PC gamers have almost too many options when it comes to titles to play, which is a great problem to have. With decades of games to choose from (and the first port of call for most indie titles, too), the options are endless. You also get the perks of (nearly always flawless) backward compatibility and console-beating graphical performance — if you've got the coin for it when you’re building your perfect kit or picking up a high-powered gaming laptop. The whole idea of what a gaming PC is and where you can play it is shifting, too, with the rise of handheld gaming PCs like the Steam Deck. We've tried to be broad with our recommendations here on purpose; here are the best PC games you can play right now.
Best PC games to play right now
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/the-best-pc-games-150000910.html?src=rss
Executive producer and leather jacket aficionado Todd Howard has long wanted to make an Indiana Jones game. In partnering for it with MachineGames, who, given their work on the new, mostly critically acclaimed, batch of Wolfenstein shooters, have experience in Indy’s favourite pastime, punching Nazis, it would seem that Howard has picked the right people for the right job. And, yet, even after attending an hour-long digital event for what has been titled Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, I am still unsure that giving the reins to MachineGames was the best call to make. But, before I go more in detail with my impressions, let me give the rundown of what was presented to me.
Days before its showing at gamescom ONL 2024, I was fortunate enough to attend an online preview for Indiana Jones and the Great Circle led by game director Jerk Gustaffson and creative director Axel Torvenius. Half of this preview consisted of a gameplay presentation, which will also be shown on the show floor during gamescom, whereas the other was dedicated to a Q&A session with the two.
The presentation began with a montage of footage edited together from previous trailers, upon which Gustaffson and Torvenius revealed the first concept art created for the title. They said that they and their team knew from the get-go that they wanted the player to visit major sites like the Vatican and the Himalayas and that they wanted to include Gina Lombardi, a wholly original companion for Indy.
The overall goal behind Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, they continued, was to ‘strive to make the gameplay experience as authentic as possible and to make something that will evoke a sense of curiosity.’ As an example of how to best do so, they spoke about how the team at MachineGames looked at drawings and renditions of Thai landmarks such as Wat Si Sawai from around 1937 – the year that The Great Circle was set. Nevertheless, they also created their own points of interest, such as temples meant to host numerous well-guarded secrets.
“The overall goal behind Indiana Jones and the Great Circle was to ‘strive to make the gameplay experience as authentic as possible and to make something that will evoke a sense of curiosity.'”
Next, I was shown gameplay from the main chamber of, presumably, one of the said temples. At this unspecified point in the story, Indy had just gotten his hands on what I think was a statue of the Egyptian goddess of war, Sekhmet. He then proceeded to break this statue to acquire the next clue necessary for his adventure.
Upon doing so, however, the temple started to crumble, and the chamber he found himself in was rapidly filling up with quicksand. Following this turn of events, the HUD appeared on screen, showing Indy’s stamina bar and the icons for a whip and a pistol, the latter two being part of Indy’s trusty arsenal. Gustafsson and Torvenius had mentioned before that the whip could be used in both traversal and combat, but this was my first time seeing Indy use it to orchestrate a dashing escape.
The next scene I was made privy to flung me back to the beginning of Indiana Jones and the Great Circle’s story, which starts one fateful night in 1937. After falling asleep at his desk inside Marshall College in Boston, Indy was unceremoniously woken up by an intimidating man who proceeded to rob the museum college of a priceless relic. This event sets the stage for a grand conspiracy which features Indy’s main rival, one Emmerich Voss, a Nazi psychologist who is plundering sites around the globe in search of mysterious artifacts.
To help in the fight against Voss, MachineGames emphasized that players must employ Indy’s resourcefulness and, therefore, find clever ways to deploy each of the hero’s many tools. Take the camera, for one, which can be used to snap photos, which will, in turn, reveal clues and insights. These clues and insights are used to inform Indy’s personal journal, which is blank at the start of the game but will eventually contain the records of his adventure.
After demonstrating the journal and the camera, MachineGames returned to the whip, which they described as “the most important tool in Indy’s Arsenal.” The subsequent clip showed Indy in a temple picking up a nearby trident and then throwing it at a nearby cliff, creating a swing. With the trident firmly affixed to the cliff and his whip in hand, Indy was able to use the swing to cross a dangerous chasm.
In the next segment, it was time for a showing of Indiana Jones and the Great Circle’s combat system. The directing duo made it very clear here that the key to the game’s combat lies in deciding whether to ‘outsmart or overpower’ Indy’s enemies. This being said stealth is possible and perhaps the first option to consider in most cases. ‘What we’ve tried to do is make sure that you understand that there are stealth options,’ Gustafsson said when asked about approaches in combat. ‘It is stealth, the hand-to-hand and the whip that are the go-to’, he stated.
“The transition from Wolfenstein to Indiana Jones was described by MachineGames as a ‘big step’ and their ‘biggest project yet.'”
Fittingly, I then got to see a bit of stealth in a passage of play that had Indy infiltrate the Vatican. To do so, he wore a clerical outfit as his disguise and carefully evaded the gaze of patrolling guards. Moments later, in a different combat encounter entirely, I saw Indy pick up and throw bottles to distract his enemies, eventually subduing them while remaining completely unnoticed.
Moving on from the Vatican, the final piece of footage I got to see was of Indy engaged in a series of fights inside and around the Great Pyramid of Giza. These fights showcased that not only is Indy able to throw combos and whip his enemies, but also that he is capable of using whatever he finds in the environment: sticks, bricks, barrels, etc., to gain the upper hand.
Something that I haven’t mentioned yet, and that changed the tide of a fight that I was shown, is the fact that Indy also has an array of unlockable abilities. The one ability MachineGames showcased was called “True Grit”, which essentially allowed Indy to restore a modicum of health and continue the fight, even though his health bar has just previously been depleted.
MachineGames elaborated that “True Grit” and other abilities can be unlocked using “adventure points,” which the player can earn by taking part in activities such as snapping camera photos and completing optional missions. Gustaffson and Torvenius were coy about giving more details about these optional missions other than suggesting that some locations are more open than others, which would allow players to deviate from the golden path.
The Giza scenario concluded the gameplay portion of the presentation, which was followed by a series of questions from fellow journalists and me. To quickly summarize some of the more salient points covered here, I’ll suffice to write that Gustaffsson and Torvenius spoke about the transition from Wolfenstein as being a “big step” for MachineGames and that The Great Circle, which they confirmed is still slated for this year, is ‘by far the biggest’ project for them yet.
Lastly, and more interestingly to me, when asked whether they ever considered making Indiana Jones and the Great Circle in the third person, Gustafsson responded that ‘first person was the obvious choice for us’ and that it represented something ‘very important for us and for the way we make games in general.’
This last quote by Gustafsson strongly indicates to me that MachineGames is sticking to their guns and to what they do best, which would be rather commendable if it didn’t make me nervous for Indiana Jones and the Great Circle. This is because, ultimately, I’m not convinced that an unabashedly MachineGames title is a right fit for a franchise like Indiana Jones. To be clear, everything I’ve been shown at this digital event suggests that Indiana Jones and the Great Circle will be a great entry in the studio’s portfolio, but I am unsure whether or not it will prove to be the kind of game that the typical Indiana Jones fan expects.
“As of right now, Indiana Jones and The Great Circle seems like a gamble, especially at a time when both the storied franchise and Xbox Studios are looking for a surefire hit.”
Speaking for myself, when I think about Indiana Jones video games, I think first and foremost about Emperor’s Tomb, which was created with an entirely different set of guiding principles than Indiana Jones and the Great Circle. I suppose, then, that the million-dollar question here is: will players, myself included, accept a different kind of Indy experience? Even after a lengthy preview, I’m still not sure that the answer is a definitive yes. As of right now, Indiana Jones and The Great Circle seems like a gamble, especially at a time when both the storied franchise and Xbox Studies are looking for a surefire hit.
Indiana Jones and the Great Circle is set to release on Dec 9, 2024 on Xbox Series X|S, Windows and Steam. Available day one for Game Pass subscribers. A Playstation release was also announced today, for spring 2025.
Publisher Bethesda Softworks and developer MachineGames have announced that Indiana Jones and the Great Circle will launch on December 9 for Xbox Series X/S and PC via Steam and Microsoft Store. It will also be free for Xbox Game Pass subscribers. The game will also launch for PlayStation 5. A release date trailer narrated by Troy Baker showing several gameplay elements including brawling, traversal, and puzzle solving was also released.
The game’s details:
Uncover one of history’s greatest mysteries in Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, a first-person, single-player adventure set between the events of Raiders of the Lost Ark and The Last Crusade. The year is 1937, sinister forces are scouring the globe for the secret to an ancient power connected to the Great Circle, and only one person can stop them—Indiana Jones. You’ll become the legendary archaeologist in this cinematic action-adventure game from MachineGames, the award-winning studio behind the recent Wolfenstein series, and executive produced by Hall of Fame game designer Todd Howard.
You Are Indiana Jones
Live the adventure as Indy in a thrilling story full of exploration, immersive action, and intriguing puzzles. As the brilliant archaeologist—famed for his keen intellect, cunning resourcefulness, and trademark humor—you will travel the world in a race against enemy forces to discover the secrets to one of the greatest mysteries of all time.
A World of Mystery Awaits
Travel from the halls of Marshall College to the heart of the Vatican, the pyramids of Egypt, the sunken temples of Sukhothai, and beyond. When a break-in in the dead of night ends in a confrontation with a mysterious colossal man, you must set out to discover the world-shattering secret behind the theft of a seemingly unimportant artifact. Forging new alliances and facing familiar enemies, you’ll engage with intriguing characters, use guile and wits to solve ancient riddles, and survive intense set-pieces.
Whip-Cracking Action
Indiana’s trademark whip remains at the heart of his gear and can be used to distract, disarm, and attack enemies. But the whip isn’t just a weapon, it’s Indy’s most valuable tool for navigating the environment. Swing over unsuspecting patrols and scale walls as you make your way through a striking world. Combine stealth infiltration, melee combat, and gunplay to combat the enemy threat and unravel the mystery.
The Spirit of Discovery
Venture through a dynamic mix of linear, narrative-driven gameplay and open-area maps. Indulge your inner explorer and unearth a world of fascinating secrets, deadly traps and fiendish puzzles, where anything could potentially hide the next piece of the mystery—or snakes. Why did it have to be snakes?
A release date for Indiana Jones and the Great Circle has been announced. The game will be released for PC and Xbox Series X/S on December 9, 2024, plus a PS5 release in 2025.
The release date for Indiana Jones and the Great Circle was announced alongside a new trailer led by Troy Baker. The ubiquitous voice actor will be portraying the famous archaeologist in the game. In the trailer, we got to see snippets of gameplay, including the combat making use of brawling, shooting and Indy's iconic whip. Some puzzle gameplay was also shown off, including the use of photgraphy to help solve these challenges.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=STrKl828Aeg
Indiana Jones and the Great Circle was first announced in a teaser by developer MachineGames in 2021. The game initally appeared to be an Xbox exclusive following Microsoft's acquisition of Bethesda, and since been shown off in Xbox presentations such as the January 2024 Developer Direct and Xbox Games Showcase in June 2024. It is the latest of a long line of Indiana Jones games, from LucasArts point-and-click adventures in the 1980s to the Lego Indiana Jones games of more recent years.
Indiana Jones and the Great Circle will release on Xbox Series X/S and PC on December 9, 2024. It will also release on PS5 in Spring 2025.
A release date for Indiana Jones and the Great Circle has been announced. The game will be released for PC and Xbox Series X/S on December 9, 2024, plus a PS5 release in 2025.
The release date for Indiana Jones and the Great Circle was announced alongside a new trailer led by Troy Baker. The ubiquitous voice actor will be portraying the famous archaeologist in the game. In the trailer, we got to see snippets of gameplay, including the combat making use of brawling, shooting and Indy's iconic whip. Some puzzle gameplay was also shown off, including the use of photgraphy to help solve these challenges.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=STrKl828Aeg
Indiana Jones and the Great Circle was first announced in a teaser by developer MachineGames in 2021. The game initally appeared to be an Xbox exclusive following Microsoft's acquisition of Bethesda, and since been shown off in Xbox presentations such as the January 2024 Developer Direct and Xbox Games Showcase in June 2024. It is the latest of a long line of Indiana Jones games, from LucasArts point-and-click adventures in the 1980s to the Lego Indiana Jones games of more recent years.
Indiana Jones and the Great Circle will release on Xbox Series X/S and PC on December 9, 2024. It will also release on PS5 in Spring 2025.
A new land vehicle, the REV-8, is coming to Starfield in a free update. This was revealed at Gamescom Opening Night Live 2024 in a teaser trailer.
The REV-8 is a land vehicle that will allow players to drive around on planets at high speed. While the vehicle looks a lot like a moon buggy, it appears to handle like a sports car. The trailer shows the REV-8 drifting around moons and alien planets. It also has jet boosters underneath that allow it to jump and the ability to shoot while driving. The new vehicle will be coming to Starfield in a free update later today.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rA1z1DbA_Io
While the Gamescom announcement focused on the new vehicle, there was also a teaser for the Shattered Space DLC expansion at the end. While little was shown in this latest look, a release date of September 30, 2024 was confirmed. More news is likely to arrive during Xbox's own streams, where Starfield is confirmed to appear on August 21, 2024.
Starfield is out now for PC and Xbox Series X/S. The REV-8 vehicle update arrives today.
NVIDIA has announced that Indiana Jones and the Great Circle will support Full Ray Tracing and DLSS 3.5. By Full Ray Tracing, NVIDIA obviously means that the devs will use Ray Tracing for more than one effect. As such, we can expect ray-traced global illumination, shadows, reflections and ambient occlusion. As NVIDIA noted: “Players will … Continue reading Indiana Jones and the Great Circle will support Full Ray Tracing & DLSS 3.5→
Indiana Jones and the Great Circle is supposed to be the big console and Game Pass exclusive for Xbox this fall, but it won’t be long until it comes to PlayStation 5 too, according to new reports. The port has been rumored for months and is the latest Xbox game to lose exclusivity amid Microsoft’s new multiplatform…
Nový herní přehled upozorňuje na exotické a smrtící lokace, do kterých se Indy vydává, a na nástroje, které bude při svém dobrodružství používat.
Hra Indiana Jones and the Great Circle od MachineGames se dočkala nového gameplaye, v němž herec Troy Baker hovoří o různých aspektech této akční adventury. Asi nejdůležitější je, že vývojáři také potvrdili datum vydání 9. prosince pro Xbox Series X/S, ale to není vše.
Hra Indiana Jones and the Great Circle bude rovněž uvedena na trh na jaře 2025 pro systém PS5, jak se před touto událostí proslýchalo. Pokud budeme vycházet z obvyklého data ukončení sezóny, mohla by hra vyjít již 21. března 2025, nebo až 21. června. Jako vždy zůstaňte naladěni na další podrobnosti.
Za zmínku stojí i předvedená hratelnost, kdy Indy cestuje po světě od pouštních jeskyní plných škorpiónů až po husté lesy při honbě za Velkým kruhem. Pokud vám klaustrofobická uzavřenost některých oblastí nestačí, jsou tu i rozsáhlé otevřené oblasti s různými tajemstvími k objevení. Hráči budou pomocí Indyho kamery hledat stopy a zaznamenávat je do jeho deníku.
To samozřejmě není pro titul vše, protože se 23. srpna objeví také během livestreamu Xbox Gamescom 2024.
Chystaná akční adventura z pohledu první osoby bude uvedena jako časově omezená exkluzivita pro Xbox Series X/S a PC letos v prosinci a příští rok se prý objeví i na PS5.
