The Bad Gamer

Bungie has rolled out a significant update for Destiny 2, marking the arrival of Season 23, also known as Season of the Wish. This update brings a myriad of changes and tweaks, enhancing the overall gameplay experience. Revival of the Raid Boss Riven Season of the Wish reintroduces the raid boss Riven, offering players a chance to strike a deal with the wish dragon. This deal aims to provide access to The Witness and the portal leading inside The Traveler, adding a new layer to the game's storyline. Comprehensive Changes in the Sandbox The update includes extensive adjustments across the game, with particular focus on the Crucible, Destiny 2's PvP component. These changes are a response to the community's long-standing requests for improvements to the PvP experience. Crucible Strike Team: A New Era for PvP A dedicated Crucible Strike Team has been formed, tasked with developing new content and implementing necessary adjustments. This move signals Bungie's commitment to

Gothic 2, an iconic role-playing game that played a pivotal role in inspiring CD Projekt Red's The Witcher series, has made a grand entry onto the Nintendo Switch platform. Celebrating its 21st anniversary, this marks a significant milestone in the game's history. The Journey to Switch Originally released in 2002 in Germany, Gothic 2's English version surfaced in the market in the latter half of 2003. Despite a lukewarm reception in the West, it gained immense popularity in Poland, profoundly influencing the development of The Witcher series by Warsaw-based CD Projekt Red. More than two decades later, THQ Nordic brings this beloved RPG to the Switch, offering fans both new and old a chance to experience the game's magic. Gothic 2 Complete Classic: What's in the Box? https://youtu.be/iqDvhVgnAwM Gothic 2 Complete Classic, as the re-release is officially titled, includes not only the original game but also the 2003 Night of the Raven expansion. This addition introduce

Konami has released a new update for the Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 1, focusing on addressing several issues that have affected the console versions of these beloved games. The update is a part of Konami's ongoing efforts to refine and improve the player experience. Enhancing the Metal Gear Solid Experience Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 1, a compilation of some of the most iconic games in the Metal Gear series, was initially released amidst mixed reactions due to technical glitches and missing features. This collection includes the original Metal Gear, Metal Gear 2: Solid Snake, Metal Gear Solid, Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty, and Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater, all adapted for the latest generation of consoles. Addressing the Bug Fixes in the Latest Update The latest update, version 1.3.1, released on November 27, targets several critical issues. One of the significant fixes in this update is for the trophy support on the PlayStation 4 version. Play

As The Game Awards 2023 approach, the gaming world is abuzz with anticipation, especially Xbox enthusiasts. Microsoft has hinted at making "important announcements and other Xbox news" at the event, setting the stage for potentially groundbreaking revelations. The Stage is Set for Xbox With just over a week remaining until The Game Awards, excitement is palpable. The event, which not only honors outstanding achievements in the gaming industry but also serves as a platform for major announcements, has historically been a significant venue for Xbox. It was at The Game Awards in 2019 that Microsoft unveiled the Xbox Series X, a year prior to its launch. Speculations and Expectations https://twitter.com/klobrille/status/1729503254155854014?ref_src=twsrctfwtwcamptweetembedtwterm1729503254155854014twgr80ffb070213f96c6c1929a3ad275829e2e470a20twcons1_&ref_url=httpsgamerant.comxbox-the-game-awards-2023-big-announcements-tease The lack of specific details from Xbox has not deterred

Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, developed by Insomniac Games, has recently earned significant recognition in the gaming community. Its side quest, titled "Graffiti Trouble," has been nominated for Best Representation at the GAconf Awards. This nomination acknowledges the game's commitment to inclusivity and accurate representation within the gaming world. The Quest for Inclusivity: "Graffiti Trouble" The side quest in focus, "Graffiti Trouble," revolves around a deaf character, Hailey Cooper. Hailey, introduced in the predecessor game Spider-Man: Miles Morales, plays a significant role in Spider-Man 2. Not only does she serve as a romantic interest for Miles Morales, but she also leads the player through an immersive experience that simulates her life as a deaf person. The game achieves this through innovative audio design, muting most in-game sounds to mirror Hailey’s auditory experience. Representation and Accessibility Spider-Man 2's nomination for Best

