Xbox Showcases 60 Anticipated Games, Including 34 to Premiere in Xbox Game Pass

Keanu Reeves, Cyberpunk 2077 Actor, unveils the release date at the Xbox E3 2019 Briefing at the Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live, Sunday, June 9, 2019 in Los Angeles. (Photo by Casey Rodgers/Invision for Xbox/AP Images)

Xbox showcased a blockbuster lineup of 60 anticipated games for both console and PC in its Xbox E3 Briefing and shared a glimpse of the future with Project Scarlett, which launches alongside "Halo Infinite" in 2020. 

Halo Infinite 

Headlined by the biggest game of 2019, "Gears 5," along with 34 games premiering in Xbox Game Pass, the Xbox E3 Briefing delivered 11 world premieres and a record 14 games from Xbox Game Studios, which will soon include legendary game development studio Double Fine Productions.

"It's great to celebrate with our incredible fans and show how we are delivering against our vision to empower gamers to play the games they want, with the friends they want, wherever they want," said Phil Spencer, Head of Xbox. "With thousands of Xbox games in development, we curated our show around our players, with new titles premiering in Xbox Game Pass across console and PC, and game streaming that enables them to play their favorite games, with their friends, wherever they go."

THE BEST WAY TO DISCOVER GREAT GAMES ON CONSOLE AND PC

PC gamers around the world can now join the Xbox Game Pass for PC beta through the new Xbox app, which is available today on Windows 10. Xbox Game Pass for PC is designed specifically for PC gamers with a curated library of over 100 high-quality PC games from over 75 developers and publishers including fan-favorite PC titles like "Football Manager 2019," "Imperator: Rome" and "Metro Exodus."

• Xbox also announced the launch of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, a new plan combining the curated games library for console and PC with Xbox Live Gold.

In addition, Xbox announced a variety of new blockbuster games that are available with Xbox Game Pass for Console starting today, including "Metro Exodus," "Hollow Knight: Voidheart Edition," "Borderlands: The Handsome Collection" and "Batman: Arkham Knight."

XGP Batman Arkham Knight

The Xbox E3 Briefing also showcased new Xbox Game Studios titles that will premiere in Xbox Game Pass, including "Gears 5," "Battletoads," "Bleeding Edge," "The Outer Worlds," "Ori and the Will of the Wisps," and 25 games from the ID@Xbox program.

WELCOMING DOUBLE FINE PRODUCTIONS TO XBOX GAME STUDIOS

Xbox announced today the intent to acquire legendary game development studio Double Fine Productions, which will bring the total number of development studios under Xbox Game Studios to 15. Led by industry veteran Tim Schafer, the addition of this boundlessly creative studio will reinforce the Xbox team's commitment to developing original content with memorable characters and unexpected stories. Double Fine showcased the long-awaited "Psychonauts 2" today on the Xbox E3 stage:

• "PSYCHONAUTS 2" (XBOX ONE AND WINDOWS 10 PC, MAC, LINUX, PLAYSTATION 4). Razputin Aquato, trained acrobat and powerful young psychic, has realized his lifelong dream of joining the international psychic espionage organization known as the Psychonauts! But these psychic super spies are in trouble. Their leader hasn't been the same since he was kidnapped, and what's worse, there's a mole hiding in their headquarters. Raz must use his powers to stop the mole before they execute their secret plan—to bring the murderous psychic villain, Maligula, back from the dead! "Psychonauts 2" launches worldwide in 2020.

THE FUTURE OF CONSOLE GAMING

During its briefing, Xbox demonstrated its commitment to console gaming as a critical choice for players who want a device designed, built and optimized for gaming.

Project Scarlett will set a new bar for console power, speed, and performance, arriving Holiday 2020 alongside "Halo Infinite." With a custom-designed AMD processor, high bandwidth GDDR6 memory, and a next-generation solid state drive (SSD), Project Scarlett will give developers the power they need to bring their creative visions to life. Thousands of games across four console generations will look and play best on Project Scarlett.

BRINGING XBOX TO THE CLOUD

In addition to delivering players the games they want, with the people they want, across console and PC, Xbox is also empowering people to play wherever they want by bringing Xbox to the cloud.

First, Xbox announced the ability to stream games from your Xbox One console, starting in preview this October. With console streaming, gamers will have access to their Xbox One game library and Xbox Game Pass titles on the go, streamed directly from an Xbox One console to a mobile device.

The Xbox E3 Briefing also marked a new milestone for "Project xCloud," with E3 2019 attendees being among the first in the world to play Xbox One games like "Halo 5: Guardians" and "Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice" streaming on smartphones and tablets. With Project xCloud, Xbox is investing to ensure players have the choice and freedom to play the games they want, with the friends they want, how and where they want.