Několik nedávných úniků naznačilo, že v blízké budoucnosti budou oznámeny další významné multiplatformní tituly pro Xbox od první strany, přičemž jedno oznámení je obzvláště blízko, a zdá se, že nyní možná víme, o jaké oznámení půjde. Zdá se, že chystaná hra Indiana Jones and the Great Circle bude oznámena pro systém PS5.
To tvrdí prominentní zasvěcenec NateTheHate, který nedávno na Twitteru uvedl, že hra Indiana Jones and the Great Circle vyjde v prosinci tohoto roku jako časově omezená exkluzivita pro Xbox Series X/S a PC a někdy v první polovině roku 2025 vyjde také pro PS5.
Zda o tom brzy uslyšíme oficiálně, se teprve uvidí, ale tuto možnost bychom nepodceňovali. Je potvrzeno, že hra se zítra, 20. srpna, objeví na Gamescom Opening Night Live, kde bude údajně oznámeno i datum vydání hry, takže je přinejmenším pravděpodobné, že se v dohledné době dozvíme i o plánech na uvedení hry na PlayStation.
MachineGames' Indiana Jones and the Great Circle will release on Xbox & PC this holiday (Dec) as a timed console exclusive.
After this timed-exclusive window expires, Indiana Jones & the Great Circle is planned to come to PlayStation 5 in the first half of 2025. pic.twitter.com/xsi0Hf4WrT
Od jeho představení na začátku letošního roku víme, že Indiana Jones and the Great Circle má vyjít někdy v roce 2024, ale konkrétní datum vydání zůstávalo neznámé.
V průběhu roku si mnozí kladli otázku, zda se akční dobrodružný titul neodloží – i když se zdá, že tomu tak nakonec nebude.
To tvrdí Tom Henderson z Insider Gaming, který ve své zprávě uvedl, že Indiana Jones and the Great Circle vyjde v roce 2024 a že datum vydání bude oznámeno na Gamescom Opening Night Live, které je naplánováno na 20. srpna. Nedávno bylo oficiálně potvrzeno, že společnosti MachineGames a Bethesda se příští týden na této akci podělí o nový pohled na hru.
Pokud jde o datum vydání, podle dřívějších zpráv se počítá s prosincovým uvedením na trh, takže pokud se plány nezměnily, bude pravděpodobně příští týden oficiálně potvrzeno i toto datum.
Až bude hra Indiana Jones and the Great Circle uvedena na trh, bude k dispozici na konzolích Xbox Series X/S a PC.
Moderátor Gamescom Opening Night Live Geoff Keighley potvrdil, že hra Indiana Jones and the Great Circle od MachineGames dostane na veletrhu „novou podobu“.
Co to znamená, se teprve uvidí, ale po zvěstech o prosincovém uvedení na trh by mohlo dojít k oznámení data vydání.
Velký kruh se odehrává v roce 1937 a vychází z legendární filmové série (po filmu Poslední křížová výprava). Archeolog a dobrodruh Indiana Jones se zaplete do titulní záhady, která se odehrává na různých místech světa, například v Egyptě, Thajsku a Himálaji. Konfrontace v posledně jmenovaném byla odhalena na Xbox Games Showcase letos v červnu.
Navzdory některým scénám z pohledu třetí osoby se ve skutečnosti jedná o titul z pohledu první osoby. Hráči se budou plížit, používat Indyho charakteristický bič a řešit hádanky (včetně některých nepovinných). Navzdory filmové prezentaci působí méně skriptovaným dojmem a klade důraz na hráčovu volbu.
Hra Indiana Jones and the Great Circle vychází později v tomto roce pro Xbox Series X/S a PC.
Watch @gamescom Opening Night Live for a new look at Indiana Jones and the Great Circle on Tuesday, August 20.
When Indiana Jones and the Great Circle releases later this year, one thing is for sure: The Great Circle will certainly encompass a genuine rendition of Indiana Jones. During today's Gamescom Opening Night Live, developer MachineGames and publisher Bethesda Softworks showed off various elements of gameplay and confirmed the action adventure title will release on Xbox Series X|S and PC on December 9, 2024 as a timed console exclusive before coming to PS5 in Spring 2025.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=STrKl828Aeg
For the first time, we got an extensive look at the gameplay that will take place in the all-new handcraft Indiana Jones story coming in The Great Circle. At its core, the name of the game in The Great Circle will be stealth. Often times it looks as though there will be plenty of enemies between Indy and his destination, making the quiet unseen route the safest and most reliable option. But when things get hairy, Indy will have options.
Using his signature trusty whip, players will be able to smack around, disoriented, crowd control, and subdue enemies. Every location will also have a variety of objects that the player can interact with and use to assist them in combat as well, ranging from actual weapons including firearms to random knick-knacks to throw at the enemy.
Based on the trailer, it looks as though we'll be exploring a variety of detailed environments and solving interesting puzzles to crack the code of The Great Circle.
Indiana Jones and the Great Circle is set to release on December 9, 2024 on Xbox Series X|S and PC. It will later release on PS5 in Spring 2025.
With the Creation Kit and Year 2 DLC already in tow, it's obvious that Starfield isn't going anywhere anytime soon. However, if you've been keeping track of its Nexus page, you may have noticed that it's not that impressive. As it turns out, Bethesda's own Creations interface might be responsible.
Historically, mainline Bethesda games have proliferated on the Nexus Mods website, where the vast majority of their respective mods were hosted and freely accessible for anyone to install. Skyrim and Fallout 4's Bethesda modding platform, Creations, were often overlooked in lieu of Nexus to the point of effective irrelevance on PC. With Starfield, however, the situation appears to be quite the opposite, as modders themselves chimed in on this Reddit thread explaining how the tides have turned.
Modders confirm: Starfield Creations is way more popular than Nexus
According to modders Nosism123, tjacayne, and Cole-train99, Creations is absolutely the place to be if you're a Starfield modder. They all responded to KrabbitNL's Reddit thread explaining that, while Nexus downloads are surprisingly low for Starfield, they're all getting way more downloads from Bethesda's official Creations platform.
The differences between Nexus and Creations are remarkable, though they do make way more sense when you consider that Creations is also available on Xbox, while Nexus is a dedicated PC platform through-and-through.
It's not that it doesn't make sense that there'd be such a stark difference between Creations and Nexus, either. It's just that it's historically unprecedented, and this is the first time that a first-party in-game modding platform has beaten Nexus proper when it comes to mainline Bethesda game mod downloads.
Now, to be perfectly fair, even though Creations is a powerful modding platform in its own right, Nexus remains the go-to spot for the modding community on PC. Notably, Creations does not have a proper forum or even a way to discuss specific mods with other users, and the Creations' implementation of Script Extender mods can be quite iffy.
To that end, PC players interested in modding Starfield will want to step out of Creations every so often, at the very least. For example, even though powerful mods such as "Ship Vendor Framework" did make their way onto Creations, the arguably more important POI randomizer "Bedlam" isn't there just yet, and there's no telling if it'll drop in anytime soon.
So, ideally, you'll be using both of these platforms anyhow, but keep in mind that Creations is the more mainstream solution for the time being. Funny, how these things sometimes work out!
Společnost Microsoft nabídla další pohled na hru Indiana Jones and the Great Circle na své prezentaci Xbox Games Showcase na začátku tohoto měsíce, ale i když jsme se dočkali nového traileru a rozšířeného pohledu na cutscénu, ze samotného hraní jsme viděli jen málo. Bethesda to však alespoň trochu napravila sdílením nové ukázky ze hry.
Na Twitteru se společnost pochlubila krátkým klipem, který se podle všeho odehrává na palubě stejné staré zamrzlé lodi, kde se odehrávala výše zmíněná cutscéna. Důraz je zde kladen na stealth, kdy Indy sebere cihlu a hodí ji, aby odlákal pozornost strážného, načež se připlíží k dalšímu a nenápadně ho zlikviduje několika údery kladiva. Podívejte se na to níže.
Hra Indiana Jones and the Great Circle by měla vyjít někdy v tomto roce pro Xbox Series X/S a PC a po vydání bude k dispozici také prostřednictvím služby Game Pass. Konkrétní datum vydání zatím nebylo oznámeno, ale podle úniků se hra objeví na trhu letos v prosinci.
Tvůrčí ředitel hry DOOM: The Dark Ages Hugo Martin prozradil, že hra byla navržena spíše jako přímý nástupce původního DOOMa než jako pokračování DOOM Eternal. V rozhovoru pro server GamesRadar Martin hovořil o tom, že hraní hry DOOM: The Dark Age bude zcela odlišné od jejího přímého předchůdce.
Jedním z klíčových faktorů, pokud jde o boj s démony ve hře DOOM: The Dark Ages, je skutečnost, že chystaná střílečka klade větší důraz na vyhýbání se nepřátelským projektilům než předchozí hry, čímž se duchem blíží původnímu DOOMu. To znamená, že nepřátelské projektily se pohybují pomalu, takže hráči mají čas vyhnout se zásahu, když se snaží zmenšit vzdálenost.
„Hned jsem si všiml, jak pomalu se ty projektily pohybují – prostě mi došlo, že to je to bludiště,“ řekl Martin, když mluvil o tom, jak hraní původního DOOMa pomohlo studiu při navrhování hry DOOM: The Dark Ages. „Pohyb je více horizontální, když se proplétáte mezi projektily, a v původním DOOMu záleželo na každém projektilu.“
Martin dále hovořil o tom, že zatímco v DOOM Eternal byl kladen důraz na vertikalitu, DOOM: The Dark Ages se naopak zaměří na to, aby hráči měli k dispozici více nepřátel k zabíjení ve větších arénách. Rozdíl mezi hraním obou her přirovnal k přechodu ze stíhačky F22 na tank Abrams.
„Pokud jste v DOOM Eternal byli stíhačkou F22, tentokrát jsme chtěli, abyste se cítili jako tank Abrams,“ řekl Martin. „To znamená, že jste silnější a uzemnění. Bojový systém pro nové hráče – ty, kteří se k DOOMu dostali až s restartem – myslím, že s ním budou mít pocit, že jde o přepracovaný bojový systém. Ale dlouholetí fanoušci série, lidé, kteří hráli původní DOOM, uvidí, že je to opravdu návrat do formy.“
Martin upřesnil, že hráči zjistí, že jsou v DOOM: The Dark Ages mnohem pomalejší a více se drží při zemi, ale zároveň jsou také těžší a silnější. Studio bude klást větší důraz na pohyb po zemi tím, že hráči budou mít k dispozici strafe pro přesnější míření.
„Jsi těžší, silnější a uzemněný,“ řekl Martin. „Znovu se snažíme o to, aby se dalo střílet na cíl. Budete kličkovat mezi projektily, stejně jako v původním DOOMu, abyste mohli zasáhnout hrudník Super Shotgunem… Vytváří to téměř trojrozměrnou ‚shoot ‚em up‘ skládačku, kterou se proplétáte.“
Martin dále hovořil o tom, že ve hře DOOM: The Dark Ages budou hráči bojovat s větším počtem démonů, než kdykoli předtím, a to díky větším plochým arénám, které budou hustěji osídleny nepřáteli, jimiž se hráči budou moci prodírat.
„Máme více démonů než kdykoli předtím,“ řekl. „Je tam záběr, kdy Zabiják zahne za roh a zabije jich tolik. Použití té roztahovací brokovnice a způsobení všeho toho poškození, se všemi odletujícími kousky gore a zpětnou vazbou, které nyní můžeme ve hrách dosáhnout, je prostě neuvěřitelné Je tak vzrušující, že to můžeme hráčům poskytnout.“
„Tato technologie nám skutečně umožňuje udělat jedny z největších prostorů a největší AI a zbraně působí jako ty nejsilnější, jaké jste kdy ve hře DOOM drželi v ruce.“
Velký počet nepřátel, s nimiž mohou hráči bojovat, pramení také z toho, že se společnosti id Software podařilo optimalizovat umělou inteligenci ve hře na neuvěřitelnou úroveň. Martin dokonce říká, že podle něj už neexistuje reálný limit pro počet monster, která se mohou účastnit boje.
„Myslím, že počet AI na obrazovce je… ani si nemyslím, že v tuto chvíli existuje nějaký limit, je to šílené,“ řekl. „Pořád čekám, kdy od programátorů uslyším ‚ne‘, a oni to tentokrát neřekli. Mám pocit, že po technické stránce jsme napříč celým týmem dostali možnost udělat tu nejlepší hru. Poslední dvě rebootované hry DOOM na to navazovaly – v minulosti jsme určitě měli omezení a teď prostě nemám pocit, že by tam byla. S každou hrou se ale snažíme navázat na úspěch té předchozí a vzít si z ní to správné ponaučení.“
Na závěr se Martin rozpovídal o některých zbraních ve hře DOOM: The Dark Ages a o tom, že budou představovat velkou změnu oproti tomu, na co byli hráči zvyklí u her DOOM (2016) a DOOM Eternal. Velkou součástí hry DOOM: The Dark Ages bude zejména štítová pila, kterou jsme mohli poměrně často vidět v odhalovacím traileru.
„Štít budete mít neustále v ruce – v podstatě budete mít dvě zbraně,“ řekl Martin. „Chci, aby se hráči cítili jako Aragorn nebo Leonidas u horké brány 300 let. Jste hrdinou masivní bitvy v FPS, v neméně masivní hře DOOM. Prostě jsem měl pocit, že to bude pro tým opravdu zábavná výzva, a myslím, že jsme ji splnili.“
„Se štítem se dá dělat spousta věcí. Můžete blokovat útoky, můžete parírovat střely, jsou tu zbraně pro boj zblízka, se kterými můžete kombinovat útoky – používáte ho k řešení problémů. V podstatě využíváte slabin štítem v levé ruce a pak zraňujete věci zbraněmi v pravé ruce. Je to docela jednoduché.“
Hra DOOM: The Dark Ages byla oznámena o víkendu. Na PC, PS5 a Xbox Series X/S se objeví v roce 2025.
Xbox Games Showcase 2024: Every Announcement and Reveal
Jerret West, Chief Marketing Officer, Xbox
The Xbox Games Showcase 2024 showed players everywhere that they have a ton of games to look forward to. Fans of Activision, Bethesda, Blizzard, Xbox Game Studios, or the countless partners building for Xbox were treated to a peek at what’s coming for their favorite franchises and new games alike.
Players can look forward to incredible returns to beloved series with Gears of War: E-Dayand Doom: The Dark Ages, fresh looks at the likes of State of Decay 3, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle,Perfect Dark,andSouth of Midnight, a reveal for Starfield: Shattered Space, and much more. The show even extended to Azeroth, with the release date reveal of The War Within, the next expansion for World of Warcraft.
And from our partners, there was a world-first look at gameplay from Assassin’s Creed Shadows, an introduction to your future party members in the greatly anticipated Dragon Age: The Veilguard, an exciting look at the return of Big Boss in Metal Gear Solid Δ: Snake Eater, not to mention some incredible debuts with the likes of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, Atomfall, and Winter Burrow, among many others.
Plus, we brought you a first reveal of new Xbox hardware with the announcement of three new Xbox Series X|S console options joining our current lineup this holiday, featuring the same speed and performance with more design, storage, and price options to fit your needs.
And on top of all that, we also brought the gameplay reveal of a brand-new Call of Duty game with Call of Duty: Black Ops 6– and we’re following it up with Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 Direct, offering you an enormous deep-dive into the game. If you can’t tune in live, make sure to check back for a full rundown of what was announced in the second part of our enormous double feature.
This is far from everything we have to show you – all this week, the Official Xbox Podcast will air podcasts from Monday, June 10th, featuring discussions with developers and even deeper looks at some of the exciting games from the show. It all starts tomorrow with an extended gameplay look atAvowed, on Xbox’s YouTube channel and podcast services, followed by Metal Gear Solid Δ: Snake Eater on Tuesday. If reading’s more your speed, every episode will be detailed in an Xbox Wire post breaking down what was revealed.
