Fortnite Pulls the Travis Scott Emote After Astroworld Concert Tragedy
Epic has removed the Travis Scott "Out West" dance emote from Fortnite following the rap star's deadly Astroworld concert in Houston, Texas, which killed 8 people.
Epic went so far as to temporarily disable the Fortnite item shop's Daily section, which rotates skins and other cosmetics and emotes on a regular basis. It's believed that Scott's emote was meant to be included in the latest update.
The official Fortnite Status Twitter account later confirmed the Daily section's removal but did not mention Scott or his emote by name.
It’s known that the "Daily" section of the Item Shop has been disabled. This is intentional and the "Daily" section will return with the next Item Shop refresh. pic.twitter.com/rc6Kqh7qoW
— Fortnite Status (@FortniteStatus) November 8, 2021
A spokesperson for Epic Games declined to comment when emailed by IGN.
Scott's Astroworld is a music festival that took place on November 5 in Houston's NRG Park. On Friday, the first day of the event, a crowd surged toward the front of the stage where Scott was performing. At least eight people have been killed, with many more injured, according to CNN. Victims ranged in age from 14 to 27, with one victim's age currently unknown. At least 25 people were transported to the hospital. The total number of attendees reportedly neared 50,000.
Scott quickly became the subject of intense criticism as the event and aftermath unfolded. The event continued for approximately 30 minutes after a mass casualty declaration was made, according to Yahoo News. It's currently unclear how aware Scott was of what was happening in the crowd watching his performance.
Footage from the event, collected by The Washington Post, was shared on social media. One video showed a woman climbing a camera operator's platform to beg for help and another video shows concertgoers towards the back of the crowd chanting "stop the show."
Scott briefly stopped his performance at 9:42 PM when he noticed a person in the crowd had passed out. Scott can be heard directing attention to the passed-out person and asking the crowd to move away from them. Video from the event shows what appears to be security guards in reflective jackets arriving at the spot.
The second day of the show scheduled for November 6 was later canceled, and Scott released a statement saying he was "absolutely devastated" by the events of the day before.
Scott was previously the star of Fortnite's first major concert event in April 2020, where the rap star was digitally recreated into a towering avatar who danced around the Fortnite Battle Royale map and transported players into space. The event signaled the start of Epic's push towards greater marketing collaborations and public events, and some might say also showed the promise of Epic's plans for its own "metaverse."
The in-game event was watched by 12.3 million people, according to Epic. Epic released two skins based on Scott's Astro Jack persona, plus additional cosmetics, including the "Out West" emote. Fortnite has since held a similar event for pop star Ariana Grande.
It's currently unclear if Epic plans to remove any additional content related to Scott or the Astroworld brand.
(Photo by Rick Kern/Getty Images)
Joseph Knoop is a writer/producer for IGN.
Patty Jenkins’ Star Wars: Rogue Squadron Movie Reportedly Delayed Indefinitely
Patty Jenkins' Star Wars: Rogue Squadron movie is being delayed, The Hollywood Reporter reports. Originally slated to enter production in 2022, it has been taken off the production schedule, leaving it with an indefinite release date.
The reported reason for this delay is that Jenkins' current commitments won't allow for the movie to be made on time. Jenkins, best-known for her work on Wonder Woman, is slated to write and direct the third film in the series, and is also working on a Cleopatra film starring Gal Gadot.
Jenkins' Rogue Squadron film was first announced during 2020's Disney Investor Day event, which feels like a very long time ago now. It included a nifty teaser of Jenkins donning a Rebel flightsuit and striding up to an X-Wing sitting on a tarmac.
Little else has been revealed about Rogue Squadron. It was originally slated to enter pre-production this year. We are currently in the midst of a lengthy break in Star Wars movies, with most of Disney's attention being on shows like Mandalorian and Book of Boba Fett. We do know that it won't be based on the video games.
The release date for Rogue Squadron remains unclear. Right now it looks like it will release in late 2023 at the absolute earliest.
