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Sony has once again dipped its toes into the realm of digital PS5 game codes, but with a twist, it's exclusively for PSVR2 titles. Reports from Brazilian YouTuber JOAO_PSX reveal that Sony has lifted its ban on third-party sales of digital game codes for PlayStation titles outside of the PlayStation Store, but only for the immersive realm of PSVR2. PS5 digital game codes are back in action, but this time they're taking a VR-centric approach. Sony's ambitious venture into Virtual Reality with the PSVR2 hasn't quite hit the stratospheric heights they envisioned. But fear not, as the tech giant is tinkering with new strategies to bolster the VR experience. By making PSVR2 titles available through cheaper third-party codes and hinting at future PC support, Sony aims to inject fresh enthusiasm into its VR ecosystem. While the PSVR2 hardware boasts top-tier quality, its software lineup has been lacking, exacerbated by the absence of backward compatibility with older PSVR titles. The question on everyone's mind: will this initiative extend to non-VR PS5 titles? For now, the answer remains elusive, as Sony keeps its focus firmly on the world of virtual reality. A quick glance at the available titles reveals a promising array including Gran Turismo 7, Resident Evil Village, Cities Skylines VR, and Star Wars: Tales From the Galaxy’s Edge, all up for grabs via third-party retailers. And here's the kicker - some of these games offer optional VR support, meaning even those without a PSVR2 headset could get in on the action. Cast your mind back to March 2019 when Sony dropped the bombshell memo to retailers, effectively cutting off the supply of full game digital download codes. From that moment on, the PlayStation Store reigned supreme as the sole purveyor of digital games. But amidst the upheaval, add-on content and PlayStation Store credit vouchers remained unscathed by the ban. Now, with this unexpected turn of events, the game is afoot once more in the world of digital codes, albeit with a virtual twist.

Helldivers 2, the adrenaline-fueled cooperative tactical shooter sensation, has taken the gaming world by storm, offering a relentless onslaught of action-packed missions best enjoyed with a dedicated squad. Yet, while its heart-pounding gameplay and strategic depth make it an absolute blast to play with friends, venturing into the trenches solo can be a precarious endeavor, fraught with peril at every turn. Recent rumblings within the community have brought to light a troubling trend: the rise of toxic behavior among players, resulting in unjustified kicks from lobbies and shattered camaraderie. One Reddit post shed light on the issue, revealing the frustrations of players facing the wrath of trigger-happy squadmates quick to hit the eject button at the slightest misstep. The catalyst for these ruthless dismissals? Deviations from the established team dynamic. Whether it's straying from the pack or daring to deploy a mech without proper authorization, any deviation from the prescribed playbook risks invoking the ire of fellow soldiers. The fallout from these encounters has left many disillusioned, with tales of unjustified oustings and malicious betrayals echoing throughout the digital battlefield. As one disgruntled player lamented, "Tryhards gotta tryhard? People are so concerned about being optimal that the fun gets forgotten somewhere along the way as people become assholes." In the face of such adversity, players are left with few options but to take matters into their own hands. Assuming the role of lobby host affords a measure of control, shielding them from the capricious whims of their peers. Yet, it's a bitter pill to swallow, tarnishing the cooperative spirit that lies at the heart of Helldivers 2. As tensions simmer and frustrations mount, the onus falls squarely on Arrowhead Game Studios to stem the tide of toxicity before it poisons the well irreparably. Failure to address these concerns risks alienating loyal fans and driving away potential recruits, casting a shadow over the game's long-term prospects. For those determined to weather the storm, mastering the art of teamwork is paramount. Armed with the knowledge gleaned from our comprehensive guides to the game's best weapons and armor, players can arm themselves with the tools needed to prove their worth on the battlefield and earn their rightful place among their comrades. In the crucible of cooperative chaos, survival demands more than mere skill; it demands solidarity in the face of adversity. Will you rise to the challenge, or fall victim to the treacherous whims of your fellow soldiers? The choice is yours.

