Players are still being surprised with new content in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare. Today, the new Sykov pistol was silently slipped into the game.
The new Sykov Pistol should be locked but viewable under the pistols section of your create-a-class. If you want to unlock the new Sykov Pistol for use in both Modern Warfare and Warzone, you simply need to complete a pistol challenge.
You must get four pistol kills in five different matches, so just choose your favorite unlocked pistol and hop into a match. You can choose to take the easy route, backing out of the match after you earn those four kills. Then it’s just rinse and repeat. You’ll still have your progress count, but if you’re like me, you might feel like a bad teammate for abandoning each match.
Once unlocked and leveled up, the Sykov has the potential to be a really powerful contender in both Modern Warfare and Warzone. The Sykov can be beefed up with an 80-round drum, and even be full-automatic with the option to also akimbo dual wield. This new gun could potentially shake up the current Warzone meta.
Developers Raven Software has tweeted that an issue was resolved in Warzone that was causing the Sykov pistol challenge to show but not track the player’s progression. Players should now be able to unlock the weapon as intended.
We’ve fixed an issue in #Warzone that was causing the Sykov pistol unlock achievement to be visible but not track progression. Players should now be able to unlock the weapon as intended.https://t.co/KeNZl9Z9R6
This new gun comes shortly after three maps were quietly introduced into Modern Warfare, but last week the developers announced the removal of two of the maps. Currently, the third added map, Killhouse, is still available to play.
This was a nice surprise for Modern Warfare fans, as Activision’s current focus remains on Black Ops: Cold War and Warzone. Call of Duty’s Season 2 is set to wrap up for Black Ops: Cold War and Warzone on April 21. A new teaser trailer was released today for the upcoming Season 3, and things are heating up in Verdansk.
Following her Best Actress nomination for Promising Young Woman, it’s now been reported that Carey Mulligan will appear in the next movie from Adam Sandler for Netflix.
Deadline reports that Mulligan will star in the Sandler movie Spaceman, which tells the story of an astronaut (Sandler) who goes deep into space to collect very old dust. “He soon finds his earthly life falling to pieces, and he turns to the only voice who can help him try to put it back together. It just so happens to belong to a creature from the beginning of time lurking in the shadows of his ship,” reads a line from its description.
According to the report, Mulligan will play the astronaut’s wife. The movie is based on the Jaroslav Kalfar book and will be directed by Chernobyl’s Johan Renck. Colby Day adapted the book for the screen.
Spaceman is Mulligan’s fifth project with Netflix, following Mudbound, The Dig, Maestro, and Collateral. Mulligan’s Academy Award nomination for Promising Young Woman is her second, following her first nomination for 2009’s An Education.
Best Buy’s latest Deal of the Day consists of HyperX gaming accessories, such as the company’s excellent Cloud Alpha Pro gaming headset and Alloy FPS gaming keyboard. Because it’s a DOTD, the discounts are only available until midnight tonight. If you need to snag a new headset, mouse, or keyboard, now’s your chance to get a solid option at a nice deal.
The HyperX Cloud Alpha Pro is a gaming headset that works with PC, PS5/PS4, Nintendo Switch, and Xbox platforms thanks to its 3.5mm cable. All you have to do is plug it into your controller, PC, or Switch, and you’re good to go. It features convenient in-line audio controls too, allowing for muting your mic and controlling your volume.
The HyperX Alloy FPS is a full-sized, RGB-lit keyboard. With its Kailh Speed Silver mechanical switches and multimedia controls, it’s a great gaming keyboard for competitive gamers, especially those not looking to break the bank on a quality peripheral.
The HyperX Pulsefire Core is a great budget gaming mouse, and you can get it for even cheaper today only. At only $15, you get a mouse with a 6,200 DPI sensor, seven programmable buttons, and customizable RGB lighting.
Amazon Prime Video will soon be rolling out brand new, never-before-seen footage from Borat 2, according to Variety. It feels like a lifetime ago since the surprise sequel hit the streaming service last October, which means now is the perfect time to revisit the ridiculous movie and all the stuff they cut.
