Yearly Archives: 2024

Games, Gaming, News

Patch 3 give Dragon Age: The Veilguard a proper state of “new released” game

BioWare has recently released Patch 3 for Dragon Age: The Veilguard, introducing a host of new features and fixes to enhance the gaming experience. This update includes 57 improvements and bug fixes, making it a substantial update for fans of the game.

Among the notable changes, players can now enjoy new filters in Photo Mode, making it easier to capture stunning in-game moments. Additionally, the file naming system for Photo Mode screenshots has been simplified, now including the date the photo was taken. This should help players keep their screenshots organized and easily accessible.

The patch also includes several quality-of-life updates, such as the ability to bind arrow keys to input mappings and new icons for some weapons. Players can now more easily identify where enchantments have been applied to their companions’ equipment. Another handy feature is the notification that appears when the Crossroads’ Spirit Merchant is available.

On the bug-fixing front, BioWare has addressed various issues, including game crashes, unexpected character behavior during cutscenes, and instances where companions would get stuck on balance beams. These fixes aim to provide a smoother and more enjoyable gaming experience for all players.

BioWare has also mentioned that there will be another patch coming soon, indicating their commitment to continually improving Dragon Age: The Veilguard. Fans can look forward to more updates and enhancements in the future.

For a detailed list of all the changes, players can check out the full patch notes on the official Dragon Age: includes:

Quality of Life Changes: 

  • Arrow keys can now be bound to input mappings.
  • Filters added to Photo Mode.
  • Screenshot file names from Photo Mode have been simplified, showing the date the photo was taken.
  • The File Path where screenshots are saved is now shown in game when a screenshot is taken through Photo Mode.
  • It is now easier to identify where an Enchantment has been applied to a companion’s equipment.
  • Adjusted the Glint option description in Settings. 
  • New rings can now be compared against both equipped ring slots.
  • A notification now appears when the Crossroads’ Spirit Merchant is available.
  • Added new icons for some weapons.

Bug Fixes: 

  • Eliminated the causes of a small number of crashes.
  • Rook’s body shape no longer changes unexpectedly after a cutscene with Emmrich.
  • Adjusted an odd facial expression when Rook first meets Emmrich. 
  • Fixed a rare issue where some of an existing Rook’s settings got unintentionally reset after making and saving a new Rook. This fix is now also on consoles and retroactively affects saves on all platforms.
  • Adjusted the volume level of Spite’s voice in some scenes.
  • Fixed some instances where music would incorrectly stop playing.
  • Fixed some instances where unintended music or sound effects would play.
  • Antaam Champions now correctly do slightly more damage.
  • Mage Rooks no longer shift to the right awkwardly after performing an extended dodge.
  • The Rogue Skill “Underdog’s Bite” now correctly lists “Enhanced Damage” instead of “Empowered Damage.”
  • Fixed some instances where enemies could get stuck or were unreachable in some areas.
  • Fixed some instances where companions could get stuck on balance beams.
  • Bellara can no longer endlessly charge Rook’s Ultimate outside of combat.
  • Emmrich’s attack stat is now displayed correctly at the start of the Where the Dead Must Go quest.
  • Fixed a bug where Emmrich was sometimes not available on the ability wheel during the Where the Dead Must Go quest.
  • Companions’ revives are now correctly refilled at the start of The Last Gambit quest.
  • The Kataranda now has its correct unique coloring.
  • Fixed an issue with the critical hit and penetration modifiers on the “Twin Edged Pick” Warrior weapon. 
  • Taash’s cape on the “Rivain’s Legacy” armor no longer stretches in cutscenes. 
  • The Grey Warden “Recruit’s Simple Tunic” appearance no longer clips uncomfortably through Rook’s neck. 
  • The “Mythals’ Light” Mage weapon now does the intended amount of physical base damage (0).
  • The “Mythal’s Light” Mage weapon now does physical damage to enemy health if a physical damage enchantment is applied.
  • Fixed instances where stat bonuses from some Treviso valuables were applied incorrectly.
  • Fixed instances where valuables with stat increases were not all visible in merchant stores.
  • Improved textures on various characters and environment objects.
  • Fixed an issue where VFX could become extremely bright.
  • Fixed several distance “pop-in” issues.
  • Fixed an issue that caused the camera to stutter when closing the eluvian interface. 
  • Fixes several instances where quest objectives would not update correctly during some quests.
  • The On Deadly Wings quest can now be completed even if the A Slow Poison quest has not been fully completed.
  • The Mayor of D’Meta’s Crossing no longer appears in two places at once during the Lives Spared quest.
  • One of the Revenants will no longer fail to appear in the Crossroads. 
  • Fixed an issue where a door would not open during the Heights of Athim memory in the Regrets of the Dreadwolf quest. 
  • The intended 2D cinematic scene now plays after the Shadows Crossing quest.
  • Fixed an issue where the path forward could become blocked in the A Murder of Crows quest.
  • Fixed a blocking issue during the In Entropy’s Grasp quest. 
  • Companions are now present when loading the first autosave made in the Isle of the Gods quest.
  • The HDR Calibration setting is now saved correctly between game sessions.
  • Prevented multiple instances where Rook could get stuck while exploring Thedas.
  • One of the “Watcher’s Robe” appearance variations is now correctly granted after completing the Disrupt and Conquer memory. 
  • Fixed a place in Arlathan Forest where Rook could get stuck in a drowning loop. 
  • Fixed instances where Rook forgot they already had the lyrium dagger and could not interact with treasure chests and altars.
  • Codex entries that were already read will no longer be re-marked as unread.
  • Fixed an issue where the scrollbar could get stuck in the Codex screen.
  • Enchantments on abilities are now reset correctly when Skill Tree nodes are reset.
  • The Crossroads’ Spirit Merchant now shows the intended faction reputation gained for whichever city was blighted when selling valuables.
  • Fixed a rare issue where some Skill Tree nodes were sometimes unable to be unlocked.
  • Some adjustments to the game credits.

