Tag Archives: Video Games

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.

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.

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.

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.

The future Ubisoft is unclear at best – What’s the noise so far?

Is no secret that Ubisoft is currently facing pressure from shareholders to consider a potential sale. The company’s shares have fallen to decade lows, prompting discussions about a possible buyout. The Guillemot family, which founded Ubisoft and currently holds a significant stake in the company, has been in talks with Tencent and other investors about financing a management-led buyout.

However, the family wishes to retain control over the company, which complicates the negotiations and added to the mix, that this potential sale has broader implications for the gaming industry.

If successful, it could lead to significant changes in Ubisoft’s management and strategic direction1. The involvement of Tencent, a major player in the gaming industry, could also influence the company’s future projects and partnerships.

But it appears that the recent announcement of the sunsetting of XDefiant hold more than it was told publicly.

And we are starting with a expected and overdue sequel, Beyond Good & Evil 2…

Michel Ancel, the creator of Rayman and Beyond Good & Evil, recently spoke about the ongoing development struggles of Beyond Good & Evil 2 in an interview with Superpouvoir.

According to Ancel, the project has been significantly hindered by conflicts among the game’s managers. These clashes have stemmed from differing creative visions and approaches, leading to constant changes and a lack of cohesive direction.

Ancel pointed out that the artistic director, game director, and himself often found themselves at odds over the game’s direction.

This lack of alignment has resulted in a project that has struggled to find its footing, despite the high expectations set by its predecessor.

The ambitious scope of Beyond Good & Evil 2, which aims to offer an expansive and immersive universe, has only compounded these challenges, making it difficult for the team to deliver a consistent and unified vision.

With all the problems, there has been rumors about the effect of the Project Wild Cancelation snd with this, another significant revelation involves Ubisoft’s handling of the now-canceled PlayStation exclusive game Wild.

The game’s director has described Ubisoft’s management of the project as a “real scandal,” expressing deep frustration over the company’s approach. Wild was initially announced with much fanfare, promising a unique open-world experience where players could control various animals and explore a prehistoric world.

However, despite the initial excitement, the development of Wild faced numerous setbacks. The director highlighted issues such as a lack of clear direction, insufficient support, and constant changes in priorities from Ubisoft’s management1. These problems ultimately led to the project’s cancellation, leaving many fans and developers disappointed.

Finally, we are returning with XDefiant and with this, some uncomfortable rumor that it has the Internet talking all right.

Unofficial sources claims that Ubisoft’s decision to sunset XDefiant is part of a broader strategy to devalue the company in anticipation of a potential sale. While Ubisoft has not officially confirmed these rumors, the timing of the decision, coupled with ongoing discussions about a possible buyout, has fueled speculation.

The company’s shares have been under significant pressure, and the closure of XDefiant, along with the layoffs at Ubisoft’s San Francisco, Osaka, and Sydney studios, has been seen by some as a move to cut costs and streamline operations in preparation for a sale. The involvement of Tencent and other investors in financing a management-led buyout has added to these speculations.

It’s important to note that Ubisoft has stated that the decision to sunset XDefiant was primarily due to the game’s inability to attract and retain enough players in the highly competitive free-to-play FPS market. However, the broader context of potential sale talks cannot be ignored.

Is Capcom wanting to tell us something with a surprising RE Engine contest?

Capcom has announced its first-ever game development competition for Japanese students, utilizing its proprietary RE Engine. Titled the Capcom Games Competition, this event aims to invigorate the game industry by contributing to the development of research at educational institutions and training outstanding talent.

The RE Engine, also known as Reach for the Moon Engine, was originally developed for Resident Evil 7: Biohazard in 2014. Since then, it has been continuously evolved and used in several Capcom titles, including recent Resident Evil games, Dragon’s Dogma 2, and Monster Hunter Wilds. The engine simplifies complex technologies, making them manageable for developers, and allows for lifelike, photorealistic visuals.

The Competition Details

The competition is open to students aged 18 and older who are enrolled in a university, graduate school, or vocational school in Japan. Teams of up to 20 students will create games using the RE Engine in a cloud environment, with support from professional Capcom developers1. The competition spans a six-month period, during which teams will assign roles based on real-life game creator jobs.

