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Games, Gaming, News

Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound Marks A Legendary Franchise Return

Fans of the iconic Ninja Gaiden series have reason to celebrate! During The Game Awards 2024, Koei Tecmo and The Game Kitchen officially announced the latest installment in the franchise: Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound.

This new game promises to bring back the intense action and challenging gameplay that the series is known for, with a fresh twist.

The announcement of Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound came as a thrilling surprise during The Game Awards 2024. The teaser trailer showcased a new protagonist, Kenji Mozu, who takes on the duties of the legendary Ryu Hayabusa while he is away attending to family matters.

The trailer featured stunning pixel art and fast-paced action, reminiscent of the classic Ninja Gaiden games.

Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound is being developed by The Game Kitchen, the talented team behind the critically acclaimed Blasphemous series. This collaboration with Koei Tecmo and DotEmu promises to deliver a game that honors the legacy of the original Ninja Gaiden games while introducing new elements to captivate both old and new players.

A Return to 2D Action

Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound marks a return to the series’ roots as a 2D side-scrolling action platformer. The game will feature brutal combat, intricate level design, and a high level of difficulty that fans have come to expect from the series.

The pixel art style, combined with modern animations and effects, creates a visually stunning experience that pays homage to the original games.

While specific details about Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound are still under wraps, fans can look forward to more information being revealed in the coming months. T

he game is set to be released in the summer of 2025 on multiple platforms, including Steam, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and PlayStation.

The announcement of Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound has reignited excitement among fans of the series. With The Game Kitchen at the helm and a new protagonist taking center stage, the future of Ninja Gaiden looks brighter than ever.

Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the series, this upcoming game promises to deliver an unforgettable action-packed experience.

Featured, Games, Gaming, News, Playstation

Naughty Dog What’s next – Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet

Naughty Dog, the acclaimed studio behind The Last of Us and Uncharted series, has officially announced their latest project: Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet. This new sci-fi adventure game was revealed during The Game Awards 2024, and it promises to be Naughty Dog’s most ambitious and creative story yet.

During The Game Awards 2024, Naughty Dog unveiled a captivating teaser trailer for Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet. The trailer introduced the game’s protagonist, Jordan A. Mun, a dangerous bounty hunter stranded on the enigmatic planet of Sempiria.

The planet, which has been cut off from the outside universe for hundreds of years, presents a host of challenges and mysteries for players to unravel.

Jordan A. Mun, portrayed by actress Tati Gabrielle, is a skilled bounty hunter on a mission that seems deeply personal. Stranded on Sempiria, she must use all her skills and wits to survive and become the first person in over 600 years to leave the planet’s orbit. The character-driven narrative promises to deliver an emotional and epic journey, staying true to Naughty Dog’s storytelling prowess.

Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet is being developed exclusively for the PlayStation 5. The game has been in development since 2020, following the release of The Last of Us Part II.

Naughty Dog has assembled a stellar cast and crew for this project, including the talented Tati Gabrielle and renowned composers Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, who are scoring the game’s soundtrack.

A Legacy of Innovation

Naughty Dog has a rich history of creating groundbreaking games that push the boundaries of storytelling and gameplay. With Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, the studio aims to blend its signature narrative depth with innovative gameplay mechanics.

The game draws inspiration from seminal sci-fi works such as Akira and Cowboy Bebop, promising a unique and immersive experience for players.

While specific details about Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet are still under wraps, fans can look forward to more information being revealed in the coming months.

The development team is committed to delivering a game that captures the magic of Naughty Dog’s previous titles while offering new experiences and challenges for players to enjoy.

The announcement of Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet has reignited excitement among Naughty Dog fans.

With a talented team of developers and a captivating new storyline, the future of Naughty Dog looks brighter than ever. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the studio’s games, this upcoming sci-fi adventure promises to deliver an unforgettable experience.

Games, Gaming, News

Okami Sequel Announced

Fans of the beloved action-adventure game Okami have reason to celebrate! During The Game Awards 2024, Capcom officially announced that a sequel to Okami is in development. This news has thrilled gamers worldwide, especially with the return of the original game’s director, Hideki Kamiya.

