Category: Gaming & VR

• Yuzu emulator, subject of Nintendo lawsuit, responds to accusations of facilitating piracy
• Tropic Haze, the company behind Yuzu, has hired a lawyer from Pierce Atwood LLP to address the lawsuit
• Nintendo claims Yuzu emulator allows illegal gameplay through software encryption circumvention
• Nintendo seeks damages and shutdown of the emulator for alleged violations
• Despite piracy concerns, Nintendo’s game Tears of the Kingdom achieves significant sales success

https://www.eurogamer.net/switch-emulator-yuzu-responds-to-nintendos-lawsuit…

• Starfield patch release date: Bethesda’s communication regarding Starfield’s promised patches has been poor, with minimal updates and a lack of information on the release timeline.
• Starfield 2024 promises significant new patches every six weeks, including the Shattered Space expansion, but updates have been scarce since the game’s launch.
• The last major update from Bethesda was in December 2023, mentioning features like city maps and new ways of traveling, but no specific release dates have been provided.
• Despite promises of mod support and new additions for ship and base builders, no concrete details or updates have been shared.
• The lack of communication and infrequent patches for Starfield contrast with other games like Baldur’s Gate 3, raising concerns about the game’s future and potential for improvement.

https://www.forbes.com/sites/paultassi/2024/03/03/so-when-is-starfield-patching-in-its-promised-additions/…

• Final Fantasy VII Rebirth director Naoki Hamaguchi announces update patch for the game, focusing on improving visual quality in performance mode based on player feedback.
• Update patch release date unspecified, but expected soon to address facial lighting issues and character shadows.
• Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is a sequel in the ongoing Final Fantasy VII Remake trilogy, featuring new playable characters like Cait Sith, Red XIII, and Vincent, set to include enhanced minigames at Gold Saucer and improved combat mechanics.
• Notable updates in the game include Junon infiltration minigame enhancements and the ability to play as Sephiroth during the Nibelheim flashback.
• Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is exclusively available on PlayStation 5, with reviews accessible on Metacritic and Opencritic platforms.

https://noisypixel.net/final-fantasy-vii-rebirth-performance-mode-visual-update-confirmed/…

• Puzzle by Hoang-Kim Vu showcases elegant growth in theme
• Theme involves unclued letter runs in a strict sequence
• Solving process involves deciphering hyphen clues and interconnected entries
• Construction of the grid required strategic trade-offs for smooth progression
• Puzzle titled “Countdown” cleverly incorporates numbers in order

https://www.nytimes.com/2024/03/02/crosswords/daily-puzzle-2024-03-03.html…

• Steam users can claim the free game Space Crew: Legendary Edition, usually priced at $25, with ‘Mostly Positive’ reviews until March 14.
• Free game giveaways on Steam are sporadic, unlike the weekly offerings on Epic Games Store, and can be part of promotions for upcoming sequels.
• Space Crew is a challenging single-player strategic survival simulation game set in space with roguelite elements, offering players the opportunity to customize their crew and ship.
• The follow-up game, Badlands Crew, set in a post-apocalyptic world, allows players to customize a “battle wagon” and explore wastelands, with a release date yet to be announced.
• Steam users should keep an eye out for more free game giveaways, as it is uncertain when the next one will occur, but for now, they should not miss the chance to add Space Crew to their collection.

https://gamerant.com/free-steam-games-right-now-march-2024-space-crew/…

• Warhammer 40,000 Call of Duty crossover announced for Warzone and Modern Warfare 3
• Skins based on Adeptus Astartes, Adepta Sororitas, and Astra Militarum coming to the game
• Previous Call of Duty crossovers include Tomb Raider, The Boys, Godzilla, King Kong, and more
• PowerWash Simulator gets expansion with 40K vehicles cleaning
• Top Call of Duty esports players sue Activision for alleged monopoly

https://www.pcgamer.com/games/call-of-duty/call-of-duty-has-already-thrown-king-kong-godzilla-and-nicki-minaj-into-its-brand-synergy-blender-so-a-warhammer-40000-crossover-is-next/…

