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- Project: Severed Chains Unleashes The Legend of Dragoon on PC in Stunning 4K Glory
A dedicated team of modders has emerged from the depths of the internet to deliver an unofficial PC port of the beloved 32-bit Playstation JRPG, The Legend of Dragoon. Dubbed Project: Severed Chains, this ambitious undertaking brings Sony's classic gem to the PC platform with a host of enhancements that are sure to delight fans old and new alike. This unofficial PC rendition boasts native 4K resolutions and silky smooth 60 frames per second gameplay, elevating the visual experience to unprecedented heights. But that's not all - players can already dive into this reimagined adventure, as the port is available for download right now. For those unfamiliar with The Legend of Dragoon, it's a title that shares similarities with iconic 32-bit classics like Final Fantasy and Resident Evil, featuring pre-rendered backgrounds and a unique blend of turn-based combat and real-time commands. And no, despite the name, it has absolutely nothing to do with Panzer Dragoon. What sets Project: Severed Chains apart is its meticulous attention to detail. This isn't just a simple emulation; it's a reverse-engineered masterpiece, a complete reconstruction of the game's engine that pushes the boundaries of what's possible in a fan-made endeavor. Expect enhanced audio quality, precise controller input, and full mouse support for seamless navigation through menus. And say goodbye to pesky loading screens, as this port aims for near-instantaneous saves with unlimited slots to ensure your journey is uninterrupted.
- Persona 3 Reload – Xbox Series X Review
Atlus once again takes center stage with Persona 3 Reload, breathing new life into their iconic RPG from 2006 with a fresh and contemporary visual makeover. While the game's essence remains unchanged, both its strengths and weaknesses are brought to the forefront in this revitalized edition. Back in 2006, Persona 3 made waves on the PlayStation 2, setting a new standard for Japanese role-playing games. Introducing a novel emphasis on social interactions alongside demon-taming and dungeon exploration, the game paved the way for future installments in the series. However, it wasn't until Persona 5's release that these elements truly blossomed, offering players a deeply immersive experience akin to a second life. Persona 3 Reload endeavors to bridge that gap, introducing meaningful changes to elevate the game to new heights. Atlus tackles the absence of Social Links with male housemates by introducing Link Episodes, providing deeper interactions with key characters like Junpei, Akihiko, and Ken. This addresses a notable oversight in the original release, where only female housemates were deemed 'date-worthy' – a notion thankfully consigned to the past. Moreover, the game's social environments, including Gekkuokan High School and Tatsumi Port Island, have undergone significant expansion, offering players richer experiences and a more immersive world to explore. Gone are the days of dull settings; now, bustling with activity, these locales provide the quintessential high school experience. While Persona 3 Reload borrows heavily from the polished mechanics of Persona 5, particularly in its sleek graphics and menus, it falters somewhat in its dungeon crawling aspect. Unlike the intricately designed Palaces of Persona 5, the remake remains rooted in exploring the infamous Tartarus – a towering dungeon that emerges during the enigmatic Dark Hour, where players confront Shadows and unravel its mysteries. Navigating Tartarus is no easy feat; it demands dedication and a fair share of grinding. Fusing Personas, collecting experience points, and strategizing against formidable Shadows are essential to progress. However, Atlus alleviates some of the tedium with quality-of-life improvements, offering visually diverse environments and enhancing turn-based combat mechanics. Speaking of combat, Persona 3 Reload introduces the Shift mechanic, akin to Persona 5's Baton Pass, allowing players to pass turns and execute powerful attacks with precision. The addition of Characteristic abilities and Theurgy attacks further enriches the strategic depth of combat, ensuring engagements remain engaging and dynamic. But where Persona 3 Reload truly shines is in its narrative and character development. Boasting arguably the strongest story in the franchise, the game delves into profound themes of identity and mortality, drawing parallels with acclaimed anime like Death Note and Full Metal Alchemist Brotherhood. The diverse cast of characters, each grappling with their own inner demons, fosters genuine and earned relationships, setting Persona 3 apart from its successors. Despite its initial pacing and the grind of Tartarus, Persona 3 Reload is a journey worth undertaking. The payoff is manifold, with poignant storytelling and complex character dynamics awaiting those who persevere. While Atlus may not have completely reinvented the wheel with this remake, they've undoubtedly crafted a polished and visually stunning experience that pays homage to a beloved classic. Final Score:
- Microsoft Fires Back at FTC's Allegations Amidst Legal Battle for Activision Blizzard Acquisition
In the ongoing legal saga surrounding Microsoft's bid to acquire gaming giant Activision Blizzard, the tech titan's legal team has launched a robust response to allegations leveled by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) just a day ago. The FTC, seeking to overturn a federal court's decision denying a preliminary injunction against the acquisition, penned a scathing letter to the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, accusing Microsoft of deceptive tactics regarding its commitment to potentially divest Activision Blizzard if necessary. At the heart of the matter is a recent wave of layoffs, affecting around 1,900 employees within Microsoft's gaming division, including many from the recently acquired Activision Blizzard. The FTC contends that these layoffs contradict Microsoft's earlier claims of being prepared to spin off Activision Blizzard if mandated. The company vehemently rebuked the FTC's assertions, arguing that the regulator's claims are "incomplete and misleading." Microsoft's legal team maintains that Activision Blizzard had already been planning significant job cuts independently, aligning with broader industry trends. Furthermore, Microsoft emphasized its commitment to honoring its representations to the court, asserting that it continues to operate Activision Blizzard with the possibility of divestment in mind, despite recent layoffs. Meanwhile, the legal wrangling extends beyond the FTC's accusations. Law firms behind the "Gamers' lawsuit" have sought a temporary restraining order against further Microsoft layoffs, with a status conference scheduled before Judge Jacqueline Scott Corley for March 14. Despite the legal turbulence, Microsoft presses forward with its vision for Xbox's future, teasing an upcoming event next week. Amidst industry-wide layoffs affecting major players like Sony, Bungie, and Epic Games, Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard remains a pivotal point in the ever-evolving landscape of gaming. As the legal drama unfolds, the industry awaits the next twist in this high-stakes game of corporate maneuvering and regulatory scrutiny.
- Starfield Almost Loses Entire Steam Playerbase in Just 6 Months
Bethesda's highly anticipated space epic, Starfield, hasn't quite reached the celestial heights expected by fans and industry pundits alike. Since its launch six months ago, the game has experienced a meteoric decline in its Steam player count, shedding over 300,000 eager spacefarers along the way. Initially heralded as Bethesda's next flagship title, poised to rival the legendary status of The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, Starfield's reception has been more nebulous than stellar. Within just a handful of months, it's witnessed a staggering 97% drop in its Steam player base, plummeting from a peak of 330,273 concurrent players to a mere fraction of that figure, now hovering under 9,000 (as reported by SteamDB). By comparison, Skyrim continues to command a considerable audience, with over 25,000 players currently exploring its immersive world. Critically, Starfield's reviews remain in a state of flux, having transitioned from 'mostly negative' to a more tempered 'mixed' sentiment. Yet, these figures only reflect a portion of the player base, omitting those who've acquired the game through alternative platforms like the Xbox store or via Game Pass subscriptions. Nevertheless, the decline in player engagement is undeniably concerning for Bethesda and its parent company, Microsoft, especially given the financial investment made by players upon purchasing the game. Despite these challenges, Bethesda is doubling down on its commitment to Starfield's ongoing development, promising regular updates every six weeks. While recent patches have focused primarily on bug fixes rather than substantial content additions, the studio has teased forthcoming features such as "all new ways of traveling," aiming to breathe new life into the game. In the interim, the modding community has emerged as a crucial support pillar, bridging the gap with user-generated content and enhancements. Within Starfield's expansive universe, players are granted access to over a thousand planets, each brimming with potential discoveries and locales, from the bustling metropolis of New Atlantis to the neon-lit streets of Neon City. However, criticisms have surfaced regarding the prevalence of desolate, uninhabited planets, contributing to perceptions of monotony and lackluster gameplay. As Bethesda navigates the cosmic challenges ahead, the road to achieving Skyrim's enduring legacy appears fraught with obstacles. Whether committed to forging their path among the stars or seeking alternative gaming adventures, players will undoubtedly be keeping a watchful eye on Starfield's trajectory. For those steadfastly journeying onward, strategies for building the ultimate outpost await, while those ready to explore elsewhere can find solace in a curated list of games akin to Starfield's galactic allure.