The announcement came as a delightful surprise during The Game Awards 2024. Capcom unveiled a teaser trailer that featured the iconic wolf protagonist, Amaterasu, hinting at a new adventure filled with the same beautiful watercolor art style and unique gameplay mechanics that made the original game a classic.

The trailer didn’t reveal much, but it was enough to ignite excitement among fans.

The Return of Hideki Kamiya

One of the most exciting aspects of this announcement is the return of Hideki Kamiya as the director. Kamiya, who directed the original Okami, is known for his work on other critically acclaimed games such as Resident Evil 2, Devil May Cry, and Bayonetta.

His involvement in the sequel has raised expectations for a game that will stay true to the spirit of the original while introducing new elements to captivate both old and new players.

The new Okami sequel is being co-developed by multiple studios, including M-Two Inc., Machine Head Works, and Clovers Inc., where Kamiya is currently working. This collaboration brings together a talented team of developers who are passionate about creating a game that honors the legacy of Okami while pushing the boundaries of what the series can achieve.

Originally released in 2006 for the PlayStation 2, Okami is celebrated for its unique art style, inspired by traditional Japanese watercolor and woodcut techniques, and its innovative gameplay mechanics involving the Celestial Brush.

Players take on the role of Amaterasu, the Japanese sun goddess in the form of a white wolf, as she embarks on a quest to restore life and color to the world. The game’s artistic design and heartwarming story have earned it a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim over the years.

What’s Next?

While specific details about the Okami sequel are still under wraps, fans can look forward to more information being revealed in the coming months. The development team is committed to delivering a game that captures the magic of the original while offering new experiences and challenges for players to enjoy.

The announcement of an Okami sequel has reignited excitement among fans of the original game. With Hideki Kamiya back at the helm and a talented team of developers working on the project, the future of Okami looks brighter than ever.

Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the series, this upcoming game promises to deliver an unforgettable adventure filled with art, magic, and heart.

Games, Gaming, News

Sega Confirms New Virtua Fighter Game in Development

Fighting game enthusiasts, rejoice! Sega has officially announced that a new Virtua Fighter game is in development. This exciting news was revealed during The Game Awards 2024, sending waves of excitement through the gaming community.

During The Game Awards 2024, Sega unveiled a teaser trailer for the new Virtua Fighter game. The trailer showcased a thrilling street fight between two iconic characters, Jacky and Sarah Bryant.

While the teaser was brief, it provided a tantalizing glimpse of what’s to come. Sega also announced that more details would be revealed during a special VF Direct showcase.

The new Virtua Fighter game is being developed by Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio, the talented team behind the Yakuza and Like a Dragon series. This collaboration promises to bring a fresh perspective and innovative gameplay mechanics to the beloved franchise. Fans can expect a blend of classic Virtua Fighter elements with new features that will elevate the series to new heights.

Virtua Fighter has a storied history as one of the pioneers of 3D fighting games. Since its debut in 1993, the series has been known for its realistic fighting mechanics, diverse roster of characters, and vibrant backdrops. Over the years, Virtua Fighter has remained a core franchise for Sega, with numerous updates and iterations keeping the series alive.

While specific details about the new Virtua Fighter game are still under wraps, fans can look forward to more information being revealed during the VF Direct showcase. This event will provide a deeper dive into the game’s features, characters, and gameplay mechanics. Stay tuned for more updates as Sega continues to revive this legendary franchise.

The announcement of a new Virtua Fighter game has reignited excitement among fighting game fans. With Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio at the helm, the future of Virtua Fighter looks brighter than ever. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the series, this upcoming game promises to deliver an unforgettable fighting experience.

Games, Gaming, News

Turok is back with a prequel – Here comes Turok: Origins

The iconic dinosaur-hunting franchise, Turok, is making a grand return with its latest installment, Turok: Origins. Developed by Saber Interactive, this new game promises to bring a fresh take on the classic series while staying true to its roots.

Unlike its predecessors, Turok: Origins will be a third-person shooter, allowing players to experience the action from a new perspective. The game will feature both single-player and online co-op modes, enabling players to team up with friends and take on the prehistoric threats together.