In a curious turn of events, a MediaMarkt store recently found itself in the spotlight for selling Xbox Series S bundles that included a seemingly incompatible item: physical copies of FIFA 23. This peculiar incident highlights a notable shift in the gaming industry towards digital platforms and the challenges retailers face in adapting to these changes. Xbox Series S: A Digital-Only Console The Xbox Series S, priced at $300, is Microsoft's more affordable and compact option in its current console lineup. Unlike its counterpart, the Xbox Series X, the Series S is designed exclusively for digital gaming. This means it lacks a disc drive, catering instead to a market that prefers downloading games directly from online stores like the Xbox Game Store or subscribing to services like Xbox Game Pass. The Appeal of the Series S https://twitter.com/DANNYonPC/status/1728782461121765662?ref_src=twsrctfwtwcamptweetembedtwterm1729157064390226064twgrbdba1260f055dde0d3fb8b59dbc976b1f1b6ee0atwcon

PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium subscribers are facing a significant shift in their gaming options come December 2023. According to PlayStation Game Size, several popular titles are set to leave the service, reshaping the landscape of available games for subscribers. Exiting Titles from the Service Among the most notable exits are games from the Yakuza series, including "Yakuza 6: The Song of Life" and "Yakuza: Like a Dragon," and the acclaimed Middle-earth titles, "Shadow of Mordor" and "Shadow of War." These exits are particularly poignant for Yakuza fans as they occur just before the release of the next installment in the franchise, "Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth," set for January 26, 2024. Timeframe for Players to Act These games, along with seven others, are scheduled to leave the Sony service on December 19. This gives players less than a month from the announcement to try them out or finish their ongoing progress. For those d

"Ghost of Tsushima," developed by Sucker Punch, presented an immersive historical drama rooted in the samurai cinema tradition. As the gaming community eagerly awaits the reveal of "Ghost of Tsushima 2," the potential directions for the sequel's narrative and themes are ripe for exploration, based on the first game's conclusion. Jin Sakai's Continued Journey The central character, Jin Sakai, faced a profound internal conflict between his samurai honor and the necessity to adopt unorthodox methods to protect his homeland from Mongol invaders. The original game ended with Jin's exile by the Shogunate, leaving a clear path for the sequel to explore his internal turmoil further. Potential Historical Backdrops Assuming "Ghost of Tsushima 2" continues in the late 1200s, it could incorporate significant historical events such as the second Mongol invasion and the Kamakura earthquake of 1293. These events provide rich settings and plot points for t

Open-world games have long been a platform for exploring new cultures and diversity. This exploration allows players to immerse themselves in different societies, learn about unique traditions, and engage with a variety of narratives that offer a window into worlds different from their own. Here's a detailed look at eight such games that stand out in this regard. 1. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Metascore: 94 - Platforms: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Switch - Genre: RPG, Action, Adventure - Developer: CD Projekt Red "The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt" delves deep into European folklore, particularly Polish culture. It features monsters and customs that are deeply rooted in Slavic folklore, like the "kikimora" or the tradition of "bread and salt" at weddings. The game’s narrative also explores the clashing of different cultures and races, offering players a rich tapestry of Slavic cultural elements. 2. Ghost of Tsushima Metascore: 83 - Platforms: PS4, PS5 - G