• Engage the free lunch drive: Cartoon spaceship disaster sim Space Crew is available for free on Steam for a limited time.
• Runner Duck released Bomber Crew in 2017, followed by Space Crew in 2020, offering a similar gameplay experience.
• Space Crew’s “legendary edition” includes new content and is free until March 13 to promote the upcoming game Badlands Crew.
• Badlands Crew, set for release in 2024, allows players to build and operate a Mad Max-style war rig in a post-apocalyptic setting.
• Jody, a former music journalist, has written extensively for PC Gamer, covering various gaming topics and experiences.

https://www.pcgamer.com/games/sim/cartoon-spaceship-disaster-sim-space-crew-is-free-to-keep-on-steam-for-a-limited-time/…

• March Madness Bracket Analysis: Instagram defeats The Fart App, now WhatsApp vs. DarkSky.
• Gizmodo’s day 2 challenge to determine the greatest app of all time.
• WhatsApp, acquired by Facebook for $19 billion, known for encryption and user privacy.
• Dark Sky, considered the best weather app, acquired by Apple in 2020.
• Readers are asked to vote on whether WhatsApp or Dark Sky should advance in the bracket challenge.

https://gizmodo.com/the-greatest-app-of-all-time-march-madness-bracket-day-1851303211…

• Helldivers 2 faces Automaton invasion, marking a shift in gameplay dynamics
• Players struggle with tougher Automaton enemies and complex escort missions
• Community coordination is key in overcoming challenges, with strategies evolving
• Game director introduces real-time twists and story elements, influencing gameplay
• CEO hints at future surprises, including mechs and new enemies, enhancing the game experience

https://www.polygon.com/gaming/24086923/helldivers-2-automaton-invasion-mission-failure…

• Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth confirms Cloud’s canonical love interest as Tifa, ending debates.
• Rebirth recreates original game scenes, including Gold Saucer dates with romantic interactions.
• Date scenes with Tifa are clearly romantic, while those with Aerith show less definitive romantic tension.
• Fans previously debated Aerith as Cloud’s love interest, ignoring story complexities.
• Rebirth gameplay features include Fort Condor missions, flower-picking side quests, VR battles, and Limit Breaks.

https://www.thegamer.com/final-fantasy-7-rebirth-confirms-cloud-canon-love-interest-tifa-gold-saucer-date-scene-kiss/…

• Morphcat Games, the new-gen NES devs, are pushing the 8-bit envelope by creating polished aftermarket IPs for the Nintendo Entertainment System.
• The duo behind Morphcat Games, Julius Riecke and Nicolas Bétoux, have developed games like Micro Mages, Böbl, and Spacegulls, showcasing modern gameplay on vintage hardware.
• They use 6502 assembly language and modern tools like NESmaker to optimize games within the console’s constraints, highlighting the benefits of hand-written assembly for full control.
• Morphcat Games’ dedication to optimizing ROM space and graphics on the NES demonstrates their commitment to pushing the hardware’s capabilities to the limit.
• The duo’s physical releases and partnership with Broke Studio for cartridge production cater to nostalgic gamers and new audiences seeking the old-school gaming experience.

https://www.nintendolife.com/features/meet-morphcat-games-the-new-gen-nes-devs-pushing-the-8-bit-envelope…

• Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth introduces significant story changes, including the origin of the Black Materia and the undead tribe Gi.
• New characters Yuffie, Cait Sith, Cid, and Vincent are integrated into the story in unique ways compared to the original game.
• Cloud’s struggle with visions of Sephiroth and a dramatic event involving Tifa being swallowed by a Weapon are key plot points.
• Aerith and Red XIII’s ability to see the future through the White Materia is explored, with the memories being taken by the Whispers.
• Sephiroth’s plan in Rebirth involves a multiverse conquest through Reunion, leading to a different presentation of Aerith’s fate and a new storyline for Zack.