THE WORLD'S MOST ADVANCED CONTROLLER

In addition, Xbox unveiled the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2. Inspired by fan feedback, the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 is the world's most advanced controller, designed with the most passionate gamers in mind.

The Elite Series 2 is the second iteration of the fan-favorite Xbox Elite Wireless Controller and is re-engineered for ultimate performance, customization, and durability, and includes 30 new and improved features such as adjustable-tension thumbsticks, wraparound rubberized grip, shorter hair-trigger locks, and up to 40 hours of rechargeable battery life.

• The Elite Series 2 will launch in 24 markets on Nov. 4 for $179.99 USD/£159.99 GPB/€179.99 EUR and is available for preorder now.

THE SINGLE LARGEST SHOWCASE OF GAMES ON STAGE THIS YEAR

Xbox includes every player in its vision for gaming, which starts with unmissable content made for players wherever they are. With thousands of Xbox games in development, Xbox offered glimpses at 60 different games from all over the globe, including blockbusters like "Cyberpunk 2077," "Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order," and "Elden Ring." 

Xbox fans were also invited to venture into the action-fueled world of "CrossfireX," coming first to console on Xbox One in 2020 with special content for Xbox Game Pass members, and into the blocky depths of "Minecraft Dungeons," coming to Xbox One and Windows 10 PC, Nintendo Switch, and PlayStation 4.

The Xbox E3 Briefing also marked a celebration of 37 PC games, including "Microsoft Flight Simulator" and "Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition," both of which will premiere in Xbox Game Pass for PC. 

Cyberpunk 2077

Fans also took their first steps into the next worlds being created by Xbox Game Studios, such as "Gears 5" and "Wasteland 3," and discovered the unexpected with 25 new and wild ID@Xbox titles.

• All forthcoming titles from Xbox Game Studios will premiere in Xbox Game Pass.

Games shown during the Xbox E3 Briefing include:

• "AGE OF EMPIRES: DEFINITIVE EDITION" (WINDOWS 10 PC). "Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition" celebrates the 20th anniversary of one of the most popular strategy games ever with stunning 4K Ultra HD graphics, a new and fully remastered soundtrack, and brand-new content, "The Last Khans," with three new campaigns and four new civilizations. Head online to challenge other players with 35 different civilizations in your quest for world domination throughout the ages. Choose your path to greatness with this definitive remaster to one of the most beloved strategy games of all time. "Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition" will be released this fall on Windows 10 PC, available on the Microsoft Store, Steam and Xbox Game Pass for PC.

• "BATTLETOADS" (XBOX ONE). "Battletoads" is back! Rare and Dlala Studios are bringing the beloved brawler to Xbox with a unique animation style, wild side-scrolling action and team-focused gameplay that's perfect for couch co-op. Players take control of Rash, Zitz and Pimple as they smash, stomp and slam their way through hordes of enemies and unleash choreographed chaos to defeat their greatest enemy yet. Fans can look forward to an all-new adventure packed with wild locations, unforgettable characters and surprising gameplay challenges, all with a huge emphasis on co-operative play.

• "BLAIR WITCH" (BLOOBER TEAM, XBOX GAME PASS). From the creative minds behind the critically acclaimed Layers of Fear, experience firsthand the toll that fear can take on the mind in an original story based on the legend of Blair Witch. The upcoming title is a first-person psychological horror game that studies your reactions to danger and stress. Your darkest fears will awaken on Aug. 30, 2019.

• "BLEEDING EDGE" (XBOX ONE AND WINDOWS 10 PC). As an all-new game from Ninja Theory, "Bleeding Edge" offers a one-of-a-kind experience that fuses third-person action combat with competitive online team gaming. The 4x4 team-fighter game provides a fast-paced yet strategic combat system that rewards technique, timing and teamwork in vibrant cyberpunk arenas. In "Bleeding Edge," each fighter can be modded to suit individual playstyles and exploit team synergies. The game is in development for Xbox One, Windows 10 PC and Xbox Game Pass as an Xbox Play Anywhere title.

• "BORDERLANDS 2: COMMANDER LILITH & THE FIGHT FOR SANCTUARY" (2K). Return to the award-winning shooter-looter "Borderlands 2" for an all-new campaign DLC that sets the stage for the upcoming "Borderlands 3." Battle new bosses, explore new areas, collect new loot, and join up with Lilith and the Crimson Raiders to take on a deranged villain hell-bent on ruling the planet. Instantly boost your level to jump right in or pursue a level cap increase to 80! Free to download until July 8 for all owners of "Borderlands: The Handsome Collection," which is now available with Xbox Game Pass.