Patty Jenkins’ Star Wars: Rogue Squadron Movie Reportedly Delayed Indefinitely
Patty Jenkins' Star Wars: Rogue Squadron movie is being delayed, The Hollywood Reporter reports. Originally slated to enter production in 2022, it has been taken off the production schedule, leaving it with an indefinite release date.
The reported reason for this delay is that Jenkins' current commitments won't allow for the movie to be made on time. Jenkins, best-known for her work on Wonder Woman, is slated to write and direct the third film in the series, and is also working on a Cleopatra film starring Gal Gadot.
Jenkins' Rogue Squadron film was first announced during 2020's Disney Investor Day event, which feels like a very long time ago now. It included a nifty teaser of Jenkins donning a Rebel flightsuit and striding up to an X-Wing sitting on a tarmac.
Little else has been revealed about Rogue Squadron. It was originally slated to enter pre-production this year. We are currently in the midst of a lengthy break in Star Wars movies, with most of Disney's attention being on shows like Mandalorian and Book of Boba Fett. We do know that it won't be based on the video games.
The release date for Rogue Squadron remains unclear. Right now it looks like it will release in late 2023 at the absolute earliest
Overwatch League Pro Kim “Alarm” Kyeong-Bo Dies, Aged 20
Overwatch League pro and Philadelphia Fusion member Kim "Alarm" Kyeong-Bo has died aged 20.
Kim's passing was announced on the Philadelphia Fusion Twitter page. A cause of death has not been provided.
"We are devastated and heartbroken to hear about Kim 'Alarm' Kyeong-Bo's passing," a statement from the team reads. "Alarm was the heart and soul of our organisation, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends as we mourn this tragic loss. The Kim family and the Fusion ask for privacy during this incredibly difficult time”, the statement concludes."
— Philadelphia Fusion (@Fusion) November 8, 2021
Born in 2001, Kim became known for his skill as a brilliant flex support player. As reported by DotEsports, during his time in the role, Kim won the 2020 Overwatch Rookie of the Year award, a Role Stars award, and an MVP nomination within the same year. At the time, Fusion said that they were "unbelievable proud" of everything that he'd gone on to achieve and that he was "more than deserving" of the title of Rookie of the Year.
We are UNBELIEVABLY proud of everything @alarm has accomplished during his first year in the league, from Role Star, to MVP Candidate, he is more than deserving of the title...#OWL2020 ROOKIE OF THE YEAR!
— Philadelphia Fusion (@Fusion) October 3, 2020
Congratulations Alarm! #PhillyPower pic.twitter.com/u8xiSJpKsh
Since Kim's passing, a number of fans and players have taken to social media with tributes. "I'm heartbroken Alarm was like a little brother to me," said Kim's former teammate Poko. "The kid was genuinely cracked at overwatch and an incredible teammate to work with. I’ve got so many good memories with you, I’ll miss ur positive attitude and our gym sessions together."
"I am at a loss for words," said another fan on social media. "Alarm was a one-of-a-kind talent an inspiration to me and many others. I wish for the best for his family and friends. There will never be another like alarm. Thank you for all you have done."
While tributes from across the Overwatch and eSports community continue to pour in, we here at IGN would also like to extend our thoughts to Kim's family and friends at this time.
Jared Moore is a freelance writer for IGN. You can follow him on Twitter.
Overwatch League Pro Kim “Alarm” Kyeong-Bo Dies, Aged 20
Overwatch League pro and Philadelphia Fusion member Kim "Alarm" Kyeong-Bo has died aged 20.
Kim's passing was announced on the Philadelphia Fusion Twitter page. A cause of death has not been provided.
"We are devastated and heartbroken to hear about Kim 'Alarm' Kyeong-Bo's passing," a statement from the team reads. "Alarm was the heart and soul of our organisation, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends as we mourn this tragic loss. The Kim family and the Fusion ask for privacy during this incredibly difficult time”, the statement concludes."