- A Web of Surprises: Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 Unofficial PC Port
Excitement is brewing in the PC gaming community as the unofficial PC port for Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 swings into action, and it’s shaping up to be quite the thrill ride. While it’s not without its share of visual bugs and graphical hiccups, the game is fully playable from beginning to end, offering PC gamers a chance to dive into the web-slinging action like never before. But that’s not all – brace yourselves – because this unofficial port even includes the coveted New Game+ Mode, a feature yet to grace the official PS5 version until March 2023. In a peculiar turn of events, PC players find themselves ahead of the curve, enjoying features not yet available on the flagship console. It's a revelation that leaves many scratching their heads in disbelief. But fear not, dear readers, for we've got the evidence to back it up. Feast your eyes on the latest footage from the V10 PC build, showcasing the New Game+ Mode in all its glory. This is no mere illusion – it’s the real deal. Hats off to the modding wizards who have worked tirelessly to bring this unofficial port to life. Drawing from a leaked PC dev build, they’ve pulled off the seemingly impossible, crafting an experience that PC players can finally sink their teeth into. And while we can’t provide direct links to this digital gem, we trust that the more resourceful among you will find a way to get in on the action. Just remember to tread carefully in the wilds of the internet. As the whispers of an official PC release remain just that – whispers – one can’t help but wonder about the future of this unofficial port. Could it surpass expectations and become the go-to version of the game? With each update, it inches closer to that reality. Here’s hoping that the modding team continues their stellar work, ironing out the kinks and perhaps even enhancing the experience with tailored PC features like customizable graphics settings and keyboard and mouse support. The sky's the limit in this brave new world of PC gaming.
- Helldivers 2 Hits One Million Copies Sold
In the high-octane world of Helldivers 2, victory isn't just a possibility—it's a reality. The sequel to the cult classic has stormed the market, selling over a million copies already, as confirmed by the game's creative director. But as the community celebrates, murmurs of concern about the game's future linger in the air. Helldivers 2 has shattered expectations, boasting a jaw-dropping one million copies sold. This accomplishment is a testament to the game's gripping gameplay and loyal fanbase. With a 50:50 split between PS5 and PC platforms, Helldivers 2 is captivating gamers across different systems, ensuring no one misses out on the action. While the sales figures paint a rosy picture, some players are raising eyebrows at the game's profitability. With a reported development cost ranging from $50 to $100 million over eight years, questions arise about whether the game has turned a profit yet. The promise of free expansions has players intrigued but also pondering how the studio plans to sustainably support these updates. Will microtransactions or other monetization methods enter the fray? The absence of cross-progression has left some players feeling regretful, as they muse over the potential to seamlessly continue their adventures across platforms. As Helldivers 2 basks in the glow of its sales triumph, the road ahead is filled with both promise and uncertainty. Will the developers navigate these waters deftly, ensuring the game's longevity and the community's continued fervor? Only time will tell in this epic saga of space-faring heroes and their relentless quest for victory.