• "BORDERLANDS 3" (2K). The original shooter-looter returns, packing bazillions of guns and an all-new mayhem-fueled adventure! Blast through new worlds and enemies as one of four brand new Vault Hunters — the ultimate treasure-seeking badasses of the Borderlands, each with deep skill trees, abilities and customization. Play solo or join with friends to take on insane enemies, collect loads of loot, and save your home from the most ruthless cult leaders in the galaxy.

• "CROSSFIREX" (FIRST TO CONSOLE ON XBOX ONE, XBOX GAME PASS). Crossfire, a free-to-play first-person shooter and one of the most-played PC games in the world with 650M players LTD, announced that it will come to console for the first time on Xbox One in 2020 as "CrossfireX," with all-new content for console players. Developed by the team at Smilegate Entertainment in Seoul, South Korea, Xbox players can look forward to a platform of rich experiences, including a single player campaign developed in partnership with Remedy Entertainment, battle royale, competitive multiplayer and unique content for Xbox Game Pass members.

• "CYBERPUNK 2077" (CD PROJEKT RED). An open-world, action-adventure story set in Night City, a megalopolis obsessed with power, glamour and body modification. You play as V, a mercenary outlaw going after a one-of-a-kind implant that is the key to immortality. You can customize your character's cyberware, skillset and playstyle, and explore a vast city where the choices you make shape the story and the world around you.

• "DRAGON BALL Z: KAKAROT" (BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment Inc.). Relive the story of Goku in "DRAGON BALL Z: KAKAROT!" Beyond the epic battles, experience life in the DRAGON BALL Z world as you fight, fish, eat and train with Goku. Explore the new areas and adventures as you advance through the story and form powerful bonds with other heroes from the DRAGON BALL Z universe.

• "DYING LIGHT 2" (TECHLAND). The last great human settlement exists within an unforgiving, zombie-infested world, plunged into the dark ages. During the day bandits, factions and starving survivors roam the streets scavenging for scraps — or someone to take them from. At night the infected roam free, evacuating their hideouts to prey on the living. Exceptional agility and brutal combat skills make you a powerful ally and a valuable commodity. You can achieve things no one else can. Enter places no one else dares. With your unique abilities you have the power to be an agent of change within this decaying metropolis.

• "ELDEN RING" (BANDAI NAMCO ENTERTAINMENT INC.). Developed by FromSoftware Inc. and BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment Inc., "ELDEN RING" is a fantasy action-RPG adventure set within a world created by Hidetaka Miyazaki — creator of the influential "DARK SOULS" video game series; and George R.R. Martin — author of The New York Times best-selling fantasy series "A Song of Ice and Fire." Danger and discovery lurk around every corner in FromSoftware's largest game to-date.

• "FORZA HORIZON 4" LEGO SPEED CHAMPIONS EXPANSION (XBOX ONE AND WINDOWS 10 PC). "Forza Horizon 4" LEGO Speed Champions, the newest expansion for the award-winning "Forza Horizon 4," invites you to experience the ultimate LEGO Speed Champions fantasy brought to life at the Horizon Festival. Explore a LEGO-themed world, discover LEGO Brick Challenges such as building a Master Builder's house as your Brick Collection grows, and collect and race amazing new LEGO Speed Champions cars, including the McLaren Senna, Ferrari F40 Competizione and the 1967 Mini Cooper S Rally. "Forza Horizon 4" LEGO Speed Champions will launch worldwide on Xbox One and Windows 10 PC on June 13, 2019, as an Xbox Play Anywhere expansion and be available at a 10% discount for Xbox Game Pass members.

• "GEARS 5" (XBOX ONE AND WINDOWS 10 PC, STEAM). "Gears 5" features five thrilling modes, including Escape, an aggressive, high-stakes, three-player co-op mode featuring a suicide squad that must work together to take out enemy hives from within. "Gears 5" will be released on Sept. 10, 2019, and will be available in early access for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Plan members and "Gears 5 Ultimate Edition" owners on Sept. 6. Preorder or play with Xbox Game Pass by Sept. 16, 2019, to get The Terminator Dark Fate Character Pack, which adds the Terminator T-800 Endoskeleton and Sarah Connor from the upcoming film "Terminator Dark Fate" as playable multiplayer characters.

• "GEARS POP!" (iOS, ANDROID). "Gears POP!" brings together iconic Gears characters in a cute Funko Pop! style. The game is being developed in partnership with Funko (Nasdaq "FNKO") and inspired by the Gears of War vinyl collectible figures. It's the perfect slice of mobile mayhem. Fans can look for more information about "Gears POP!" on @gearspop and can preorder on iOS and Android ahead of launch later this summer.