Modern Warfare 2, when initially launched, came with 10 maps that received mixed reviews from the gaming community. One map, in particular, Santa Sena, faced harsh criticism, being labeled as one of the worst in Call of Duty history. The negative sentiment was echoed by former CDL pro FormaL, who openly criticized the overall quality of these maps. This backdrop of dissatisfaction sets the stage for what followed. A Bold Move by Sledgehammer Games https://twitter.com/charlieINTEL/status/1725217335735103541?ref_src=twsrctfwtwcamptweetembedtwterm1725217335735103541twgr32ee0289470665fb1d3d32ffd232a6edea09667ftwcons1_&ref_url=httpswww.dexerto.comcall-of-dutymw3-players-have-change-of-heart-with-mw2-maps-returning-2387806 In a surprising turn of events, Sledgehammer Games announced their intention to reintroduce MW2 maps into Modern Warfare 3. This decision initially raised eyebrows, given the past criticism. The developers assured that these maps would retain their original graphics bu

The gaming community is buzzing with anticipation for the upcoming release of GTA VI, which is projected to be more detailed than its predecessor, Red Dead Redemption 2. This expectation is particularly high, given that the game is launching on the new-generation consoles like PS5 and Xbox Series X/S. The significant investment in GTA VI, making it one of the most expensive video games ever developed, sets the stage for an unparalleled gaming experience. Surpassing Red Dead Redemption 2's Detailing Red Dead Redemption 2 set a high bar for in-game realism, famously known for its hyper-realistic depiction of horse testicles reacting to weather changes. This feature, while amusing to many, showcased Rockstar's commitment to intricate detailing. The anticipation is that GTA VI will not only match but exceed these levels of detail, leveraging the advanced capabilities of newer gaming consoles. Leveraging Advanced Hardware for Enhanced Realism The decision to launch GTA VI exclusivel

Insomniac's "Marvel's Spider-Man 2" stands out for its captivating storytelling and gameplay innovations. One of the game's most notable aspects is the boss fight between Miles Morales and Peter Parker. This showdown not only demonstrates their individual abilities but also adds significant depth to their relationship. The narrative choice to turn one protagonist into a boss for the other was ingenious, offering a fresh perspective on their dynamic. This clash follows an intense boss fight against Kraven, playing as Peter Parker, and serves as a pivotal moment in the game's plot. The Logical Development of Miles and Peter’s Showdown Given that both Miles and Peter are playable characters, it was almost predictable that they would confront each other at some point, especially with Peter influenced by the symbiote. This decision was not only logical in terms of character development but also provided an opportunity for players to experience a unique battle scena

The Super Mario franchise, a cornerstone of Nintendo's legacy, is known for its whimsical and engaging gameplay. Over its 35-year history, the series has included a plethora of hidden treasures and references, some of which are particularly unusual due to their unexpected nature or seeming disconnect from the rest of the game. 1. Mario's Wardrobe in Super Mario Odyssey In "Super Mario Odyssey," a groundbreaking installment for the Nintendo Switch released in 2017, Mario's new abilities are showcased. Players are delighted by Mario's ability to transform into various enemies using Cappy. An intriguing aspect is Mario's varied wardrobe, with some outfits, like the Japanese Noble and Samurai Wear, first appearing in a 2016 Club Nintendo reward, a desk calendar. The Uniqueness of Outfits These outfits are not just visual elements; they represent a deeper connection to Nintendo's creative history, showing the company's penchant for intertwining various

The handheld gaming market is about to witness the arrival of the Anbernic RG35XX Plus, a new and improved console from Anbernic. The anticipation has been building since its initial announcement, and now, with its launch imminent, the brand has revealed the detailed specifications and pricing for this portable gaming device. Anbernic RG35XX Plus: Pricing and Storage Options - Early Bird Pricing: Anbernic has set the base model of the RG35XX Plus, featuring a 64 GB MicroSD card, at an early bird price of $57.99. For those requiring more storage, a 128 GB MicroSD card model will be available for $72.99. - Post-Offer Period Pricing: Once the introductory offer concludes, the prices will increase to $63.99 and $78.99 for the respective models. - Sales Launch: The console will be available for purchase starting tomorrow, accessible through Anbernic's official website. Making an Informed Purchase Prospective buyers should consider their storage needs when choosing between the two models