During the electrifying State of Unreal 2024 event, Skydance Media took center stage to drop a bombshell: the first trailer for "Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra," the brainchild of none other than Amy Hennig, the luminary writer and director celebrated for her work on titles like Jak 3 and Uncharted 2: Among Thieves. In this much-anticipated narrative-driven Marvel masterpiece, players are thrust into the heart of World War II alongside iconic heroes Captain America and Black Panther. But there's more! Brace yourselves for an epic journey through the streets of Paris, where the fate of the world hangs in the balance. The Heroes Unveiled In a dazzling display of heroism, the trailer grants fans their first glimpse of the game's stunning cinematics and tantalizing snippets of gameplay. Alongside the already confirmed duo of Captain America and Black Panther, the trailer teases two additional playable characters: Gabriel Jones, a valiant U.S. soldier from the Howling Commandos, and Nanali, a stealthy Wakandan spy. Unleashing Unreal Engine 5 Prepare to be awestruck as "Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra" harnesses the power of Unreal Engine 5. But that's not all! The game will also feature MetaHuman Animator, a ground-breaking facial animation tool that promises to elevate character expressions to new heights of realism. Imagine using just an iPhone or a helmet-mounted camera to capture facial performances with unparalleled fidelity. A Deep Dive into Development Hennig's vision for "Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra" was first teased back in late 2021, promising an original story set in the Marvel universe. Fast forward to today, and we're diving headfirst into WWII with an ensemble cast of heroes. Despite the lack of co-op, the prospect of embodying four distinct characters promises an immersive experience like no other. But that's not all Hennig has up her sleeve. Alongside this Marvel adventure, she's also steering the ship on an untitled Star Wars project, with industry veteran Dominic Robilliard onboard to steer the ship. Final Thoughts "Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra" stands as a beacon of hope amidst the flurry of announcements at State of Unreal 2024. As we eagerly await its arrival in 2025, it's clear that Hennig's latest endeavor is poised to redefine the superhero gaming landscape.

Get ready, Xbox players! Final Fantasy XIV is gearing up for its highly-anticipated debut on Xbox consoles, set to launch on March 21st after a rigorous open beta phase. Square Enix dropped the bombshell in a recent Lodestone blog post, revealing some intriguing details about what Xbox adventurers can expect. FFXIV Coins: A New Currency Frontier One of the standout features coming to the Xbox version of Final Fantasy XIV is the introduction of FFXIV Coins. These shiny new coins will serve as the primary currency for handling service fees and snagging those enticing optional items like emotes, mounts, and costumes. Xbox players, get ready to dive into a world where FFXIV Coins reign supreme. Navigating the Currency Maze Getting your hands on FFXIV Coins is a breeze - well, sort of. Players will first need to swing by the Microsoft Store to purchase these precious coins. Once acquired, they'll be seamlessly credited to your Square Enix Account upon logging into the game on Xbox. It's a straightforward process, ensuring you can jump straight into the action without missing a beat. Xbox Series X/S Exclusive Payment Method Here's the kicker: when you're on Xbox Series X/S, FFXIV Coins are your one and only currency for making in-game purchases. Square Enix has made it crystal clear that on Xbox consoles, it's all about the coins. Game Pass: The Ticket to Ride As previously reported, Xbox Game Pass (Core or Ultimate) is your golden ticket to the full Final Fantasy XIV experience. While not mandatory for accessing the game's free trial, a Game Pass subscription is a must-have for venturing beyond the trial or snagging the game in its entirety. It's a slightly different setup compared to PlayStation, where PS Plus isn't a prerequisite. Limited-Time Bonanza for Game Pass Ultimate Subscribers For those rocking the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription, Square Enix has a sweet deal in store. The Starter Edition of Final Fantasy XIV, including A Realm Reborn and the first two expansions, will be up for grabs absolutely free until April 19th. It's a generous offer, but be sure to mark your calendars to seize the opportunity before it slips away. Looking to the Future While these new details may raise some eyebrows among Xbox faithful, there's still plenty to look forward to for all Final Fantasy XIV enthusiasts. The upcoming expansion, Dawntrail, promises to ignite a fresh wave of excitement when it drops this summer. So buckle up, adventurers, because the journey is just beginning!

