Transformers has a hardcore fanbase. A really hardcore fanbase. I consider myself a fan of the franchise, but I’m only a casual appreciator who has his favorite robots and sticks to them. Some of these guys are crazy, and with such a zealous set of fans, I had to ask High Moon Studios how it’s dealing with the pressure as it develops War for Cybertron.

Popularity: 1% [?]

What is this I don’t even…

Word on the street is that Ubisoft’s Beyond Good & Evil sequel has been canned. This attached to reports that the man behind the game, Michel Ancel is rumored to have left Ubisoft along with a “star developer” to form another studio in France. If true, Ancel hasn’t updated his LinkedIn profile (the most important thing one can do when leaving an employer, of course), which still has him listed as a Creative Director at Ubisoft.

It’s been quite a while since we’d seen anything on Beyond Good & Evil 2, which has long been rumored to be in jeopardy. Last word from Ubisoft was that the game was “still in production,” but the lack of new information since 2008 has been a bit unsettling.

A bit of a critical darling, Beyond Good & Evil wasn’t quite the success at retail, so it’s not too surprising to see that Ubisoft isn’t going full steam ahead on the sequel. It does, however, make me cry into my pillow at night thinking about would could be. I’m keeping my fingers crossed for an E3 surprise, but that’s looking about as likely as a Buck Bumble revival.

Michel Ancel quitte le navire [w00t gaming via CVG]

Via Destructoid

Popularity: 1% [?]

War for Cybertron is being published by Activision, and Activision games love downloadable content. Stands to reason that War for Cybertron will have DLC, right? It’s more or less inevitable, but High Moon Studios can’t confirm it. Nor will the developer deny it, either, so it’s basically a sure bet.

Popularity: unranked [?]

2K has a lot of treats planned for Mafia fans. They recently announced a collector’s edition which will consist of a hard case, art book, soundtrack, map and free DLC. A number of retailers are also planning some pre-order incentives, all detailed after the break.

Along with this EXCITING NEWS comes this new trailer showing off the PhysX power for Mafia II on the Personal computer. I got a first hand look at the game on the Computer and feel it’s going to be better of the three versions. Plus, it’s $10 less on the Personal computer.

Full details of the collector’s edition:

• Collectible SteelBook™ Casing: Brushed metallic SteelBook hard case with debossed logo containing two pieces of art featuring Vito and Joe, the stars of Mafia II.
• Made Man Pack: Free access to in-game downloadable pack that lets players get behind the wheel of two different luxury automobiles modeled after cars from the period. In addition, Vito will look the part with two new “made man” suits, including a vintage tux.
• Hardcover Art Book: Get to know the families of Empire Bay with a 100-page pic album-style art book that takes fans through the artistic design process of the game.
• Mafia II Orchestral Soundtrack: Immerse yourself in Empire Bay’s symphonic masterpiece with the Mafia II score recorded by the Prague FILMHarmonic Orchestra on CD.
• Map of Empire Bay: Get familiar with the neighborhoods and own the streets with a high quality, tear-resistant map depicting the 10 square miles of Empire Bay and all the hangout spots.

Pre-order bonus breakdown:

• Vegas Pack (GameStop): Get a taste of old school Vegas in this new DLC pack from Mafia II. Bring a taste of Vegas to Empire Bay as you cruise through the town in two new automobiles with smooth handling and timeless lines. Vito shows his Vegas style in two new suits inspired by movies and music of the time.
• War Hero Pack (GameStop): The ‘40s wouldn’t be complete without a war hero. Vito plays the role well in the War Hero DLC pack. Drive two military style vehicles and notice the better handling in all weather conditions. Vito looks sharp in two new military outfits, including fatigues and a dress uniform.
• Renegade Pack (Amazon): Show off your inner renegade in this new DLC pack. Begin with two new automobiles, one with the slick styling and tight handling of a small sports coupe and the other with the revved up engine of a ‘50s hot rod. Outfit Vito in two new suits, including leather and lettermen’s jackets to fit his renegade persona.
• Greaser Pack (Best Buy): Free access to the in-game downloadable content pack that is all about speed. These two new hot-rod speedsters will win you pink slips every time. Pair them with two new outfits for Vito — a leather jacket with heavy boots, and a leather racing suit — and get your engines revving.
• $10 Gift Card (Wal-Mart.com): Pre-order Mafia II at Wal-Mart.com and receive a $10 Wal-Mart e-gift card.

Via Destructoid

Popularity: unranked [?]