Ghost of Tsushima has carved out a unique niche in the gaming world, gaining acclaim for its realistic portrayal of historical events and art style. As anticipation builds for a potential sequel, it's crucial to consider how the game's core elements should evolve while maintaining its essence. Ghost of Tsushima's Realistic Setting and Art Style is Key The first game's standout feature is its commitment to historical accuracy, blending real-world events with a fictional narrative. This approach, coupled with the game's realistic art style, including advanced lighting, textures, and animations, adds depth and authenticity to the experience. It's imperative that any sequel, presumably in development by Sucker Punch Productions, continues this tradition to keep the story and characters relatable and grounded. Ensuring Realism in Design Maintaining the game's realism is not just about accurate historical representation but also involves technical aspects like cha

As anticipation builds for the upcoming Season 1 of "Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3" (MW3), recent leaks have shed light on potential new content that players can look forward to. Notably, a prominent leaker in the CoD community, el_bobberto, has revealed information about five new weapons slated for release in the first season. This article explores these leaks, offering a glimpse into what the new season might hold for CoD enthusiasts. The Evolution of Post-Launch Support in CoD The launch of 2019's "Modern Warfare" marked a significant shift in how Activision and its developers approached post-launch support for the franchise. Moving towards a seasonal model, each season introduces a new theme, an array of weapons, skins, and additional content across various game modes. This approach has kept the game fresh and engaging for the player base. https://twitter.com/el_bobberto/status/1721227284860879206?ref_src=twsrctfwtwcamptweetembedtwterm1721227284860879206twg

The gaming world recently witnessed a remarkable event with the open beta of "The Finals," a game developed by Embark Studios. This phase marked a significant milestone, attracting an astounding 7.5 million players. Such a figure not only reflects the game's popularity but also sets the stage for its future development. This article delves into the details of the open beta, the developer's response, and the game's unique attributes, along with addressing the controversy surrounding its use of AI voiceovers. The Open Beta Phenomenon Embark Studios, comprising former DICE developers known for their work on the Battlefield series, has created "The Finals." This game stands out in the crowded first-person shooter genre with its free-to-download, destruction-based competitive structure. Its open beta phase was exceptionally successful, drawing in 7.5 million players, a testament to its engaging gameplay and innovative design. https://twitter.com/reachthefinal

In the realm of video game development, the incorporation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) signifies a paradigm shift. This article examines the recent development where Xbox, under Microsoft, has collaborated with Inworld to leverage AI in game creation, particularly focusing on narrative and dialogue tools. We will delve into the specifics of this collaboration and its potential impact on the industry, keeping in mind the challenges faced in video game development, such as high costs and the need for technical expertise. The Challenge of Game Development Developing a video game, especially at the triple-A level, involves substantial investment in terms of human resources and technical equipment. These high costs pose significant challenges, making it difficult for many games to be released and sustained in the competitive market. In this context, the integration of AI technology offers a promising solution to streamline the development process and reduce expenses. Microsoft's AI I

Grand Theft Auto (GTA) VI is poised to be one of the most groundbreaking releases in the gaming world. Rockstar Games, a subsidiary of Take-Two Interactive Software Inc., is reportedly gearing up for a major announcement regarding the game. This piece delves into the specifics of this development, the corporate evolution at Rockstar, and what fans might expect from the upcoming title. Rockstar's Corporate Culture Overhaul In recent years, Rockstar has focused on revamping its corporate culture. Following employee complaints about burnout during the production of Red Dead Redemption 2 in 2018, the company has taken significant steps to address work-life balance and internal policies. This move is a critical step in fostering a more sustainable and employee-friendly work environment, showcasing Rockstar's commitment to its workforce. Anticipation for GTA VI GTA VI is not just a game; it's a cultural phenomenon. Its predecessor, GTA V, has sold over 185 million copies, making