Business, Featured, Games, Gaming, News

A surprising update on the future of Shenmue III

In a significant development for fans of the legendary Shenmue series, YsNet has officially transferred the publishing rights of Shenmue III to ININ Games. This move comes as part of a deepening collaboration between the two companies, following their previous partnership on Air Twister.

ININ Games, known for its commitment to celebrating beloved titles and bringing them to new platforms, is excited to shepherd Shenmue III into its next phase. This transfer coincides with two momentous milestones: the 25th anniversary of the Shenmue series and the 5th anniversary of Shenmue III. Since its debut, Shenmue has captivated fans worldwide with its groundbreaking storytelling, immersive open-world gameplay, and its legacy as a pioneer in video game history.

We at ININ Games are honored to carry the Shenmue torch forward during such a significant moment in the series’ history,” said an ININ Games representative. “As we reflect on two decades of innovation and passion, we remain dedicated to preserving and sharing the journey of Ryo Hazuki with both long-time fans and newcomers1. With this transfer, the story of Shenmue is far from over. We have exciting plans to celebrate these anniversaries, ensuring that this beloved series continues to thrive and inspire.

YsNet, founded by innovative game creator Yu Suzuki in 2008 after his career at SEGA, announced the Shenmue III project on Kickstarter in 2015, which led to two Guinness World Records, including the fastest $1 million pledged for a crowdfunded game. Shenmue III was released in 2019 for fans all over the world.

With this new partnership, fans can look forward to more exciting announcements and updates as ININ Games and YsNet work together to honor the legacy of Shenmue and bring it to even more players around the world.

Games, Gaming, News, Nintendo

Pokémon TCG Pocket fires up their Fire Pokémon Mass Outbreak Event

Pokémon TCG Pocket has launched its first-ever Mass Outbreak Event, and it’s all about Fire-type Pokémon! Running from November 22 to November 28, 2024, this event offers players a chance to collect rare Fire-type cards through Wonder Picks.

During the event, Fire-type Pokémon cards will appear in both Rare and Bonus Wonder Picks. Some of the cards you might find include Arcanine EX, Charizard, and Moltres. To participate, players will need to use Wonder Stamina for Rare Picks, while Bonus Picks are free and offer a chance to snag some valuable cards without spending stamina.