In Turok: Origins, players will step into the shoes of three native huntsfolk, each with their unique abilities and weapons. The story will take players on an epic journey through various locations, from ancient temples and wasteland canyons to dense jungles. Along the way, players will uncover ancient mysteries and face off against an aggressive alien species threatening humanity.

Turok: Origins will offer a wide array of weapons, including plasma rifles, ray guns, bows, snipers, and shotguns. Players will also have access to DNA powers, which can be used to enhance their characters’ abilities and gain an edge in combat. These powers can be upgraded by collecting samples from defeated creatures, adding a layer of strategy to the gameplay.

The game will also feature biomorphic suits that change in real-time to reflect the different DNA abilities equipped by the players. This visual effect adds an extra layer of immersion and excitement to the game.

A Tribute to the Classics

Turok: Origins is not just a reboot but a tribute to the original Turok games that left a lasting impact on the shooter genre. Saber Interactive aims to capture the essence of the classic games while introducing new elements that will appeal to both old fans and new players.

With its unique blend of dinosaur hunting, alien combat, and exploration, Turok: Origins is set to be an exciting addition to the franchise. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the series, this game promises to deliver an unforgettable adventure filled with action, mystery, and prehistoric thrills.

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The Game Awards 2024: Celebrating Excellence in Gaming

The Game Awards 2024 was a night to remember, filled with mesmerizing performances, exciting announcements, and well-deserved accolades.

Here’s a detailed look at the winners and highlights from this year’s event.

Game of the Year: Astro Bot

The coveted Game of the Year award went to Astro Bot, developed by Team Asobi. This charming and innovative platformer captivated audiences with its engaging gameplay and stunning visuals. Astro Bot also took home awards for Best Game Direction, Best Action/Adventure Game, and Best Family Game, making it one of the biggest winners of the night.

Other Major Winners

  • Best Narrative: Metaphor: ReFantazio by Studio Zero/Atlus/Sega. This game impressed with its compelling story and rich character development.
  • Best Art Direction: Metaphor: ReFantazio. The game’s unique visual style and artistic creativity were recognized with this award.
  • Best Score and Music: Final Fantasy VII Rebirth. The game’s soundtrack, composed by Nobuo Uematsu, captivated players and added depth to the gaming experience.
  • Best Performance: Melina Juergens for her role in Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II. Her powerful portrayal of Senua resonated with both fans and critics.

Notable Announcements

The Game Awards 2024 also featured several exciting announcements and world premieres:

  • The Witcher IV: CD Projekt Red unveiled the first trailer for the next installment in the critically acclaimed RPG series. The trailer showcased Ciri as the protagonist, now a full-fledged Witcher, embarking on a new adventure.
  • Elden Ring: Nightreign: FromSoftware announced a standalone multiplayer spinoff of Elden Ring, set to launch in 2025.
  • Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet: Naughty Dog revealed their upcoming dystopian space adventure game, starring Tati Gabrielle.

Also, he event was marked by special live performances from artists like Snoop Dogg, Twenty One Pilots, and Royal & the Serpent. The Game Awards Orchestra, conducted by BAFTA and Emmy-nominated composer Lorne Balfe, performed scores from the year’s Game of the Year nominees.

The Game Awards 2024 not only celebrated the best in gaming but also highlighted the industry’s resilience and creativity. The event acknowledged the unprecedented layoffs in the gaming industry and awarded Amir Satvat the first-ever Game Changer Award for his commitment to helping laid-off developers find new work.

The Game Awards 2024 was a testament to the incredible talent and innovation within the gaming industry. From Astro Bot’s multiple wins to the exciting announcements of upcoming games, the event showcased the best of what gaming has to offer. As we look forward to the future, it’s clear that the gaming industry will continue to push boundaries and deliver unforgettable experiences.

Business, Games, Gaming, News, PC

Funko Pop! & itch.io – What happened?

In an unexpected turn of events, the popular indie game platform itch.io found itself temporarily offline due to actions taken by Funko, the company behind the iconic Funko Pop! collectibles. This incident has sparked significant controversy and raised questions about the use of automated brand protection services and the impact on smaller platforms and communities.

What Happened?