In a gaming landscape crowded with sequels and remakes, Capcom's Dragon's Dogma 2 emerges as a beacon of innovation. Hideaki Itsuno returns to helm this highly anticipated sequel, promising an experience that defies convention. While its predecessor garnered a devoted following rather than blockbuster success, Dragon's Dogma 2 ventures into uncharted territory, delivering an immersive role-playing experience unlike any other. A Ruthless Dance of Blades At the heart of Dragon's Dogma 2 lies its exhilarating combat system. Capcom doubles down on the "action" in action role-playing game (ARPG), offering relentless encounters against a diverse array of foes. Whether facing off against goblins, harpies, or colossal beasts like griffins and cyclops, every skirmish is a test of skill and strategy. Drawing inspiration from Shadow of the Colossus, players can scale towering adversaries to exploit their weaknesses, delivering satisfying blows that feel both visceral and impactful. The choice of Vocation, the game's class system, further enhances the combat experience. Your Loyal Companions Beyond its combat prowess, Dragon's Dogma 2 shines with its innovative Pawn system. These otherworldly allies, bound to the player character known as the Arisen, offer invaluable support throughout the journey. Customizable and adaptable, Pawns evolve alongside the player, learning from their actions and complementing their strengths and weaknesses. Additionally, the inclusion of Support Pawns from other players adds a dynamic, almost multiplayer-like element to the game, fostering a sense of community amidst the solitary quest. Forging Your Own Path Dragon's Dogma 2 defies convention with its minimalist approach to guidance and exploration. Eschewing traditional fast travel mechanics, players must traverse the sprawling landscapes on foot or via costly means, encouraging organic discovery and immersive world-building. However, this commitment to realism comes at a cost. The lack of handholding can lead to frustrating moments of trial and error, exacerbated by the game's enigmatic quest design. While some may relish the challenge of unraveling its mysteries, others may find themselves bogged down by the opacity of its systems. A Tale of Poor Frame Rates On the technical front, Dragon's Dogma 2 delivers a mixed bag of performance. The game encounter consisted of multiple issues with texture pop-in and occasional framerate drops. Despite these shortcomings, the game remains playable, if not optimal. A Bold Odyssey into Uncharted Realms In conclusion, Dragon's Dogma 2 stands as a testament to Capcom's ambition and creativity. While its unconventional design choices may alienate some players, those willing to embrace its challenges will find a rich and rewarding experience awaiting them. With its engaging combat, innovative Pawn system, and sprawling world ripe for exploration, Dragon's Dogma 2 cements its status as a daring departure from the norm—a true gem for those seeking adventure beyond the beaten path. Final Score:

Veteran game visionary, Shinji Mikami, renowned for his directorial prowess in iconic titles like Resident Evil and The Evil Within, has unveiled a new chapter in his storied career. Emerging from the shadows of his previous endeavors, Mikami has set the stage for a fresh venture with the establishment of 'Kamuy Inc', as reported by the Shadows of the Damned Hella Remastered website. While specifics regarding Kamuy Inc remain shrouded in mystery, Mikami's tweet from October 2023 hinted at his renewed drive following his departure from Tango Gameworks, the studio responsible for spine-chilling experiences like Ghostwire: Tokyo and The Evil Within series. Having left an indelible mark on the horror genre during his tenure at Capcom, where he helmed classics like Resident Evil and its acclaimed 2002 GameCube remake, Mikami's creative ambitions transcend the confines of any single genre. In a statement back in 2020, Mikami expressed his desire to undertake one final gaming project before retiring, emphasizing his boundless creativity and openness to exploring diverse gaming realms. Presently, Mikami is immersed in the development of Shadows of the Damned Hella Remastered alongside the enigmatic Goichi Suda, better known as Suda51. With Suda's expressed interest in revitalizing the Shadows of the Damned franchise, ideally with Mikami's guidance, the gaming community awaits with bated breath to witness the fruits of this potentially ground-breaking collaboration. As Mikami embarks on this new journey with Kamuy Inc, the gaming landscape braces for yet another paradigm-shifting endeavor from one of its most esteemed architects.

Larian Studios, the masterminds behind the epic RPG journey of Baldur’s Gate 3, are basking in the glory of their latest triumph. In a recent interview with GameSpot, the CEO of Larian Studios revealed some staggering news that has sent shockwaves through the gaming community. According to the CEO, Baldur’s Gate 3 has achieved a sales milestone that not only eclipses but nearly doubles the success of its predecessor, Divinity: Original Sin 2. For those unfamiliar, Divinity: Original Sin 2, another gem in Larian's crown, captivated audiences with its turn-based gameplay upon its PC debut in 2017. Now, with cumulative franchise sales exceeding the 10 million mark, Larian Studios stands tall as a titan in the RPG realm. “It’s almost double DOS 2, so it’s doing really, really well. DOS 2 was very successful, so [Baldur’s Gate 3] did beyond what we expected,” affirmed the CEO, Swen Vincke. But that's not all. In the same breath, Vincke teased Larian Studios’ ambitious future endeavors, hinting at a project that will make Baldur’s Gate 3 pale in comparison. While details remain shrouded in mystery, one thing's for sure: Larian Studios is not resting on its laurels. As fans eagerly await the next grand adventure from Larian, the accolades continue to pour in for Baldur’s Gate 3. Garnering widespread acclaim since its release on August 3, 2023, for PC, and subsequent ports to PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, Baldur’s Gate 3 has solidified its place in gaming history. As the sun sets on Baldur’s Gate 3's remarkable success story, one can't help but wonder what grand adventures Larian Studios has in store for us next. With whispers of a new masterpiece on the horizon, the future looks brighter than ever for this powerhouse developer.