https://www.ign.com/articles/7-biggest-story-changes-in-final-fantasy-7-rebirth…

• Xbox Game Pass will see three games leaving in early March 2024, including Ni no Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch and Shredders
• Microsoft announced the departure dates for these games, around March 15th, offering a 20% discount before removal
• Despite the losses, Xbox Game Pass will introduce Diablo 4 and other new additions in the upcoming month
• Comments from users express mixed feelings about the departing games and the time constraints to finish them
• Various upcoming Xbox games, crossplay support, and new releases are highlighted in related articles

https://www.purexbox.com/news/2024/03/three-games-will-leave-xbox-game-pass-in-early-march-2024…

• The promotional image for FFVII Rebirth by Kingdom Hearts is easily understandable to those who played 2 prequel games and 3 mobile games.
• Tetsuya Nomura expressed disappointment in fans who don’t fully immerse themselves in the game worlds.
• Nomura and his team are known for creating complex, epic stories with unique characters.
• Fans who complete every entry in the saga will be blown away by the promotional image.
• Square Enix’s VP of Lore, Janet Gundelson, explained the significance of the number 104 in the image and referenced complex plot points from the games.

https://hard-drive.net/hd/video-games/report-you-only-need-to-play-2-prequels-and-3-mobile-games-to-understand-kingdom-hearts-promotional-post-about-ffvii-rebirth/…

• Diablo 4 necromancer receives buffs for skeleton minions
• Minions in Diablo 4 were weaker compared to other classes
• Patch notes reveal significant buffs for necromancer skeletons and related skills
• Necromancers to receive movement speed boost in upcoming patch
• Changes aim to address necromancer class issues and improve gameplay

https://www.pcgamer.com/games/action/diablo-4-finally-recognizes-necromancers-just-want-a-skeleton-posse-and-sprinkles-buffs-on-our-boys-in-bone/…

• Assassin’s Creed Red is the next mainline game in the franchise, set in feudal Japan and connected to the ‘Infinity’ hub.
• The game will feature two protagonists, Naoe and Yasuke, and will utilize the Anvil Pipeline engine for enhanced visuals.
• Combat in Assassin’s Creed Red will be more brutal with gore, including blood and decapitations, and will emphasize stealth mechanics similar to Splinter Cell.
• Players will have the opportunity to build and customize their settlement, known as the ‘Hideout’, with various structures like an armory and dojo.
• The game represents a significant evolution for the franchise, with improvements to animations, parkour system, dynamic weather, and settlement building.

https://insider-gaming.com/assassins-creed-red-exclusive-details/…

• Balatro bumped from some console storefronts due to ratings change, attributed to mistaken belief of gambling imagery
• Playstack, the game’s publisher, denies gambling content in Balatro and is working to restore it to affected markets
• Anti-gambling regulations in Europe and Asia impacting games without explicit gambling content
• Other games affected by similar regulations include Diablo Immortal and Sunshine Shuffle
• Balatro still available on Steam, unaffected by the ratings change on console storefronts

https://www.theverge.com/2024/3/1/24087723/balatro-console-storefront-removal-steam-pc…

• Action RPG “No Rest for the Wicked” by Ori Dev receives a significant update, showcasing impressive gameplay
• Enters early access on Steam next month, with a PS5 launch planned for version 1.0
• Developed by Moon Studios, known for the Ori games, the game offers isometric dark fantasy RPG gameplay
• Features customizable characters, weapon-based combat styles, base-building activities, and a story-driven campaign
• Promises a dynamic world that changes after completing the main storyline, with endgame content and new challenges

https://www.pushsquare.com/news/2024/03/ori-devs-action-rpg-no-rest-for-the-wicked-gets-a-huge-update-gameplay-looks-amazing…