But that’s all still to come. For the time being, here’s every single announcement and reveal from Xbox Games Showcase 2024:
Upcoming Titles from Activision, Bethesda, Blizzard, and Xbox Game Studios
Age of Mythology: Retold – World’s Edge Presents its First-ever Gameplay Trailer
Xbox Series X|S, Windows PC, Steam and cloud, or play it day one with Game Pass
World’s Edge – the award-winning studio behind the Age of Empires franchise – showcased a trailer of truly mythical proportions: with a first look at gameplay from the upcoming Age of Mythology: Retold.
Age of Mythology: Retold will combine the best elements of the beloved Age of Mythology (2002) with modern real-time strategy design, visuals and gameplay. The newly premiered trailer at Xbox Showcase 2024 revealed the first gameplay footage, showing off exciting action and divine powers, as well as some newly redesigned deity portraits. The World’s Edge team also confirmed the launch date for Age of Mythology: Retold – September 4, 2024 – and that this will be the first title in the Age of Empires franchise to ship on both PC and console at launch.
Age of Mythology: Retold is available to pre-order now.
Avowed Offers a New Look at its Captivating Story
Xbox Series X|S, Windows PC, Steam and cloud, or play it day one with Game Pass
This year, brace yourself for an expedition into the uncharted wilds of the Living Lands in Obsidian Entertainment’s Avowed. In a brand-new story trailer, we learned more about the incredible journey we’ll be taking later this year, and met Giatta, one of the game’s four companions. As an envoy of the Aedyran Empire, you’re tasked with stopping the Dreamscourge, a mysterious blight wreaking havoc on the tumultuous frontier. Your soul hangs in the balance as you navigate the chaos of the Living Lands and embrace its wonders. Prepare for an expedition into the perilous, captivating, and utterly bizarre unknown where you will forge your destiny and shape the fate of the frontier.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 Direct Reveals Campaign, Multiplayer and Zombies Details
Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows PC, Steam, Battle.net, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, or play it day one with Game Pass
It’s official: Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, the latest addition to the popular Call of Duty franchise, is set to arrive on October 25. Developed by Treyarch and Raven Software, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 is a spy action thriller where nothing is as what it seems. In this mind-bending narrative set in the early 1990s, a shadowy force has infiltrated the U.S. government and players will be forced to go rogue for the first time.
In addition to a compelling new campaign, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 features new innovations like Omnimovement, giving players the ability to sprint, slide, and dive in any direction and move like a Black Ops action hero across all game modes. Including the return of Classic Prestige, Theater Mode, and of course Round-Based Zombies, there’s something for everyone.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 launches on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, and PC on October 25. Play it day one on select Xbox Game Pass plans (Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass PC, Game Pass Console).
Doom: The Dark Ages Comes to Xbox in 2025
Xbox Series X|S, Windows PC, Steam, PlayStation 5, or play it day one with Game Pass
Revealed worldwide today, Doom: The Dark Ages heralds the return of the unstoppable Doom Slayer in this upcoming single-player, dark fantasy action FPS from the legendary id Software.
The prequel to Doom (2016), Doom: The Dark Ages puts players behind the visor of the mighty Slayer as they battle demonic hordes in grounded, hard-hitting combat inside an epic, cinematic tale of gods, kings and monsters. Supplementing his superhuman skills and over-the-top arsenal, the Slayer will also call upon his colossal Atlan mech to brawl with titanic beasts and retake the skies aboard his ferocious steed: a jet-fueled, cybernetic war dragon.
Don your Shotgun, Shield Saw and Flail and charge headfirst into battle in 2025 when Doom: The Dark Ages arrives on Xbox Game Pass, Xbox Series X|S and PC. Add Doom: The Dark Ages to your wishlist via the Microsoft Store.
Playground Games Asks ‘What Does It Mean to be a Hero?’ in the Next Installment of its Fable Trailer Series
Xbox Series X|S, Windows PC, and Steam, or play it day one with Xbox Game Pass
What does it mean to be a hero? In last year’s trailer, that question was answered by Dave, a gardener-turned-giant with a chip on his shoulder. This year, we get a much darker take from Humphry, played by the British comedy actor Matt King. Humphry was once Albion’s greatest Hero, but those glory days are long gone. In Fable, Humphry will be forced out of retirement when a mysterious figure from his past threatens the very existence of Albion.
Playground Games also confirmed its collaboration with Eidos Montreal, who will be supporting the ongoing development of Fable, which will be coming to players in 2025. For Wishlist and more, visit xbox.com/fable.
E-Day Marks a New Dawn for Gears of War
Gears of War: E-Day is the next mainline game in the Gears of War universe, set during the pivotal Emergence Day. Fourteen years before Gears of War, war heroes Marcus Fenix and Dom Santiago return home to face a new nightmare: the Locust Horde. These subterranean monsters, grotesque and relentless, erupt from below, laying siege on humanity itself.
In the announce trailer for the series’ next major installment, The Coalition has teamed up with Blur Studio to forge a visually stunning trailer using in-game assets in Unreal Engine 5. It features a new instrumental version of ‘Mad World,’ originally performed by Gary Jules for the iconic 2006 commercial, now brilliantly reimagined by the game’s composer Adam Lastiwka. The trailer made its debut in 4K resolution and 30 FPS with 5.1 stereo sound. These specs, optimized for streaming, do not represent the final game’s performance.
New Trailer for Indiana Jones and the Great Circle
Xbox Series X|S, Windows PC, Steam, or play it day one on Game Pass
Become the famous archaeologist and face off against sinister forces as you fight to uncover the truth behind one of history’s greatest mysteries in Indiana Jones and the Great Circle. Brand new gameplay and a scene from a pivotal moment in the game were debuted during the Xbox Showcase. An intercepted message sends Indy and Gina to the Himalayas where their treacherous trek through the mountains leads them to a startling discovery.
Play Indiana Jones and the Great Circle day one on Game Pass when it launches later this year on Xbox Series X|S and PC.
Take to the Skies on November 19 with the All-New Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024
Xbox Series X|S, Windows PC, Steam, cloud, or play it day one with Xbox Game Pass
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 is the next installment in the Microsoft Flight Simulator franchise. It is the most ambitious consumer flight simulator ever undertaken. It features the largest, most diverse and detailed fleet of aircraft, the most complete representation of airports and air traffic, and the most visually stunning rendition of Earth ever created.
This brand-new simulator is designed to take advantage of the latest technologies in simulation, cloud, machine learning, graphics and gaming. Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 goes beyond merely operating the aircraft; it will allow simmers to pursue their dream of an aviation career.
With features like aerial firefighting, search and rescue, commercial flights, remote cargo ops, VIP charter service, air racing, and more, simmers will not only be experiencing the joy of flight, but also dive into the pilot career they always dreamed of. The sky is calling! Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 takes off on PC and Xbox Series X|S on November 19, and will be available with Game Pass on console, PC, and cloud on day one.
Perfect Dark Unveils First Look at Gameplay in New Trailer
Today, we got a first look at gameplay from Perfect Dark, The Initiative’s highly anticipated reboot of the secret agent series featuring the iconic Joanna Dark.
In the near future, Earth is struck by a series of global disasters, bringing ecosystems around the world to the verge of collapse. In the all-new Perfect Dark game, you experience the journey of Joanna Dark, dataDyne’s elite agent, as she hunts down the world’s most wanted criminal, Daniel Carrington, to uncover the mysteries behind the technological breakthroughs that could threaten the lives of millions of people.
The new trailer showed us Joanna’s descent into the game’s Cairo setting, offered us a glimpse at the mysteries behind this near-future ecological sci-fi story, and introduced us to a game that blends fluid traversal, gadgets, close-quarters combat, gunplay, stealth, and more to create the ultimate secret agent experience.
South of Midnight Shows Off First Gameplay – and the Monstrous Two-Toed Tom
Xbox Series X|S, Windows PC, Steam, cloud, or play it on day one with Xbox Game Pass
South of Midnight – the beautiful third-person action-adventure game from We Happy Few creators Compulsion Games – showed off its first gameplay trailer during the show, ahead of its launch in 2025. We meet Hazel and her newly-revealed companion, Catfish, as they travel through a flooded area inspired by the Mississippi Delta – and quickly find themselves facing down one of the game’s monster Kings. Meet Two-Toed Tom, a gigantic albino alligator with a powerful hunger, and even his own theme song.
The trailer offers a look at combat and traversal, showing off Hazel’s magical weaving powers, and gives us a taste of the game’s darkly gorgeous Deep South setting. We were lucky enough to sit down with South of Midnight’s developers and dive even deeper on the game – check out our exclusive interview on Xbox Wire.
Open World Zombie Survival Game State of Decay 3 Unveils New Trailer
Today at Xbox Games Showcase, Undead Labs revealed a new trailer for State of Decay 3, giving us a closer look at the ambitious open world zombie survival game. This follow-up to fan-favorite State of Decay 2 represents a huge leap forward for the series and the studio.
In State of Decay 3, the game’s world is now years into the apocalypse, with an evolving zombie threat taking over the landscape. You must fight back and reclaim lost ground, carving out a life for your community of survivalist homesteaders. Fans of the series might pick up on nods to some franchise staples in the new trailer: brutal combat; cooperatively battling back threats to the survivor group; permadeath; opening a car door on a zombie while speeding down the road. But the more you watch it, the more you can see hints at how State of Decay 3 will be the most ambitious game Undead Labs has ever envisioned. To learn more, check out Xbox Wire’s exclusive interview feature.
World Premieres and New Games from Our Partners
Assassin’s Creed Shadows’ First Gameplay Glimpse Revealed
Xbox Series X|S (see developer website for other platforms)
Assassin’s Creed Shadows launches on November 15 for Xbox Series X|S, giving players a chance to explore 16th Century Japan as Naoe, an adept shinobi from the province of Iga; and Yasuke, a powerful samurai and Assassin’s Creed’s first fully playable historical figure. Today’s gameplay trailer gave fans their first glimpse at what’s new in Assassin’s Creed Shadows – we saw how the two protagonists, Yasuke and Naoe will differ (and complement one another) in equipment and abilities, as well as the game’s wider world, and Shadows’ changing seasons. Stay tuned for a full gameplay walkthrough reveal tomorrow during Ubisoft Forward (starting at 12pm PT / 3pm ET / 8pm UK).
Survive, Explore and Uncover the Truth in Atomfall
Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows PC, or play it day one with Game Pass (see developer website for other platforms)
Set in the rolling British countryside with idyllic pubs, quaint villages, and red phone boxes, it soon becomes clear that things are far from normal. Created by Rebellion, the makers of the much-loved Sniper Elite and Zombie Army franchises, Atomfall is inspired by a real-world nuclear disaster that occurred in northern England in 1957. The game follows a fictional storyline where you find yourself in the quarantine zone five years after the event.
Explore the countryside, villages, and settlements and meet odd people, wicked cults, rogue government agencies and others along the way. Explore this open world adventure and seek out the truth at your own pace. A single player, survival-action game, Atomfall blends post-war Britain with Cold War paranoia, folk horror, and elements of classic British sci-fi to create an immersive and thrilling gameplay experience.
Atomfall will launch in 2025, coming to Game Pass on day one. It will also be available on Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One and PC. The studio will be revealing more about Atomfall soon.
Prepare to Fight for Your Life in Sandfall Interactive’s Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Xbox Series X|S, or play it day one with Game Pass (see developer website for other platforms)
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is an upcoming reactive turn-based RPG that will transport you to a beautiful, surrealist new world inspired by France’s La Belle Epoque – a period famous for its stunning and lavish contributions to the country’s world-renowned culture of art.
As a member of the Expeditioners, who are embarking on an impossible quest to end the Paintress’ cycle of death, you’ll journey through a vast and beautiful fantasy world where you’ll battle deadly adversaries, befriend fabled creatures, and discover traces of those who came before. You can wish list the game today on the Xbox Store and follow @Expedition33 on X (formally Twitter) to stay up to date.
Dragon Age: The Veilguard – Meet the Veilguard for the First Time in a New Trailer
Xbox Series X|S (see developer website for other platforms)
BioWare and Electronic Arts revealed a new trailer for Dragon Age: The Veilguard, where we meet your team of seven companions, each with their own rich story to discover and shape. Together, you will become The Veilguard.
Expanding upon the Dragon Age stories, worlds and characters from previous games, players will enter a vibrant land of rugged wilderness, treacherous labyrinths, and glittering cities – steeped in conflict and secret magics. Together with your companions, you will challenge a pair of corrupt ancient gods, who have broken free from centuries of darkness and are hellbent on destroying the world. Thedas needs someone they can count on, and that person is you. Rise as Rook, Dragon Age’s newest hero. Be who you want to be and play how you want to play as you fight to stop the gods from blighting the world. Find out more on Xbox Wire.
Souls-lite Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn Arrives With a Bang on July 18
Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows PC, or play it day one with Game Pass (see developer website for other platforms)
The long-awaited return from Ashen developer A44 is almost here – during the show, we announced that Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn will arrive on July 18. Set in the beleaguered world of Kian, you’ll guide Nor Vanek, a Flintlock weapons expert, on a quest to kill the rampaging gods that have invaded her world.
Blending classic Souls mechanics with a brutal, fast-paced combat system, Nor can use a combination of axe combat, flintlock weaponry, and magic, creating devastating combos – but you’ll need skill to survive. Pre-orders are open now, and a deluxe edition offers alternative outfits and weapon customization options.
FragPunk Explodes Into the Show
Xbox Series X|S, Windows PC(see developer website for other platforms)
Looking for a new competitive FPS? FragPunk is a frantic, squad-based, 5v5 hero shooter where you set the rules of engagement for every new round by activating power-up cards. With its debut at Xbox Games Showcase 2024, FragPunk rocks the hero shooter genre with fast-paced combat and a plethora of synergies and counterplays between over 70 shard cards, 10 heroes, 14 weapons and 4 maps!
Life Is Strange: Double Exposure Brings Back Our Original Star
Xbox Series X|S, Windows PC (see developer website for other platforms)
Life Is Strange: Double Exposure isn’t just a return for the beloved narrative adventure series, but a return for its original star, Max Caulfield. Several years after we guided her through Arcadia Bay, Double Exposure sees Max return later in her life, now an artist-in-residence at the prestigious Caledon University.
Unfortunately, calamity is never far away – Max’s friend Safi is killed, and we’ll be plunged into a full-on murder-mystery, with a supernatural twist. Max’s original power to rewind time has morphed into the ability to entirely Shift timelines, and we’ll be exploring two parallel realities – one where Safi is safe and well, and the other in the wake of her death – in order to discover the identity of her killer. Life Is Strange: Double Exposure arrives on October 29, and those who pre-order the Ultimate Edition will be able to play the first two chapters from October 15.
Mecha Break Revealed: Create Your Mech and Take It to War Together
Xbox Series X|S, Windows PC(see developer website for other platforms)
Mecha Break is a multiplayer mech-based shooter that allows players to choose from a variety of mechs, customize their appearances, and battle colossal war machines on treacherous terrain.
Prepare for adrenaline-pumping battles, lightning-fast maneuvers, and explosive firepower. Mecha Break’s Xbox Closed Beta will be coming to Xbox Series X in August 2024, and will be available to all players in 2025. Mecha Break features customizable mechs, player-created mech pilots, a wide array of mech and weapon types, and three distinct game modes — a 6v6 Battlefield mode, 3v3 Arena mode, and up to 60-player PvEvP mode — to put players in the pilot seat and create the ultimate mech showdown experience. Discover an array of attacker, brawler, defender, sniper, and support mechs, each with unique playstyles and toolsets. Players can personalize each mech with custom full-body paint jobs and upgrade attachments, enhancing their stats to suit their chosen playstyle.
