fun Pack includes an E.T. LEGO minifigure with Illumination and Fix-It abilities, as well as special Stealth and Telekinesis skills to make his way around the LEGO multiverse.  Players can build E.T.’s iconic Phone Home device, then rebuild it into the Mobile Uplink and Super-Charged Satellite for additional in-game abilities.

Developed by TT Games and published by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment. LEGO Dimensions is now available for PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 3, Xbox One, Xbox 360, and Nintendo´s Wii U.

The post LEGO Dimensions Expansion Packs Revealed for November 2016 appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

2K today announced Indiana Pacers All-Star shooting guard Paul George as cover athlete of NBA 2K17, the next iteration of the top-rated and top-selling NBA video game simulation series, which will be available on September 20. The selection of George marks his first solo appearance on the cover of NBA 2K, paralleling his explosive return to the court, during which he averaged a career-best 23.1 points per game during the 2015-16 NBA regular season.

“I have been playing NBA 2K as long as I can remember, and to be honoured as cover athlete of NBA 2K17 is a blessing and vote of confidence that my hard work on and off the court has paid off,” said Paul George, who also led his team to a 2015-2016 NBA playoff berth. “I’m excited to partner with 2K and hope to help take the franchise to the next level”.

Long known as one of NBA 2K’s most passionate gamers, George has an extensive history with 2K, having served as the cover star of MyNBA2K16’s Companion app, and as guest commentator at the NBA 2K16 Road to the Finals $250,000 championship which occurred on June 1st, 2016. As part of his global partnership with 2K, George will also serve as the cover athlete for NBA 2K Online in China.

“Each year the NBA 2K franchise continues to grow, but our focus has always been about creating an experience that resonates with our most passionate fans,” said Alfie Brody, vice president of marketing for NBA 2K. “Paul is a natural fit for the cover and a true embodiment of what we represent and bring to the table for gamers and basketball fans alike.”

To celebrate, 2K today also revealed the Early Tip-Off date for NBA 2K17. Beginning today, fans can pre-order NBA 2K17 at participating retail and online vendors, to receive their copy beginning on Friday, September 16th, 2016, along with in-game digital content, including:

• 5,000 Virtual Currency;
• MyTEAM Bundle (includes 3 packs with guaranteed Paul George Free Agent card);
• And, more to be revealed at a future date.

The NBA 2K17 Standard Edition will be available in both digital and physical formats for AUD$99.95 / NZD$109.95 on PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. NBA 2K17 Standard Edition will also be available in both digital and physical formats for AUD$79.95 / NZD$89.95 on PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360. NBA 2K17 Standard Edition will also be available for download on the Windows PC platform.

2K previously announced that the NBA 2K17 Kobe Bryant Legend Edition, celebrating the storied career of the recently retired Lakers icon, will be available in digital and physical formats for AUD$119.95 / NZD$129.95 on PlayStation 4 system and Xbox One.

Developed by Visual Concepts, NBA 2K17 is not yet rated in Australia and New Zealand.

The post NBA Superstar Paul George Graces Cover of NBA 2K17 appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

Activision Publishing, Inc., Nickelodeon and PlatinumGames Inc. have released Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutants in Manhattan, a new action game starring New York City’s Heroes in a Half-Shell – Leonardo, Raphael, Donatello and Michelangelo. Made with developer PlatinumGames’ unique flair for fast, satisfying combat and bold, energetic visuals, it pits players against aliens, mutants and the soldiers of the Foot Clan in a showdown for the sprawling streets, subways, sewers and skylines of the Big Apple.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutants in Manhattan is a third-person, team-based brawler that can be enjoyed alone or with up to four players in online cooperative multiplayer. Dish out justice to huge swarms of enemies, and stand strong against hard-hitting, fan-favourite villains like Shredder, General Krang, Karai, Bebop, Rocksteady, Armaggon, Wingnut and Slash. Each Turtle has a distinct play style and can be customised with special Ninjutsu moves, combat items and other bonuses to top the global leader boards across multiple difficulty levels.

Drawing from the gritty but light-hearted attitude of the series’ origins, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutants in Manhattan delivers an original storyline from IDW Publishing author Tom Waltz and is crafted with beautifully colourful cel-shaded 3D graphics.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutants in Manhattan is out now on the PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Windows PC via Steam. It is also available on the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360. This game has an ACB rating M (Mature).

The post Mutants Are Now in Manhattan! appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

At the end of last year the legendary Xbox 360 unlocked its own Achievement, a full decade of 360 gaming. It was 2005 when we were first wowed by the power and gaming delights, from Forza through to Gears of War and more.

But, all good things do come to an end and that time is now for Xbox 360.

Phil Spencer from Team Xbox posted this in respect to the demise of the Xbox 360 on The Xbox blog.

‘Last November, we celebrated a major milestone, as the Xbox 360 console turned 10 years old.

The Xbox 360 helped redefine an entire generation of gaming at Microsoft. I am incredibly proud of all of the work and dedication that went into development of the Xbox 360 hardware, services and games portfolio over the last decade. And I’m grateful to the fans for their continued passion and support.

Franchises like Gears of War were born on the 360, and established blockbusters like Halo really came into their own during this console generation. Xbox 360 was also the foundation for industry-leading technical innovation like Kinect, and the start of system updates and dashboard refreshes based on fan feedback.