• No Rest for the Wicked launches in Early Access for PC on April 18 via Steam
• Moon Studios founders share details about the game during “Wicked Inside” broadcast
• Isometric action RPG set in a kingdom plagued by the return of an ancient Pestilence
• Players take on the role of Cerim, mystical holy warriors tasked with defeating the Pestilence
• Full launch planned for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, and PC at a later date

https://www.gematsu.com/2024/03/no-rest-for-the-wicked-launches-in-early-access-for-pc-on-april-18…

• Wicked Hands-On Preview Review: No Rest for the Wicked combines elements of Dark Souls and Diablo, offering challenging gameplay that requires strategic combat skills.
• The game features a beautiful, painterly art style reminiscent of Ori but with a darker tone, creating a visually immersive world.
• Players must be deliberate in their attacks and movements, managing stamina and utilizing strategic tactics to survive battles with formidable enemies.
• The game incorporates elements of exploration, NPC interactions, and skill point distribution, providing a well-rounded action-RPG experience.
• The preview experience left a strong impression, indicating that No Rest for the Wicked is likely to appeal to a wide audience upon its Early Access release.

https://www.ign.com/articles/no-rest-for-the-wicked-the-first-hands-on-preview…

• Dragon’s Dogma 2, the long-awaited sequel to the D&D-inspired RPG, promises thrilling fantasy adventures and dragons, and is set to release on the Switch.
• A colorful sidescroller, Ufouria: The Saga offers a feltwork art style and new areas to explore on Windows.
• Wholesome virtual board game, Cats and Sewing Puzzles, allows players to chill with cats and features single-player and cooperative play on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Windows.
• Horror game Trials from the Outlast franchise offers single-player and cooperative gameplay in a twisted asylum setting on PS5.
• Interactive narrative As Dusk Falls explores the aftermath of a failed robbery in Arizona, with unique outcomes based on player decisions, available on Switch and Windows.

https://kotaku.com/march-game-releases-dragons-dogma-mario-battlefront-1851298837…

• Mid-budget video game Last Epoch offers a smooth gameplay experience with deep endgame loot system
• Last Epoch faced server issues upon release due to a surge in player numbers, but garnered positive sentiment for developers’ dedication
• Helldivers 2, another mid-budget game, faced similar server problems but was praised for its fun gameplay
• Mid-budget games like Last Epoch and Helldivers 2 prioritize vision and creativity over AAA game formulas
• Despite imperfections, mid-budget games offer unique experiences and value for money, contrasting with high-priced AAA titles

https://defector.com/i-love-a-good-mid-budget-video-game…

• Director Naoki Hamaguchi discusses the anticipated ending of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth and hints at Part 3
• The development team focused on executing director Kazushige Nojima’s vision for the finale
• The ending of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth has sparked confusion and speculation among fans
• The third part of the Final Fantasy Remake trilogy may include Rocket Town and elements from the Compilation of Final Fantasy VII
• Hamaguchi expresses commitment to seeing Square Enix’s ambitious Final Fantasy VII Remake project through, possibly extending over 12 years

https://www.ign.com/articles/final-fantasy-7-rebirths-director-naoki-hamaguchi-interview-ending-part-3…

• Destiny 2 introduces hoverboards, known as “Skimmers,” as a new vehicle type during the Guardian Games event.
• The hoverboards are not just a reskin of sparrows, allowing players to perform tricks like kickflips and grind on various surfaces in the game.
• Bungie kept the development of hoverboards a secret until the recent reveal, surprising the community and injecting fresh excitement into the game.
• The introduction of hoverboards is seen as a positive and fun addition to Destiny 2, providing a break from recent PvP updates and bringing humor back to the community.
• While some may criticize the focus on hoverboards amidst other game issues, the new addition is viewed as a welcome and enjoyable change, offering players a new experience and a reason to participate in Guardian Games.

https://www.forbes.com/sites/paultassi/2024/03/01/destiny-2-is-getting-hoverboards-which-is-honestly-what-it-needs-right-now/…