Aptly titled Borat Supplemental Reportings Retrieved From Floor of Stable Containing Editing Machine, the scenes will be presented in a multi-part special with behind-the-scenes footage and also extended cuts of certain scenes. In a new trailer for the special, some of the new and extended scenes include Borat living with two conspiracy theorists while in quarantine, Borat’s daughter Tutar visiting a makeup salon, and Borat hiring a babysitter for his daughter. Check out the video below.
You don’t have to just take our reviewer’s word for it–Borat 2 was indeed one of those rare sequels that more than lived up to its predecessor. After Amazon paid a reported $80 million for the movie, it’s also been a nice victory lap for the satirical comedy to go on to win Golden Globes for Best Actor and Best Motion Picture, and also be nominated for Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Supporting Actress (for Maria Bakalova, who played Tutar).
Actor Sacha Baron Cohen, who plays Borat, meanwhile, has recently announced he is done with the character because it’s “too dangerous… I’m going to stay with the scripted stuff.” On the other hand, if Cohen wanted to leave the door open to reprising the role, it’s a safe bet he would say something like this.
Amazon is indicating a release date for Supplemental Recordings is “coming soon… we’d tell you more, but that title has us low on available characters.” Given that Borat 2 got a surprise drop, it’s possible for this to get one as well.
As Verdansk is being overrun by zombies, dying in Call of Duty: Warzone can now turn players into the fleshing-eating undead–under very specific circumstances.
First, zombification doesn’t happen in Solo play. To become a zombie, players must be in a team in Duos, Trios, or Quads. After that, players have to land at Ship Wreck or Prison in Verdansk. But wait, there’s more to this.
Once at Ship Wreck or Prison, players will come into contact with some amorphous green gas that deals continuous damage. Dying to this gas will redeploy players as a zombie with three distinct abilities: a Charged Jump, EMP Blast, and Gas Grenade.
Be one with your inner zombie.
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Players who land at Ship Wreck or Prison in Verdansk and die to the damage can turn into Zombies. This only happens if you’re playing in teams (doesn’t work in solos). Vid: @jackfragspic.twitter.com/5h30ExkFzZ
In our testing, the regular gas slowly enveloping the map seemingly doesn’t damage the zombified form. It’s unclear what happens if a zombie player wins a match. However, it appears that when the team dies, so does the zombified player.
Warzone players may remember a similar zombification that happened in Warzone last year, when The Haunting of Verdansk added Trick-Or-Trios and Zombie Royale game types to celebrate Halloween.
This zombification comes just as co-developer Raven Software is said to nuke Verdansk on April 21 in the wake of the ongoing zombie outbreak. Earlier this month, Warzone players learned that containment levels were at 66%. New in-game screenshots reveal containment has revealed 100% and protocol level 4 is active.
While we wait for Season 3 to begin, Activision continues to update Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War. The latest patch arrived on Thursday, bringing with it a new feature in Custom Mods and the new Blueprint Gun Game mode. Outside of that, there are new playlists and some fixes for Zombies, while a triple-double XP weekend is now underway.
The new Custom Mods feature, which is accessible through Create-a-Class, allows players to create and save up to 10 custom Blueprint loadouts per weapon. Below you can see an example of how far you can go with the level of customization to create something very unique.
The new mode, meanwhile, is Blueprint Gun Game. It’s the same Gun Game you know, but the twist is that you’re given special blueprint weapons, which might be some you’ve never seen or used before. The progression of weapons can change each match, and the first person to make it through all 20 weapons wins.
As for the triple-double XP promotion, starting Friday, April 16 at 10 AM PT and running through the same time on April 19, you can get double XP for standard progression, weapons, and the battle pass. This comes at a good time, as Season 2 is set to wrap up very soon, with the much-anticipated Season 3 projected to begin on April 22.
Dead Ops Arcade 3 for Zombies gets some attention with this update as well, making changes to XP awards and implementing some bug fixes.