• "HALO INFINITE" (PROJECT SCARLETT, XBOX ONE AND WINDOWS 10 PC). The Master Chief returns in 2020 when "Halo Infinite" releases globally with Project Scarlett. This next chapter in 343 Industries' legendary Halo franchise invites players to join the venerable Master Chief on an all-new adventure as he uncovers the mysteries surrounding the appearance of "The Pilot" and the desolate remains of a Halo ring. "Halo Infinite" is powered by the studio's next-generation Slipspace Engine.

• "LEGO STAR WARS: THE SKYWALKER SAGA" (WARNER BROS. INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT). Play through all nine Star Wars™ saga films in a brand-new LEGO video game unlike any other. Players will experience fun-filled adventures, whimsical humor, and the freedom to fully immerse themselves in the LEGO Star Wars universe like never before. With hundreds of characters and vehicles from across the galaxy, players can dive into their favorite Star Wars moments in an all new way, complete with the hilarious LEGO brand of fun that's sure to delight players of all ages.

• "MICROSOFT FLIGHT SIMULATOR" (XBOX ONE AND WINDOWS 10 PC). The next generation of our longest-running franchise, "Microsoft Flight Simulator," is coming to Windows 10 with Xbox Game Pass in 2020, and coming to Xbox One at a later date. "Microsoft Flight Simulator" is specifically designed to celebrate flight simulation fans through a focus on the authenticity of flying and visually stunning environments. By revamping our tech, working in close collaboration with the community and pursuing the best partnerships across the industry, we intend to deliver the best-in-class flight simulation experience.

• "MINECRAFT DUNGEONS" (XBOX ONE AND WINDOWS 10 PC, NINTENDO SWITCH, PLAYSTATION 4). An all-new action-adventure game set in the Minecraft universe coming to Xbox One, Windows 10 PC, Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 4! Created in the classic dungeon crawler style, "Minecraft Dungeons" takes players on an epic quest full of new characters and environments to discover with single player or in co-op multiplayer for up to four players — including couch co-op on Xbox One. "Minecraft Dungeons" will also be available with Xbox Game Pass the same day of its global release in spring 2020.

• "ORI AND THE WILL OF THE WISPS" (XBOX ONE AND WINDOWS 10 PC, STEAM). "Ori and the Will of the Wisps" is the highly anticipated sequel to "Ori and the Blind Forest," the acclaimed action platformer with more than 50 awards and nominations, and will be released Feb. 11, 2020. Brought to you by Xbox Game Studios and Moon Studios, the game will be available to buy on Xbox One, Windows 10 PC and Steam, and premiere in Xbox Game Pass for PC and Console. At E3 we showed off new, never-before-seen gameplay and provided a deeper look at the game's intense all-new combat system with Ori fighting the different towering bosses in the game's vast and exotic world.

• "PHANTASY STAR ONLINE 2" (SEGA). Japan's greatest F2P online RPG comes to North America for the first time for Xbox One! "Phantasy Star Online 2" strives for bringing a "never-ending quest." Randomized fields, Interrupt Events, and Multiparty Areas where up to 12 players can play together never make your quest stale and keep it always fresh and surprising. While keeping the easy character control system of the series, more stylish and customizable combat actions are enabled for ideal heroes of players that are given life for the quest through the revolutionized character creation system that brings ultimate designability.

• "RPG TIME: THE LEGEND OF WRIGHT" (DESKWORKS). School's out! Meet us in an empty classroom for a grand adventure with a young aspiring game developer and his very own RPG. You're sure to be dazzled by his hand-drawn creations as you journey into the surprising and magical world of imagination! 

• "SEA OF THIEVES" (XBOX ONE AND WINDOWS 10 PC). "Sea of Thieves" continues to grow and evolve with the on-demand competition of The Arena and story-driven quests of Tall Tales, all included as a part of the free Anniversary Update, the game's biggest content update to date. As teased at E3, players on Xbox One, Windows 10 PC and Xbox Game Pass can expect more ways to play and new shared world storytelling coming to the game in the future.

• "SPIRITFARER" (THUNDER LOTUS, XBOX GAME PASS). Creators of hand-drawn indie experiences Thunder Lotus return with their unique third production: "Spiritfarer," a cozy management game about dying. You play Stella, ferrymaster to the deceased. Build a boat to explore the world, care for your spirit friends, and finally release them into the afterlife. Farm, mine, fish, harvest, cook and craft your way across mystical seas, as you learn how to say goodbye to your cherished friends.