For the upcoming August Closed Beta Test on Xbox Series X, the highlight game mode will be the 6v6 Battlefield mode. Work together with your team and engage in intense aerial and ground combat as you fight for the objective.
Metal Gear Solid Δ: Snake Eater Shows Its New Take on a Classic
Xbox Series X|S (see developer website for other platforms)
Metal Gear Solid Δ: Snake Eater creates a deeply immersive world with enhanced visuals and sounds, using the full potential of Unreal Engine 5 while keeping legacy controls and voice lines from the original title intact. A new third-person camera and control layout offers players an intuitive introduction to the beginning of the Metal Gear Solid saga as they step into the boots of Snake in a high-stakes, espionage thriller.
Mixtape: Nothing But the Hits – Coming 2025
Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows PC, cloud, or play it day one with Game Pass (see developer website for other platforms)
From Beethoven & Dinosaur, award-winning developers of The Artful Escape, comes Mixtape. On their last night of high school, three friends embark on one more adventure together. En route to their final party together, a perfectly-curated playlist draws them into dreamlike reenactments of their formative memories together.
Immerse yourself in the teenage wasteland, playing through a variety of narrative vignettes exploring the pivotal moments that shaped them. The story is delivered through a mixtape of comedic, joyful gameplay, from skateboarding and flying to taking photos after hours at an abandoned theme park, and much more. It’s the greatest hits of teenage friendship, from the first kiss to the last dance. Similar to games like What Remains of Edith Finch, Mixtape ties its narrative to a unique, vignette-driven structure that emphasizes variety, surprise, and comedy in its gameplay.
Featuring music from DEVO, Roxy Music, Lush, The Smashing Pumpkins, Iggy Pop, Siouxsie and the Banshees, Joy Division, and more. Mixtape effectively blends gameplay, narrative, and music. Join the crew on their last night together as they experience a mixtape of memories, set to the soundtrack of a generation.
S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl Reveals the Time of Opportunities Trailer
Xbox Series X|S, Windows PC, or play it day one with Game Pass (see developer website for other platforms)
The new trailer for S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl is here. Packed with brand-new reveals, this trailer showcases the array of experiences awaiting players, from locations to encounters with mutants and archanomalies. And hubs! Places to have some well-deserved rest and prepare your body and gear for the next intense mission.
In-game footage is mixed with narrative snippets, highlighting the prominence of the non-linear storyline in S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl. The Time of Opportunities trailer is aptly named, reflecting the boundless potential that awaits within this unforgiving landscape. How will you see the Zone? And how will She remember you?
This time, you’ll hear much more of the Ukrainian voiceover. Being a Ukrainian company, GSC Game World knows that many fans are eager to experience the game in Ukrainian with subtitles of their choice. The trailer is aimed to provide a better understanding of what this experience will feel like. The Time of Opportunities trailer kicks off a series of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 showcases throughout this summer. Please stay tuned for additional announcements.
Winter Burrow Is a Cozy Survival Experience Inspired By a Love of Nature
Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows PC, or play it day one with Game Pass (see developer website for other platforms)
Build your dream burrow and explore a charming, snow-coated open world in Winter Burrow, a cozy woodland survival game. As a tiny mouse, spend your days adventuring through brisk environments as you search for your lost aunty, and collect up resources to restore your childhood burrow.
Winter Burrow merges comfy, cozy game elements with challenging yet approachable survival merchanics. Spend time in your burrow, crafting cute decorations to make your surroundings feel homely, knit cozy clothing to stay warm in the cold weather, and make sure you’re prepared for those big days of foraging in the forests. To stay up to date on all things Winter Burrow, wishlist the game on the Xbox Store and follow Winter Burrow on Twitter.
Wuchang: Fallen Feathers Revealed – A Journey Into the Darkness of the Late Ming Dynasty
Xbox Series X|S, Windows PC, or play it day one with Game Pass (see developer website for other platforms)
Step into the dark and tumultuous land of Shu in Wuchang: Fallen Feathers. This soulslike action-RPG launches day one on Xbox Series X|S and immerses players in the dark late Ming Dynasty, a period rife with warring factions and a mysterious illness turning humans into monstrous creatures. You are Wuchang, a pirate warrior struck by amnesia and afflicted by Ornithropy, a horrific disease but the source of immense power. As you explore the depths of Shu, you’ll enhance your arsenal, master new skills harvested from fallen foes, and evolve your fighting style by sacrificing Red Mercury.
Battle against grotesque abominations, drawing on ancient lore to challenge the creeping darkness that threatens the humanity that remains. As you piece together Wuchang’s lost memories, your choices will lead you to one of several endings—each determined by the choices made, secrets unearthed and the allies you choose to trust. Will you reveal the truths of Wuchang’s curse and bring peace to Shu, or will you succumb to the encroaching horrors? The fate of the land rests in your hands. Nothing is Forever.
New Updates for Live Games
Diablo IV: Vessel of Hatred Releases October 8 – Pre-purchase Now and Get In-game Rewards Today
Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows PC, PC via Battle.net, Steam, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4
Prepare yourself for the next chapter of Diablo IV from Blizzard Entertainment: Vessel of Hatred, the game’s first expansion, emerges on October 8.
Unleash the power of the Spiritborn, a new class that harnesses the mystical spirits of the jungle for swift and devastating attacks. The hunt for Neyrelle begins anew as she strives to thwart Mephisto’s sinister plot. Dive into the jungle region of Nahantu, where new Dungeons, Strongholds, and enemies await, along with a new PvE co-op activity where you can team up to take down challenges for promising rewards. Plus, recruit new Mercenaries to aid you in your quest, grow in power as they progress, and help you in combat with their unique abilities.
Embrace the shadows on October 8! Vessel of Hatred is set to redefine your journey through Sanctuary. Pre-purchase now and unlock immediate in-game rewards. The darkness does not rest – neither should you.
The Elder Scrolls Online Invites You to Discover Tamriel in a New Trailer
Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows PC, Steam, Epic Games Store, cloud, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4
Celebrating a decade of adventures within Tamriel’s Second Era, The Elder Scrolls Online invites you to begin your epic story with a new trailer. Whether you’re an Elder Scrolls veteran or a newcomer to the series, you can explore an ever-growing world, party up with your fellow adventures, and discover why over 24 million players have now experienced the award-winning online RPG.
June also features the launch of ESO’s latest Chapter, The Elder Scrolls Online: Gold Road, now available on PC/Mac and coming June 18 on Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S consoles. Unravel the mystery of the return of the Forgotten Prince, unlock the Scribing System to create your own abilities, and delve into the region of West Weld, a part of Tamriel not seen since The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion. Visit elderscrollsonline.com for more on the Gold Road Chapter and the ongoing 10-Year Anniversary Celebration.
Fallout 76 Skyline Valley Release Date Announced With New Trailer
Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows PC, Steam, cloud, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, or play it day one with Game Pass
In Skyline Valley’s major expansion of the world map, you’ll cross the Savage Divide and travel to the southern reaches of Appalachia. This picturesque new region, Skyline Valley, introduces fresh locations to explore among the woodlands once known as Shenandoah National Park.
Seek out Vault 63 and uncover its mysteries. Learn the truth about the Lost, the electric Ghouls that inhabit the Vault, and their enigmatic overseer, Hugo Stolz. You’ll chase storms in Skyline Valley’s new Public Event, Dangerous Pastimes, and fight new region bosses, a monumental trifecta of Robo-brains. Skyline Valley comes to Fallout 76 on June 12.
Sea of Thieves Season 13 Update: Being Bad Can Sometimes Feel Good
Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows PC, Steam, cloud, PlayStation 5, Game Pass
Rare showed off their dark side with a fiery new Sea of Thieves trailer, heralding the return of Captain Flameheart and inviting players to become the boss fight. An all-new world event will pit pirates against Flameheart’s mighty flagship in order to seize it, raining fire on their foes with a skeleton crew at their command and reaping the rewards of their dastardly deeds. This thrilling new encounter is part of Sea of Thieves: Season 13, which arrives on July 25 as a free update for all players on Xbox, PC and PS5.
Starfield Shattered Space Reveal Trailer, Plus Highlights from the June Update
Xbox Series X|S, Windows PC, Steam, Game Pass
Deep in the dark reaches of space, the followers of the Great Serpent live shrouded in mystery. Begin an epic new story and explore House Va’ruun territory in Shattered Space, Starfield’s first major expansion. Watch the reveal trailer now and experience the story of House Va’ruun when Shattered Space launches later this year.
In addition to the first look at Shattered Space, highlights from Starfield‘s latest major update were shared immediately following the Xbox Showcase. Official mod support with the launch of Creations, the first new quest DLC with the introduction of Trackers Alliance, new bounty hunting features, and improvements to melee weapons are the highlights of Starfield’s June Update. The June Update is now available on Xbox Series X|S and PC.
The Darkness Calls on August 26 with World of Warcraft: The War Within
PC via Battle.net
Blizzard Entertainment’s 10th World of Warcraft expansion and the opening chapter of the most ambitious story arc in the game’s near 20-year history, The War Within is set to launch on August 26.
This upcoming expansion – the first of three in The Worldsoul Saga – will draw you deep into the mythology of World of Warcraft, weaving narrative threads from the past two decades together in a way that will captivate players both old and new. For a limited time, Blizzard is offering the Welcome to Azeroth Bundle, which includes everything players need to begin their adventure in Azeroth. The bundle includes the current expansion – the critically acclaimed Dragonflight – a level 60 character boost, and 60 days of game time, for $24.99 USD.
Don’t miss out on this legendary adventure! Join the community today, explore the wonders of Dragon Isles, and prepare yourself for The War Within – pre-purchases are available now through Battle.net.
Hardware Announcements
Three New Xbox Series X|S Console Options Revealed
Three new Xbox Series X|S console options are joining our current lineup, and we’re excited to give players more ways to join gaming with Xbox – it’s the best way to enjoy the diverse experiences crafted by game creators. This holiday, our 1TB Series S in Robot White, an all-digital Xbox Series X, and a 2TB Xbox Series X Special Edition in Galaxy Black will be available in select markets (console assortment will vary by market). Stay tuned for updates in the coming months where we’ll provide information about market availability and regional Estimated Retail Pricing (ERP) when we share pre-order details. To learn more about these new consoles, head on over to the Wire post here.
With the incredible lineup of games shown at the Xbox Games Showcase 2024 and Call of Duty®: Black Ops 6 Direct, this is one of the best years ever to upgrade your console or jump into Xbox for the first time.
Despite being a huge success, Oblivion has no doubt been overshadowed both by time and its loftier successor, Skyrim. Still, The Elder Scrolls 4 exists as a major player in the RPG genre, but that hasn't stopped someone from wanting to blend the two games together. Sort of.
The "Skyrim Border" mod comes from the mind of Nexus Mods user JoopvanDie, and is essentially a way of bringing a bit of TES5 to Cyrdoiil, the province where Oblivion takes place. Anyone who knows the map of Tamriel is aware that the latter game borders the former, though players are unable to cross.
Image via JoopvanDie/Nexus Mods.
However, JoopvanDie invites us to step a little bit into Skyrim, giving us a small area to trek around in, perhaps breathe in a bit of that cold, dragon-y air.
Just a quick pop by to say hello
As the name suggests, the mod by no means allows you to traverse the whole of Skyrim's landscape or cross over into any other part of Tamriel that's not officially part of the game. That would be far too ambitious. And, in fact, there is already a fan-made project that covers that idea.
What this does is bring just a little bit of the border within our grasp inside Oblivion. While there's not a huge amount there – no new quests, for example – there's enough that's worth a quick visit. This includes:
an area for you to explore
one small village with NPCs
few small caves
two ingredients
one new creature (Frost troll)
new armor and a medieval Scandinavian(ish) helmet
treasure hunting
If you want to get to the area, the description says to go to the Echo Cave (shown just west of Bruma, which you can see in the image above) and follow the road to the northwest. Say hi to Paarthurnax for me if he's there.
Hra Indiana Jones and the Great Circle od MachineGames se během Xbox Games Showcase dočkala nového traileru. Ačkoli zatím není známo datum vydání, akční adventura vyjde ještě letos pro Xbox Series X/S, PC a Game Pass.
Mezitím se podívejte na novou ukázku s Indiana Jonesem a Ginou, kteří se vydávají do Himálaje.
Při objevování kamene, který má zásadní význam pro vyřešení záhady Velkého kruhu, se dvojice setkala s nepřátelskými silami, které usilují o totéž. Začíná klasické Indyho škádlení, ale než se stačí bez okolků vrhnout na smrt, zasáhne Gina, která použije ruční granát, aby získala trochu času. Krátké ukázky ze hry představují boj zblízka a průzkum vedle klasického obřího balvanu.
Hra má být údajně uvedena na trh v prosinci, takže si možná Microsoft schovává odhalení data vydání na Gamescom nebo na nějakou budoucí prezentaci. Zůstaňte naladěni na další aktualizace a oznámení z Xbox Games Showcase.
Po úniku informací prostřednictvím soudního dokumentu pod názvem DOOM Year Zero společnost id Software konečně oznámila hru DOOM: The Dark Ages. Hra bude uvedena na trh v roce 2025 a do Game Passu se dostane hned první den.
Jak se proslýchalo, titul se zdá být prequelem zasazeným do světa ve stylu středověku. Démoni tu řádí jako utržení ze řetězu, což znamená, že se zabiják zkázy musí pustit do nějakého toho trhání a trhání. Klasická dvouhlavňová brokovnice sice zůstává, ale přibylo několik nových zbraní, včetně štítu, který dokáže odrážet útoky. Funguje také jako bzučák, který můžete roztočit a hodit po nepřátelích.
K dispozici je také flakový kanón, který drtí lebky a chrlí jejich úlomky na nepřátele, a mávátko, kterým můžete nepřátele mlátit. Pokud by vám to nestačilo, můžete také pilotovat obřího mecha a mlátit masivní démony. Někteří démoni mohou fungovat také jako jezdci, kteří se pohybují po světě a plivou oheň do úst nepřítele ve stylu Godzilly. Zatím zůstaňte naladěni na další podrobnosti.
Televizní pořad Fallout na Amazon Prime Video zaznamenal obrovský úspěch, výrazně podpořil prodeje her a snadno zajistil druhou sezónu.
Přesto byla popularita pro showrunnera Grahama Wagnera „nesmírně překvapivá“, jak vysvětlil pro The Hollywood Reporter. Wagner také uvedl, že tvůrci mluvili o pěti sériích seriálu, což se nyní po všech pozitivních reakcích zdá být reálnější.
Popularita pořadu je obrovským překvapením. Tento pořad jsme nevytvořili pro každého. Dělali jsme ho pro sebe, a to byla důležitá součást přístupu. Ale nikdy nevíte, jak to dopadne.
Zdroj: Amazon
Mluvili jsme o miliardě sezón jako o žertovném způsobu, jak se vyhnout otázce, protože to neovlivníme. Takže doufáme, že každou sezónu zakončíme polouspokojivým, polootevřeným tvarem. Podívejte, mluvili jsme o třech sezónách a o pěti sezónách. Vzhledem k úspěchu seriálu se mi pět najednou zdá o něco lákavější. Ale průmysl je náladový a my musíme do každé sezóny jít s tím, že „tohle je naše poslední“.
Kdy bude vydána druhá série seriálu Fallout? Graham Wagner řekl, že vše probíhá tak rychle, jak je to jen možné, a mnoho věcí, jako jsou kulisy, prostředky a vizuální efekty, je připraveno z první sezóny.