In addition to the card collection, there are special missions to complete, which reward players with Wonder Hourglasses and other items. Completing these missions can help you gather more cards and enhance your collection.

Don’t miss out on the limited-time Arcanine EX Circles Flair (Battle: Yellow), which can be obtained by exchanging three Arcanine EX cards and 720 Shinedust. This flair is a great way to show off your collection in battles!

Games, Gaming, News, PC

Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O.: The Ultimate Remaster Hits Steam This Winter

Sega has announced an exciting remaster of the classic fighting game, Virtua Fighter 5, now titled Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O.! This remaster is set to launch on Steam this winter, bringing the legendary fighting series to PC for the first time.

Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O. is based on the PlayStation 4 version, Virtua Fighter 5: Ultimate Showdown, and includes several enhancements. Players can expect rollback netcode support, gorgeous 4K visuals, and updated character models, stages, and cinematics. The game will support up to 60 frames per second, providing a smooth and visually stunning experience.

The remaster will feature all the beloved game modes, including Arcade, Rank Match, Training, and Versus. Additionally, players can create custom online tournaments and leagues with up to 16 players, making it perfect for competitive play. With 19 playable characters, each with unique fighting styles, there’s plenty of variety and customization options to keep the battles fresh and exciting.

Games, Gaming, News, Nintendo

Donkey Kong Land Now Available on Nintendo Switch Online!

Nintendo Switch Online subscribers have a new treat to enjoy as Donkey Kong Land is now available on the subscription service! This classic Game Boy title, originally released in 1995, brings the beloved side-scrolling adventure of Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong to the Nintendo Switch.

Donkey Kong Land offers a condensed version of the gameplay found in the SNES classic Donkey Kong Country, with unique level designs and boss fights. Players will team up with Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong to defeat King K. Rool and collect bananas scattered across Donkey Kong Island.

This addition to the Nintendo Switch Online library is part of Nintendo’s ongoing effort to bring nostalgic titles to modern platforms. Fans of the Donkey Kong series can look forward to even more content, as Donkey Kong Country Returns HD is set to launch on the Switch in January 2025.

Featured, Games, Gaming, News

Don’t expect a PS5 Pro patch for Cyberpunk 2077 at least soon

Apparently, neither V and Johnny Silverhand got the memo that Sony was going to launch a mid-gen upgrade for Playstation now known as PS5 Pro, and with the technical appealing that Sony wants to sell to developers, many believes that Cyberpunk 2077 could be a good example on the new graphical peaks consol speaking.

But it will not be the case at least in the short term.

In a recent announcement, CD Projekt Red has confirmed that there are no plans to release a PS5 Pro patch for Cyberpunk 2077. This news comes as a disappointment to many fans who were hoping for enhanced performance and visuals on Sony’s latest console.

The studio shared the update via a tweet, stating simply, “We currently have no plans for PS5 Pro patch.” While the game runs well on the PS5, many fans were optimistic about the potential improvements a PS5 Pro patch could bring.

CD Projekt Red is currently focusing on other projects, including the highly anticipated Cyberpunk 2077 sequel and The Witcher 4. These projects are likely taking precedence over further updates to the original game.

Despite the lack of a PS5 Pro patch, Cyberpunk 2077 remains a visually stunning and engaging experience on the PS5, and it’s also available on PC and Xbox Series S/X. The game’s Phantom Liberty expansion continues to offer new content and adventures across all platforms.

While it’s a letdown for PS5 Pro owners, the future looks bright for fans of CD Projekt Red’s games with exciting new titles on the horizon.

Featured, Games, Gaming, News

The Game Awards 2024 Nominees announced

It is once again that year were gamers unite to see the equivalent of the Grammy and Oscar for the gaming industry and recognizing the best from December 2023 through November 2024, and yes, I am talking about The Game Awards.

The Game Awards 2024 is just around the corner, and the nominations are in! This year’s show promises to be a thrilling celebration of the best games released in 2024. With a diverse range of titles vying for top honors, it’s shaping up to be one of the most competitive years yet.