If you’re looking to connect your PC or console to a TV or gaming monitor, there’s a good chance you have multiple options and even more cables. HDMI and DisplayPort cables both allow you to transfer multiple audio channels and high-definition video from your gaming device to your display of choice. But what are the benefits and limitations of each format? And which option is right for your display? Here’s what you should know about HDMI and DisplayPort cables and the best options available in each format.
What is HDMI?
HDMI stands for high-definition multimedia interface, and the cable allows users to transfer high-definition video and audio to a connected TV or monitor. HDMI has been used since 2003, so unless you’re planning to game on a CRT, your TV or monitor almost certainly supports HDMI. If you’re using a TV, it likely has multiple ports, too.
HDMI versions
HDMI 1.0 to 1.2a (1080i or 720p, 4.95Gbps)
HDMI 1.3 to 1.4a (1080p and 4K at 30Hz, 10.2Gbps)
HDMI 2.0, 2.0a, 2.0b (4K at 60Hz, 18Gbps)
HDMI 2.1 (8K at 60Hz, 4K at 120Hz, 48Gbps)
What is DisplayPort?
DisplayPort, like HDMI, is a cable format for transmitting high-definition video and audio. The latest version, DisplayPort 2.0, debuted in 2019, but there are not yet any commercial products that support it. That approval process was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, so DisplayPort 1.4 is currently the most recent usable version.
DisplayPort is not nearly as mainstream as HDMI. You won’t find a DisplayPort jack on your game console and your TV likely won’t support it either. Instead, DisplayPort is most useful (and sometimes essential) for PC gamers because it can connect from a monitor to the PC’s dedicated graphics card, and it supports higher resolutions, higher refresh rates, and more bandwidth than HDMI.
DisplayPort versions
DisplayPort 1.0 to 1.1 (4K at 30Hz, 10.8Gbps)
DisplayPort 1.2 (4K at 75Hz, 21.6Gbps)
1.2a added adaptive sync
DisplayPort 1.3 (5120×2880 at 60Hz, 32.4Gbps)
DisplayPort 1.4 (4K at 144Hz, 32.4Gbps)
DisplayPort 2.0 (16K resolution at 60Hz, 80Gbps)
HDMI vs. DisplayPort: How they compare
Video and bandwidth
Over the years, HDMI has gone through multiple iterations. HDMI 2.1 is the latest (and best), introduced in 2017. With the introduction of this version, HDMI added support for higher resolutions and refresh rates: 4K at 120Hz and 8K at 60Hz. This newest cable is capable of transmitting 48Gbps, a huge increase over the 18Gbps of previous cables. Of course, older versions are still compatible with most devices, but won’t provide the same image quality or bandwidth.
DisplayPort 1.4, by contrast, has a maximum bandwidth of 32.4Gbps and can support 4K resolution at 144Hz. DisplayPort 1.2 is older, introduced in 2010, and less capable than 1.4, supporting a maximum bandwidth of 21.6Gbps, with 5K resolution at 30Hz, 4K at 75Hz, and 1080p at 240Hz.
Devices that support DisplayPort 2.0 should arrive later this year. None of them will be able to take advantage of DisplayPort’s full capabilities as the newest cables allow for a jump in resolution all the way to 16K–a future-proofing measure, to be sure, as few commercially available displays support 8K. However, DisplayPort 2.0 will be more powerful than HDMI 2.1 in nearly every way, with a max bandwidth of 80 Gbps and 16K for 60 Hz single display configurations. By comparison, HDMI 2.1 maxes out at 48 Gbps and 10K.
Audio
HDMI and DisplayPort support the same number of audio channels (eight) at the same level of quality (24 bit, 192kHz). The primary difference between the two formats, where sound is concerned, is that HDMI includes an audio return channel, meaning the cable can transmit audio both ways.
PC vs. console
HDMI has one huge advantage if you’re planning to play on console: Both PS5 and Xbox Series X/S include support for HDMI 2.1, the newest and best version of HDMI. Neither console support DisplayPort. If you’re a PC user, however, DisplayPort will likely be your best bet for optimal performance (though the most optimal performance won’t be available until DisplayPort 2.0-enabled devices show up on store shelves sometime in 2021).