The entire Itch.io site was taken down after Funko filed a phishing report via an AI-powered brand protection service, BrandShield. This automated report incorrectly flagged the entire Itch.io domain, leading to its temporary removal from the internet. The report was initially aimed at a specific page on Itch.io that allegedly imitated Funko’s Funko Fusion game. However, due to the nature of the automated system, the whole platform was affected, causing widespread disruption.

Itch.io is a vital platform for indie game developers and enthusiasts, offering a space to share, discover, and support independent games. The temporary shutdown had significant repercussions:

  • Disruption of Sales: Many indie developers rely on Itch.io as their primary sales platform. The takedown meant lost revenue and exposure for numerous projects.
  • Community Frustration: Both developers and players expressed frustration and concern over the incident, emphasizing the need for more precise and fair handling of such reports.
  • Trust Issues: The incident has also led to trust issues between the indie game community and larger corporations that use automated tools to protect their brands.

Funko’s Response

Funko has since issued a statement addressing the incident. They clarified that the intention was to target a specific page on Itch.io that was allegedly infringing on their brand, not to take down the entire platform. Funko apologized for the inconvenience caused and assured that they would review their automated systems to prevent such incidents in the future.

Of course, this incident highlights several critical issues within the gaming and tech industries:

  • Automated Enforcement: The use of AI and automated systems for brand protection can lead to unintended consequences. There is a clear need for more nuanced and human oversight to avoid such widespread disruptions.
  • Vulnerability of Small Platforms: Smaller platforms like Itch.io are particularly vulnerable to such broad actions from larger entities. The incident underscores the need for fairer and more precise mechanisms to handle infringement claims.
  • Community Support: The strong reaction from the indie game community demonstrates the importance of platforms like Itch.io. It also showcases the power of community support in advocating for better practices and accountability.

For both Funko and the broader industry, this incident serves as a learning opportunity. It emphasizes the importance of careful and responsible use of technology in brand protection efforts. By fostering better communication and implementing more precise measures, companies can avoid unnecessary harm to valuable platforms and communities.

This controversy has also brought to light the resilience and unity of the indie game community, which continues to advocate for fairer treatment and better support for independent creators.

Business, Featured, Games, Gaming, News

Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League – Final Season and New Offline Mode

In a significant update from Rocksteady Studios, the developers have announced that the current season of Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League will be its last. This decision marks a pivotal moment for the game, which has been a part of the DC gaming universe.

The final episode of Season 4 is scheduled to be released in January 2025. After this release, there will be no new seasonal content added to the game. This move signifies the end of ongoing updates and additions that players have come to expect over the past seasons. While this may be disappointing for some fans, it allows the developers to focus on maintaining and improving the core game experience.

In addition to wrapping up seasonal content, Rocksteady Studios is introducing a long-promised offline mode for the game. This mode is set to be launched this week, providing players with the ability to enjoy the game without needing a constant internet connection.

The offline mode will enable access to the main story campaign and all post-launch seasonal gameplay content, ensuring that players can continue their adventures in Metropolis even if they are not connected online.

Impact on Players

The announcement of the game’s final season and the introduction of the offline mode have several implications for the player community:

  • Continued Access: Players will still have access to all the content that has been released up to the end of Season 4. This includes all characters, missions, and events that have been part of the game’s lifecycle.
  • Enhanced Flexibility: With the new offline mode, players can enjoy the game at their own pace without worrying about internet connectivity. This is especially beneficial for those who may have unstable internet connections or prefer playing offline.
  • Focus on Core Experience: By concluding seasonal updates, Rocksteady Studios can focus on refining the core gameplay experience, addressing any lingering issues, and ensuring the game remains enjoyable for its existing player base.

Community Reaction

The response from the community has been mixed. While some players are saddened by the end of new seasonal content, others appreciate the introduction of the offline mode and the continued support for the game’s existing features. Rocksteady Studios has expressed gratitude to the players for their support and engagement over the game’s lifecycle.

The decision to end seasonal updates for Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League marks the end of an era for the game. However, the introduction of the offline mode and the continued availability of all existing content ensures that players can still enjoy the game for years to come.

This move allows Rocksteady Studios to refocus their efforts and maintain the quality of the game, keeping the spirit of the Suicide Squad alive in the hearts of its fans.

