I know we’re a gaming blog, but somethings are just beyond the controller. If you’re watching the news, you may already know that the ‘king of pop’ himself, Michael Jackson has passed away. Mr. Jackson was one of music’s most successful and influential artists.

Jackson was taken to UCLA hospital in Los Angeles after a 911 call at 12.21 p.m. local time. When paramedics arrived at his home in Holmby Hills they performed CPR but were unable to revive him. Streets surrounding the hospital were blockaded by police with yellow tape.

Michael is survived by three children: Michael Joseph Jackson, Jr., Paris Michael Katherine Jackson and Prince “Blanket” Michael Jackson II. However, the cause of death was not immediately known.

Personally, Michael was one of my favorite artist. I believe that Michael will live on in his music. RIP, Michael Jackson.

Yesterday, it was revealed that the sequel to UbiSoft’s gun-slingin’ sword-slashin’ Wii launch title, Red Steel 2 will be releasing this Holiday season. 

In addition, it was revealed by UbiSoft that the title would feature Wii MotionPlus, which adds 1:1 position sensing to the Wiimote.  This will mean that the game can “sense the strength of a swing”, reading the “power and precision” of a player’s sword strikes.

Red Steel 2 is in development at Ubisoft’s Paris studio, and will take place in a “desert-bound, high-tech metropolis.” The next issue of Nintendo Power magazine will feature more information the game – even more images are available on the magazine’s website.

[Red Steel 2 This Year, Built For Wii MotionPlus via Game/Life]