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What is HDMI 2.1 And Is It Important To Have For Next Gen?
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In addition to audio and visual performance, DisplayPort has the benefit of being able to output to multiple displays from one cable. So, if you want to play games on a dual-monitor setup, DisplayPort is the way to go. HDMI, on the other hand, requires one cable for each additional monitor you wish to display on.
Connector
HDMI cables have 19 pins and are vertically symmetrical, tapering from the top to the bottom in the shape of a smiling mouth. A DisplayPort cable has 20 pins and is similarly shaped. The key difference is that the one side is vertically straight, instead of tapering, and features a locking mechanism so that it won’t come unplugged. HDMI doesn’t have a similar mechanism and, as a result, can come unplugged more easily, for better and for worse.
HDMI cables come with a variety of different connector sizes. The typical size is referred to as Standard and works with most TVs, PCs, and game consoles. Mini and Micro connectors are also available and compatible with tablets, DSLR cameras (Mini), and phones (Micro). On the other hand, Mini DisplayPort ports are increasingly popular and, if your laptop has a DisplayPort jack at all, this is likely the version that it features. This connector is smaller and rectangular, with rounded edges on the laptop side, while being full-sized where it connects to the display device.
Final thoughts: Which display cable is best for gaming?
Both HDMI and DisplayPort have strengths and weaknesses. But where gaming is concerned, the platform you want to play on may determine the cable you need to use. The PS5 and Xbox Series X do not support DisplayPort, but both machines come with HDMI 2.1 ports. So, for console gaming, HDMI is the way to go (though you’ll need a 4K TV or monitor that supports HDMI 2.1 to reap the full benefits).
However, PCs are much more likely to include a DisplayPort outlet and, if you’re building your own gaming PC, you can make sure to include it. The gains that DisplayPort 2.0 provides over HDMI 2.1 will be more easily visible on a monitor with a high refresh rate. Additionally, DisplayPort includes a locking mechanism so you can securely fasten the cable to your monitor. This could be a danger if you need to run the cable across your room, but if your cords are contained, it’s useful.
If you’re interested in VR, specifically, you may need a PC with DisplayPort compatibility depending on your VR headset of choice. The Valve Index and Oculus Rift S, for example, do not support an HDMI connection.
Where to buy HDMI and DisplayPort cables
If you’re in need of a new HDMI cable, you can find some highly rated options at Amazon, including this Zeskit HDMI 2.1 cable with over 13,000 reviews and 4.8 out of 5 stars. It supports 4K at 120Hz, making it an excellent option for PS5 and Xbox Series X. For those in need of a cheaper HDMI 2.0 cable, PowerBear offers high-quality cables in a variety of sizes.
You can pick up a certified DisplayPort cable at Amazon, including this Cable Matters DisplayPort 1.4 cable that supports 8K at 60Hz and more. It’s available in a variety of sizes.
Final thoughts
New versions of HDMI and DisplayPort will continue to leapfrog over each other. DisplayPort 2.0 launched in 2019 and is set to get compatible machines in the next year, but HDMI hasn’t had a refresh since 2017. As a result, the advantages that each format has over the other will likely change in the coming years. Those changes may be marginal, but when it comes to the performance boosts that HDMI and DisplayPort promise, you’ll have to ask yourself what’s best for your setup.
In an announcement by WWE, they came to terms with the release of several stars including Samoa Joe, Billie Kay, Peyton Royce, Kalisto, Mickie James, and former United States Champion Kalisto. The other stars released–so far–are Chelsea Green, Tucker, Bo Dallas, and Wesley Blake.
Last year, after Wrestlemania, the company had what fans called Black Wednesday–which was also April 15–when over 20 superstars were released or furloughed. Some, like Drake Maverick, were rehired and some found new companies quickly to work for. With how the COVID-19 vaccine is being implemented, it could be better for some performers all-around.