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Surprising Cyberpunk 2077 Update 2.2 is About New Ways to Express Yourself

Cyberpunk 2077 continues to evolve and captivate its player base with the release of Update 2.2, introducing a variety of new features designed to enhance player customization and immersion in the vibrant world of Night City.

Of course, the entry of a surprising new Update is a big deal as since early this year, CD Projekt Red told its investor that further Cyberpunk 2077 development has ceased with the integration of its team in both Project Polaris (The Witcher new triology) and Project Orion (Cyberpunk 2077 sequel).

Enhanced Character Customization

One of the most exciting aspects of Update 2.2 is the addition of over 100 new customization options for the protagonist, V. Players can now tweak every aspect of their character’s appearance, from hairstyles and tattoos to clothing and accessories. This extensive customization suite allows players to create a truly unique version of V, reflecting their personal style and preferences.

Vehicle Customization

In a city where your ride speaks volumes about who you are, the new vehicle customization options are a game-changer. Players can now use CrystalCoat and TWINTONE features to design their cars with unique colors and patterns. Whether you prefer a sleek, monochrome finish or a bold, eye-catching design, these new tools let you transform your vehicle into a reflection of your character’s persona.

Improved Photo Mode

For those who love to capture their adventures in Night City, the improved photo mode in Update 2.2 offers a range of new options. Players can experiment with different camera angles, aspect ratios, and lighting effects to create stunning images. Whether you’re capturing a high-octane chase through the neon-lit streets or a quiet moment of reflection on a rooftop, the enhanced photo mode provides all the tools needed to produce professional-quality shots.

Johnny Silverhand’s Return

One of the more immersive features of this update is the occasional appearance of Johnny Silverhand, the iconic character played by Keanu Reeves, in the passenger seat while V is driving. This unexpected interaction adds a layer of depth to the game’s narrative and makes for some memorable in-game moments.

Update 2.2 isn’t just about adding new features; it’s about giving players more freedom to express themselves within the game. These enhancements deepen the connection players have with their characters and vehicles, making the Cyberpunk 2077 experience even more personal and engaging. The continued support and updates from CD Projekt Red demonstrate their commitment to improving the game and delivering on their promise to the community.

As Night City grows and evolves, so too does the potential for unique player experiences. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a newcomer to its sprawling streets, Cyberpunk 2077’s latest update ensures there’s always something new to discover and enjoy.

Business, Gaming, News, Playstation

Former God of War Art Director Joins Naughty Dog

In a significant move that has the gaming industry buzzing, Raf Grassetti, the former art director of the acclaimed God of War series, has joined the renowned studio Naughty Dog. This exciting development brings one of the most talented and respected artists in the gaming world to a studio known for its groundbreaking titles like The Last of Us and Uncharted.

Raf Grassetti played a pivotal role in shaping the visual identity of the modern God of War games. His work was instrumental in revitalizing the series with its stunning art and character designs, contributing to the critical and commercial success of the franchise. Grassetti’s departure from Santa Monica Studio marks the end of an era, but his legacy there will undoubtedly endure.

Grassetti’s move to Naughty Dog is a strategic win for the studio, known for its commitment to pushing the boundaries of storytelling and visual excellence in video games. His expertise and innovative vision are expected to enhance Naughty Dog’s upcoming projects, potentially bringing a fresh artistic direction and even more immersive worlds for players to explore.

While specific details about Grassetti’s role at Naughty Dog and the projects he will be working on have not been disclosed, the gaming community is eagerly anticipating the impact of his artistic prowess. Given Naughty Dog’s track record of high-quality, narrative-driven games, fans can look forward to exciting developments that may blend Grassetti’s distinctive style with Naughty Dog’s renowned storytelling techniques.

The announcement has garnered positive reactions from both fans and industry peers, who recognize the potential for incredible collaboration between Grassetti and the creative teams at Naughty Dog. This move also highlights the dynamic nature of the gaming industry, where top talent continues to seek new challenges and opportunities to innovate.

Raf Grassetti joining Naughty Dog represents a thrilling new chapter for both the artist and the studio. As the gaming world watches closely, the collaboration promises to deliver memorable and visually stunning experiences that will further elevate the standards of the industry.