Here’s a breakdown of some of the most hotly contested categories and their nominees:

Game of the Year

  • Astro Bot
  • Balatro
  • Black Myth: Wukong
  • Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree
  • Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
  • Metaphor: ReFantazio  

Best Narrative

  • Astro Bot
  • Balatro
  • Black Myth: Wukong
  • Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
  • Metaphor: ReFantazio
  • Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II

Best Performance

  • Ashley Johnson (Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree)
  • Ayaka Asai (Final Fantasy VII Rebirth)
  • Callum Keith Rennie (Metaphor: ReFantazio)
  • Ella Freya (Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II)
  • Jason Isaacs (Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree)
  • Yuri Lowenthal (Metaphor: ReFantazio)

Best Music/Sound Design

  • Astro Bot
  • Call of Duty: Black Ops 6
  • Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
  • Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II
  • Silent Hill 2

Best Art Direction

  • Astro Bot
  • Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
  • Metaphor: ReFantazio
  • Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II
  • Silent Hill 2

Innovation in Accessibility

  • Call of Duty: Black Ops 6
  • Diablo IV: Vessel of Hatred
  • The Last of Us Part I
  • Dragon Age: Veilguard

These are just a few of the many exciting categories and nominees for The Game Awards 2024. Be sure to check out the full list of nominees on the official website and cast your vote for your favorites.

The Game Awards 2024 will be broadcast live on December 12th, 2024. Stay tuned for more updates on this year’s show and get ready for a night of epic gaming celebrations!

By the way, I made my voting as part of this week’ s YouTube Gaming Channel content and let me know in the comments if you agree, disagree or your thoughts.

News, Technology

Microsoft Ignite Day 1 Keynote: Here comes the new trends for IT world per Microsoft

While Microsoft Ignite is not necessarily a consumer-focused events, most of the thing presented on this event are going to be indirectly or directly attached on how people in general uses Windows for productivity and mixing with personal and professional work.

Ys, it is an unavoidable thing to do if your work closely with IT or have the privileged to working on a remote friendly environment.

Let’s cut to the chase, shall we?

Teams will translate for you in other languages

Microsoft Teams meetings are getting a new interpreter feature that lets each participant speak or listen in the language of their choosing. Interpreter in Teams uses real-time AI-powered speech-to-speech translation to simulate your speaking voice during meetings.

The new feature will be offered as a preview (be aware on not relying 100% on the feature) by early 2025.

More automation with Copilot for Microsoft 365

Microsoft announced Copilot Actions, designed to help you with repetitive task within your Microsoft 365 environment with things like automating a summary of meeting actions from Teams meetings, generating weekly reports, or even automating meeting prep.

Copilot Actions is designed to be something you set and forget, much like an AI-powered macro that goes off and does its thing based on some fill-in-the-blank prompts.

Hotpatch should reach consumer users of Windows 11

Microsoft announced Windows Hotpatch, which basically is the ability for Windows Update dealing with updates WITHOUT making your system requiring a reboot.

Unfortunately, there is no news if this will be given outside commercial customers, aka us peasants.

Because Microsoft knows that companies are limiting Remote workplace environment

Unfortunately, my workplaces are avoiding as possible remote work opportunity, while understandable, theses past few years proven that remote work shouldn’t be a privileged, but an incentive to do work if of course, your tasks are justified so.

With that in mine, enters Microsoft Places, which uses AI to coordinate in-office days with colleagues, dedicated location plan section where you can set and share the days, you’ll use the office and view which days your co-workers are heading in.

The feature is available now and, in the meantime, Microsoft is working o incorporate as part of Microsoft Copilot.

A Windows 11 Copilot+ PC response to Apple’s Mac Mini

Surprisingly, Microsoft announced a new original hardware and enters the Windows 365 Link PC, which an undisclosed Intel processor, 8GB of RAM, 64GB of storage, USB-A 3.2 port, Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 wireless connectivity.

With an introductory MSRP of $349, Microsoft believes that having a Windows-as-a-Services environment, where Windows 11 Weill be served via Cloud computing instead of a locally installed OS, will “makes sense for commercial customers, who have a set of scenarios and workloads that they’re using today [where Microsoft thinks] this is a more compelling alternative”.