It does come as a shock for performers like Samoa Joe or Billie Kay. Joe had been injured and moved to the commentary team. Billie had just been given a new gimmick and seemed to be over pretty well, even giving her a match at Wrestlemania.
With Joe, after the reshuffling of commentary teams, it looked like he was on the upswing and return to in-ring performing. Even WWE made sure to comment that Joe was still an “active member of the WWE roster,” prior to the announcement of his release.
Wesley Blake is an interesting choice as he’s been repackaged more than a few times, starting out as a tag team with Buddy Murphy, then part of the Forgotten Sons, and then one of Corbin’s Knights.
This is far from the only releases that WWE has granted this year. Back in late March, WWE released former NXT and United States Champion Andrade after being off television since October. With wrestling, you’re never sure who will make it out on top, but these are some talents that could still have a bright future ahead.
Codemasters and EA have announced F1 2021, along with a release date of July 16.
F1 2021 will feature the teams, drivers, and circuits of the official 2021 FIA Formula One World Championship, as well as a new story mode, expanded Career mode with support for two players, and three extra circuits to come in free post-launch DLC.
The new story mode is called Braking Point (get it?) and takes players on an “epic journey” as they rise through the ranks from Formula 2 to Formula 1. As well as the races, the mode offers a look at the “glamourous world of F1″, including the rivalries both on and off the track.
Career Mode returns with a two-player option that allows friends to join together online either cooperatively or competitively, working on the same or rival racing teams as part of synchronous race sessions. Each player has complete control over their own driving assists, allowing for novice and experienced players to work together. The mode also sees the return of Real-Season Start, allowing players to begin at any point during the F1 season with real-time driver and constructor standings.
Other returning features include driver-manager mode My Team, two-player split-screen, shorter season options, esports integration, and accessible menus and handling. These elements are available on all platforms – PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC via Steam. On the newer consoles, better visuals and loading times will be available. A free upgrade/Smart Delivery option is available for those who upgrade their consoles, too.
Pre-orders are available now, with a Standard Edition and a Deluxe Edition. The Deluxe Edition pre-orders will net you three days of early access to the game, and seven soon-to-be-revealed F1 drivers to be used in My Team, 18,000 PitCoins, and a content pack for the story mode. Orders for the Standard Edition come with 5,000 PitCoins and some “exclusive items”.
If you’ve perhaps been watching Netflix’s Drive to Survive and fancy getting into the world of Formula 1 games, take a look at our review of F1 2020, the exceptional predecessor to this newly announced game from Codemasters.
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Matt Purslow is IGN’s UK News and Entertainment Writer.
The latest patch for Outriders is available now and, among other things, it addresses an issue that could cause player inventories to become wiped. This patch does not, however, restore any inventory content you might have lost.
Square Enix said in a blog post that it feels confident that new Outriders patch should stop inventory wipes from happening in the future. To test things out, Square Enix will monitor the situation this weekend to make sure that’s the case, and then it will begin the process of restoring inventory content that players might have lost.
“As soon as we are satisfied by the patch’s effectiveness, we will share extra details including timelines of our upcoming inventory restoration process,” the company said. More details will be shared on the restoration process at a later date.
Square Enix said restoring lost inventory items continues to be the company’s “highest priority.” When the restoration process is solidified, it won’t require a patch, as it’s a server-side fix.
There are some known issues related to the April 15 Outriders patch, including multiplayer connectivity issues and inventory items vanishing momentarily. Square Enix said this is to be expected and stressed that inventory items aren’t really gone for good. Restarting your game or waiting a few minutes and then restarting your game should bring the items back.
Square Enix said you’re unlikely to experience the issue in the first place, as it’s described as an “edge case.” Still, the studio it plans to address this in a future update.
The issues for Outriders at launch have proven to be a headache for those experiencing them, but the underlying game is generally being celebrated. In GameSpot’s Outriders review, Phil Hornshaw praised its use of cover-shooting and fantasy-style powers along with its endgame activities.
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