I still have access to this?

I don't even remember what I contributed this blog but I'm sure it wasn't great. I was really cringe.
Does anybody even still check this blog/site/thing?

Marvel Heroes Omega

Cosmic Greetings, all! Your Raccoonatic Commander Leo Wyld here. It's been a while and I know the site isn't doing much these days but I feel I had to spread the word about something flarkin' awesome. Marvel Heroes, a PC game I have long played and both reviewed and covered for this site (and probably the best/most complete/awesome representation of Rocket Raccoon in any game) is now coming to consoles as Marvel Heroes Omega! As of this writing, Closed Beta for the game has begun for PlayStation 4, with an Xbox One Closed Beta expected to begin at a yet undetermined date later this season.

One of the Founders Packs includes Rocket

& Star-Lord and costumes from both GotG

movies for both.

Much like its PC counterpart, Marvel Heroes Omega will be free to play! That said, to get guaranteed Closed Beta access you will have to purchase a Founders Pack. Here are the ones available on PlayStation Store (ignore the G bundles, though, those are currency for in game store, and not related to Beta access). Presumably, Xbox should have the same packs when its Closed Beta begins. After Closed Beta, data will be wiped and Open Beta will begin. This will be, like the later full live version, open for anyone to download and play without any purchase - and Open Beta will not be followed by a data wipe, so it will be essentially a "soft launch". In the meantime, however, if you wish to play Closed Beta on PS4 and do not want to purchase a Founders Pack, there are various Beta access giveaways across the net. Follow Marvel Heroes on Twitter or keep an eye on its official forums to watch for such opportunities.

With the subject of access out of the way, let's talk about the game itself. Marvel Heroes Omega differs from its PC counterpart in a number of ways. Virtually all User Interface is completely different and rebuilt from the ground up for a console experience, as are accompanying systems such as inventory and crafting. Omega will also not be as complete, so to speak, as PC at launch. There will not be team-ups or pets or the newest story Chapter and only 38 of the PC's 62 heroes will be present (these are examples, there are a number of other differences). Naturally, this gap will narrow. More of PC's heroes will make the transfer to console and features such as team-ups will be added, in time.

Rocket's new default on Omega

which recently received a Visual Update

on PC (pictured), including a new Groot

On the subject of Rocket, he plays like his PC self, but there are a couple differences a die-hard Raccoonatic will notice. His default costume, rather than being the DnA era blue & red, will be the Bendis era black and metal costume from Guardians of the Galaxy volume 3. Also, most of his PC costumes, including his aforementioned PC default costume, will not be present on Omega at launch (and this is true of all heroes) but some may make the transfer over after visual improvement and the like. There is also one small detail that was somewhat disappointing to this writer. Rocket's longstanding, since 2013, price point of 400 splinters (the in-game currency you earn for unlocking heroes) has been raised to 600 splinters. New players are only given 400 splinters to uncap their first hero, so, if you want to play Rocket you will have to put down cash or grind 200 extra splinters on him while he is locked at level 10. It's unfortunate but we Raccoonatics are nothing if not resourceful, I do hope no one will allow that change to be a deterrence from playing our favorite space raccoon.

So, if you haven't had the opportunity to play Marvel Heroes because you do not have a good enough PC  - or you just haven't ever tried it - or you just want a fresh new way to play - and you have an PS4 or XB1, consider trying out Marvel Heroes Omega in the near future (and read some of the PC-related articles I've written for this site about it). I'd said before, Marvel Heroes is like Diablo with Marvel characters and it is (having been originally created by Diablo visionary David Brevik), but Marvel Heroes Omega is a bit more like Marvel Ultimate Alliance the MMO (and that, I would say, is not a bad thing at all). And note here, related to the MUA comparison, Omega has local co-op!

To summarize, Marvel Heroes finally comes to console and that is awesome. Visit marvelheroes.com for all kinds of info (and there will be a console-specific forum for Omega coming soon). And, until next time, See Ya 'Round the Raccooniverse!

P.S.: One note, and this will be a point of contention for some, nothing you purchased or have done on PC will transfer to Omega. I am totally ok with the fresh start but I thought it fair to give everyone a heads up about that, just in case.

New Concept Art for GotG Vol 2

Greetings and Salutations, fellow Galaxians! Quick update for you here with a first view of the character new to the movie franchise - Mantis! This was done by the extraordinary Andy Park, who has done the vast majority of  the MCU's concept art. Be sure to check out his Twitter, where he posts often and shares some unseen concept art. Very cool stuff, not only Marvel related. The art was released in an article by EW you can find here. Andy's Twitter account can be found by clicking here - @AndyParkArt. And without further ado...