• Helldivers 2 has united a player base through its D&D-inspired meta war, generating loyalty and camaraderie.
• The game’s dynamic shifting frontlines engage players in pushing back against alien threats, creating a sense of authenticity and urgency.
• Helldivers 2’s intentional roleplaying elements, influenced by Dungeons & Dragons, are managed by a full-time dungeon master to craft unfolding storylines.
• The game’s global reactivity and tailored challenges create a compelling sense of authorship shared between developers and players, fostering commitment and community.
• The game’s satisfying shooter mechanics, steady progression system, and engaging Galactic War meta story contribute to its success and player commitment.

https://www.ign.com/articles/helldivers-2-meta-war-is-exactly-what-we-need-right-now-live-service-game…

• GTA 6 developers criticize Rockstar’s decision to return to office full-time, calling it “reckless”
• Rockstar Games employees must return to the office five days a week for GTA 6’s final development stretch
• Independent Workers’ Union of Great Britain (IWGB) condemns Rockstar’s withdrawal of remote working options
• Concerns raised about the impact on staff, potential return to “toxic crunch” practices, and lack of consultation
• Calls for senior leadership to reconsider decision, prioritize collaboration, healthy work-life balance, and inclusive workplace culture

https://www.eurogamer.net/gta-6-developers-blast-rockstars-reckless-decision-to-return-to-office-full-time…

• Helldivers 2 Joel campaign: 350,000-strong contingent curses galactic D&D master Joel as their next big campaign
• Helldivers 2 players commit over 350,000 soldiers to liberate Veld planet, facing unexpected setbacks
• Game director Joel controls Galactic War behind the scenes, causing frustration among players
• Players lose Malevelon Creek despite efforts, now striving to retake it
• Major Order in Helldivers 2 prompts player engagement, upcoming balance patch to address player concerns

https://www.gamesradar.com/350000-strong-helldivers-2-contingent-curses-now-infamous-galactic-dandd-master-joel-as-their-next-big-campaign-after-malevelon-creek-takes-a-turn-for-the-worst/…

• EA and Square Enix faced Leap Year snafus, reminiscent of the Y2K scare.
• EA’s Sports WRC and Square Enix’s Final Fantasy VII Rebirth experienced temporary inoperability due to a timezone issue on February 29th.
• Players had to adjust system settings to resolve the problems, highlighting the impact of small oversights.
• The issues seem to have been resolved, but it underscores how unexpected issues can arise.
• Comments reflect surprise at the oversight, comparing it to Y2K and pointing out the rarity of Leap Year-related problems.

https://www.pushsquare.com/news/2024/03/ea-square-enix-stumble-into-leap-year-snafus…

• Nacon’s open-world Terminator: Survivors game heading to Steam early access in October
• Developed by Nacon Studio Milan, set four years after Judgment Day
• Players must establish society in a post-apocalyptic world, facing Skynet’s machines and rival factions
• Trailer released, more details to come before the launch
• PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S release to follow

https://www.eurogamer.net/nacons-open-world-terminator-survivors-heading-to-steam-early-access-in-october…

• Terminator Survivors announced for PS5, a solo or co-op survival game set after Judgment Day
• Players emerge from a shelter to rebuild society amidst a world intent on their destruction
• Game features scavenging for materials, encountering Terminators, and establishing a base
• Early access on PC in October 2024, PS5 release date to follow
• Community reactions vary from skepticism to cautious optimism

https://www.pushsquare.com/news/2024/02/terminator-survivors-announced-for-ps5-a-solo-or-co-op-survival-game…

• Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth faces graphical problems including lighting, textures, and resolution struggles, as highlighted in a Digital Foundry report.
• The game, while visually appealing in terms of art direction and identity, falls short on a technical level with issues such as flat lighting, blurry shadows, and low-quality textures.
• Despite running well in terms of frame rate, with a locked 30fps in Graphics mode and consistent 60fps in Performance mode, the dynamic resolution results in occasional blurriness.
• Criticisms include the mix of low and high-resolution assets, leading to inconsistent visual quality, especially compared to its predecessor, Final Fantasy 7 Remake.
• Players express mixed opinions on the graphical issues, with some enjoying the game regardless, while others question the optimization and visual discrepancies, prompting discussions on game development priorities and consumer expectations.