— Philadelphia Fusion (@Fusion) November 8, 2021
Born in 2001, Kim became known for his skill as a brilliant flex support player. As reported by DotEsports, during his time in the role, Kim won the 2020 Overwatch Rookie of the Year award, a Role Stars award, and an MVP nomination within the same year. At the time, Fusion said that they were "unbelievable proud" of everything that he'd gone on to achieve and that he was "more than deserving" of the title of Rookie of the Year.
We are UNBELIEVABLY proud of everything @alarm has accomplished during his first year in the league, from Role Star, to MVP Candidate, he is more than deserving of the title...#OWL2020 ROOKIE OF THE YEAR!
— Philadelphia Fusion (@Fusion) October 3, 2020
Congratulations Alarm! #PhillyPower pic.twitter.com/u8xiSJpKsh
Since Kim's passing, a number of fans and players have taken to social media with tributes. "I'm heartbroken Alarm was like a little brother to me," said Kim's former teammate Poko. "The kid was genuinely cracked at overwatch and an incredible teammate to work with. I’ve got so many good memories with you, I’ll miss ur positive attitude and our gym sessions together."
"I am at a loss for words," said another fan on social media. "Alarm was a one-of-a-kind talent an inspiration to me and many others. I wish for the best for his family and friends. There will never be another like alarm. Thank you for all you have done."
While tributes from across the Overwatch and eSports community continue to pour in, we here at IGN would also like to extend our thoughts to Kim's family and friends at this time.
Jared Moore is a freelance writer for IGN. You can follow him on Twitter.
Thunderful World Digital Showcase: How to Watch and What to Expect
On November 10, the first-ever Thunderful World Digital Showcase will take place and, not only will it be hosted by Mark Hamill, but it will also feature updates on such games as Planet of Lana, The Gunk, Firegirl, Cursed to Golf, Source of Madness, Tinkertown, White Shadows, and much more.
IGN is carrying the stream and, as usual, this watch guide will provide you with everything you need to know to tune in, including when it starts, a list of places you can watch it with us, and what you can expect to see besides new gameplay, and it's all presented by Thunderful.
Thunderful World Digital Showcase Start Time
The Thunderful World Digital Showcase will take place on Wednesday, November 10, 2021, at 11am PT/2pm ET/7pm GMT. If you are in Australia, that translates to November 11 at 4am AEST.
Where to Watch the Thunderful World Digital Showcase
If you’re interested in watching the upcoming Thunderful World Digital Showcase, we’ll be hosting the stream here and across our many channels on platforms like YouTube, Twitch, Twitter, Facebook, and more. Here’s the full list of places you can watch the event:
What to Expect During the Upcoming Thunderful World Digital Showcase
As previously mentioned, the Thunderful World digital showcase will be hosted by Star Wars’ Mark Hamill and will feature updates on previously announced games like The Gunk, Cursed to Golf, Planet of Lana, and more, alongside unannounced new titles.
Joining Hamill during the show will be Thunderful Group CEO Brjánn Sigurgeirsson, Corporate Vice President at Xbox Sarah Bond, and a “few other surprise industry partners.” Speaking of Xbox, Thunderful is partnering with both Xbox and The MIX for this event.
Planet of Lana was one of the most-talked about games from Geoff Keighley’s Summer Games Fest kickoff event and is a cinematic puzzle adventure that has striking visuals that evoke a hand-painted piece of artwork. The Gunk is another big title and is being developed by Image & Form, the team behind the SteamWorld Dig games.
For further context, Thunderful is also the company responsible for such titles as Industria, Lonely Mountain: Downhill, Say No! More, and both Bridge Constructor: Portal and Bridge Constructor: The Walking Dead.
Adam Bankhurst is a news writer for IGN. You can follow him on Twitter @AdamBankhurst and on Twitch.
Thunderful World Digital Showcase: How to Watch and What to Expect
On November 10, the first-ever Thunderful World Digital Showcase will take place and, not only will it be hosted by Mark Hamill, but it will also feature updates on such games as Planet of Lana, The Gunk, Firegirl, Cursed to Golf, Source of Madness, Tinkertown, White Shadows, and much more.