Internet má zajímavý zvyk činit nezávazná prohlášení závaznými, takže se zdráhám uvést datum, které bude vytrženo z kontextu a bude žít na Redditu asi rok. Ale jdeme na to tak rychle, jak jen to jde, a spoustu těžkých věcí z první sezóny už máme za sebou. Máme kulisy, assety, vizuální efekty, které už jsou hotové. V této sezóně se vrháme do práce. Budeme šlapat na plyn, abychom druhou sezónu vydali co nejrychleji.
Na druhou sezónu, která se bude odehrávat v New Vegas, si budeme muset počkat přinejmenším do konce roku 2025.
Pokud by nadcházející Xbox Games Showcase nebyla dostatečně nabitá všemi údajnými tituly, id Software údajně oznámí další titul ze sírie DOOM.
Podle Toma Hendersona z Insider Gaming se bude jmenovat DOOM: The Dark Ages a odehrávat se bude ve „světě inspirovaném středověkým Doomem“. To následuje po nedávné ochranné známce známého cheatovacího kódu ze série, IDKFA.
Zajímavé je, že hra DOOM: The Dark Ages měla zástupný název DOOM Year Zero, který unikl v dokumentu během loňského soudního procesu společnosti Microsoft s americkou Federální obchodní komisí. Hra měla údajně čtyřletý vývojový cyklus. Na základě názvu a dokonce i placeholderového jména se pravděpodobně může jednat o prequel, možná kroniku původu Doomslayera.
DOOM: The Dark Ages se připojuje k hrám Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, Avowed, Gear 6, Perfect Dark a State of Decay 3, o nichž se hovoří, že se objeví během prezentace 9. června. Xbox alespoň potvrdil, že se Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 od Treyarchu objeví ve vyhrazeném Directu později. Zůstaňte naladěni na další podrobnosti v nadcházejících týdnech.
PC gamers have almost too many options when it comes to titles to play, which is a great problem to have. With decades of games to choose from (and the first port of call for most indie titles, too), the options are endless. You also get the perks of (nearly always flawless) backward compatibility and console-beating graphical performance — if you've got the coin for it when you’re building your perfect kit or picking up a high-powered gaming laptop. The whole idea of what a gaming PC is and where you can play it is shifting, too, with the rise of handheld gaming PCs like the Steam Deck. We've tried to be broad with our recommendations here on purpose; here are the best PC games you can play right now.
Best PC games to play right now
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/the-best-pc-games-150000910.html?src=rss
Bethesda's Elder Scrolls series has been a staple of role-playing video games. In terms of mainline entries, we're five releases in, with a sixth one out there somewhere being worked on. But we're not here to talk about the future. We're going to be discussing just how successful each game in the franchise has been.
Make no mistake—as the years have gone by, The Elder Scrolls has only become more popular. But the series had to start somewhere, and I think it's interesting to compare the sales figures of each one side-by-side to really hammer home this success story.
6. The Elder Scrolls: Arena - 3,000 copies
Image via Destructoid.
At the time of release, Arena sold around 3,000 copies, according to former lead designer Ted Peterson. While these numbers have probably gone up since then, there doesn't seem to be any indication of how many the first TES game has sold overall. The fact that you can get it free these days makes it a moot point.
Cast your minds back three decades if you can. A small studio from Maryland, which had been developing sports games and a couple of Terminator adaptations, unleashed the first Elder Scrolls entry into the world. Called Arena, the crew had no idea just how big their fantasy universe was going to become.
Arena may represent the seeds of The Elder Scrolls as a franchise, but gaming wasn't the corporate-driven beast we know it as today, which is probably why the sales figures don't look that impressive.
Still, Arena made an impression, setting into motion new ways of creating interactive stories with detailed role-playing elements. The fact that it had a procedurally generated world was also hugely impressive for the time.
5. The Elder Scrolls II: Daggerfall - 700,000+ copies
Image via Destructoid.
Selling 120,000 copies upon launch, Daggerfall easily surpassed Arena. By mid-2000, former Vice President of Bethesda Softworks Pete Hines said the game had sold over 700,000 copies, and that number would have gone up since.
Encompassing a world the size of Great Britain, The Elder Scrolls 2: Daggerfall improved on Arena in just about every way possible. While it's perhaps not as big as its predecessor, it beefed up the role-playing aspects and made a huge splash in the genre.
That it won more awards than Arena shows that Bethesda was onto something. It had enormous scope and a world so huge that its in-game map had a search function! Daggerfall was the first Elder Scrolls game I played; its vastness was mind-blowing to me, and I still go back to it sometimes.
If you want to experience Daggerfall today, you're best off playing the Unity version from GOG. It's a complete revamp of the game, keeping the visuals and classic style of the original but giving it a few quality-of-life tweaks and allowing for mods. It's also free.
4. The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind - 4 million copies
Image via Destructoid.
Now we're getting into the big figures. Morrowind was a hit when it was first released, and people are still buying it more than 20 years later. By the end of its launch year, the game had shifted around 200,000 copies. By mid-2005, that number had gone up to more than 4 million in sales.
The leap in visual quality between Daggerfall and Morrowind is utterly staggering. The Elder Scrolls 3 – released at the start of the new millennium – was a triumph in terms of immersion and advanced graphics. Sure, it's aged horribly now, but back then, just seeing the teaser screenshots prior to release was all the evidence I needed to know that the new TES game was going to be something special.
Morrowind is one of the smallest entries in terms of map size, but that didn't matter. It had a detailed world filled with a host of NPCs encased in a uniquely built world that took things beyond the usual knights and gray castles we're used to seeing in fantasy.
Morrowind was also the first entry to get a console port. It was released on the original Xbox and PC and went down as one of the best-selling games on the system at the time, almost surpassing Halo. Look at most people's lists of favorite Elder Scrolls entries, and chances are high that Morrowind will be at the top.
3. The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion - 9.5 million copies
Image via Destructoid.
According to a 2015 report from Polygon, Oblivion sold around 9.5 million copies throughout its lifetime, turning the small, Ultima-inspired RPG series into a globally renowned video game franchise.
Oblivion was a phenomenal hit when it launched in 2006. Despite arriving just four years after Morrowind, it was yet another leap in just how advanced gaming visuals were becoming.
By now, The Elder Scrolls had a huge following, making Bethesda one of the biggest developers in the world. True, that Oblivion was when the series began to lean more towards action rather than deep role-playing aspects, but the sales numbers speak for themselves.
Oblivion has a Metacritic score of 94 on Xbox 360 and has gone down as one of the top 100 video game releases of all time. I mentioned how blown away I was by Morrowind, but Oblivion absolutely knocked it out of the park for me when I first saw it.
2. The Elder Scrolls Online - Over 15 million copies
Image via Destructoid.
The Elder Scrolls Online was one of the top-selling games in the UK when it was released in 2014, and it has sold millions since. According to Pete Hines, ESO sold more than 15 million units as of 2020.
There's an argument to be made that Elder Scrolls Online isn't part of the mainline series. However, I decided to include it because the numbers are still impressive.
The fact that this is an MMO is what sets it apart from the other Elder Scrolls games. The series is noteworthy for its focus on a single-player narrative. ESO instills players with a sense of power and destiny fulfillment, though that does sort of fall by the wayside when thousands of people are playing as the story's hero.
While I did play the beta – which was buggy – I never gave much attention to Elder Scrolls ONline. It's definitely brought in a lot more players over the years, thanks to it ditching the subscription model required to play it. But it must be doing something right, as it's generated around $2 billion in revenue as of 2024.
1. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim - 60 million copies
Image via Destructoid.
There was never any doubt this was at the top, was there? The most recent figures show that Skyrim has sold over 60 million copies since 2011. That might not be enough to beat out the likes of Minecraft, Grand Theft Auto 5, or even Tetris, but what other game can boast being one of the most successful releases ever?
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim is considered by many to be not only the greatest RPG of all time but one of the best video games in history. At the time of writing, Skyrim is registering over 11,000 concurrent players, according to SteamDB. That's nearly four times the amount that bought the original Arena, let alone played it.
We can make a lot of arguments about how Oblivion is buggy as hell and has taken up too much real estate in the gaming sphere, but that doesn't change the facts. The game was a surefire hit before it was even released almost 13 years ago.
Today, it continues to attract a steady stream of players and modders and boasts a total of 229 awards, according to IMDb. Yeah, gamers may be sick of seeing and talking about Skyrim, but it's definitely going down as one of gaming's biggest achievements--at least, until The Elder Scrolls 6 dethrones it.
Epic Games is teasing a surprising, timely crossover seemingly coming to Fortnite Battle Royale in the near future. It looks like the two massive franchises Fortnite and Fallout will be coming together for an event, though there is no release window or date for the crossover just yet.
The Fortnite and Fallout tease began with a short tweet from Epic Games with an image. The image appears to showcase one of the Brotherhood of Steel members from the Fallout series, but in the Fortnite style. This looks to be hinting at a likely skin players will be able to get in the near future.
In addition to that, the image showcases a factory-like location of some kind underneath the Brotherhood of Steel member. This spot could be a brand new location in the upcoming Chapter 5 Season 3 Wrecked. As a result, it is possible this upcoming post-apocalyptic-themed season will feature a massive crossover with Fallout.
Here is the official teaser. It also features emojis that recreate the Vault Boy expression of a person winking while giving a thumbs-up sign.
This possible Fortnite and Fallout crossover season could feature Wasteland-themed locations from the Bethesda series, plus a Brotherhood of Steel skin possibly in the new Battle Pass. This timing makes a lot of sense, too, with the recent Fallout Prime Video TV series. Fortunately, it won’t take long for players to find out if this is the case, since the new season is coming out in the near future.
Fans can look forward to the release of Fortnite Chapter 5 Season 3 Wrecked on May 24, 2024. Fortnite and Fallout fans alike should wait until then for more info on how this teased crossover event will work.
Fortnite Chapter 5 Season 3 is coming to Android, Nintendo Switch, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.
Here we go again. Back in February, the FTC wanted to dive back into its battle with Microsoft over its acquisition of Activision Blizzard due to Microsoft announcing thousands of jobs worth of layoffs, including many developers from Activision Blizzard. When the FTC had asked for an injunction to block the sale, Microsoft made two claims. First, it indicated that the injunction wasn’t needed as this was a horizontal acquisition, not a vertical one, meaning that it wasn’t going to reduce staff after the purchase due to redundancies in the workforce. Second, it indicated that the injunction wasn’t necessary due to the hands-off approach Microsoft would take at these studios, meaning that it could easily divest from these developers if ordered to, rather than having to shut them down entirely. Post acquisition, Microsoft went right ahead and announced plans to lay off nearly 2,000 people, rather than doing any divesting. A complete one-eighty from what it told the courts, in other words.
And one that may be part of a larger effort, considering Microsoft also just closed up several developers that came over in the Bethesda acquisition as well.
Microsoft has closed a number of Bethesda studios, including Redfall maker Arkane Austin, Hi-Fi Rush and The Evil Within developer Tango Gameworks, and more in devastating cuts at Bethesda, IGN can confirm.
Alpha Dog Games, maker of mobile game Mighty Doom, will also close. Roundhouse Studios will be absorbed by The Elder Scrolls Online developer ZeniMax Online Studios. Microsoft, currently valued at over $3 trillion, did not say how many staff will lose their jobs, but significant layoffs are inevitable. IGN has asked Bethesda for comment. Microsoft declined to expand further when contacted by IGN.
Now, layoffs across the video game industry occurred throughout 2023 and into 2024, so it’s not as if Microsoft is alone in this. On the other hand, Microsoft is also, obviously, one of the largest players in the gaming space, with the largest revenue streams coming in from multiple avenues in the industry, and it just shelled out billions and billions of dollars to acquire a massive portfolio of gaming companies and franchises. For the coda to all of that to amount to Microsoft both laying off thousands of people and to pretend it’s sticking to its claim that this isn’t somehow a consolidation of roles resulting from cuts to redundancy post-acquisition is absolutely silly.
“This is absolutely terrible,” tweeted Bakaba, co-creative director at the remaining Arkane studio, in the wake of the news. “Permission to be human: to any executive reading this, friendly reminder that video games are an entertainment/cultural industry, and your business as a corporation is to take care of your artists/entertainers and help them create value for you.”
And, to harken back to an earlier claim Microsoft made to combat the injunction the FTC wanted, some are questioning why these studios had to be closed to begin with.
It’s a fair question, given Microsoft’s previous claims. If the company isn’t interested in the games, franchises, and other work these studios are doing, why not divest? The answer is, because in many cases, Microsoft is interested in those things and is simply going to fold them into other parts of its gaming infrastructure.
And before anyone wants to chime in that there are broader economic forces at work that are causing Microsoft to trim any supposed fat, that’s certainly not represented in Microsoft’s overall numbers.
No, it’s far more likely that this is simply the result of lies and greed at work. Lies to the courts and FTC about what its plans were all along, and greed propelling layoffs and studio closures purely to shift their previous efforts to Microsoft teams that are already in place and established.
While we wait (and wait and wait and wait) for Bethesda to say literally anything about what's happening with The Elder Scrolls 6, let's talk about Skyrim. That should kill a bit more time. Specifically, let's talk about modding Skyrim.
Since time immemorial (well, 2011), TES5 fans have been modifying the game, improving it several folds, adding new content, fixing bugs...just generally getting as much life out of the ol' beast as they can. It's almost as if some people took one look at Skyrim in its vanilla form and went, "nah, mate."
Far be it from me to tell you there are countless ways to tinker with this aging epic RPG. But if you're new to playing, or you just want a quick rundown on some of the better mods out there, I've cobbled together a list of what I feel are some pretty essential ones. You may agree with this list. You may not. I will be answering no questions.
NOTE: I will attempt to provide links to mods that are for the Special Edition of Skyrim where possible.
Skyrim Script Extender
Screenshot via Destructoid.
When I talk about "essential mods," you can probably interpret that as just meaning a "generally solid modification that many players highly recommend." A lot of it will come down to personal preference and how you want to alter the game.
However, with Skyrim Script Extender (SKSE for short), this one is pretty vital. If you ask people in the community – especially the PC community – what to install first when it comes to modding Skyrim, this will likely be your first port of call.
As the description itself says: this is a tool "used by many Skyrim mods that expands scripting capabilities and adds additional functionality to the game." You'd be pretty lost without it. The version linked here has already been downloaded over 1.4 million times, and it was only uploaded in 2019.
Unofficial Skyrim Patch
Image via Arthmoor/Nexus Mods.
Bethesda games have bugs. The sun is a large ball of burning gas. Everyone knows the uncomfortable sensation of having one shoe tied slightly tighter than the other. Microsoft is pure evil. Oh, sorry. I thought I was just listing things that can be filed under "the bleeding obvious."
Yes, Skyrim has been laden with glitches and issues since the day it landed in video game stores (remember them?) While over the years, the developer has attempted to quash some of the major ones, there are still plenty of bugs that exist, even in the Anniversary Edition which came out some tens after the vanilla release.
That's where the Unofficial Skyrim Patch comes into play. It is, as the name suggests, an unofficial mod for the game with an eventual goal of fixing every single bug TES5 has, and we all know that is quite the mammoth task. The most recent version was uploaded on April 18, which means the team is still hard at work. This is another must.
SkyUI
Image via schlangster/Nexus Mods.
As gorgeous as Skyrim is (or was) when it first came out, there were some criticisms aimed at the game's standard user interface. While I personally didn't have much of a problem with it, I could see why it wasn't everyone's favorite.
If you've played the game, you'll surely have your own opinion about it. Which is why we have SkyUI. This is described as an "elegant, PC-friendly interface mod with many advanced features." Even from the single image above, you can see the differences between the vanilla version and the mod.
