Tag Archives: Video Games

Business, Featured, Games, Gaming, News, Nintendo

Nintendo will sell its presence in China Market meaning the end of its run there

In a significant announcement, Nintendo has revealed that the Nintendo Switch eShop and all online services will be discontinued in China by 2026. This decision will impact millions of gamers in the region, marking the end of an era for Nintendo’s presence in the Chinese market.

The Chinese Nintendo eShop will stop selling games and software by March 31, 2026 and after this date, all titles, including paid and free games, will no longer be available for purchase or download followed by the ability to download titles, redeem codes, and access DLC and other network elements by May 15, 2026.

To soften the blow, Nintendo, in collaboration with Tencent, is offering up to four free games to players with active WeChat accounts tied to their Nintendo Switch consoles. This offer is available from November 27, 2024, until March 31, 2026. Eligible games include popular titles like Super Mario Odyssey, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, and Pokémon Let’s Go! Pikachu.

For context, the Nintendo Switch was launched in China in 2020 through a partnership with Tencent, a major player in the Chinese tech industry. Since then, several older Nintendo Switch titles have been localized for the Chinese market.

However, unspecified changes in Tencent’s business operations have led to the decision to end online services in the region by Nintendo simply not renewing their partnership.

The news has been met with mixed reactions from the gaming community. While some players are disappointed by the loss of online services, others are appreciative of the compensation offered by Nintendo. Many are hopeful that this move will lead to improvements in the services offered in other regions.

Games, Gaming, News, PC

Another PC gaming launcher bites the dust and 2K joins the club with fanfare

In a move that has been widely celebrated by the gaming community, 2K has officially removed its launcher from all PC games. This decision comes after years of criticism from players who found the launcher to be cumbersome and unnecessary. The removal of the 2K Launcher is expected to streamline the gaming experience and improve performance for many titles.

The End of an Era

The 2K Launcher, which was used for launching games like Bioshock Remastered, Mafia Trilogy Definitive Edition, and XCOM 2, has been a point of contention for gamers. Many players complained about the launcher causing performance issues and complicating the game-launching process. With the complete removal of the launcher, players can now launch their games directly from platforms like Steam and Epic Games Store.

Key Changes

  • Direct Game Launch: Games that previously required the 2K Launcher will now launch directly from Steam or Epic Games Store. This means no more extra steps or waiting for additional software to load.
  • Improved Performance: By eliminating the launcher, 2K aims to improve game performance and reduce loading times. This should result in a smoother and more enjoyable gaming experience.
  • Mod Support: For games like XCOM 2, which relied on the launcher for mod support, 2K has introduced new launch options to ensure that mods can still be used. Players can now choose between the original mod launcher and a new option that directly launches the game.

Community Response

The gaming community has responded positively to this change, with many players expressing relief and excitement. The removal of the 2K Launcher is seen as a step towards a more streamlined and user-friendly gaming experience. Players are hopeful that other publishers will follow suit and remove their own launchers, further improving the PC gaming landscape.

By simplifying the game-launching process and enhancing performance, 2K has taken a positive step towards better serving its player base. This change is a win for gamers who have long called for the removal of unnecessary launchers, and it sets a precedent for other publishers to consider similar changes.

Games, Gaming, News, Xbox

Stalker 2 will get its first post-release patch

GSC Game World has announced the first post-release patch for Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl, aiming to address several issues that players have encountered since the game’s launch. The patch, scheduled to be released between Monday, November 24, and Sunday, December 1, promises to fix major bugs, crashes, and other technical problems that have been affecting the gameplay experience.

Key Fixes and Improvements

  • Crash Fixes: The patch will resolve memory allocation failures and rendering issues that have caused the game to crash unexpectedly. This includes problems with skeletal meshes and quest-related cutscenes.
  • Quest Progression: Several bugs that block the main quest progression will be fixed, ensuring smoother transitions and preventing players from getting stuck.
  • Visual Glitches: The patch will address visual issues such as missing facial animations, detached heads, and other inconsistencies that break immersion.
  • NPC Behavior: Improvements will be made to NPC behavior, especially during Emission storms, ensuring they seek shelter appropriately.
  • Weapon Pricing: Changes to weapon pricing will be implemented, so guns with attachments will have different values from their unmodified counterparts.
  • Soft Locks: The patch will fix several instances where players get soft-locked, forcing them to restart the game.

Future Updates

GSC Game World has assured players that this patch is just the beginning of their efforts to improve the game. Future updates will include improvements to the A-life system, which controls NPC behavior and environmental interactions, as well as analog stick dead zone improvements.

Player Feedback

Despite the technical issues, Stalker 2 has been a commercial success, selling over a million copies and gaining a significant player base on Xbox Game Pass. The developers are actively seeking feedback from the community to ensure that future patches address the most pressing concerns.

So basically, Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl is a step towards refining the game and enhancing the overall player experience. With ongoing updates and a commitment to improvement, GSC Game World aims to deliver a more polished and immersive survival shooter.

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.

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.

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.

Games, Gaming, News

The Warcraft 30th anniversary brings more games with remastered treatment

This month was the 30th anniversary of Warcraft as one of the biggest franchises of Blizzard Entertainment and while there was an expectation that we might be seeing a proper 4th game (not counting World of Warcraft), Blizzard has other plans.

With this, Blizzard announced Warcraft I & II: Remastered or the massive update for both Warcraft: Orcs & Humans and Warcraft II: Tides of Darkness and its expansion, Beyond the Dark Portal, released as a stand-alone game.

Expect mastered graphics, updated UI, and modern controls, with both games retaining their original stories and in the case of Warcraft II, it will include both classic and remastered graphics modes, along with the online PvP multiplayer.

And of course, Warcraft III: Reforged

Warcraft 3: Reforged Patch 2.0, which “overhauls the environments and lighting and revamps the user interface”, according to Chan. “In addition, we are uprising all classic Warcraft 3 assets to HD.”

All three titles are available as part of the Warcraft Remastered Battle Chest, which is priced at $39.99.

As for World of Warcraft

Blizzard has announced plans to add player housing to World of Warcraft in its next expansion, Midnight.

Blizzard announced plans to launch World of Warcraft Mists of Pandaria Classic in the summer of 2025 too.