Thanks to the Xbox 360, we evolved Xbox Live from the original Xbox into the thriving online gaming community it is today. And the console became a beloved gaming and entertainment hub with over 78 billion gaming hours played, nearly 486 billion Gamerscore on 27 billion achievements and over 25 billion hours spent in apps over its lifetime.

From the original Zero Hour launch event, to the incredible reaction received last year at E3 when we announced that you could play your Xbox 360 games on Xbox One, the soul of Xbox 360 was about putting gamers at the center of every decision we make – and we apply this principle across our business to this day.

Xbox 360 means a lot to everyone in Microsoft. And while we’ve had an amazing run, the realities of manufacturing a product over a decade old are starting to creep up on us. Which is why we have made the decision to stop manufacturing new Xbox 360 consoles. We will continue to sell existing inventory of Xbox 360 consoles, with availability varying by country.

We know that many of you became gamers on Xbox 360 and are still active, so it’s important to us that while the overall Xbox gaming experience will evolve and grow, we will continue to support the platform you love in multiple ways:

• Xbox 360 owners will continue to receive Xbox Live services for their console, such as online multiplayer gaming and parties, access to the apps they use today, and Games with Gold and Deals with Gold.
• Xbox Live servers that support Xbox 360 services will also remain online and active. Our Xbox 360 fans can continue to play their favorite games with the full support of Xbox Live.
• Gamers will also be able to continue to buy over 4,000 Xbox 360 games or Xbox 360 accessories at retail and through our Xbox 360 store online, while supplies last.
• Any Xbox 360 hardware will still be supported at xbox.com/support.
• And Xbox One owners will be able to continue to enjoy available Xbox 360 games through Xbox One Backward Compatibility – at no additional cost.

I want to personally thank the Xbox community – that includes the vast and diverse audience of gamers, developers and publishers who brought so much passion and creativity to the Xbox 360. You are the heart of what we do at TEAM XBOX, and you have been critical to the success of Xbox 360′

The post Achievement Unlocked: 10 Years Strong. appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

Crystal Dynamics and Square Enix are celebrating 20 years of Lara Croft, star of the award-winning TOMB RAIDER franchise this year, beginning with festivities for this major milestone at PAX East 2016. The developers of Lara Croft Tomb Raider: Legend, the critically acclaimed Tomb Raider reboot in 2013, last year’s hit Rise of the Tomb Raider and more will celebrate the achievements of the Tomb Raider series and its protagonist, with special activities and events planned throughout 2016.

“Since its introduction, Tomb Raider has held a significant place in video game history, and further cements that with this milestone,” said Ron Rosenberg, Co-Head of Studio at Crystal Dynamics. “We look forward to celebrating with fans, and honouring the iconic Lara Croft with special events, retrospectives, giveaways and other surprises throughout this year of Tomb Raider.”

First making her debut in 1996 with the original Tomb Raider from Core Design, famous archaeologist Lara Croft is a powerful force within the gaming industry, and has made an indelible mark on virtually every facet of entertainment. From being named an ambassador for scientific excellence to appearing live on tour with U2, Lara Croft reaches millions of people around the world.

With over 30 video game titles released and hundreds of awards, the heroine has been a cultural icon for 20 years on gaming screens and Hollywood silver screens, battling T-Rexes and the undead and adventuring around the globe. Lara has had adventures in over 25 countries, explored the Mediterranean, Adriatic, and Andaman Seas, ventured to Antarctica and the Arctic Circle, and rediscovered Atlantis and the lost island of Yamatai.

“Tomb Raider has become a cultural phenomenon over the last 20 years, selling millions of copies worldwide, sparking one of the most successful video game film adaptations in history, and inspiring our amazing fans of all ages,” said Scot Amos, Co-Head of Studio at Crystal Dynamics. “It’s incredible to be part of this legend and to see how much the series has evolved over time, and think about what’s yet to come. Here’s to 20 more years of adventure together.”

As part of the 20-year celebration, Square Enix and Crystal Dynamics have partnered with GameChanger Charity to provide a free digital copy of Tomb Raider 2013 for every donation made to the charity of at least $1.

Eligible contributors who donate at least $20 will be entered into a drawing where prizes include a special Crystal Dynamics swag bag including a collector’s edition of Rise of The Tomb Raider, along with special items related to the series and its famed globetrotting explorer (see official rules for details). GameChanger is a non-profit focused on improving the lives of children suffering from life-threatening diseases. GameChanger delivers video game gifts to hospitals, and provides financial support to deserving families.

Square Enix and Crystal Dynamics today also released the third Rise of The Tomb Raider content pack titled Cold Darkness Awakened for PC on Steam and The Windows Store. Players who have purchased the Season Pass or have downloaded the additional content separately will be able to continue the journey as Lara Croft takes on nightmarish predators in an abandoned Cold War base.

Cold Darkness Awakened will also be available that same day for Xbox One and Xbox 360.

Along with the award-winning Tomb Raider Definitive Edition and Rise of the Tomb Raider, the series spans PC, console, mobile and handheld, with other hit titles such as Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light, Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris, Lara Croft: Relic Run and Lara Croft GO.

You can DONATE to GameChanger HERE.

The post Tomb Raider Turns 20! appeared first on Shane the Gamer.