GameReplays.org DoW 2 News For the latest DoW 2 News! http://www.gamereplays.org/community/index.php Fri, 20 Nov 2009 18:54:07 +0000 240 Dawn of War 2 News - Space Hulk Mod http://www.gamereplays.org/community/index.php?showtopic=546995 OneProduct has been working on a new mod for Dawn of War II, utilizing the direct fire mechanic which was first used in Company of Heroes: Tales of Valor, and has recently been discovered in the 1.8 update to Dawn of War II by Copernicus.

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The mod is based off a gameplay type which Relic had been toying around with, known as Space Hulk, but was instead replaced by the The Last Stand mode we've come to love. It was likely to be based on the boardgame by Games Workshop, set in the Warhammer 40K universe, where you play as a Space Marine Terminator, fighting off Genestealers who arrived on drifting derelicts known as Space Hulks, hence the name. There also exists a computer game under the same name and premise.

While it's no longer a game mode which is being officially pursued, according to Thunder, it's great that the modding community is picking it up. Keyboard controls have already been implemented, as well as a few different weapons (including the flamer and assault cannon). While it is nowhere near a finished product, the coding and basic game play is well underway.

It looks promising, with the potential to be a lot of fun, so keep an eye out for further information.

Check out a video of the mod in action here]]> Sun, 18 Oct 2009 14:46:04 +0000 546995 Dawn of War 2 News - Last Stand Interview http://www.gamereplays.org/community/index.php?showtopic=545812 Dawn of War II: Chaos Rising. He has kindly agreed to answer some questions on the latest patch The Last Stand. Stay tuned later in the month for another Q&A about the coming expansion Chaos Rising.

Written By: God Aries

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GR: First things first, please introduce yourself.

Jeff Lydell: My name is Jeff Lydell, and I’m the Producer of Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II: Chaos Rising. A few of you know me as EgonSpengler on the community site and GameReplays’ forums.

GR: You mention once before that there will be Free DLC (Downloadable Content) and Paid DLC, any news on what paid DLC you may have planned?

Jeff Lydell: The paid DLC idea was something we batted around for a while and ultimately we decided it would be better to give away content instead. We might revisit plans for Paid DLC in the future, but for now we are hell-bent on making things for free.

GR: Will the last stand reset TS and/or win/lose ratio?

Jeff Lydell: We have been delaying this because of a problem in the way we set up our leaderboards. Had we wiped win/losses or TrueSkill, we would have cleared everyone’s rank unlocks as well. When The Last Stand update ships, we’ve included a fix where everyone who plays a ranked match once will keep their ranks and visual unlocks. We’ll be able to wipe the leaderboards some time after that, we just want to leave enough time for people to play once and protect their rank.

That’s coming with The Last Stand update. We have some other leaderboard improvements planned for when Chaos Rising ships, including decay for people who stop playing.

GR: Will you be able to earn points toward your rank when you play The Last Stand?

Jeff Lydell: The Last Stand has its own ranking systems and leaderboards, and they are per character. The multiplayer ranks are per race, so they wouldn’t really fit.

GR: Does Relic have any plans to continue building upon The Last Stand game mode post-release either in the expansion or future patches?

Jeff Lydell: Yes, with the expansion. More details on that will come later.

GR: Speaking of which, will we see a Chaos hero added to The Last Stand game mode when Chaos Rising is released?

Jeff Lydell: Interesting suggestion, I’ll have to get back to you on that.

GR: Will an updated Worldbuilder be released with Chaos Rising?

Jeff Lydell: We don’t have any new features planned for the WorldBuilder.

GR: Any plans to help make sharing and playing mods and custom maps a little easier?

Jeff Lydell: Not in the near future. The hard part about map sharing is the map files are quite large, and pushing those out in a peer-to-peer model would be painfully slow. Most people can handle the downloads, but the host’s upstream connection would be a major bottleneck.

We would like to improve the ease of modding in the future we just don’t have a timeline for it right now.