https://www.pushsquare.com/news/2024/02/final-fantasy-7-rebirths-graphical-problems-are-clear-in-digital-foundry-report…

• Toys For Bob, the studio behind Crash Bandicoot 4 and the remastered Spyro collection, has left Activision to become an independent game development studio
• The studio heads, Paul Yan and Avery Lodato, announced the move in a blog post, citing a desire to return to their roots of being a small and nimble studio
• Toys For Bob is exploring a possible partnership with Microsoft, but details about their next game are still in the early stages
• The online party platformer Crash Team Rumble will no longer receive updates as a result of this transition
• Founded in 1989, Toys For Bob has a history of successful games, including Star Control and Skylanders, but faced challenges after being tasked with supporting Call of Duty and experiencing layoffs following Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard

https://kotaku.com/spyro-crash-bandicoot-toys-for-bob-activision-indie-1851298773…

• Toys for Bob, the Activision Blizzard studio known for Skylanders and Crash Bandicoot, is going independent
• The studio is exploring a potential partnership with Microsoft for its new game development
• Founded in 1989, Toys for Bob was acquired by Activision in 2005 and has worked on various popular titles
• Following Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard, Toys for Bob split from Activision to return to its roots
• The studio aims to take its future games to the next level while maintaining close relationships with Activision and Microsoft

https://www.eurogamer.net/activisions-skylanders-crash-bandicoot-studio-toys-for-bob-going-independent…

• Theatrhythm Final Bar Line players experience game connection issues on Leap Day
• Square Enix’s rhythm game fails to connect to servers due to date error
• Changing console date fixes the connection problem caused by Leap Day
• Online connection not necessary to play the game
• Potential resolution by 2028; concerns raised about always-online games

https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2024/02/it-looks-like-leap-day-is-causing-havoc-for-theatrhythm-final-bar-line-players…

• Fans claim the Tomb Raider Trilogy is better on Epic Store, but devs say that version was incomplete
• The best version of the remastered collection was initially on the Epic Games Store but was later patched out
• The Epic version had significant improvements such as better lighting, skyboxes, and textures compared to other platforms
• Aspyr, the studio behind the remaster, acknowledged the differences and updated the Epic Store version to match the others
• Fans are now waiting for an upcoming patch to see if the improvements from the initial Epic version will be included

https://kotaku.com/tomb-raider-remastered-trilogy-epic-store-better-patch-1851297727…

• PlayStation VR2 release date was set for February 2023, but a year later, the headset faces challenges due to a lack of first-party exclusives and disinterest from Sony.
• The PSVR2 hardware boasts impressive features like OLED displays and haptic controllers, but its success hinges on exclusive content, which has been lacking.
• Third-party support for PSVR2 has been mixed, with some games receiving lukewarm receptions and Sony’s first-party studios showing little interest in developing VR games.
• The PSVR2’s sales have been underwhelming, with reports of slow holiday season sales compared to Meta Quest headsets, leading to a bleak outlook for its future.
• Sony is exploring PC VR compatibility for PSVR2 to access a wider library of games, potentially broadening its appeal, but the overall VR market faces challenges in user retention and AAA support.

https://www.ign.com/articles/a-year-since-its-release-sony-seems-to-have-abandoned-playstation-vr2…