Why I believe this MATTERS

Capcom’s initiative is significant for several reasons:

  1. Industry Growth: By providing students with access to a high-quality game development engine, Capcom is fostering the next generation of game developers. This helps to ensure a steady influx of skilled talent into the industry.
  2. Innovation: The RE Engine is known for its advanced capabilities, and by allowing students to use it, Capcom is encouraging innovation and experimentation in game development.
  3. Commercial Opportunities: Winners of the competition will receive game production support and an opportunity for commercialization. This not only benefits the students but also adds new, creative titles to the gaming market.
  4. Educational Collaboration: The competition strengthens the relationship between the gaming industry and educational institutions, promoting research and development in game design and technology.

Capcom’s commitment to nurturing talent and advancing game development technology through this competition is a positive step for the entire gaming industry. It highlights the importance of collaboration, innovation, and education in driving the industry forward.

Anima Flux now available at GOG & Xbox

Anima Flux, a highly anticipated couch co-op Metroidvania game, has made its welcomed arrival at both GOG and Xbox as respectively the second and third gaming storefronts after its early release via Steam this year. Developed by a dedicated team from Eastern Europe, the game has been in the making since January 2017 and was developed by a dedicated team of 12 people from Eastern Europe and has been on a grind for all gaming fans looking for the next original video game.

Game Overview

Anima Flux is set in a dystopian, post-apocalyptic world where players control two genetically enhanced soldiers. These elite agents must navigate through a desolate space city, fighting off swarms of mutants to save humanity’s last stronghold. The game features stunning hand-drawn cutscenes and sharp, ironic dialogue that immerses players in its rich narrative.

Development Journey

The development team’s journey began with a desire to create an interactive retro sci-fi comic inspired by the 80s and 90s. Over time, the project evolved into a Metroidvania game, blending nostalgic elements with modern gameplay mechanics. The team’s passion for retro games and their love for the genre drove them to create a unique and engaging experience.

Key Features

  • Couch Co-Op: Players can team up with a friend for local co-op gameplay or play solo with an AI-controlled partner.
  • Dynamic World: The game features a procedurally generated world with diverse biomes and interactive systems.
  • Character Progression: Each character develops differently as the game progresses, encouraging collaboration and strategy.
  • Retro Aesthetic: Inspired by classic games like The Lost Vikings and Contra, Anima Flux delivers a visually stunning 2D art style.
Developer: Avantaj Prim
Price: $ 19.99
Developer: Unknown
Price: 19.99
Developer: JollyCo
Price: Free

Prologue & Artemis – What’s next for PUBG Creator Brendan Greene

Brendan Greene, the mastermind behind the wildly popular battle royale game PUBG (PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds), has provided exciting updates on his forthcoming projects, Prologue and Artemis. Greene also announced the launch of a free tech demo called Preface, offering players a tantalizing glimpse into the innovative technology and expansive worlds his studio is developing.

Prologue: The Beginning of a New Journey

Initially teased several years ago, Prologue is envisioned as a prelude to a much larger and more ambitious project. In his latest update, Greene described Prologue not just as a game, but as a “unique exploration of procedural generation”. The goal is to create vast, immersive worlds using advanced algorithms, providing players with endless exploration opportunities without repetitive or predefined landscapes.

Prologue is designed to test and showcase the underlying technology that will be central to Greene’s ultimate vision: Artemis. The game will challenge players to survive and navigate through a dynamically generated environment, using only the resources they can gather. This concept aims to push the boundaries of current gaming experiences by offering truly unpredictable and unique adventures every time.

Artemis: An Ambitious Vision

Artemis, Greene’s highly anticipated main project, promises to be a groundbreaking undertaking. Described as an “Earth-scale” virtual world, Artemis is set to offer a living, breathing ecosystem where players can interact with an expansive environment that mirrors the complexity and diversity of our planet.