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That's all folks, hope everybody's excited for Chaos Rising, and The Last Stand Update.]]> Wed, 14 Oct 2009 06:30:53 +0000 545812 Dawn of War 2 News - Patch 1.8 Release Notes http://www.gamereplays.org/community/index.php?showtopic=545527 The Last Stand almost here, but Relic, in their infinite wisdom, have decided to skip 1.7 altogether and go straight to 1.8! The patch, which will be released tomorrow, includes not only The Last Stand game mode, but a long list of balance changes and bug fixes. Of course there are also the new maps detailed here, but it is the combination of much awaited balanced changes and The Last Stand game mode that truly make this an amazing patch. In the way of balance, Space Marines have a counter to melee, the Farseer can now use abilities without a cast time, and Hormagaunts receive only a +1 speed boost rather than +1.5 once they have purchased Adrenal Glands. But don't keep yourself in suspense, take a look at the complete patch notes yourself.

Have a look at the complete 1.8 patch notes here]]> Tue, 13 Oct 2009 07:31:44 +0000 545527 Dawn of War 2 News - The Last Stand Contest http://www.gamereplays.org/community/index.php?showtopic=545256 Relic has already teased us that the coming update for Dawn of War II isn't going to be a cakewalk. It's meant to be a challenging mode that you can plough through with your friends when you're in the mood for a grind or some co-op horde bashing.

This being said, they've already decided to issue a little challenge. Starting from the official launch of the patch, the first team to reach the final (20th) wave is in for a lot of nice merchandise.

The prizes are as follows:
  1. A Dawn of War II poster signed by the development team.
  2. A Chaos miniature.
  3. A Dawn of War II t-shirt
Best of all, this is the whole package for each member of the team, rather than the team as a whole, which will prevent the inevitable squabble over that miniature.

The rules are simple as well:
  1. Play The Last Stand, to be released on October 14, and reach the final wave. Take a screenshot of the final wave. Screen-shots must include the game’s user interface.
  2. You will need to host your screen-shot so you can post it on their forum.
  3. Once your screen-shot has been hosted, simply post it in the contest thread which will open on the 14th.
The first team to post a screen-shot of the final wave and have it confirmed will be the winners. It will then be posted on the Dawn of War II community site.

Good luck, and may the best human win.

Check out the original contest announcement here]]> Mon, 12 Oct 2009 10:04:40 +0000 545256 Dawn of War 2 News - The Last Stand- Hero Profiles http://www.gamereplays.org/community/index.php?showtopic=544934 Relic continues to release more details of their up and coming October 14th patch, which, among new maps, balance updates and other unknown surprises, will be featuring the new game mode, The Last Stand. For those who don’t know what this new multiplayer mode will entail, three heroes, the Eldar Farseer, the Ork Mekboy and the Space Marine Captain are thrown into an arena together against twenty waves of enemies, leveling up in the process and unlocking new items of wargear.

Relic has recently unveiled in-depth information on all three heroes, in three separate ‘hero profiles’, each giving us a look at what each hero's purpose is against the hordes of foes they will be pitted against. We’ll be having a look at what Relic has announced for each hero, and give you an idea of what to expect each of these heroes to be able to do against the waves you will be facing off against.

Space Marine Captain

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The Space Marine Captain, as expected, will be the tank and healer of the group, taking massive amounts of damage and dealing out even more in return, while being able to heal his comrades with Apothecary style healing abilities, and, with his most devastating ability, lay waste to the innumerable hordes of foes with powerful orbital bombardments.

To see the original blog post and Wargear highlights, head here!

Eldar Farseer

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The Eldar Farseer will be the glass cannon and will not only be able to disrupt huge amounts of enemies and dish out massive damage up close, but will also have powerful ranged and support abilities at her disposal. These will have the capacity to both destroy hordes of foes, and buff her teammates, with effects such as briefly invulnerability, teleportation, or invisibility, giving the team a huge amount of flexibility.

To see the original blog post and Wargear Highlights, head here!

Ork Mek

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The Ork Mek is the jack of all trades, with a weapon or wargear for each occasion. From flamethrowers, to heavy machine guns, to rocket launchers, to mines, to electric armour, this guy has the right tool for the job. He is able to suppress his targets and provide valuable ranged and area of effect damage support to his two allies, while also bringing some unique abilities to the fight to disrupt the enemy. With a wide diversity of tools available, the Ork Mek will prove to be a valuable ally in the fight.

To see the original blog post and Wargear highlights, head here!