Notice anything else in the picture? Any character updates or changes you think will make it into the movie? (Hint: Check out Yondu's head.) Leave us a comment below letting us know what you think!

Happy Rocket Raccoon Day 2016! & 40 Years of Awesome Giveaway (Giveaway Closed/Winners Chosen)

Cosmic Greetings, all! This is Rocketite Commander Leo Wyld. It's been a while, hasn't it?

I am posting today for celebration. Marvel Preview, a magazine-like comic publication, introduced several now-important Marvel characters. For instance, Marvel Preview #4 in January 1976 introduced the world to the now well-known (then quite obscure) Peter "Star-Lord" Quill. In that Marvel Preview #4, aside from Quill's story, was also introduced a series, an Odyssey-In-Space feature called Sword in the Stars, written by one Bill Mantlo. Months later, in Marvel Preview #7, released June 1976, in a continuation of that Sword in the Stars we met a new character, a gun-toting talking raccoon, who, as the creature said, his friends called Rocky. Yes, even though his personality was a tad different and the setting does not now fit into 616 canon, this was the debut of Rocket Raccoon (and pretty cool him and his second-best-friend Quill kinda had a connection even back in 1976). If you do the math (or read all of the title), yes, that means this June is Rocket Raccoon's 40th Anniversary. Today, June 15th is the first observance of Rocket Raccoon Day.

MINOR SPOILERS: Nathan Fillion's Character Possibly Revealed For GOTG VOL. 2

Believe it or not, it seems that Firefly star Nathan Fillion star may appear in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2. Fillion appeared in the first film, but played a very small role and was next to unrecognizable. But while there's no confirmation as of yet, it seems that the film has been shooting a scene... On Earth?! It may be just be a flashback, but there are some very interesting images as well which feature Fillion as a possible character in the film.

I'll only share the video here, but click the "Read More" link below to check out the pictures, and learn the identity of his character!

Again, SPOILERS after the jump... You have been warned...

Set Photos From GOTG VOL. 2 Feature Yondu; Reveal New Characters

Hey guys! Though I think the original posts have been removed, Atlanta Filming over at twitter released some set pictures for James Gunn's "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2" (which is an awesome name, by the way). The images feature Michael Rooker's 'Yondu' and his band of Ravagers, as well as a few new aliens and characters that will be introduced to the film. Many of them are unrecognizable, but actor Chris Sullivan was spotted in the pictures as comic villain 'Taserface'. So while the images are low quality, they're definitely worth checking out!

Chris Pratt Shows Off The Set Of GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY VOL. 2 (Video)

Marvel has teamed up with Omaze to give fans a chance to visit the set of 'Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2'! In the funny video below, Star-Lord himself, Chris Pratt, lets you know what's in store if you win. He also takes viewers around the set of Guardians Vol. 2, giving us a look at the Milano set, as well as some wardrobe and props. Once again, Chris Pratt proves himself to be the coolest, most down-to-earth movie star in existence. The movie is being filmed right now in Atlanta, GA at Pinewood Studios. What we would give to be a fly on the wall at that set!

Here We Go Again! First Official Pic From GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY VOL 2

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 2 began it's first official day of filming today, marking it with it's first official photo release and confirmation of some casting. Somebody cue 'The Boys Are Back In Town"!

Director James Gunn and Marvel have finally announced the commencement of filming on "Guardians of The Galaxy Vol.2", and revealed the cast including the new additions that confirms the rumors of Pom Klementieff and Kurt Russell joining the film.

____________________________________________

“Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2” is written and directed by James Gunn (“Guardians of the Galaxy,” “Slither”). The film marks the return of the original Guardians, including Chris Pratt (“Jurassic World,” “Guardians of the Galaxy”) as Peter Quill/Star-Lord; Zoe Saldana (“Guardians of the Galaxy,” “Star Trek Into Darkness”) as Gamora; Dave Bautista (“Spectre,” “Guardians of the Galaxy”) as Drax; Vin Diesel (“Guardians of the Galaxy,” “Furious 7”) as the voice of Groot; Bradley Cooper (“Joy,” “American Sniper”) as the voice of Rocket; Michael Rooker (“Guardians of the Galaxy,” “Jumper”) as Yondu; Karen Gillan (“Guardians of the Galaxy,” “The Big Short”) as Nebula; and Sean Gunn (“Guardians of the Galaxy,” “Gilmore Girls”) as Kraglin. New cast members include Pom Klementieff (“Oldboy”), Elizabeth Debicki (“The Great Gatsby,” “Everest”), Chris Sullivan (“The Knick,” “The Drop”) and Kurt Russell (“The Hateful Eight,” “Furious 7”). Note: In addition to this Director James Gunn confirmed the return of Glenn Close and that the character Pom Klementieff is playing will be indeed Mantis.