- Microsoft Teases the "Future of Xbox" for February 15th via Podcast
Microsoft is set to unravel the mystery surrounding the fate of Xbox exclusives amidst swirling rumors of their migration to rival platforms. Prepare yourselves as the tech giant, led by none other than gaming honcho Phil Spencer, gears up to unveil its grand strategy for Xbox's future in an event slated for Thursday, February 15th at 12PM PT / 3PM ET. Whispers in the gaming realm have hinted at potential crossovers with PS5 and Nintendo Switch for fan-favorites like Hi-Fi Rush and Sea of Thieves, alongside tantalizing prospects such as Bethesda's Starfield and the upcoming Indiana Jones adventure. While Microsoft has been tight-lipped on these speculations, Spencer's recent acknowledgment has only fueled the flames of anticipation. The Xbox business update, originally planned as a conventional presentation, will now take the form of an exclusive Xbox podcast, set to air on Thursday. Brace yourselves as luminaries including Phil Spencer, Xbox president Sarah Bond, and Xbox studios head Matt Booty promise to spill the beans on Microsoft's gaming empire. Coinciding with recent leaks suggesting Hi-Fi Rush's migration to PS5 and Nintendo Switch, and amid swirling rumors of broader platform expansions, this event couldn't have come at a more opportune time.
- Pikmin Considered "Flagship Title" by Nintendo for Next-Gen
Nintendo has thrown its weight behind the Pikmin franchise, considering it a cornerstone of its gaming empire, according to insights from the company's recent shareholder meeting. During a candid Q&A session at the financial results briefing for the Fiscal Year Ending March 2024, Nintendo's President, Shuntaro Furukawa, shed light on the company's software landscape. While overall unit sales saw a slight dip year-on-year, Furukawa highlighted the release of new titles for flagship IPs, including the highly anticipated Pikmin 4, alongside gems like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and Super Mario Bros. Wonder, all of which have been delighting gamers worldwide. This year's strides in bolstering Nintendo's game lineup have been significant, signaling a concerted effort to amplify the appeal of its iconic series. Notably, Furukawa underscored the newfound importance of the Pikmin IP, a first-of-its-kind acknowledgment from the gaming juggernaut. Amidst the buzz surrounding potential hardware developments, Furukawa remained tight-lipped, emphasizing the company's commitment to meticulous research and development. Citing recent speculation and unofficial leaks, he urged stakeholders to rely on information from Nintendo's official channels, cautioning against the pitfalls of unverified rumors. Meanwhile, Pikmin 4, the latest installment in the beloved series, continues to captivate audiences since its July 21, 2023, release. Co-developed by Nintendo EPD and Eighting, the game introduces a customizable playable character and introduces two new Pikmin species: Ice Pikmin and Glow Pikmin. With innovative features like Night Expeditions adding depth to the gameplay, players embark on a thrilling rescue mission, charting new territories in the Pikmin universe.
- Tomb Raider – PC Review
Tomb Raider has long been synonymous with daring escapades, formidable foes, and heart-pounding action. From facing off against gangs of thugs to navigating treacherous terrain, Lara Croft has become an emblem of adventure gaming. However, the franchise's reboot introduces a compelling twist: the evolution of Lara herself. Embark on an odyssey with Lara aboard the Endurance, a vessel bound for uncharted territories. Unlike her seasoned predecessors, this Lara is a fledgling archaeologist, accompanied by a diverse crew of explorers. Their destination? The fabled kingdom of Yamatai, shrouded in myth and mystery, where a legendary queen once ruled with divine power. As fate would have it, disaster strikes, leaving Lara stranded on an island inhabited by a fanatical cult under the sway of a malevolent leader. Amidst peril and uncertainty, Lara's mettle is tested like never before. What unfolds is not just a quest for survival, but a journey of self-discovery as Lara transcends her fears and embraces her destiny. Witness Lara's transformation from a timid novice to a seasoned adventurer, shaped by the crucible of adversity. With each challenge overcome, she grows in prowess and resilience, honing her skills in combat, survival, and exploration. The choices you make will shape Lara's path, determining her capabilities and the challenges she'll face. Venture forth into a lush and immersive world, where every shadow conceals danger and every corner holds secrets untold. Traverse ancient tombs teeming with history and peril, where the echoes of past explorers linger amidst the ruins. Unravel the island's mysteries and confront its darkest secrets as you chart Lara's evolution. The visual fidelity of Tomb Raider's reboot is nothing short of breathtaking. From meticulously crafted character models to stunning lighting effects, every detail immerses you in Lara's world. As you delve deeper into the island's depths, witness Lara's physical transformation, her attire weathered and bloodied, a testament to her trials and triumphs. In Tomb Raider's reboot, Lara's journey isn't just about survival—it's about embracing the unknown, facing one's fears, and emerging stronger for it. So grab your bow, brace yourself for adventure, and prepare to redefine what it means to be a Tomb Raider. Final Score:
- Palworld: A Rollercoaster Ride to Success
In a gaming landscape filled with surprises, Palworld emerges as one of the biggest shockers of 2024. With a meteoric rise that captured the attention of millions, it's hard to ignore the phenomenon that is Palworld. However, as the initial frenzy begins to wane, questions arise about its staying power and long-term success. Palworld burst onto the scene, claiming the coveted #2 concurrent peak on Steam with a staggering 2.1 million players, surpassing titans like Dota 2 and CS:GO. Yet, the rapid decline in player numbers raises concerns despite still holding strong at the number two spot on Steam, leaving enthusiasts wondering about its future trajectory. This multiplayer survival game offers a vast, immersive experience, boasting intricate goals and challenges that promise longevity. However, the sudden drop-off in player count, with over a million players leaving after just a few days, sparks debate about the game's lasting appeal. Despite the uncertainties, Palworld undeniably stands as a monumental success, having garnered significant revenue from its $25-30 price tag. With developer Pocketpair now facing the challenge of meeting escalating demands, the game's ability to sustain a healthy player base remains in question. The recent update hints at a promising future, with plans to introduce new content and features like PvP, alongside Microsoft's support to enhance scalability. While the road ahead may be challenging, there's optimism that Palworld will evolve and thrive, potentially even influencing industry giants like Pokémon to adapt to changing player preferences.
- "Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet" Officially Trademarked by Sony
Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet conjures images of sweeping space operas and grand adventures in distant galaxies. While it may sound like the latest entry in the Dune franchise, it's actually the intriguing trademark recently filed by Sony Interactive Entertainment in the United States. First brought to light by Gematsu, this trademark has sparked speculation about what it could represent. Is it a new project, a game title in development, or simply a placeholder for future endeavors? The name suggests a strong science-fiction theme, with "The Heretic Prophet" hinting at a compelling narrative focal point. Could it revolve around a central character embroiled in galactic intrigue, perhaps even casting you as the enigmatic figure? Alternatively, it might signal a sprawling multiplayer experience, pitting players against the enigmatic Heretic Prophet on an epic scale. The mention of "Intergalactic" could even suggest a series of interconnected expansions, akin to an anthology of cosmic tales. Then again, there's the possibility that it follows the narrative-driven format of titles like the Dark Pictures series, offering players a gripping storytelling experience set in a futuristic universe. While these are mere conjectures, they underscore the mystery surrounding Sony's upcoming projects. As PlayStation Studios continues to expand its repertoire, Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet emerges as a tantalizing enigma among its ranks. Only time will tell what lies beyond the trademark, but for now, it remains an intriguing glimpse into the potential future of gaming.
- Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain Walkthrough – Mission 49: [Subsistence] Occupation Forces
In the Subsistence mission, Snake will start with only the Bionic Arm and a limited number of Fultons. Any weapons, ammunition, or supplies he needs must be obtained directly from the soldiers he encounters throughout the mission. Begin at the western landing zone and move westward, bypassing the enemy outpost, and continue along the road until you reach an empty house. Arriving at the house will trigger the convoy of three vehicles to start moving. Take cover and wait for the first tank to approach, then quickly sprint toward it and use a Fulton to extract it from the side. Follow up by extracting the truck and the second tank in succession. Once all three vehicles are taken care of, make your exit; using a helicopter is the quickest option in this case.