• "STAR WARS JEDI: FALLEN ORDER" (ELECTRONIC ARTS). Order 66 has been executed. As a young Padawan on the run, you've long kept your abilities hidden to stay alive. Now, you must embrace them. In a brand-new gameplay trailer debuted at the Xbox E3 briefing, see how you will use the Force to explore your environment, master lightsaber combat, and remain one step ahead of the Empire.

• "STATE OF DECAY 2: HEARTLAND" (XBOX ONE AND WINDOWS 10 PC). "State of Decay 2: Heartland" features a return to Trumbull Valley in a new story-based adventure. Once the iconic site of the original "State of Decay" game, the towns of Spencer's Mill and Marshall are now overrun with an advanced form of blood plague: a more aggressive and far deadlier version than exists anywhere else. Though it may be familiar territory to those who homesteaded here years ago, Trumbull Valley is packed with new dangers — and unspeakable horrors. Heartland launches for all "State of Decay 2" players on June 9, 2019, for $9.99 on Xbox One and Windows 10 PC, and is included with Xbox Game Pass.

• "TALES OF ARISE" (BANDAI NAMCO ENTERTAINMENT INC.). The Tales of series returns with "Tales of Arise," a story driven RPG following the journey of two people, born on opposing sister planets, each looking to change their fate and create a new future. Featuring a new cast of characters, intense action based combat and classic Tales of gameplay mechanics, experience a tale of duality, justice and the fight for freedom.

• "THE OUTER WORLDS" (OBSIDIAN ENTERTAINMENT AND PRIVATE DIVISION, XBOX GAME PASS). Lost in transit while on a colonist ship bound for the furthest edge of the galaxy, you awake decades later than you expected only to find yourself in the midst of a deep conspiracy threatening to destroy the Halcyon colony. As you explore the furthest reaches of space and encounter a host of factions all vying for power, who you decide to become will determine the fate of everyone in Halcyon. In the corporate equation for the colony, you are the unplanned variable.

• "TWELVE MINUTES" (ANNAPURNA INTERACTIVE). A romantic evening takes a wrong turn when a police detective breaks into your home, accuses your wife of murder, and knocks you unconscious. In a heartbeat, you are immediately returned to the start of the evening, before it all happens again and again. A real-time, interactive thriller, where you will need to use the knowledge of what's about to happen, to change the outcome and break the twelve-minutes loop.

• "WASTELAND 3" (DEEP SILVER, XBOX GAME PASS). "Wasteland 3" is a post-apocalyptic RPG from inXile entertainment, set in the perpetual nuclear winter of the Colorado Nation. Players will face challenging tactical combat, explore an interactive world, and engage in a deep story full of brutal ethical decisions. Create and customize a squad in single player or co-op, and whether you go in guns blazing or try to smooth over a situation through peaceful negotiation, your choices will mean life or death for those trying to survive in this harsh and unforgiving world.

• "WAY TO THE WOODS" (ONE PIXEL DOG). A Deer and Fawn must embark on a journey through an abandoned world of the unknown to get home. A third person adventure game solo developed by Anthony Tan, featuring music from Aivi&Surasshu, composers for the show Steven Universe. Unravel the mystery of Cat Town, evade a hounding pack of wolves, and find your light to explore a world filled with the relics of the old gods: humanity.

Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order

SOURCE: Microsoft Corp.

Holy 80th Anniversary, Batman! YuMe to Celebrate the Dark Knight's Birthday with Launch of Exclusive Batman DZNR Series

Batman (DZNR) chibi plush (Image via Batman News)

YuMe Toys is thrilled to announce the launch of their new Batman DZNR Series (pronounced 'Designer'), an exclusive line of specialty Batman chibi plush. 

As the 80th anniversary of the famed Caped Crusader draws near, the new Batman DZNR Series features artwork meant to highlight and celebrate the rich history of this world-renowned hero.

Batman has taken on many variations over time that have kept fans in suspense. YuMe has selected some of Batman's most iconic iterations to design and curate a collection worthy of the hero's devoted fandom. 

• The seven designs that make up the core of the Batman DZNR Series will be released weekly on Walmart.com beginning July 1, 2019.

Offering a fresh take on traditional plush, the Batman DZNR Series provides core Batman fans a high-quality, collectible line that pays tribute to the iconic Batman comic legacy, while also showcasing and celebrating more modern Batman designs that both classic and new fans will appreciate. 

• The line also includes a special Walmart.com exclusive inspired by the Batman Golden Age comics.

"Batman is one of the most beloved and recognizable superheroes of all time and we took great care to meticulously design and create the Batman DZNR Series to ensure that the line truly honors Batman's legacy," says Michael Kwan, CEO, Maxx Marketing. "We believe that the unique designs and quality of the chibis capture the essence of Batman and will make excellent additions to any collection. We look forward to launching more high-end, licensed chibi plush lines for fans around the world to enjoy."