Is it fair to say it's more "intuitive?" I'm bold enough to go along with that. While there hasn't been an update for SkyUI since 2017, Nexus Mods registers over 4.8 million downloads, so they must be doing something right.
Open Cities
Image via Arthmoor/Nexus Mods.
A game like Skyrim consistently delivers and entertains, largely because of its immersive quality. Forget the fact that it's now an older game. When it dropped all those years ago, it was a triumph. It drew people in with its utter splendor, enormous world, and cast of characters that were believable (well as believable as role-playing characters living in a fantasy world full of dragons can be).
However, some of that immersion does fall to the wayside slightly when you enter a new city, like Whiterun. Upon opening the main gate, you find yourself confronted with a black loading screen. It's understandable. Bethesda couldn't have put all the interior aspects of a city within the main world.
However, someone did just that. From the same modder that brought us the Unofficial Patch, we have Open Cities Skyrim. This is a mod that fluidly blends the game's city limits to whatever's outside its walls. The loading screens are now gone, which keeps you immersed. Plus, it means you can now ride your horse straight into places like Riften. That can only be a plus.
Alternative Start
Image via Arthmoor/Nexus Mods.
When I first got the game in 2011, I was enthralled by the opening. A few days later, a friend came round because they wanted to see it, so I booted the game up, loaded a new save, and proceeded to go through the intro cut scene again. Then some time later, another friend wanted to see what all the fuss was about. By this point, my character's head had been cut off enough times to satisfy a revolution.
What I'm saying is, even before Skyrim had the long legacy it enjoys today, I had seen the opening section dozens of times. If you are a bit bored with that lengthy introduction, say hello to Alternative Start. Oh look, it's another mod by Arthmoor.
With this, you get to opt for a different beginning to your Skyrim playthrough. You can choose to be a hunter living in the woods, a vampire hiding in a cave, or maybe you've been shipwrecked. The good thing about this mod is it doesn't just give you an alternative starting point, it changes things about your character and doesn't immediately put you on the main quest path.
Helgen Reborn
Image via Mike Hancho/Nexus Mods.
Speaking of that opening section, we don't get to experience Helgen much before it's terrorized by a dragon and left to burn in the ashes of its wake. It's there and then, in the blink of an eye, it's left in ruins as you run for your life and, presumably, bugger off to literally anywhere else.
With Helgen Reborn, the city gets a second chance. Modders Mike Hancho (aka Balok) didn't just turn the opening location on its head by rebuilding it. No, they went above and beyond, bringing something that is more than just a surface restructuring. The mod description tells it best:
Helgen Reborn is a fully voiced adventure with over 20 superb voice actors. As you help rebuild the town you'll reunite two old friends, uncover an underground slavery ring, battle in an arena and many other adventures!
A Quality World Map
Image via IcePenguin/Nexus Mods.
Skyrim's map is pretty good, says I. Not just a facsimile of the world you walk around. It's actually the real thing, just zoomed out immensely. It would have been easy for Bethesda to phone it in with a standard scroll-like map or something more cartoon-y. Well done to them, I say.
However, it can always be better, and that's what IcePenguin's A Quality World Map does. With over three million downloads on Nexus Mods, it presents itself as the last word in Skyrim topography. Consisting of high-detailed textures, AQWM (as I'm taking to call it) is a tasty visual addition to your game. I'd say it pairs nicely with SkyUI as well.
Also, it doesn't just have this 3D map, either. It comes in a vivid style and even a paper version, if you want something that's perhaps a bit more Lord of the Rings-y.
Towns and Villages Enhanced
Image via Aplestormy/Nexus Mods.
After a while, you start to see the same old Skyrim. It's pretty enough, even for a game that's 13 years old, but it would be nice to have something else to look at. If this is you, you may be interested in Aplestormy's Towns and Villages Enhanced mods.
The interesting thing about this project is that there isn't one single download that alters every location in the game. Instead, they come in separate files. There's one for Whiterun, Windhelm, Solitude, Riften, Riverwood, and some of the smaller villages.
As described, they basically "enhance" a lot of areas in Skyrim with tweaks and fresh design choices. Here's what the Whiterun mod adds and/or alters.
Trees (Including new GKB Models)
New Design - Less Trees, more Detail
Shrubs and other Foliage
Rocks and small Details
New Lighting
Clutter
Architecture
Alchemist Plants
Effects
Chickens
Skyrim 202X
Image via Pfuscher/Nexus Mods.
I've said it a few times already, but Skryim is a pretty old game at this point. As such, it's not as visually arresting as it once was. Back in 2011, though...wowee. There wasn't much like it. However, things have changed. We want our collective eyes melted out of our faces with graphical brilliance.
If you want nothing more than to make Skyrim look prettier, maybe even more modern, there are a wide range of options available in the modding community. Howver, one that comes highly recommended is Pfuscher's Skyrim 202X. This is a high-resolution overhaul of how the game looks.
It boasts more than 2,000 files (which come in several parts) and is a visual feast. It's been worked on since 2016, with the latest version going live on April 15 this year. It has over 1.8 million unique downloads, and it's easy to see why. It's. Just. So. Pretty.
Immersive Interactions
Image via JaySerpa/Nexus Mods.
Anyone who's seen me talk about Skyrim mods before may be familiar with the name JaySerpa. They are, by far, one of my favorite modders working on the game currently, and it's mainly because of how they change the game to be that extra bit immersive.
I'm choosing Immersive Interactions to put in this list, but really, I could have selected any one at random to showcase how simple tweaks can up the alluring quality of role-playing in Skyrim. This one in particular allows your character to perform "context-aware animations," which includes being able to greet NPCs and generally interact with the world.
Here we go again. Back in February, the FTC wanted to dive back into its battle with Microsoft over its acquisition of Activision Blizzard due to Microsoft announcing thousands of jobs worth of layoffs, including many developers from Activision Blizzard. When the FTC had asked for an injunction to block the sale, Microsoft made two claims. First, it indicated that the injunction wasn’t needed as this was a horizontal acquisition, not a vertical one, meaning that it wasn’t going to reduce staff after the purchase due to redundancies in the workforce. Second, it indicated that the injunction wasn’t necessary due to the hands-off approach Microsoft would take at these studios, meaning that it could easily divest from these developers if ordered to, rather than having to shut them down entirely. Post acquisition, Microsoft went right ahead and announced plans to lay off nearly 2,000 people, rather than doing any divesting. A complete one-eighty from what it told the courts, in other words.
And one that may be part of a larger effort, considering Microsoft also just closed up several developers that came over in the Bethesda acquisition as well.
Microsoft has closed a number of Bethesda studios, including Redfall maker Arkane Austin, Hi-Fi Rush and The Evil Within developer Tango Gameworks, and more in devastating cuts at Bethesda, IGN can confirm.
Alpha Dog Games, maker of mobile game Mighty Doom, will also close. Roundhouse Studios will be absorbed by The Elder Scrolls Online developer ZeniMax Online Studios. Microsoft, currently valued at over $3 trillion, did not say how many staff will lose their jobs, but significant layoffs are inevitable. IGN has asked Bethesda for comment. Microsoft declined to expand further when contacted by IGN.
Now, layoffs across the video game industry occurred throughout 2023 and into 2024, so it’s not as if Microsoft is alone in this. On the other hand, Microsoft is also, obviously, one of the largest players in the gaming space, with the largest revenue streams coming in from multiple avenues in the industry, and it just shelled out billions and billions of dollars to acquire a massive portfolio of gaming companies and franchises. For the coda to all of that to amount to Microsoft both laying off thousands of people and to pretend it’s sticking to its claim that this isn’t somehow a consolidation of roles resulting from cuts to redundancy post-acquisition is absolutely silly.
“This is absolutely terrible,” tweeted Bakaba, co-creative director at the remaining Arkane studio, in the wake of the news. “Permission to be human: to any executive reading this, friendly reminder that video games are an entertainment/cultural industry, and your business as a corporation is to take care of your artists/entertainers and help them create value for you.”
And, to harken back to an earlier claim Microsoft made to combat the injunction the FTC wanted, some are questioning why these studios had to be closed to begin with.
It’s a fair question, given Microsoft’s previous claims. If the company isn’t interested in the games, franchises, and other work these studios are doing, why not divest? The answer is, because in many cases, Microsoft is interested in those things and is simply going to fold them into other parts of its gaming infrastructure.
And before anyone wants to chime in that there are broader economic forces at work that are causing Microsoft to trim any supposed fat, that’s certainly not represented in Microsoft’s overall numbers.
No, it’s far more likely that this is simply the result of lies and greed at work. Lies to the courts and FTC about what its plans were all along, and greed propelling layoffs and studio closures purely to shift their previous efforts to Microsoft teams that are already in place and established.
All those years of stepping on insects have come back to bite us in the butt. Like the many other creatures in the Appalachian Wasteland of Fallout 76, insects have evolved to become some of the most terrifying enemies around. Despite that, insects are one of the more convenient enemy types to eliminate for the Big Game Hunter daily quest. So grab your insect repellent and weapon of choice; we’re showing you all of the best insect locations in Fallout 76.
All insect locations in Fallout 76
Of the many insect locations across the Appalachian Wasteland, Aaronholt Homestead, Carson Family Bunker, and Fort Defiance are the best for completing quick and easy daily quests. Each of those locations has a high number of insects that are on the easier end of the spectrum, such as Radroaches, Bloodbugs and Bloatflies.
Image via Bethesda
Map Marker
Location
Insects
1
Aaronholt Homestead
Bloodbugs, Bloatflies
2
Carson Family Bunker
Radroaches
3
Fort Defiance
Ants, Bloatflies, Bloodbugs
4
New River Gorge Bridge
Bloodbugs, Bloatflies
5
Tanagra Town
Crickets
6
Autumn Acre Cabin
Bloodbugs, Bloatflies
7
Big Maw
Bloatflies, Ticks, Stingwings
8
Sons of Dane Compound
Various insects
9
Middle Mountain Cabins
Honey Beasts
10
Freddy’s House of Scares
Honey Beasts
11
Grafton Dam
Honey Beasts
12
Crater Watchstation
Bloodbugs, Radscorpions
Every insect event in Fallout 76
If you’ve ever wanted to roleplay a post-apocalyptic exterminator, the various insect events in Fallout 76 can make your dreams (or nightmares) come true. Events are some of the best sources for a high volume of enemies to put your builds to the test. So either grab a friend or a big gun, lest you fall to a swarm of insects in these events:
While Project Paradise has many rare drops and a variety of insect enemies, it requires coordination between many players to maximize the rewards. However, the other events on the list are much more manageable for solo players or small groups.
List of all insects in Fallout 76
Screenshot by Destructoid
Fallout 76 is teeming with creepy crawlies, from the poor Radroaches that introduce us to combat in every Fallout game to the menacing Fog Crawlers that don’t take kindly to shrimp-fried rice jokes. Here is the complete list of insects you can encounter in Fallout 76:
Ants
Bee Swarms
Bloatflies
Bloodbugs
Cave Crickets
Fireflies
Fog Crawlers
Honeybeasts
Mothmen
Radroaches
Radscorpions
Stingwings
Ticks
If you’ve ever walked the path of vengeance in Fallout: New Vegas, you’ll be pleased to hear that the Cazadores haven’t returned in Fallout 76. That isn’t to say that the insects in West Virginia are to be underestimated. Appalachia hosts a wide variety of insects that embody the spirit of Muhammad Ali. Some of them float like butterflies, and all of them sting like bees.
Here we go again. Back in February, the FTC wanted to dive back into its battle with Microsoft over its acquisition of Activision Blizzard due to Microsoft announcing thousands of jobs worth of layoffs, including many developers from Activision Blizzard. When the FTC had asked for an injunction to block the sale, Microsoft made two claims. First, it indicated that the injunction wasn’t needed as this was a horizontal acquisition, not a vertical one, meaning that it wasn’t going to reduce staff after the purchase due to redundancies in the workforce. Second, it indicated that the injunction wasn’t necessary due to the hands-off approach Microsoft would take at these studios, meaning that it could easily divest from these developers if ordered to, rather than having to shut them down entirely. Post acquisition, Microsoft went right ahead and announced plans to lay off nearly 2,000 people, rather than doing any divesting. A complete one-eighty from what it told the courts, in other words.
And one that may be part of a larger effort, considering Microsoft also just closed up several developers that came over in the Bethesda acquisition as well.
Microsoft has closed a number of Bethesda studios, including Redfall maker Arkane Austin, Hi-Fi Rush and The Evil Within developer Tango Gameworks, and more in devastating cuts at Bethesda, IGN can confirm.
Alpha Dog Games, maker of mobile game Mighty Doom, will also close. Roundhouse Studios will be absorbed by The Elder Scrolls Online developer ZeniMax Online Studios. Microsoft, currently valued at over $3 trillion, did not say how many staff will lose their jobs, but significant layoffs are inevitable. IGN has asked Bethesda for comment. Microsoft declined to expand further when contacted by IGN.
Now, layoffs across the video game industry occurred throughout 2023 and into 2024, so it’s not as if Microsoft is alone in this. On the other hand, Microsoft is also, obviously, one of the largest players in the gaming space, with the largest revenue streams coming in from multiple avenues in the industry, and it just shelled out billions and billions of dollars to acquire a massive portfolio of gaming companies and franchises. For the coda to all of that to amount to Microsoft both laying off thousands of people and to pretend it’s sticking to its claim that this isn’t somehow a consolidation of roles resulting from cuts to redundancy post-acquisition is absolutely silly.
“This is absolutely terrible,” tweeted Bakaba, co-creative director at the remaining Arkane studio, in the wake of the news. “Permission to be human: to any executive reading this, friendly reminder that video games are an entertainment/cultural industry, and your business as a corporation is to take care of your artists/entertainers and help them create value for you.”
And, to harken back to an earlier claim Microsoft made to combat the injunction the FTC wanted, some are questioning why these studios had to be closed to begin with.
It’s a fair question, given Microsoft’s previous claims. If the company isn’t interested in the games, franchises, and other work these studios are doing, why not divest? The answer is, because in many cases, Microsoft is interested in those things and is simply going to fold them into other parts of its gaming infrastructure.
And before anyone wants to chime in that there are broader economic forces at work that are causing Microsoft to trim any supposed fat, that’s certainly not represented in Microsoft’s overall numbers.
No, it’s far more likely that this is simply the result of lies and greed at work. Lies to the courts and FTC about what its plans were all along, and greed propelling layoffs and studio closures purely to shift their previous efforts to Microsoft teams that are already in place and established.
It has been a very bad week for Xbox Game Studios. On Tuesday, May 7, Microsoft announced it would shut down three studios: Redfall developer Arkane Austin, Hi-Fi Rush creators Tango Gameworks, and Mighty Doom studio Alpha Dog Games. On top of this, Roadhouse Games is being absorbed into Elder Scrolls Online developer…
Bethesda has released Beta Patch 1.11.33 for the PC version of Starfield. According to the devs, this latest update comes with over 100 fixes, tweaks, changes, and improvements. So, let’s take a closer look at it. Beta Update 1.11.33 improves the game’s surface maps. The devs claimed to have made some big improvements to surface … Continue reading Starfield Beta Patch 1.11.33 Released, Featuring Over 100 Fixes, Tweaks & Improvements→
Bethesda and Microsoft announced its next Starfield major update, which will bring the requested ship decoration and better surface maps features, will arrive on May 15, 2024. Ahead of its launch, its Steam beta and the 1.11.33 Starfield patch notes are live.
A trailer went over some of the more detailed elements of the May 2024 Starfield update, and it specifically focused on the new look for surface maps and ship decoration. First, the team looked at how the surface maps will appear after 1.11.33. Clear icons will appear everywhere, showing where things are in the game. You’ll see structures, foliage, rocks, and markers. These markers will also appear when you’re looking around or at a map, so you can clearly see where things are and get around.