Windows 365 Link combined with these AI experiences could be another unique selling point for Windows 365 over similar cloud PC solutions from Citrix and others. Windows 365 Link is now in preview and will become available in select markets for $349 in April 2025.

Copilot+ PC will increment Universal Search power

A new “improved” Windows search will allow you to search for documents, photos, and other files by just describing them — even when you’re not connected to the internet, coming in next year. 

The takeaways from the notorious CrowdStrike incident continues

We already know that Microsoft has just enough of developers and companies using indiscreetly software and services that requires access at the kernel level and this year ‘s CrowdStrike incident served as a BIG & GOOD EXMAPLE that this behavior needs to stop or at least or at least heavily check in/

With that, the Windows Resiliency Initiative…

The Windows Resiliency Initiative includes core changes to Windows that will make it easier for Microsoft’s customers to recover Windows-based machines if there’s ever another CrowdStrike-like incident. There are also some new Windows platform improvements to provide stronger controls over what apps and drivers are allowed to run and to help allow antivirus processing outside of kernel mode.

Also, related to security, Microsoft is creating an in-person hacking event, Zero Day Quest, which it says will be the largest of its kind. The event will build upon Microsoft’s existing bug bounty program and incentivize research into high-impact security flaws that can affect the software powering cloud and AI workloads.

Microsoft HoloLens is out, enters more support for Meta Quest 3

Meta and Microsoft announced that the full capabilities of Windows 11 mixed reality for Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality are coming to the Meta Quest 3 and Quest 3S in December. You’ll be able to have a large multiple-monitor workstation through Quest 3 headsets in public preview next month.

Windows 11 will have more “companions”

Microsoft is creating a new companions experience for the Windows 11 taskbar that will surface important data with just a click. Microsoft 365 Companions will include contacts and people, files, or calendar appointments integrated into the taskbar of Windows 11.

Games, Gaming, News

Think you know everything about the not-so-public details of Half-Life 2?

Another legendary frasnchi9se that celebrates their rounds to the sun is Half-Life 2, which has already reached 20 years since it was originally launched and Valve decided to give us some never seen before perspectives and details.

Above, you can see the Half-Life 2: 20th Anniversary documentary which of course, follows the development of the 2004 PC game and features interviews with the majority of the game’s development team.

One important (and sad for many) aspect of the documentary is, that shown off development footage of the cancelled Half-Life 2: Episode 3.

Half-Life 2 is a 2004 first-person shooter game developed and published by Valve Corporation. It was published for Windows on Valve’s digital distribution service, Steam.

Editorial, Featured, GeeZus, News

I guess that this gamer and blogger needed to get back to its roots

It’s, short, but the first of many editorials to come and how about breaking the ice on actually talking about what I mentioned on 11/19/24’s stream?

I’m excited to share some big news and if you couldn’t tell already: I’m returning to blogging!

For those of you who’ve been following my gaming content, you know how passionate I am about sharing my experiences and insights with the community. Blogging has always been a special place for me, I am a blogger since I discovered the Internet, but it was after 2010 that I made it in a pro, freelancing way.

From there, it was Black Berry Puerto Rico, Esmandau, Qiibo, GGs and a first attempt on my own blog 100% mine, I guess that it would not hurt try it one more time, this time as a second stint 100% my own again.

I’m committed to maintaining my gaming content creation, but I believe that blogging offers a unique opportunity to expand my creative horizons. I’m looking forward to sharing a mix of gaming-related posts, personal essays, and other topics that I’m passionate about.

I’m still figuring out the exact format and frequency of my blog posts, but I promise to keep you updated as I develop my plans. In the meantime, I’m eager to hear your thoughts and suggestions.

Thank you for your continued support. I can’t wait to embark on this new chapter with you!

About GeeZus

Gamer since I could hold a controller, never looking back.

ENG/SPA | Gamer | Variety Streamer | Tech Critic | Human | Tekken 7 #FA2022 13th Place

@GeeZusGG (Facebook, X, YouTube), @geezus.xyz (Bluesky) & thegeezus@mastododon.social.