• The Batman DZNR Series will be available in 7" chibi plush gift boxes starting at $14.99 at Walmart.com/Batmans80th.

The Wheels of Gotham (Image via Batman News)

About YuMe

YuMe Toys, is an award-winning global toy brand that dreams of bringing people together through imagination, fun, and entertainment. YuMe, inspired by the word meaning "to dream" in Japanese, is recognized for its highly stylized plush and toy lines which have gained strong momentum in North America, Europe and Asia since 2018. 

• The YuMe brand designates the highest quality soft toys featuring Warner Bros. Consumer Products' most popular entertainment brands including JK Rowling's Wizarding World/Harry Potter & Fantastic Beasts franchise, DC Universe, Scooby Doo, Looney Tunes, Tom & Jerry and the studio's most iconic horror movie titles.

SOURCE: YuMe Toys

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Hollywood Icon Val Kilmer Joins BigSpeak's A-List Speakers

Val Kilmer (Image via BigSpeak)

He dazzled you as Iceman, he blew you away as Jim Morrison, and saved the world as Batman, and now Val Kilmer is taking on a new role as an exclusive keynote speaker with BigSpeak Speakers Bureau.

Last year, Kilmer hosted screenings of his one-man-show turned film, Citizen Twain. He will now be taking this performance on tour for the public through BigSpeak. See him in Citizen Twain or learn about his life as a Hollywood insider and his battle with cancer.

Kilmer became an international film star in the 1980s with Top Secret! and Real Genius. He's best known for his blockbuster films Top Gun, Willow, and The Saint. 

He was accepted into Juilliard's drama department at 17, making him the youngest acceptance to date. He appeared on Broadway in "The Slab Boys" with Kevin Bacon and Sean Penn. Subsequently, he joined The Colorado Shakespeare Festival, starring in Hamlet in 1988.

Kilmer's film credits include: 

• Doc Holliday in Tombstone 
• Jim Morrison in Oliver Stone's biopic The Doors  
• the starring role in The Saint 
• Bruce Wayne in Batman Forever; 
• starring opposite Al Pacino and Robert DeNiro in Heat 
• co-starring with Marlon Brando in The Island of Dr. Moreau 
• starring in the thriller The Ghost and the Darkness 

⏩ He also lent his voice to the first Dreamworks animated film The Prince of Egypt.

Val Kilmer in Batman Forever (1995) (Image via IMDB)

Kilmer is currently working on Top Gun's long-awaited sequel, Top Gun: Maverick. The film is in production and set to be released in 2020. 

SOURCE: BigSpeak Speakers Bureau

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Bidders From 26 Countries Chased Superhero Toys, Including Record-Smashing Walking Batman, at Vintage Toy Auction

Rare TN Japan battery-operated Walking Batman, 12 inches, new/old store stock with pristine original Japanese-version box, set a new world auction record at $16,800 (image via Milestone Auctions)

Batman first captured the public's attention in 1939, when he appeared on the cover of Detective Comics #27. Since then, the masked crime-fighter has remained in the forefront of American pop culture, dominating all media and delighting generations of children in the form of toys that reflect Batman's complex world of heroes and villains. 

⏩On October 13, a classic battery-operated Walking Batman coolly strolled across the auction block at Milestone Auctions and in so doing set a new world auction record at $16,800.

Made in the postwar Japan by TN, the 12-inch Walking Batman was new/old store stock and appeared never to have been played with. Its original Japanese-version box was a rare bonus and depicted "Adam West" as Batman with sidekick Robin in the Batmobile. 

"There was a lot of action on that toy from all over the world. It opened on our website with an absentee bid of $2,500 and was already up to $10,000 before the auction even started," said Milestone co-owner Miles King. "From all that we can determine, the $16,800 selling price is a new auction record for the Walking Batman toy."

Buck Rogers U-238 Atomic Pistol Holster Set in rare original box, excellent to near-mint condition. Sold for $4,440 (image via Milestone Auctions)

Space fantasy toys were in great demand. A boxed Buck Rogers U-238 Atomic Pistol Holster Set estimated at $800-$1,200 soared to new heights, landing at $4,440. 

"We couldn't believe what some of the Buck Rogers items went for. There was a very nice selection in our sale, all from one consignor," King said. "Buck Rogers was one of the earliest space-themed characters. It's hard to believe he was introduced some 90 years ago and still has such a huge following with collectors."

A Superman Krypto-Raygun made by Daisy was all original and presented in a colorfully lithographed box complete with all six filmstrips and instruction sheet. An early Superman toy designed to allow the user to point the ray gun at a wall and view "picture stories." 
⏩ It rose to $2,280.