• Final Fantasy VII Rebirth captures the janky spirit of the original game, offering a gutsy and unique experience
• The game is characterized by its weirdness and variety, featuring a range of minigames with unrefined charm
• The narrative of FF7 explores ambitious themes like environmentalism, dystopian government, trauma, and identity crisis
• Rebirth constantly introduces new ideas, minigames, and mechanics, ensuring players always have something fresh to engage with
• While the focus on minigames may not appeal to everyone, Rebirth stands out as a bold and daring entry in the Final Fantasy series

https://kotaku.com/final-fantasy-7-ff7-rebirth-janky-1851294364…

• Helldivers 2 leaks reveal mech gameplay, showcasing players entering and using mechs in battle
• Redditor fozzye18 shared initial gameplay snippet of a player in a mech firing an auto cannon
• More leaked mech gameplay surfaces, including a datamined stratagem explainer video with a dropship deploying the mech
• Official Helldivers 2 trailer already teased mechs, set to be introduced “soon after launch”
• Speculation arises about potential new stratagems like AI soldiers and meteorite strikes, as Arrowhead addresses server issues and plans for post-launch content

https://www.ign.com/articles/helldivers-2-leaks-reveal-mech-gameplay…

• Helldivers 2 features a Dungeons and Dragons-style GM concept named Joel who influences gameplay
• Joel, the GM, adjusts game balance and creates reactive storytelling elements in Helldivers 2
• Arrowhead team draws inspiration from Dungeons and Dragons for Helldivers 2 gameplay elements
• The GM, Joel, makes strategic decisions on major events, daily activities, and enemy attacks in Helldivers 2
• The game’s developers plan to maintain open communication with players and introduce new features like playable mechs

https://www.eurogamer.net/helldivers-2-has-a-dungeons-and-dragons-style-gm-behind-the-scenes…

• Palworld Patch 0.1.5.1 released for Steam, upcoming for Xbox, focusing on fixes and balance adjustments
• Xbox version still facing issues with auto-save and lacks dedicated servers compared to PC
• Microsoft collaborating with Pocketpair to enhance Xbox support for Palworld
• Palworld sales surpass 25 million, with controversy surrounding accusations of Pokémon rip-off
• Patch includes various fixes for game crashes, balance adjustments, dungeon issues, Pal-related fixes, and server improvements

https://www.ign.com/articles/palworld-patch-0151-makes-various-fixes-but-the-wait-for-xbox-dedicated-servers-continues…

• Joel, the Helldivers 2 Developer, controls the galactic war like a D&D Dungeon Master
• Arrowhead CEO Johan Pilestedt reveals Joel’s role in shaping the game’s meta narrative
• Joel intervenes to balance gameplay, such as reinforcing planets or adjusting difficulty
• The Helldivers 2 community memes and reacts to Joel’s behind-the-scenes involvement
• Players engage in ongoing role-playing within the game’s meta narrative, awaiting potential new content and developments

https://www.ign.com/articles/all-hail-joel-the-helldivers-2-developer-steering-the-galactic-war-like-a-dd-dungeon-master…

• Electronic Arts announces layoffs, cutting around five percent of its employees, impacting almost 700 people
• EA CEO Andrew Wilson emphasizes streamlining operations for better fan experiences
• Second mass layoff in less than a year, following a previous cut of six percent
• EA cancels games and shuts down a development studio, focusing on owned IP and online communities
• EA discontinues licensed IP games, including a Star Wars first-person shooter by Respawn Entertainment

https://mashable.com/article/ea-electronic-arts-layoffs-star-wars-fps-cancelled…

• Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is a vast game with numerous subsystems and features, requiring players to navigate through various layers.
• Activities in the game unlock after meeting Chadley at Bill’s Chocobo Ranch, so it’s advisable to follow the story as scripted initially.
• Combat system familiarity from Final Fantasy VII Remake may not fully prepare players for Rebirth, emphasizing the importance of mastering Synergy Skills and Abilities early on.
• Affinity levels with characters can be checked by holding L1, with side quests being a key way to raise affinity with specific characters.
• Regularly using the map, understanding quests, and engaging in mini-games are essential aspects of gameplay in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth.