Well there you have it folks. All three heroes and their respective roles in the new game mode, each one different from the last, with enough variation to compliment the variety of play styles and personal preferences. Each has a large and unique variety of wargear options on hand which is sure to extend beyond the few pieces showcased in the original blog post.

The Last Stand game addition is shaping up to be an interesting new mode to the game, sure to add many more hours of co-operative gameplay.
However, it still remains to be seen what other additions are being made to the game with this large update, with Relic Developers promising other “secrets/surprises”, and a changelog in the near future. Whatever is coming though, be sure to stay tuned to GameReplays for all news and announcements.]]> Sun, 11 Oct 2009 09:37:24 +0000 544934 Dawn of War 2 News - New Map Details Announced http://www.gamereplays.org/community/index.php?showtopic=544582 Relic is still busy tantalising us with details of the upcoming expansion Chaos Rising, they haven't ignored the original Dawn of War 2, releasing new content and tweaks with each successive update, the most notable one of which is the coming October 14th patch, with details continuing to be released in a slow but steady stream.

The coming update, while of course shipping with the new multiplayer co-op game mode The Last Stand, will also have other “secrets/surprises” and include balance changes and new maps.

Two new maps have been confirmed on Relic’s blog- A 1v1 map called Quest’s Heresy, designed by Stefan Haines and a 2v2 named Hydris Chasm, designed by Relic developer Clint Tasker.

Quest’s Heresy is a new desert map, described as 'unique' for a 1v1 map.

With most of its resources set on the interior of the map, separated from the victory points which lay on the outside. A lone neutral power point lies to the far west for relatively safe power expansion, but because it is neutral harassment is almost inevitable. The centre of the map is rather open and contains multiple resource points, which means controlling it is important. It is guarded by high walls but if absolutely necessary these can be destroyed to completely open up the map and make assaulting the centre easier.
Source: Thunder


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The second confirmed map, a 2v2 map called Hydris Chasm, has a brand new volcanic theme, one that is not present in any of the other maps, with it being described as having;

Two distinct lanes for each player. On the western side of the map are two VPs that stand close together separated by high cliffs overlooking a chasm that holds a neutral power point. This side is blocked off by choke points on either side which can be flanked through the center of the map. On the eastern side of the map are a series of large land bridges that hold a single VP and the majority of the map’s resources
Source: Thunder


This map will also promote greater teamwork, as with both players more separated, they will need to communicate and maneuver together and use the central area to flank and assist each other.

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It has been confirmed that these two maps are the only ones scheduled for release in the new 1.8 patch, but these two maps looked packed with detail, and the new map type is welcome and sure to add some variety to the maps currently on offer while we all hold our breaths for the expected wealth of ice maps expected for the expansion, Chaos Rising.

For the original blog release, and more pictures, head here!]]> Sat, 10 Oct 2009 01:18:48 +0000 544582 Dawn of War 2 News - The Dawn of War 2 Section is looking for Strategy Staff! http://www.gamereplays.org/community/index.php?showtopic=543333 Dawn of War 2 section here on GameReplays is looking for people to bolster the ranks of our Strategy Specialist team. If you ever wanted to contribute more than just your posts on the forums, here's your chance! You'd be joining our team of moderators, writers, tournament organisers and help keep the section running as smoothly as possible.

We currently have vacancies for all four races: Tyranid, Space Marine, Eldar and Orkz. In addition to that, we will also be accepting Strategy Specialists dedicated to Team Strategies this time.

Keep in mind though, there are a limited amount of spots available for each race. Since we almost always get more applications than we have vacancies, it could happen that we'll have to decide on a first come, first served basis if the applications are equally good. So If you have any interest in a position, please do not hesitate to give it a shot!

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So, why would I want to apply?
As mentioned, you'll be working together with the other Dawn of War 2 staff here and gain access to our staff forums. Having access to the staff forums also means you'll gain a look at portal content, like interviews and guides, before it's posted and be involved in section projects. You'll also get basic moderation powers in the strategy forums and a shiny badge as shown above. Having a history of being on staff can also be of great help should you ever want to take up a staff position for another game or on similar gaming sites.