The handheld gaming PC market has been buzzing with excitement following the launch of the Lenovo Legion Go. Joining its closest competitor, the Asus ROG Ally, these two devices have stirred interest among gaming enthusiasts. We dive deep into their features, performance, and overall experience to help you make an informed decision. Design and Display: A Tale of Two Handhelds Legion Go's Robust Versatility The Lenovo Legion Go stands out with its larger size, accommodating a generously sized 8.8-inch IPS display with a stunning 2560x1600 resolution at a 144Hz refresh rate. Its ability to detach controllers, akin to the Nintendo Switch, and a built-in kickstand for propping the screen, highlight its versatility. However, this comes with a noticeable weight of 854g and slightly bulkier dimensions. ROG Ally's Compact Elegance In contrast, the Asus ROG Ally is more compact and lighter at 608 grams, featuring a 7-inch Full HD IPS touchscreen with a 120Hz refresh rate. While it doesn

In an era where modern Zelda titles are revolutionizing gaming with expansive open worlds and creative freedom, there lies a nostalgia for the classic Zelda experience. Robin Poe, an indie game developer, is tapping into this sentiment with the upcoming game, Sheep Lad. This charming RPG platformer, drawing inspiration from Zelda 2: The Adventure of Link, is set to capture the hearts of both new gamers and those yearning for the old-school Zelda feel. The Essence of Sheep Lad A Nostalgic Throwback Sheep Lad is a spiritual successor to the 1987 NES classic, Zelda 2. It skillfully combines 2D platforming action with RPG elements, all enveloped in delightful pixel art graphics. The game harkens back to the series' roots, offering a nostalgic experience for fans of the original Zelda games. Gameplay and Mechanics A glimpse into the game's mechanics was showcased in a short video on Twitter. It features the protagonist, Basil the Sheep Lad, navigating a cave and engaging in combat w

Ubisoft recently announced the details of the much-anticipated 1.0.5 patch for Assassin’s Creed Mirage. This update notably incorporates a feature heavily requested by the gaming community. Highlights of Update 1.0.5 Patch Rollout and Impact The latest patch for Assassin's Creed Mirage, version 1.0.5, is set to roll out, promising a range of improvements. These enhancements include critical bug fixes, animation refinements, and the much-discussed option to enable or disable chromatic aberration. Gamers can anticipate enhanced game stability and an accurate playtime clock, ensuring a seamless gaming experience. Ubisoft's Commitment to Quality Demonstrating its dedication to Assassin's Creed Mirage, Ubisoft plans to release the game on iOS, leveraging Apple's cutting-edge A17 Pro chip. This strategic move signifies the company's commitment to expanding the game's reach and optimizing it for diverse platforms. In-Depth Analysis of the Patch Game Reception and Updat

The gaming community is buzzing with anticipation as the PS5 Slim, a sleeker version of the PlayStation 5, is set to launch later this week. This comes nearly three years after the original console's debut, offering gamers a new, slimmer option with both disc and digital versions. Early Listings and Pricing https://youtu.be/1BU4VXofbQk Best Buy's Premature Listing Best Buy has jumped the gun with an early listing of the PS5 Slim bundled with Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3. Although orders can't be placed yet, the listing has already provided insights into the pricing and availability of the bundle. Bundle Pricing The bundle is priced at $499.99, aligning with the cost of the disc drive version of the new PS5. This pricing strategy effectively offers Modern Warfare 3 at no additional cost, adding value to the bundle. Options and Accessories Disc Drive and Digital Editions PlayStation has set the price for the disc drive version of the new PS5 at $499.99, while the digital-on