At this year's PAX East 2024, NoisyPixel sat down with key figures behind Final Fantasy XVI, including producer Naoki Yoshida and DLC director Takeo Kujiraoka. The focus of their conversation revolved around the highly anticipated The Rising Tide DLC, offering insights into its development and what fans can expect. One particularly intriguing revelation came when they asked about bidding farewell to the game's beloved characters post-DLC. Yoshida hinted at the possibility of branching out to new platforms beyond the upcoming PC release. While this sparked immediate speculation about an Xbox port, Yoshida remained coy, leaving room for interpretation. "It’s not over in the sense that we have the PC version," Yoshida remarked. "Once the PC version is released, we’re thinking about hopefully moving to other platforms as well." While this statement didn't delve into specifics, it certainly ignited excitement among fans eager for expanded accessibility. However, it's important to temper expectations, as Yoshida's remarks suggest that plans are still fluid. The transition to new platforms may not be set in stone just yet. As we eagerly await further developments on this front, fans can look forward to immersing themselves in The Rising Tide DLC, slated for release on April 18, 2024. Promising around ten hours of additional gameplay, this expansion ventures into uncharted territory as Clive and his companions embark on a rescue mission in the mysterious land of Mysidia.

At this year's PAX East, Final Fantasy XIV director Naoki "Yoshi-P" Yoshida dropped some tantalizing hints that have reignited speculation about a possible Final Fantasy IX remake. During the event, Yoshida announced some Final Fantasy IX-themed extras for the Collector’s Edition and Digital Collector’s Edition of the upcoming Final Fantasy XIV expansion, Dawntrail. These bonuses include the iconic Ark summon from Final Fantasy IX as a mount in Final Fantasy XIV, as well as a wind-up Princess Garnet minion. Notably, if players pre-order Dawntrail, they'll receive a wind-up Zidane minion, referencing the protagonist of Final Fantasy IX. While these additions alone might not raise too many eyebrows, it was Yoshida's cryptic comment during the announcement that has stirred up speculation. "You may have noticed a lot of Final Fantasy IX references here, but the reason is a secret," Yoshida teased before sealing his lips. Rumors of a Final Fantasy IX remake have circulated for years, particularly after the game was listed in a 2021 Nvidia leak alongside other Square Enix titles like the Chrono Cross remaster and Kingdom Hearts 4. Despite this, neither a Final Fantasy IX remake nor a Final Fantasy Tactics remake, both listed in the leak, have materialized. Speculation about Yoshida's hint runs rampant, with some suggesting a possible crossover event between Final Fantasy XIV and Final Fantasy IX or even the revival of the rumored Final Fantasy IX animated series. However, fans can't help but dream of a modern reimagining of the beloved 2000 PSone classic RPG. Meanwhile, Square Enix remains occupied with the Final Fantasy VII Remake project, with the recent release of the second entry, Rebirth. Looking ahead, the final installment of the trilogy might not see the light of day until around 2028, leading some to ponder if it could potentially be a launch title for the PlayStation 6, considering Sony's remarks about the PS5's life cycle.