IGN is carrying the stream and, as usual, this watch guide will provide you with everything you need to know to tune in, including when it starts, a list of places you can watch it with us, and what you can expect to see besides new gameplay, and it's all presented by Thunderful.
Thunderful World Digital Showcase Start Time
The Thunderful World Digital Showcase will take place on Wednesday, November 10, 2021, at 11am PT/2pm ET/7pm GMT. If you are in Australia, that translates to November 11 at 4am AEST.
Where to Watch the Thunderful World Digital Showcase
If you’re interested in watching the upcoming Thunderful World Digital Showcase, we’ll be hosting the stream here and across our many channels on platforms like YouTube, Twitch, Twitter, Facebook, and more. Here’s the full list of places you can watch the event:
What to Expect During the Upcoming Thunderful World Digital Showcase
As previously mentioned, the Thunderful World digital showcase will be hosted by Star Wars’ Mark Hamill and will feature updates on previously announced games like The Gunk, Cursed to Golf, Planet of Lana, and more, alongside unannounced new titles.
Joining Hamill during the show will be Thunderful Group CEO Brjánn Sigurgeirsson, Corporate Vice President at Xbox Sarah Bond, and a “few other surprise industry partners.” Speaking of Xbox, Thunderful is partnering with both Xbox and The MIX for this event.
Planet of Lana was one of the most-talked about games from Geoff Keighley’s Summer Games Fest kickoff event and is a cinematic puzzle adventure that has striking visuals that evoke a hand-painted piece of artwork. The Gunk is another big title and is being developed by Image & Form, the team behind the SteamWorld Dig games.
For further context, Thunderful is also the company responsible for such titles as Industria, Lonely Mountain: Downhill, Say No! More, and both Bridge Constructor: Portal and Bridge Constructor: The Walking Dead.
Adam Bankhurst is a news writer for IGN. You can follow him on Twitter @AdamBankhurst and on Twitch.
Horizon Forbidden West’s Robots Use Ideas That Weren’t Possible in the First Game
Horizon Forbidden West's robot animal population will make use of ideas that couldn't be achieved on the first game in the series – including different behaviors, abilities, and weaknesses.
In a new post on the PlayStation Blog, Guerrilla Games designers revealed new details about a variety of Horizon Forbidden West's machine creatures. With the new game comes new possibilities, so the team wanted to explore new areas in the game and how different types of machines would live in various ecological zones, such as bodies of water.
“During Horizon Zero Dawn’s development, we had a ton of ideas — of course not everything could make it into the first game, but now with Horizon Forbidden West we’ve been able to match some exciting ideas that previously weren’t feasible with new and interesting concepts," said principal machine designer Blake Politeski.
The machines have different behavioral patterns that Aloy can take advantage of. For example, she can use the dust that a machine kicks up while digging for resources as her own cover and sneak up on it. Additionally, the machines in Horizon Forbidden West are more mobile than before. They can jump, swim, and hold on to surfaces. As such, Aloy has new tools to adapt to these new threats such as smoke bombs and the ability to climb.
Of course, alongside new behaviors there are new machines, too, which have been designed to fit Forbidden West's new coastal setting. The Sunwing, a flying machine that's larger than Horizon Zero Dawn's Glinthawk, uses its wings to collect solar energy during sunny weather. While they are vulnerable when harvesting solar power, they are also more alert to surrounding threats when idle.
Speaking of vulnerability, every machine has also been designed with multiple means to defeat it. "We tried to make it clear for players through the machine design, and added textures to show the weak points or interactive components," explained asset art lead Maxim Fleury. "You’ll need to study each machine closely to find different ways to approach it.”
Aloy is also able to override more machines, allowing her to ride them, or even change their behavior, making them more aggressive or defensive.
The narrative reasons for machines' existence have also been thought through. The Tremortusk was revealed back in May, a huge war elephant-like machine, which was created to protect other species so they could carry on their duties without human interference.