GotG Vol 2 Casting News! 10.28.15

 According to Hollywood Reporter, we've got our first bit of casting news. Marvel conducted a broad search for this alleged mystery part, which called for an Asian actress, and did several rounds of chemistry reads. Hit the break to see who was cast!

Cosmo Tuesday Poll Results: 8/18/15

THIS WEEK'S POLL:

"How many Guardians of the Galaxy sequels will there be?"

JAMES GUNN SAYS: Groot Vs. Hulk, Guardians in Civil War, Sean Gunn, Seth Green,

As many of you may already know, Guardians of the Galaxy director, James Gunn, is extremely active on social media. He takes the time out of his undoubtedly busy day to answer fan questions, often with an unmatchable wit. He is truly a fanboy's dream director, giving small tidbits (nothing too spoiler-y though) about the upcoming sequel Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2. Since many people aren't on Facebook, or don't follow Mr. Gunn, we decided to start a new series, called James Gunn Says. Make sure to follow Mr. Gunn on Facebook, if you aren't already. Read the rest after the jump!

WATCH - Guardians of the Galaxy Animated - Groot's Origin

Marvel has released the second of five Guardians of the Galaxy Animated Shorts; this one featuring the lovable Groot's origin. The animated series keeps with the comics by having Planet X as Groot's home planet. It also features Ronan the Accuser attacking Groot's family, which is original to the animated series. Check out the videos below, and let us know what you think in the comment section below!

Every Saturday night in August, there will be a new short featuring a different Guardian's origin, leading up to the first full episode on Saturday, September 5th at 9:00 pm ET. Whut-whut!

WATCH: Guardians of the Galaxy Animated - Star-Lord Origins

Marvel has released the first of five Guardians of the Galaxy Animated Shorts; this one featuring Star-Lord's origin. Although not part of the Marvel Cinematic Unvierse's continuity, the short film begins as kid Peter Quill is abducted by Yondu. The animation is so much better than what we've come to expect from Disney's other Marvel shows. The voice talent is great as well, including Boy Meets World's Will Friedle as Peter Quill (Star-Lord). Check out the videos below, and let us know what you think in the comment section below!

Every Saturday night in August, there will be a new short featuring a different Guardian's origin, leading up to the first full episode on Saturday, September 5th at 9:00 pm ET. So exciting!

GotG Cartoon Update!

 

Hello, fellow Galaxians! It's been a quiet past few months with little to no Guardians news. I have a feeling that's all about to change very soon with Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 2 beginning to take off! But for now, just to keep your whistle wet, we have a little bit of news about the much anticipated GotG cartoon! Hit the break for all glorious galactic info!

'Living Dead Clothing' Releases GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY Clothing Line For Women

Hey Galaxians! Cameron, here. Hope everyone had a great Christmas and New Years! Sorry the site has been so slow lately. One of my New Years resolutions for 2015 is to post more often. I am very thankful for the following that this site has, and I miss chatting with my Guard The Galaxy family.

Anyway, I was recently contacted by Taryn Watt (PR Manager for 'Living Dead Clothing') about their new line of Guardians of the Galaxy clothing for women. They seem really excited about their collection, so I figured I'd post their press release on here:

"Living Dead Clothing has secured a world exclusive licensing deal with Marvel and have brought Guardians of the Galaxy to life on nylon. 

Available now, the collection features all your favorite Guardians characters and is made from the highest quality materials. 

All Living Dead Clothing is made in ethical, sustainable and eco-friendly conditions from the best Italian nylon. 

The collection includes leggings, skater dresses and skirts, bodycons and bodysuits and since its release there has been an absolutely incredible reaction around the world. 

Guardians of the Galaxy fans have fallen in love with the collection, as Living Dead Clothing is the only stretch-wear company in the world licensed by Marvel to produce Guardians of the Galaxy clothing."

To check out their Guardians clothing, click here. Stay tuned for more Guardians news in this new year.