Right then, but what are the requirements?
Strategy Specialists are primarily responsible for overseeing the strategy forums, answering questions and showing both what to do and what not to do for the beginning players. They also "lead by example" by uploading quality replays against a variety of enemies which can then be used to help other, less experienced players. Strategy Specialists are the staff most commonly behind tactical content such as strategy guides, weekly tips, and replay packs. A prime Strategy Specialist applicant doesn't have to be a pro player, but must be experienced enough with their faction that they understand it fully and know how to best use it against any enemy. Obviously, the more game skill you possess the better you will be at this job. A moderate writing ability is also preferred as these staff write most of the portal guides, as is a base level of maturity as you are responsible for basic moderation in the strategy forums.

Alright, how do I apply then?
Simply send a Private Message to Ninjabutter and Sindri with your application. Again, you don't have to be a pro, as long as you fully understand your faction and how to best use it against any enemy. Should you apply, it would also be a great help if you could include some replays to prove your skill.

Good luck!]]> Mon, 05 Oct 2009 17:14:59 +0000 543333 Dawn of War 2 News - 10 Years with Relic http://www.gamereplays.org/community/index.php?showtopic=542890 Homeworld was a shining star in its time, one of the leading 3D real time strategy games in its day, and, what will remain for many gamers one of their first RTS experiences in space.

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Relic was just a small company at the time, and Homeworld was to be its first release, published by Sierra. Regardless of whether you had the pleasure of experiencing this wonderful title, it’s a game relevant today, and most importantly...

September 28th marked its 10th birthday.

The game was a financial success, and brought what was a small studio into the spotlight. For Relic, it also forged the path for the games of today.

“People poured themselves into the game and into Relic, and it showed. Strong relationships were forged that lasted for years after Homeworld shipped, and I realize I had worked with so many great people – it’s fun reminiscing now, thinking about all the stories I just can’t tell!”
Source: Quinn Duffy, Principal Designer.


In 2004 we were brought the original Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War, in 2006 the beloved Company of Heroes, and today we have Dawn of War II. All of these titles wouldn't be here if it wasn't for that first step Relic took as a studio, giving it a creative foothold in the industry and establishing itself as one of THQ's best studios.

I think we all owe Homeworld a little thank you.

“In many ways, it’s still the beating heart of the studio and has set a direction for Relic that our other games have striven to achieve.”
Source: Quinn Duffy, Principal Designer



Oh, and there’s probably another sequel coming.


Q: What do you think the future holds for Homeworld?
A; No comment.”
Source: Dave Cheong, Senior Artist


Check out the full interview here]]> Sun, 04 Oct 2009 08:50:51 +0000 542890 Dawn of War 2 News - Chaos Rising Teaser Trailer Released http://www.gamereplays.org/community/index.php?showtopic=541590 Relic Entertainment's Dawn of War 2: Chaos Rising is now a fact. Though only being 30 seconds long, the trailer gives us a small glimpse of the single-player campaign story. The Ice-world Aurelia, having long been held by a warp storm, suddenly appears again and mysterious signal is coming from its surface... This is no doubt the reason why the Space Marines will be drawn to the world.



Chaos Rising is to be the first expansion for Dawn of War 2, bringing a 5th race to the table along with many other improvements and additions. No release date has been given out as of yet.

View the official blog post]]> Tue, 29 Sep 2009 19:02:48 +0000 541590 <![CDATA[Dawn of War 2 News - Warhammer 40,000 "Ultramarines" Movie Announced]]> http://www.gamereplays.org/community/index.php?showtopic=540868 Dawn of War franchise's Warhammer 40,000 universe, Games Workshop, announced the development of a new computer-generated feature film named Ultramarines. Ultramarines is fairly obviously starring the Ultramarines Chapter of the Space Marines but very little else is known about it at this time.

What they have elected to share with us so far is that Ultramarines will be roughly 70 minutes in length, and likely released directly to DVD rather than having any theatrical release. Ultramarines is being produced by London-based Codex Pictures, the same company behind the BIONICLE DVD trilogy.

Fans of the franchise may recall Games Workshop's similar attempt in the film field several years ago with Bloodquest, a fully animated feature film starring the Blood Angels Chapter. Unfortunately, Bloodquest was "put on hold" and the production company disbanded before work was ever resumed on the project. Hopefully Ultramarines fares significantly better.

If you're over the age of 13, follow this link to sign up for automatic Ultramarines email updates.]]> Sun, 27 Sep 2009 11:34:58 +0000 540868