At about the 2:30 mark, discussions about Starfield surface maps end and the ship decoration update begins. We see how a space starts off as empty, then ends up populated with furniture and decorations. The goal is to make them as customizable as outposts, to allow someone’s vessel to represent their personalities.
Here are the full Starfield patch notes for the 1.11.33 update:
New Features:
Improved surface maps - We’ve heard your feedback, and we’ve made some big improvements to surface maps, so you’ll always know just where to go and no longer “get lost” on the way to your parents’ place (and they weren’t buying that excuse anyway, you should really go visit them).
New gameplay options - For those of you who like a bit of an extra challenge or want to make some aspects of the game easier, you can customize your experience with brand new options in the Settings menu. Want to make ground combat harder but ship combat easier? You can do just that!
Added Ship Decoration mode to the interior of Ships – now you can decorate your ships just like you can with Outposts!
Added Tabs to Container menus to make managing your inventory easier.
Added the ability to change Traits and appearance after entering the Unity.
Added Dialogue camera toggle in the Settings.
Added Display settings for Xbox Series X to prioritize Visuals or Performance (Series X).
Xbox Series X Display Settings:
Frame Rate Target: You can now choose between 30, 40, 60 or an Uncapped frame rate on VRR displays. If you do not have a VRR display running 120hz, you will still be able to select from 30 or 60. Screen tearing may occur at times when selecting 60 on a non-VRR display.
Prioritize: You can now prioritize between Visuals and Performance while trying to maintain the frame rate target. If you’re choosing a frame rate target of 60 or above, we recommend changing this to Performance. Prioritizing Visuals keeps the highest resolution while maintaining full detail for special effects, lighting, and crowds. Prioritizing Performance lowers internal resolution and detail for special effects, lighting, and crowds. Both modes may adjust internal resolution dynamically when scenes or action get heavier as well. When switching between modes, you will see the lighting change briefly as the system catches up to the new mode.
Bug Fixes:
GENERAL
General Stability and Performance improvements.
General improvements for Character fleeing, avoidance and pathfinding.
Fixed various issues with object placement.
GAMEPLAY
Fixed an issue that could cause a ship's maximum shield capacity to appear decreased after loading a save with certain assigned crew.
Fixed an issue where invisibility could persist on a companion’s weapon after invisibility effect ended.
Scanning flora/fauna XP is now also awarded via harvesting/killing.
Resolved an issue with unintended harvest items appearing in flora from blended biomes.
Addressed an issue that prevented repeated docking with a previously commandeered ship.
Fixed an issue with Class C flight behavior after entering targeting mode while boosting.
Addressed an issue that could occur when attempting to dock with a ship as it grav jumps away.
Fixed a ship scanner issue that could occasionally display incorrect hostility or crew count.
Fixed an issue where docked ships would appear to overlap after loading a save while boarding.
Stunned Characters should no longer display the option to talk to them.
Fixed an issue that could cause apparel to not display as intended on mannequins.
Helmets placed on Mannequins should no longer cull the neck and torso section.
Addressed an issue that could cause weapons to duplicate when looting and enemy.
Addressed a rare issue that could cause characters to not exit dialogue when attacked.
Fixed an issue that could cause the dialogue camera to quickly shift focus when exiting conversations.
Neon and Ryujin security should be more diligent on arresting the player for criminal behavior.
An Autosave should now be created when fast travelling to the player ship if Save on Travel is enabled.
Fixed an issue with sandstorm hazards not working as intended under certain conditions.
Fixed an issue with weather changing incorrectly when entering a ship.
Addressed an issue related to using the Starborn Power 'Inner Demon' on certain Robot models.
Resolved a few issues related to loading a save after using 'Phased Time' power.
Fixed an issue with lip-sync while ‘Phased Time’ was active.
Fixed a rare issue that could cause legendary Starborn weapons to lose their special effects.
Resolved an issue that could prevent storing items in containers aboard the Razorleaf.
Addressed an issue that could cause the player to appear as if they were in zero gravity after completing a temple.
Fixed an issue with Rifle Certification skill that could prevent faster reloading benefit.
Resolved issue with certain weapons not being able to fire immediately after they were aimed.
Resolved and issue that could cause melee attacks to occur without animation.
Fixed a visual issue with the Laser sight emitted from an enemy Magshear.
Resolved a weapon visibility issue that could occur when opening the hand scanner with 'Toggle Iron Sight' setting enabled.
Fixed a weapon visibility issue that could occur when switching between weapons of different types.
Addressed an issue with how the Subtitles from the ECS Constant were displayed.
Addressed an issue with gaps appearing on the character when previewing helmets in the Transfer Menu.
Resolved and issue that could cause clothing to be seen through the spacesuit after aiming with a scope.
Addressed and issue that could cause enemies to receive unintended force when killed.
Fixed an issue that could occur when killing a seated character.
Loading save should retain camera settings.
Addressed an issue that could cause quests to have a much longer cooldown than intended.
Resolved an issue where UC ships could still send friendly hails to a member of the Crimson Fleet.
Fixed areas of Moara's ship where player could become stuck.
Fixed an issue that could cause the desk inside the Ship Services building in Akila to disappear.
Fixed an issue that would prevent random ship encounters from landing on planets in some situations.
Fixed an issue with the turn counter on the persuasion minigame when dealing with the Star Parcel Freighter.
Ship Service Technicians should now return to their normal location if they had previously wandered away.
Players who find their way into Benjamin Bayu’s penthouse should now be able to exit properly.
GRAPHICS
Exterior ship lights should now appear as intended in Photomode and during travel sequences.
Fixed various shadow issues (flickering and precision).
Fixed an issue that could cause the galaxy map to zoom out to an incorrect extent. (PC).
Fixed a rare issue that could cause the ocean to not blend smoothly with the shore.
Fixed an issue that could cause the screen to be stretched on 16:10 and 32:10 screens with FSR3 in the character editor (PC).
Improved the look of depth of field in specific cases.
Fixed subtle flickering that could occur on some on highlighted parts in the ship editor.
Improved the look of lighting and shadow under trees.
Improved wind direction consistency.
Fixed an issue causing the glow of stars to be slightly visible through planets.
Fixed a few visual artifacts with some VFX.
Improved the look of rain ripples on water.
Fixed an issue that could cause missing fog to occur while landing in Neon.
Improved flickering artifacts sometimes present with upscaling techniques DLSS, FSR, XeSS (PC).
Fixed a few flickering and ghosting issues for FSR3 (PC).
Fixed an issue that could cause the game UI to disappear after changing the Borderless Full Screen option when using FSR3 (PC).
Fixed an issue that could occasionally cause artifacts during camera transitions.
Fixed a rare issue that could cause missing object highlights in the hand scanner.
Fixed a rare issue that could cause visible rain effects inside a spaceship.
Fixed an issue that could cause water to turn white in New Atlantis when using a particle beam.
Adjusting a setting option that read as "Off" to now read as "Low Quality" for motion blur.
Adjusted the default value for Ship Third Person FOV.
Fixed an issue that could cause weapons on racks or in containers to disappear or change upon re-entering the player’s ship.
OUTPOSTS
Fixed an issue that could cause robots to appear unassigned after deleting the Outpost Crew Station.
Addressed an issue with Cargo Link parts not updating orientation after moving a structure at an Outpost.
Removed red outline that could sometimes remain on objects after they were repaired at an outpost.
Fixed an issue where changing greenhouse flora types in Outposts could disconnect the water input.
Resolved an issue with environmental hazards persisting inside outpost structures built in hazard areas.
Fixed an issue where greenhouse plants sometimes didn’t move correctly when the greenhouse was relocated.
Fixed issues where stairs could sometimes be deleted when deleting objects placed on them at an outpost.
Addressed an issue that allowed the player to reach unintended locations by stacking furniture in Outposts.
Resolved an issue with storage container auto foundations appearing where stackable containers already exist in Outposts.
Fixed an issue with Outpost wires not moving correctly when a wired structure was moved.
Addressed an issue that could cause habitat modules to float when supporting structures were removed.
Fixed an issue that could unintentionally affect the ambient audio of Outpost items.
Fixed an issue with inner-system cargo ships not unloading resources to capacity.
QUESTS
Back to the Grind: Fixed an issue that could cause the camera to unintentionally return to first person when exiting the interview seat with Imogene.
Breaking the Bank: Fixed an issue where unselected Dialogue options would incorrectly gray out when talking to Chief Purser Murata.
Breach of Contract: Resolved the issue where Dr. Keala may not have been present at the intended location.
Crew Encounter: Resolved an issue that could cause Betty Howser to not appear in Jake's bar to be hired.
Echoes of the Past: Fixed a rare issue that could cause Delgado to get stuck while traversing the canyon.
High Price to Pay: Fixed an issue where progression could halt if a United Colonies character was hit during the escape.
Hostile Intelligence: Resolved the issue that could cause the Steam Tunnels to become inaccessible if the mission area was left for a long time.
Into the Unknown: Addressed an issue that could cause Vladimir to no longer give the Player Temple locations.
Into the Unknown: Fixed a rare issue where the temple location would not populate when receiving the “Go to” objective.
Legacy’s End: Fixed an issue that could cause Huan Daiyu to not be positioned as intended at the end of the mission.
Legacy's End: Fixed in issue that could cause the Crimson Fleet Prisoners to have incorrect idle lines while standing in the Brig of the Vigilance.
Legacy's End: Resolved an issue with returning to the Key if a freed prisoner was killed.
Loose Ends: Addressed an issue that could cause the scene between Neshar and Neon Security to not occur as intended.
No Sudden Moves: Fixed a rare issue that could cause Petrov to get stuck walking to the artifact.
One Small Step: Addressed an issue that could cause Vasco to appear stuck in the floor of a commandeered Crimson Fleet ship.
One Small Step: Miners should no longer fire on the player in the Vectera mines.
One Small Step: Resolved an issue that could prevent fast travel to the ship from the world boundary.
Rook Meets King: Addressed an issue that could cause idle animations to play on a corpse.
Sabotage: Fixed an issue that could cause manipulated characters to move in an unintended way.
Start-up Stopped: Addressed an issue that sometimes caused the quest not to initiate.
The Best There Is: Fixed an issue that could cause player to incorrectly receive and unintended objective.
The Devils You Know: Improved where characters were looking in some scenes.
The Mantis: Fixed a rare issue that could cause the Razorleaf to disappear.
The Old Neighborhood: Addressed an issue that could occur when using area of effect attacks in Moara's ship.
War Relics: Addressed an issue that could cause Unit 99 to appear stuck.
Left Behind: NPCs will no longer talk about being attacked by wildlife on lifeless planets.
Legacy’s End: Resolved an issue that could cause NPCs to be culled depending on where the player is located.
Grunt Work: The Terrormorph should no longer get stuck if lured into the room Hadrian is hiding in.
One Small Step: Miners should no longer fire on the player in the Vectera mines.
One Small Step: Resolved an issue that could prevent fast travel to the ship from the world boundary.
Rook Meets King: Addressed an issue that could cause idle animations to play on a corpse.
Sabotage: Fixed an issue that could cause manipulated characters to move in an unintended way.
Start-up Stopped: Addressed an issue that sometimes caused the quest not to initiate.
The Best There Is: Fixed an issue that could cause player to incorrectly receive and unintended objective.
The Devils You Know: Improved where characters were looking in some scenes.
The Mantis: Fixed a rare issue that could cause the Razorleaf to disappear.
The Old Neighborhood: Addressed an issue that could occur when using area of effect attacks in Moara's ship.
War Relics: Addressed an issue that could cause Unit 99 to appear stuck.
Left Behind: NPCs will no longer talk about being attacked by wildlife on lifeless planets.
Legacy’s End: Resolved an issue that could cause NPCs to be culled depending on where the player is located.
Grunt Work: The Terrormorph should no longer get stuck if lured into the room Hadrian is hiding in.
Starfield is available on the Xbox Series X and PC, the latest patch is in a beta phase on Steam, and the update will officially release on May 15, 2024.
While the games never fully left the limelight, the recent Fallout TV show – with a second season now confirmed – has increased the franchise's popularity in a pretty big way. With that in mind, it will not surprise a single person reading this that some of the games have experienced a big uptick in concurrent players.
For example: Fallout 76 saw a player count of 73,368 on PC in the last 24 hours or so, according to data from SteamDB. The chart itself gives a visual representation of this increase and while the numbers are not as strong as, say, Fallout 4, it's still a testament to the TV show's success.
Likewise, the third entry – specifically the Game of the Year edition – also saw an increase in popularity, with a new peak concurrent player count of 11,471. New Vegas has also been getting some love, with 43,632 people playing over the weekend, just a few thousand shy of the player count record that was set some 14 years ago.
Not just the newer games, either
While the original Fallout installment from way back in the day hasn't bested its peak, more people do seem to be playing it lately. However, the 1998 sequel is showing a new peak concurrent player number on Steam. It's good to see the older entries still pulling in fans.
In fact, from what I can tell, Fallout 4 is the only mainline game that hasn't hit a new record since the show aired, which is kind of surprising seeing as it's probably the most successful one in the series in terms of sales. Although having said that, it's been consistently popular since it was released.
Oh look, Fallout Tactics: Brotherhood of Steel has a new record number of Steam players as well. Okay, it's only 243, but it kind of hammers home the influence the recent adaptation has had.
Tim Cain, the project lead on the original Fallout, just dropped his review of Amazon’s new show, but you don't need to watch all of it.
In his review, Cain emphasized how the show nails the feeling of the Fallout universe. He said that the show managed to get everything from the visual aesthetics to the dialogue and storyline to fit right into a universe that’s often hard to capture because it's so different from other versions of post-apocalyptic worlds.
"For people who don't want rambling, you can just stop, leave. 'Tim said he liked the show.' There you go," said Cain.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7bFBLAbwMA0
As a creator and a fan, Cain said that he was thrilled by the amount of Fallout lore that gets packed into every episode of the series. “What I especially love about it,” Cain said, “is that there’s no exposition.” The show just drops viewers into the heart of the Fallout universe, which Cain admits might be a little off-putting for viewers who’ve never picked up any of the games.
Cain also addressed his feelings on some of the biggest lore changes that the show introduced to the Fallout canon. When it comes to the big reveal that Vault-Tec planned to drop the first nukes, Cain said that he believes the company never got the chance. He thinks that the moment the bombs fell actually caught Vault-Tec off guard, and as proof he points to the fact that Barbara’s daughter is with Cooper at a birthday party when everything goes down, rather than safely tucked away in a vault.
When it comes to the heated debate that fans have been having about the show’s relationship to the lore of Fallout: New Vegas, Cain said that he’s really not concerned about it. “Let me just remind you that lore drift is inevitable in big IPs,” he said, after spit-balling a number of different ways that the show could explain what happened to Shady Sands and where that event falls on the overarching Fallout timeline. Echoing a sentiment from a video he released two days after the show premiered, Cain asked fans to engage with the series in a fun and friendly way, rather than making personal attacks against the people who may or may not have made adjustments to the timeline.
Overall, Cain seemed joyous that the world he helped create nearly 30 years ago is continuing to thrive and bring he new fans. He said he was hoping for a season two, so he’s probably thrilled that Amazon has just confirmed it.
Vzhledem k všeobecnému uznání, kterému se seriál Fallout na Amazon Prime těší od své premiéry minulý týden, to nikoho nepřekvapí, ale seriál nyní dostal oficiální zelenou pro druhou sezónu.
„Fallout se vrátí ve druhé sezóně,“ napsal Amazon ve svém oznámení na Twitteru.