Another crowd-pleaser was Transogram's Elroy Jetson Bobbing Pull Toy Space Car. It was offered in mint condition and sealed on its original display card with images of both Elroy and his dad George and a tagline about the vehicle's "GRR-RR Motor Sound." 
⏩ Estimated at $800-$1,000, it made $1,860.

Also, a 7-inch tin friction Flying Saucer Z-101 in its crisp, colorful original box disintegrated its $400-$600 estimate to settle at $3,480. "It had a crude, early look that space toy collectors love," King noted.

For Disney fans there was an impressive array of 1930s through postwar-era toys. A rare and near-mint Marx boxed set featuring Pinocchio and Figaro the Cat tin windups, both in tip-top condition, was the ultimate two-for-the-price-of-one deal. 
⏩ Estimated at $1,000-$1,500, the set more than doubled expectations, finishing at $3,480.

"We could not have been more pleased with the way this auction went," said King. "It was 100% sold and grossed over $290,000. We saw many new faces at the gallery, and there were online and phone bidders from 26 countries, all pointing to a strong and well-supported toy market."

SOURCE: Milestone Auctions

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Confirmed! Ben Affleck Will Join Star-Studded Lineup at San Antonio's Inaugural Celebrity Fan Fest

Academy Award Winner Ben Affleck Joins Star-Studded Lineup at San Antonio’s Inaugural Celebrity Fan Fest (Photo Credit: William Morris Endeavor (WME)/ DC Entertainment)

San Antonio-based entertainment company, PMX Events, is thrilled to announce that Ben Affleck will officially join their celebrity lineup at the launch of its inaugural Celebrity Fan Fest, a two-day interactive fan festival. 

The event will feature celebrity appearances, photo ops, celebrity panels, special attractions and more on November 10 and 11 at the JW Marriot Hill Country Resort Hotel in San Antonio, Texas.

Ben Affleck will be joining fellow "Justice League" cast members Jason Momoa, who will be starring in the upcoming holiday blockbuster movie, "Aquaman," and Ray Fisher. 

Fisher was most recently seen as Victor Stone (aka Cyborg) in "Justice League and Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice." 

Other notable guest appearances include, "Stargate: Atlantis" stars Joe Flanigan (Major/Lt. Colonel John Sheppard) and Jewel Staite (Dr. Jennifer Keller), CW Network's "iZombie" stars David Anders (Blaine DeBeers) and Aly Michalka (Peyton Charles).

Ben Affleck (Batman/Bruce Wayne)

"Over the span of several decades in the entertainment industry, Director, Actor, Writer, Producer and Philanthropist Ben Affleck has had notable performances, reprising the iconic role of Batman in three feature films and top acting credits in "Pearl Harbor," "Hollywoodland," "The Accountant" and "Armageddon," said PMX Events President Bob Wills. "Affleck is currently working on a new crime-drama film, "Triple Frontier," alongside actors Charlie Hunnam, Oscar Isaac and Garrett Hedlund. We couldn't be more excited to welcome him to Celebrity Fan Fest and offer his many fans the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to meet him in-person on Sunday, November 11."

What is truly unique about Celebrity Fan Fest will be its format. There will be a limited number of available tickets for celebrity photo opportunities and VIP panels so that attending fans can fully enjoy this totally immersive event.

Ray Fisher/Victor Stone/Cyborg (Image via pmxevents.com)

About Celebrity Fan Fest:

Based in San Antonio, Texas, Celebrity Fan Fest is a two-day interactive fan festival featuring special appearances by prominent film and television celebrities. 

The "fan festival experience" offers an elevated immersive form of entertainment including celebrity meet and greet opportunities, "Vendor Village", special performances by the stars, plus much more. 

The event will lead up to the 2019 Celebrity Movie Con also produced by PMX Events.

About PMX Events:

PMX Events specializes in creating one-of-a-kind productions including comic conventions, movie and music festivals, family shows, non-profit fundraising events as well as foodie experiences.  

For more information about PMX events please visit, pmxevents.com.

Jason Momoa/Aquaman (Image via pmxevents.com)

⏩Tickets for Celebrity Fan Fest are available for purchase online only at pmxevents.com. Event doors will open at 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 10 and 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 11.

SOURCE: PMX Events

Bonus Pictures:

Joe Flanigan: Major/Lt. Colonel John Sheppard in "Stargate: Atlantis" (Image via pmxevents.com)

Jewel Staite: Dr. Jennifer Keller in "Stargate: Atlantis" (Image via pmxevents.com)

Madame Tussauds Orlando Announces New Justice League Experience

Madame Tussauds Orlando is issuing a challenge to the bravest of Justice League fans

Justice will be served this summer at Madame Tussauds Orlando. The world-famous attraction revealed plans to unite an all-star cast of DC Super Heroes in an epic new experience. For the first time ever, fans of DC's Justice League will come face-to-face with their favorite heroes in an action-packed adventure unlike any other.