Call of Duty HQ represents a significant development in the Call of Duty gaming universe. Developed to enhance player experiences, this platform allows for seamless management and transition between different Call of Duty titles, including the highly anticipated Modern Warfare III, Warzone, and Modern Warfare II. Key Features of Call of Duty HQ Unified Game Management Call of Duty HQ acts as a central hub, accessible across all console and PC platforms, consolidating various COD titles into one location. This unified approach simplifies access and management of the game series. File Management Capabilities Players can navigate to the ‘manage files’ section within Call of Duty HQ to view and adjust the content for Modern Warfare III, Warzone, and Modern Warfare II. This feature is crucial for managing the game's overall footprint on players' devices. Managing File Sizes and Content Flexibility in Content Usage Players can manage their storage by downloading or removing specific

Phil Spencer, the CEO of Microsoft Gaming, recently outlined a vision for an inclusive gaming community following Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard. In his discussion with Famitsu, a Japanese media outlet, Spencer emphasized the importance of considering Nintendo and PlayStation gamers as integral members of the Xbox community. Microsoft's Acquisition and Its Impact Image: Nintendo Life The Activision Blizzard Deal Microsoft's recent acquisition of Activision Blizzard marks a significant step in the gaming industry, potentially reshaping how game publishers interact across different platforms. Cross-Platform Integration Spencer's vision extends beyond traditional boundaries, aiming to create a unified gaming community that encompasses users from various platforms, including Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, and even PC gamers using Game Pass. Phil Spencer's Inclusive Vision "Just as we think of ROG Ally and Steam Deck as part of the Xbox community, we

Epic Games' recent decision to remove forced bot lobbies from Fortnite's Season OG has sparked a wave of reactions among its players. This change significantly impacts the way casual gamers approach the game, especially during one of its most popular seasons. Understanding Bot Lobbies in Fortnite The Role of Bot Lobbies Bot lobbies in Fortnite serve as a training ground for players to improve their skills in a less stressful environment. These AI-controlled bots mimic human behavior, like building structures and engaging in combat, but lack the unpredictability and skill of real players. Forced Bot Lobbies Previously, players could manipulate the system to enter forced bot lobbies, either by teaming with a new account or exploiting certain playlist mechanisms. This approach allowed players to level up faster, especially with the shorter Battle Pass in Season OG. The Community's Response to the Removal Epic Games' Intervention Epic Games has intervened to fix this exploi

Gamers who enjoy Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 on handheld devices like the ASUS ROG Ally or Steam Deck should be aware of the potential risks of being shadowbanned. This article aims to provide crucial information and tips to avoid this frustrating consequence. Understanding Shadowbanning in Modern Warfare 3 (Image credit: Windows Central) The Ricochet Anti-Cheat System Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 employs a proprietary anti-cheat system called Ricochet, designed to identify and penalize players using third-party tools, such as auto-aim hacks and similar cheats. However, this system can sometimes mistakenly target innocent players, especially those using certain features on handheld gaming PCs. The Issue with Handheld Gaming PCs Devices like the ASUS ROG Ally and Steam Deck, popular among handheld gaming enthusiasts, come equipped with various overlays and tools to enhance the gaming experience. Unfortunately, some of these features, particularly TDP-switching capabilities, can ina

For those with a penchant for exploring fictional worlds and engaging in intense survival battles, the opportunity to play Far Cry 6 for free on Steam presents a unique gaming experience. Despite mixed reviews and criticisms for its repetitive nature, this installment in the Far Cry series has qualities that might just surprise you. Far Cry 6: A Controversial Yet Engaging Installment Overview of the Game Far Cry 6, set on a fictional Caribbean island, immerses players in a tumultuous environment where survival is key. While not as acclaimed as its predecessors, the game still offers robust mechanics and a colorful narrative. The Current Offer on Steam Steam, seizing the moment, has made Far Cry 6 available for free in a demo version. Additionally, the standard edition of the game is currently available at a significantly reduced price, offering a 75% discount. Community Perspectives on Far Cry 6 Fans' Opinions Contrary to widespread criticism, many fans have expressed a favorable v