Zprávy o druhé sezóně seriálu se poprvé objevily minulý týden, krátce před premiérou, s tvrzením, že seriál přesune natáčení své druhé sezóny do Kalifornie, a to díky tomu, že Amazon získal na její výrobu kalifornské daňové úlevy ve výši 25 milionů dolarů.
Uznání kritiků přineslo seriálu Fallout také oživení zájmu o hry Fallout od společnosti Bethesda. Fallout 76 nedávno dosáhl historicky nejvyššího počtu souběžně hrajících uživatelů na platformě Steam, a také Fallout 4 a New Vegas zaznamenaly nárůst počtu hráčů. Fallout 4 byl také minulý týden nejprodávanější hrou v Evropě, přičemž jeho prodeje oproti předchozímu týdnu vzrostly o neuvěřitelných 7 500 procent. Také free-to-play mobilní titul Fallout Shelter zaznamenal v poslední době prudký nárůst počtu stažení a příjmů.
Fallout 4 obdrží 25. dubna dlouho očekávanou aktualizaci Next-Gen Update, která přinese podporu 60 FPS, vyšší rozlišení, plnou optimalizaci Steam Decku a další.
Seriál Fallout od Amazonu vypadá s každou další upoutávkou stále slibněji a před blížící se premiérou vzrušení stále roste.
Zajímavé je, že se zdá, že důvěra v to, jak si seriál povede, je vysoká i v Amazonu – a to natolik, že se zdá, že už se plánuje druhá série.
Jak informoval server Variety, kalifornská filmová komise oznámila, že Fallout přesune natáčení druhé sezóny do Kalifornie. První sezóna se natáčela především v New Yorku, ale zřejmě padlo rozhodnutí přesunout natáčení další sezóny do Kalifornie, a to díky tomu, že Amazon získal na výrobu druhé sezóny 25 milionů dolarů v kalifornských daňových úlevách.
Část natáčení druhé sezóny bude údajně probíhat také v Torontu a produkce sezóny skutečně odstartuje letos v září. Amazon zatím druhou sezónu Falloutu oficiálně neoznámil.
První sezóna Falloutu bude mít premiéru 11. dubna a všech osm epizod bude uvedeno do vysílání najednou.
Filmové a televizní adaptace videoher nabraly za posledních pár let na obrátkách a při pohledu na to, co nás čeká, se zdá, že to bude rozhodně pokračovat. Například série Fallout od Amazonu vypadá slibně.
Pokaždé, když jsme ji viděli, měli jsme dojem, že se máme opravdu nač těšit. Do premiéry zbývá něco málo přes měsíc a nejnovější trailer dává tušit, že bychom skutečně neměli být zklamáni.
Trailer nám poskytuje další pohled na cestu hlavní hrdinky Lucy od Vault Dweller s čerstvou tváří k přeživšímu v post-nukleární pustině toho, co zbylo z Los Angeles, se spoustou prvků, které budou fanouškům série známé, od Brotherhood of Steel až po krátké záběry postav Vault Boy. Podívejte se na to níže.
Bylo také potvrzeno, že Fallout bude mít premiéru 11. dubna, tedy o den dříve, než bylo dříve oznámeno. Kromě toho bude k dispozici všech osm epizod sezóny najednou.
Již dříve bylo potvrzeno, že televizní série bude součástí oficiálního kánonu Fallout.
Title: Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus Developer: MachineGames Publisher: Bethesda Softworks Released: October 27, 2017 Platform Reviewed: PlayStation 4 Platforms Available: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, PC, Nintendo Switch Article Reading Time: 13 minutes
Wolfenstein II The-New-Colossus – Nazi Talk
Rise of Resistance: The First Strike
“Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus” is a first-person shooter that truly stands out among its peers. The game’s powerful portrayal of rebellion and courage is more than just a continuation of a story; it represents a paradigm shift in digital storytelling and gameplay. Set in a world where the Nazis emerged victorious in World War II, we follow the story of B.J. Blazkowicz as he wages war against a Nazi-occupied America.
The game’s storytelling is captivating, and the graphics are stunningly realistic, immersing the player in a world ravaged by war. The game’s sound design is also excellent, with an incredible score that complements the game’s dark and gritty atmosphere.
But the game’s real strength lies in its gameplay. The shooting mechanics are tight and responsive, and the variety of weapons and upgrades available to the player allows for various playstyles. The game also offers several nonlinear levels, each with multiple paths to victory, encouraging experimentation and replayability.
Overall, “Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus” is a game that represents a new gaming era. It’s a game that offers a compelling story, stunning graphics, incredible sound design, and engaging gameplay. If you’re a fan of first-person shooters, this is a game that you won’t want to miss.
The game opens with a resounding defiance. It picks up seamlessly from “The New Order” but quickly establishes its identity. You’re not just revisiting familiar ground; you’re stepping into a revamped battlefield, where every corridor and open space feels like a call to arms. The game’s narrative thrusts you into a relentless pursuit of freedom, setting a tone that resonates with urgency and purpose.
From a gameplay standpoint, “The New Colossus” elevates the FPS experience. The combat is an exhilarating blend of strategy and reflex. Each weapon in your arsenal isn’t just a tool for destruction; it’s a means to challenge the oppressive regime. The game demands more than accuracy; it requires tactical acumen, urging players to adapt and think like a guerrilla warrior.
The game’s environment plays a significant role in shaping your combat strategies. The level design is meticulous, creating visually stunning and strategically complex spaces. It’s a world that demands exploration and rewards cunning. The attention to detail in each level underscores the game’s commitment to delivering an immersive and challenging experience.
Wolfenstein II The-New-Colossus – Waiting for Blood
Blazkowicz’s Battlefront: The Heart of Rebellion
Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus is a video game that immerses players in an alternate reality where Nazi Germany won World War II and rules over the United States with an iron fist. The game’s story is centered around B.J. Blazkowicz, a former soldier who becomes the leader of the resistance against the Nazi regime. The narrative is a crucial element of the game, as it helps establish its themes and core message about the importance of freedom and the fight against tyranny.
The game is set in the 1960s and features a wide range of locations, from Manhattan’s ruins to New Orleans’s streets. The game’s environments are meticulously crafted to create a sense of immersion and realism, with detailed textures, lighting, and sound design. The game also features diverse characters, each with their own backstory and motivations.
As players progress through the game, they will encounter a variety of enemies, including Nazi soldiers and robotic dogs. The game’s combat system is designed to be fast-paced and fluid, with a wide range of weapons and abilities that players can use to take down their enemies. In addition to traditional weapons like guns and explosives, players can also use a range of melee attacks and special abilities, such as dual-wielding weapons.
The game’s story is told through a series of cutscenes and in-game dialogue, with B.J. Blazkowicz serving as the player’s avatar throughout the game. Blazkowicz is a complex character with a tragic backstory and a deep commitment to the fight against Nazi tyranny. As players progress through the game, they will learn more about Blazkowicz’s past and his motivations, as well as the wider struggle against the Nazi regime.
Overall, Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus is a powerful, immersive game that explores complex themes and delivers memorable gameplay experience. With its detailed environments, diverse cast of characters, and well-crafted story, the game is a must-play for fans of first-person shooters and narrative-driven games alike.
In this chapter, the game reveals its narrative prowess. Storytelling is not just about moving from one mission to the next; it’s about understanding war’s emotional and psychological toll. Blazkowicz’s interactions with other characters are more than mere dialogues; they are windows into a world wearied by conflict yet unbroken in spirit. Each character you encounter adds depth to the narrative, bringing their own stories of resilience and defiance.
Wolfenstein II The-New-Colossus – Shooting
The game’s setting in an alternate history where Nazis won World War II is not merely a backdrop. It’s a living, breathing world filled with oppression, resistance, and echoes of a possible future. The meticulous attention to detail in this dystopian America makes every location more than just a combat stage. It’s a narrative device that tells its story, from the graffiti on the walls to the whispered conversations of its downtrodden inhabitants.
Guerrilla Tactics: Clash and Conquer
I understand that you’re a fan of “Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus,” and I agree with you. This game is truly a masterpiece in the world of first-person shooters. It’s a game that expertly blends fast-paced action with tactical depth. With each bullet and every move, you can feel the intense passion that the developers put into this game. You’re not just playing a game; you’re experiencing a work of art.
The game innovates with its health bar system for enemies, a feature that adds a new layer of tactical complexity. Unlike traditional shooters, where enemies fall in a predictable pattern, “The New Colossus” demands a more systematic approach. Each enemy type presents a unique challenge, requiring players to adapt their strategy and weapon choices. While occasionally feeling forced, this system adds to the game’s dynamic nature, compelling players to be more than just sharpshooters.
Speaking of weaponry, “The New Colossus” excels in its arsenal. Each gun, from the trusty shotgun to the futuristic laser cannon, is a masterpiece in both design and functionality. The weapons feel robust and impactful, with each shot delivering a satisfying audio-visual punch. The game elevates weapon handling to an art, allowing players to experiment with different styles, from stealthy takedowns to full-blown assaults.
The level design in “The New Colossus” marks a significant departure from the linear pathways of its predecessors. The game takes a more open approach, allowing players to explore and engage enemies in diverse, sprawling environments. This change brings a refreshing depth to the gameplay, making each encounter a unique tactical puzzle. The game’s levels are designed with intricate pathways and hidden areas encouraging exploration and experimentation. The game skillfully balances the freedom of exploration with the need for structure, ensuring that players have clear objectives while still being able to explore and discover at their own pace.
However, the openness of the game world is not without its challenges. The sprawling maps can sometimes lead to repetitive encounters, as players may find themselves revisiting areas they’ve already explored. To counter this, the game introduces new enemies and obstacles that keep the gameplay engaging and varied. The game’s open-ended structure also allows players to approach encounters differently, using stealth, brute force, or a combination of both to overcome obstacles.
Overall, “The New Colossus” delivers a fresh and engaging gameplay experience, thanks in large part to its innovative level design. The game’s open-ended structure allows players to explore and experiment while providing a clear sense of purpose and direction. The levels are beautifully designed, with intricate details and hidden secrets encouraging players to explore every nook and cranny. Though it may have a few shortcomings, “The New Colossus” is a standout title that will delight fans of the series and newcomers alike.
In essence, “Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus” stands well in innovation in the FPS genre. Its gameplay is a carefully crafted blend of action and strategy, delivering an experience that is both exhilarating and intellectually stimulating. The game pushes players to think like guerrilla fighters, constantly adapting and overcoming in the face of overwhelming odds.
Labyrinth: Designing Oppression
In “Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus,” the level design transcends traditional expectations, offering a fresh perspective on engagement and exploration. Gone are the days of the classic linear progression through corridors peppered with enemies. Instead, the game introduces a labyrinthine design that mirrors the complexities and nuances of a dystopian world under Nazi occupation.
The environments in “The New Colossus” are meticulously crafted, creating a sense of place that is both immersive and oppressive. Each location is more than a battleground; it’s a narrative piece, telling the story of resistance and tyranny. The attention to detail in these environments is not just about aesthetic appeal; it’s about immersing the player in a world where every alley, room, and open space has a story.
This shift from linear to more open-ended environments also brings a new tactical dimension to the game. Players must navigate these spaces thoughtfully, using the environment to their advantage. The design encourages exploration, allowing players to uncover hidden paths, resources, and strategic vantage points. However, this freedom comes with its challenges. The expansive maps can sometimes lead to repetitive gameplay as players revisit areas to complete various objectives.
Despite these challenges, the level design in “The New Colossus” is great. It’s a bold move away from the conventional, offering players a world that’s not just to be traversed but experienced. The game successfully balances the thrill of discovery with the tension of survival in a hostile world, making each level a unique piece of the larger narrative puzzle.
Warriors’ Evolution: Allies and Adversaries
In “Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus,” character development is more than a narrative embellishment; it’s a crucial component of the game’s immersive experience. The game showcases a rich tapestry of characters, each contributing to the overarching narrative of resistance against tyranny.
The game’s storyline revolves around the character of B.J. Blazkowicz, who transforms a battle-hardened soldier to a symbol of rebellion, providing an authentic and compelling narrative. The character’s journey through the game is fraught with personal struggles and moral dilemmas, which reflect the player’s progression. Blazkowicz’s interactions with his allies and adversaries are carefully crafted, adding depth to his character and making him a relatable figure embodying the spirit of defiance.
The other characters in the game’s supporting cast are equally dynamic, with each character, including resistance fighters and high-ranking Nazis, intricately crafted with their backstories and motivations. They are not just bystanders in Blazkowicz’s story but active participants in the fight against oppression. Their tales of courage and resilience add depth to the narrative, providing context to the player’s actions.
The development of these characters mirrors the player’s experience in the game. As players navigate through challenges, they witness the growth of these characters, from inexperienced rookies to battle-hardened warriors. This alignment of character progression with gameplay expertise is a narrative strategy that deepens the player’s engagement with the story.
The character development in “Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus” is a testament to the game’s narrative strength. The characters are not merely cogs in the machine of storytelling; they are the heartbeat of the game, driving the narrative forward and making the player’s journey through this dystopian world both meaningful and memorable.
Rebel Rhythms: Bongas of Anarchy
In “Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus,” the sound design and soundtrack are instrumental in crafting an immersive experience. The game’s auditory landscape is not just an accompaniment; it’s a vital component that enhances the narrative and gameplay.
The soundtrack of “The New Colossus” is a particularly memorable aspect, especially for enthusiasts of the era’s music. The game features German versions of world-famous and local songs from the 1980s, creating a nostalgic and fittingly rebellious auditory backdrop. This choice of music is not merely for ambiance; it’s a narrative tool that deepens the player’s immersion in the game’s dystopian world.
Beyond the music, the sound design in “The New Colossus” is a triumph. Every gunshot, explosion, and environmental sound is crafted with meticulous attention to detail. The weapons sound powerful and satisfying, making each encounter impactful and visceral. The auditory feedback from the environment, whether the echo of footsteps in a deserted hall or the distant rumble of warfare, adds realism to the game world.
This exceptional sound design extends to the voice acting as well. The characters’ voices bring depth and authenticity to their personalities, enhancing the overall narrative experience. The dialogue is not just heard; it’s felt, contributing to the story’s emotional weight.
In summary, the sound design in “Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus” is a standout feature that significantly contributes to the game’s immersive quality. It complements the visual and story elements perfectly, creating an experience that is both audibly rich and emotionally resonant.
Wolfenstein II The-New-Colossus – Concept Art
Final Assault: Beyond the Frontlines
“Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus” is a landmark in the landscape of first-person shooters, a game that masterfully balances innovation with the cherished traditions of its storied franchise. In this final chapter of our review, we look beyond the individual elements to understand the game as a cohesive whole.
Much like its characters, the game navigates through a terrain of contrasts – blending the familiar with the unexpected, the traditional with the innovative. It’s a title that redefines what a narrative-driven shooter can be, pushing the boundaries of the genre while staying true to its roots. The world of “The New Colossus” is a carefully constructed dichotomy, where the horror of its dystopian setting is juxtaposed against moments of genuine human connection and resilience.
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The gameplay experience in “The New Colossus” perfectly blends chaos and strategy, where each bullet and tactic holds significant weight. Players are challenged not just in their shooting skills but also in their ability to adapt and think on their feet. This dynamic gameplay reflects the game’s core narrative theme, the relentless fight against oppression.
Regarding visuals, “The New Colossus” is a testament to the series’ evolution, showcasing meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to immersive world-building. The game’s environments are not just mere backdrops for the action; they are integral to the storytelling, reflecting the oppressive regime and the resistance fighting against it.
To summarize, “Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus” is a fantastic continuation of a beloved series; it’s a bold step forward, a game that is unafraid to evolve and challenge players in new ways. It’s a game that resonates with the times, offering a thrilling adventure and a reflective commentary on tyranny, resistance, and the human spirit. And much better than its successor, Wolfenstein: Youngblood.
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