Justice will be served this summer at Madame Tussauds Orlando. The world-famous attraction revealed plans to unite an all-star cast of DC Super Heroes in an epic, new experience.

From fear comes courage! Guests will get a chance to star alongside Justice League's Gal Gadot as Wonder Woman, Henry Cavill as Superman and Ben Affleck as Batman, as they fight to save the world from Lex Luthor's evil corporation, LexCorp.  

Developed in collaboration with Warner Bros. Consumer Products on behalf of DC Entertainment, this first-of-its-kind attraction experience combines an all-star cast with blockbuster thrills, authentic replica props and costumes that bring each character to life like only Madame Tussauds can do.

"Fans have never come this close to the action," said James Paulding, General Manager. "Madame Tussauds Orlando, together with Warner Bros. Consumer Products, have created a Justice League experience you have to see to believe – from the unbeatable roster of DC Super Heroes to the sensational, hi-tech experiences."

Justice League: A Call for Heroes will also debut later this summer at Madame Tussauds Sydney, part of a greater transformation across Madame Tussauds attractions around the globe to deliver live fame experiences that make guests the star of their favorite stories.

Justice League: A Call for Heroes

Justice League: A Call for Heroes

HEROES UNITE! The battle begins when the Justice League lands at Madame Tussauds Orlando on May 25, 2018. Guests who answer the call will be transported to the streets of Gotham City and Metropolis, uniting with the Justice League Super Heroes in a series of thrilling missions to destroy LexCorp's hold on the world.

Wonder Woman guests will help to destroy LexCorp's formidable technology that has disabled the city. By harnessing their inner super power, guests will be able to emit a powerful blast from Wonder Woman's gauntlets to weaken LexCorp's control over the city.

Elsewhere in the city, Lex's experiment wreaks havoc, sending a helicopter and its occupants hurtling toward the ground. Guests will have to summon all their strength and join Superman to help lift a REAL helicopter back into the sky as onlookers cheer from the streets below.   

As the battle continues, one Super Hero will remain elusive. Guests must summon Batman with the Bat-Signal. Billowing smoke and wind reveal Batman as he's called into battle on the rooftop, ready to save the world.  

Justice will be served this summer at Madame Tussauds Orlando. The world-famous attraction revealed plans to unite an all-star cast of DC Super Heroes in an epic, new experience.

The Adventure Starts Now

Madame Tussauds Orlando is issuing a challenge to the bravest of Justice League fans – starting now! Mother Boxes, unique artifacts with immense powers, have surfaced in five cities across the globe. The Mother Boxes must be found and brought to Madame Tussauds Orlando in order to help destroy the energy-extracting forces that threaten Earth.

Brave challengers who find the Mother Boxes will be rewarded with a once-in-a-lifetime VIP experience including a five-day, four-night trip for the winner and one guest to Orlando, plus two tickets to be among the first to help save the planet in Justice League: A Call for Heroes. Winners will also receive two tickets to MegaCon Orlando and SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium. 

To find the Mother Boxes, follow @tussaudsorlando and #FindTheMotherBoxes on Instagram.

Justice will be served this summer at Madame Tussauds Orlando. The world-famous attraction revealed plans to unite an all-star cast of DC Super Heroes in an epic, new experience.

About Justice League

Ben Affleck, Henry Cavill, Gal Gadot, Raymond Fisher, Jason Momoa and Ezra Miller star in the action adventure Justice League.

Fuelled by his restored faith in humanity and inspired by Superman's selfless act, Bruce Wayne enlists the help of his newfound ally, Diana Prince, to face an even greater enemy. Together, Batman and Wonder Woman work quickly to find and recruit a team of metahumans to stand against this newly awakened threat. But despite the formation of this unprecedented league of heroes—Batman, Wonder Woman, Aquaman, Cyborg and The Flash—it may already be too late to save the planet from an assault of catastrophic proportions.

Justice League was directed by Zack Snyder from a screenplay by Chris Terrio and Joss Whedon, story by Terrio & Snyder. Based on characters from DC Entertainment; Superman created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster. Charles Roven, Deborah Snyder, Jon Berg and Geoff Johns produced the film, with Jim Rowe, Wesley Coller, Curtis Kanemoto, Chris Terrio and Ben Affleck serving as executive producers.

SOURCE: Madame Tussauds Orlando