Phil Spencer, the mastermind behind Xbox's evolution, is leading the charge into a new era for the gaming giant. This transformative journey has already seen four games making their way onto PlayStation and Nintendo consoles. And if recent reports hold true, this is just the beginning. Gone are the days of traditional platform exclusivity being the linchpin of success. While PlayStation and Nintendo continue to thrive on this model, Spencer's Xbox is charting a different course, one that embraces a more inclusive approach to gaming. In a recent interview with Polygon, Spencer elaborated on the rationale behind this strategic shift. Citing changing consumer habits, particularly among Gen Z, and a stagnant console market, Spencer emphasized the need for innovation and expansion beyond traditional boundaries. "The console market isn't growing, simply making a better box won't suffice. We need to attract new customers from other platforms and publishers." For Spencer, the future of Xbox lies not in hardware but in accessibility and adaptability. He recognizes that younger generations view gaming as a ubiquitous experience, one that transcends the confines of a single device or platform. "The notion of Xbox being confined to a single device doesn't resonate with Gen Z," Spencer explained. "Their digital landscape is fluid and versatile. Xbox's identity must evolve to reflect this - we're becoming the go-to destination for great games, regardless of the device." In essence, Spencer envisions Xbox as a dynamic ecosystem where gamers can seamlessly access their favorite titles across various platforms. It's a bold vision that underscores Xbox's commitment to staying relevant and engaging with a new generation of players. As Phil Spencer continues to steer Xbox into uncharted territory, one thing is certain, the Multi-Platform Age of Xbox promises to redefine the gaming landscape for years to come.

Just Cause 2 for the PC is a symphony of freedom, offering players an expansive playground where chaos reigns supreme. While its narrative might falter, its true strength lies in its exhilarating action and boundless open-world design. Panau, the island setting, steals the show with its breath-taking diversity and lively environments. Unlike its predecessor, Panau feels alive, with villages, military outposts, and hidden treasures waiting to be discovered around every corner. Exploring its vast landscapes is a rewarding experience, filled with surprises and secondary missions that add depth to the gameplay. The game's primary objective revolves around causing chaos to overthrow the oppressive regime ruling Panau. Players are free to tackle missions and objectives in any way they see fit, with a staggering array of vehicles and weapons at their disposal. Whether it's soaring through the skies in fighter jets or causing mayhem on the ground with armored vehicles, the possibilities for destruction are endless. At the heart of Just Cause 2's gameplay is the grappling hook, a versatile tool that adds a layer of creativity to every encounter. From traversing terrain to dispatching enemies in creative ways, the grappling hook elevates the action to new heights, allowing players to unleash their inner superhero. While the game's visuals are impressive, with stunning landscapes and dynamic lighting, character models and cutscenes leave something to be desired. However, solid animations and responsive controls ensure that the gameplay remains engaging throughout. Despite some technical hiccups, Just Cause 2 on PC delivers an unparalleled sandbox experience. Its blend of open-world exploration, chaotic gameplay, and sheer freedom make it a must-play for fans of the genre. If you're looking for an adrenaline-fueled adventure where the only limit is your imagination, look no further than Just Cause 2. Final Score:

In a momentous update, Jim Ryan, President and CEO of Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE), has revealed that PlayStation 2 sales have soared past a staggering 160 million units globally. This revelation came during a recent episode of the Official PlayStation Podcast, where Ryan delved into his tenure at Sony and discussed the company's forward trajectory. Reflecting on the 2000s era, Ryan emphatically stated, "The 2000s? That would be, I would say, 160 million, which is the number of PS2s that we sold. A high watermark." This announcement comes as a revision to previous sales figures, with Sony's second home console initially reported to have reached 159 million units sold. Despite Sony's official declaration of 150 million units in 2011, production continued for an additional two years. Analyst Daniel Ahmad from Niko Partners later estimated sales had climbed to 155.1 million by March 2012. "In the fiscal year ending March 2013, a total of 16.5 million PS3 & PS2 units were shipped," Ahmad noted in 2018. "PS2 was still being shipped during this period so the info we're missing is how many units were PS2 and how many were PS3. Using PS3's 80m sell-in announcements as a guide you can work backwards and ultimately work out that PS2 [sales from March 2012 through the end of its production] must have been close to 4m." The PlayStation 2's dominance in the realm of best-selling consoles remains unparalleled, with its 160 million units sold overshadowing its closest contenders. The Nintendo DS trails behind with 154.02 million units sold, followed by the Nintendo Switch at 139.36 million units. While the Switch continues to thrive as Nintendo's flagship console, speculation abounds regarding its future sales trajectory. As Jim Ryan bids farewell to PlayStation after a remarkable 30-year tenure, slated to officially depart SIE on April 1, a new era awaits with Hiroki Totoki set to assume the role of interim CEO. Ryan's departure has sparked tributes from industry luminaries like Xbox's Phil Spencer, underscoring the profound impact of his legacy. For deeper insights into Jim Ryan's reflections on Sony's gaming legacy, explore his curated list of favorite PlayStation games, where he singles out Grand Theft Auto 3 as his top pick from the PlayStation 2 era.