https://kotaku.com/final-fantasy-7-rebirth-ff7-starting-tips-1851295457…

• EA announces layoffs of 5% of its workforce and discontinuation of certain games
• Layoff trend continues in gaming and tech industry
• CEO Andrew Wilson emphasizes restructuring for strategic growth initiatives
• Focus shifts towards owned IP, sports, and online communities
• Respawn’s upcoming Star Wars game among projects canceled

https://deadline.com/2024/02/electronic-arts-plans-layoffs-five-percent-workforce-cancels-star-wars-game-1235841579/…

• Electronic Arts, a major video game publisher, is cutting more than 650 jobs as part of a restructuring plan announced on Wednesday.
• The restructuring aims to optimize global real estate, focus on owned IP, sports, and online communities, and streamline company operations for deeper fan experiences.
• The plan includes incurring charges of $125 million to $165 million, canceling a Star Wars first-person shooter game, and sunsetting licensed mobile games like Kim Kardashian Hollywood.
• The decision to pivot from the Star Wars game follows player preferences for Jedi and owned brands, with a focus on new projects and existing game support.
• EA CEO Andrew Wilson expressed the company’s commitment to innovation, collaboration, and providing opportunities for affected employees to transition to new roles or projects.

https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/digital/video-game-giant-ea-layoffs-1235839026/…

• Rockstar Games is requesting employees to return to the office five days a week in April due to security concerns during GTA 6 development.
• Concerns arise from previous leaks related to GTA VI development, prompting the need for increased security measures.
• The decision to return to the office aims to enhance productivity and ensure the quality and polish of the upcoming Grand Theft Auto game.
• Rockstar follows other studios like Ubisoft in implementing a return-to-office protocol, despite successful remote game development examples.
• The company emphasizes the importance of in-person work for achieving the desired level of quality and ambition for their projects.

https://www.ign.com/articles/rockstar-games-is-asking-employees-to-return-to-office-amid-gta-security-concerns…

• Helldivers 2 players are losing control of Malevelon Creek, likened to the fall of Reach in Halo
• Malevelon Creek, dubbed “robot Vietnam,” is a challenging planet controlled by automatons
• Players strive to spread democracy by completing missions but struggle to increase freedom percentage on Malevelon Creek
• The game’s meta game involves galactic conflicts and flexible narratives, leading to dramatic and humorous player reactions
• Despite losing Malevelon Creek, players are determined to reclaim it, showcasing the game’s growing community and engaging gameplay.

https://kotaku.com/helldivers-2-malevelon-creek-lost-planet-1851294327…

• Remedy Entertainment buys full Control series rights from 505 Games for €17m
• Acquisition covers publishing, distribution, marketing rights for Control franchise
• Control 2 and multiplayer spin-off Codor development rights included
• Transition period with 505 Games as publisher until December 31st
• Previous agreement with Microsoft for Alan Wake rights for €2.5 million

https://www.eurogamer.net/remedy-entertainment-buys-control-series-rights-from-505-games-for-17m…

• Warzone Mobile launches worldwide on March 21st
• Players can share weapon, XP, and battle pass progress
• Available on iOS and Android with shared progression with PC and console
• Features 120-player Verdansk map and 48-player Rebirth Island
• Offers controller support, customizable HUD, and performance modes

https://www.theverge.com/2024/2/28/24085504/call-of-duty-warzone-mobile-launch-date-worldwide…

• **FF7 Rebirth** cutscene skipping can lead to missing out on new parts of the main game
• Final Fantasy VII Rebirth part two releases on February 29, following the demo launched on February 6
• Skipping portions of Cloud’s flashback in Rebirth can result in missing essential story content
• Players can skip parts of the flashback after the demo, but certain scenes like Cloud’s confrontation with Sephiroth are crucial and should not be skipped
• It is important to pay attention to the story in FF7 Rebirth as it holds significance throughout the game, despite the option to skip certain parts

https://kotaku.com/final-fantasy-7-rebirth-ff7-ps5-demo-skip-flashback-1851293862…