Horizon Forbidden West launches on February 17, 2022, for PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5. Check out some of the new tools that Aloy has at her disposal, such as the Pullcaster and Shieldwing, as well as some of her new gear that offers new skills.
George Yang is a freelance writer for IGN. You can follow him on Twitter @yinyangfooey
Horizon Forbidden West’s Robots Use Ideas That Weren’t Possible in the First Game
Horizon Forbidden West's robot animal population will make use of ideas that couldn't be achieved on the first game in the series – including different behaviors, abilities, and weaknesses.
In a new post on the PlayStation Blog, Guerrilla Games designers revealed new details about a variety of Horizon Forbidden West's machine creatures. With the new game comes new possibilities, so the team wanted to explore new areas in the game and how different types of machines would live in various ecological zones, such as bodies of water.
“During Horizon Zero Dawn’s development, we had a ton of ideas — of course not everything could make it into the first game, but now with Horizon Forbidden West we’ve been able to match some exciting ideas that previously weren’t feasible with new and interesting concepts," said principal machine designer Blake Politeski.
The machines have different behavioral patterns that Aloy can take advantage of. For example, she can use the dust that a machine kicks up while digging for resources as her own cover and sneak up on it. Additionally, the machines in Horizon Forbidden West are more mobile than before. They can jump, swim, and hold on to surfaces. As such, Aloy has new tools to adapt to these new threats such as smoke bombs and the ability to climb.
Of course, alongside new behaviors there are new machines, too, which have been designed to fit Forbidden West's new coastal setting. The Sunwing, a flying machine that's larger than Horizon Zero Dawn's Glinthawk, uses its wings to collect solar energy during sunny weather. While they are vulnerable when harvesting solar power, they are also more alert to surrounding threats when idle.
Speaking of vulnerability, every machine has also been designed with multiple means to defeat it. "We tried to make it clear for players through the machine design, and added textures to show the weak points or interactive components," explained asset art lead Maxim Fleury. "You’ll need to study each machine closely to find different ways to approach it.”
Aloy is also able to override more machines, allowing her to ride them, or even change their behavior, making them more aggressive or defensive.
The narrative reasons for machines' existence have also been thought through. The Tremortusk was revealed back in May, a huge war elephant-like machine, which was created to protect other species so they could carry on their duties without human interference.
Horizon Forbidden West launches on February 17, 2022, for PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5. Check out some of the new tools that Aloy has at her disposal, such as the Pullcaster and Shieldwing, as well as some of her new gear that offers new skills.
George Yang is a freelance writer for IGN. You can follow him on Twitter @yinyangfooey
Here’s What the GTA Trilogy Looks Like on Nintendo Switch
Rockstar has released a number of screenshots for Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy on Nintendo Switch ahead of the game's release later this week.
The screenshots, which can be found on the Switch section of Rockstar's GTA Trilogy page, show off a range of different remastered scenes from across the three games included in the package.
Included within the set are a number of iconic GTA characters from way back when. While GTA III's Claude can be seen strolling through the streets of Chinatown, there's also a shot featuring Tommy Vercetti and Ken Rosenberg, and another showing CJ from GTA San Andreas' pictured mid-motorbike chase. As can be seen below, there are also a number of more scenic vistas shown off in the collection including the series' Hollywood parody Vinewood and Vice City's Ocean View Hotel.
While it perhaps shouldn't be too hard to improve upon the graphics of the original titles in the series - given that they were released almost two decades ago - there's still something to be said for the work that Rockstar has done. From the images shown, the trilogy looks as if it will shape up well on the Switch, where design choices seem to have both bolstered each games' visuals while also retaining a retro feel.
It's worth pointing out, however, that certain lighting elements and textures do look to be of a lower quality than other editions of the game on console and PC – we'll be able to get a much better sense of the scale of those differences when the collection arrives.
GTA: The Trilogy - The Definitive Edition launches on November 11 for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Switch, PS4, Xbox One, and PC. For more on the series make sure to check out this piece detailing how you can pre-load the game across a range of platforms now.
Jared Moore is a freelance writer for IGN. You can follow him on Twitter.