Greene’s vision for Artemis includes the use of cutting-edge procedural generation technology, developed in-house by his studio. The game will leverage this technology to create diverse biomes, weather patterns, and ecosystems that evolve and react to player actions. This ambitious project aims to blend the boundaries between reality and virtual worlds, offering an unparalleled immersive experience.

Preface: A Glimpse into the Future

To showcase the technological advancements that will power both Prologue and Artemis, Greene’s studio has released a free tech demo called Preface: Undiscovered World. Available now, Preface allows players to explore a massive, procedurally generated planet with varied biomes and interactive systems.

Preface is designed to provide a hands-on experience with the new Melba engine, the proprietary technology developed by Greene’s team. Players can navigate through different terrains, weather conditions, and ecosystems, experiencing the potential of what Artemis will eventually offer. This demo serves as both a technical showcase and a tool for gathering player feedback to refine and enhance the final products.

Community Engagement and Future Plans

Brendan Greene emphasized the importance of community feedback in shaping the development of these projects. By releasing Preface, Greene hopes to engage with players and collect valuable insights that will inform the ongoing development of Prologue and Artemis.

As the gaming world eagerly anticipates the full release of these groundbreaking titles, Greene and his team remain committed to pushing the limits of procedural generation and creating truly immersive virtual worlds. The journey from Prologue to Artemis promises to be an exciting and innovative exploration of what the future of gaming can hold.

But of course, Amazon is promoting Secret Level TV Series with FREE games

Amazon Prime Gaming is celebrating the upcoming release of its animated show, Secret Level, by offering an additional 10 free games to subscribers. This surprise announcement comes as Prime Gaming gears up for the December 10 release of the show, which tells short stories set within the world of popular video games.

Prime Gaming subscribers can now claim these new titles, which include a mix of classic and modern games spread across different PC gaming platforms. Some of the games will be available for free into 2025, giving players plenty of time to enjoy them.

The free games lineup includes:

  • Baldur’s Gate: Enhanced Edition (GOG)
  • Baldur’s Gate II: Enhanced Edition (GOG)
  • Necromunda: Hired Gun (Epic Games Store)
  • Neverwinter Nights: Enhanced Edition (GOG)
  • The Outer Worlds (GOG)
  • Space Hulk: Deathwing – Enhanced Edition (Amazon Games)
  • Spelunky (GOG)
  • Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War (Amazon Games)
  • Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine (Amazon Games)
  • Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II (Amazon Games, coming December 12)

Prime Gaming has already announced 18 free games for December 2024, and this latest batch of 10 new titles adds to the excitement. Subscribers can claim these games by connecting their Amazon and Twitch accounts, making it easy to access and enjoy the free content.

This offer is a great way for Prime members to build hype for the Secret Level series by exploring the games that inspired it.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to add some fantastic titles to your gaming library for free!

Indiana Jones and the Great Circle: PC Specs Revealed

Bethesda and MachineGames have unveiled the PC specifications required to run the highly anticipated game, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle. Set to release on December 8, 2024, the game promises to take players on an exciting adventure with the iconic archaeologist, Indiana Jones.

To run Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, your PC will need to meet the following minimum requirements:

  • Operating System: Windows 10 (64-bit)
  • Processor: Intel Core i7 @ 3.3GHz or better, AMD Ryzen 5 @ 3.1GHz or better
  • Memory: 16 GB RAM
  • Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 SUPER 8 GB, AMD Radeon RX 6600 8 GB, or Intel Arc A580
  • Storage: 120 GB

These specs indicate that the game is designed to be accessible to a wide range of players, without requiring top-tier hardware. The inclusion of mid-range GPUs like the RTX 2060 SUPER and RX 6600 means that many gamers will be able to enjoy the game without needing to invest in the latest high-end graphics cards.

In addition to the standard requirements, the game will support DLSS 3.5 for NVIDIA GeForce RTX 40 series GPUs, offering enhanced visuals and performance through ray reconstruction. AMD users can look forward to FSR 3.0 support, although specific details on its implementation have yet to be confirmed.

For those whose PCs may not meet the requirements, Xbox Cloud Gaming and NVIDIA GeForce NOW will provide alternative ways to play the game without needing to upgrade hardware.