The Bad Gamer

As BioWare gears up for the release of Dragon Age: The Veilguard on October 31, excitement is building around the game's companions—characters that have long been a hallmark of BioWare's RPGs. Known for their rich backstories and deep connections with players, companions are more than just side characters; they are integral to the narrative and gameplay experience. With the start of Companions Week, BioWare has offered fans a closer look at some of these new allies, revealing screenshots and details that are sure to spark discussions among Dragon Age enthusiasts. The Heart of The Veilguard: Companions One of BioWare’s strengths has always been its ability to create companions that players care about—whether it’s the stoic Garrus Vakarian from Mass Effect or the noble Alistair from Dragon Age: Origins. The Veilguard seems poised to continue this tradition, introducing a new roster of characters who bring their unique personalities, abilities, and stories to the table. The game f

World of Warcraft fans have been eagerly awaiting the chance to play as the new Earthen race introduced in The War Within, the game’s 10th expansion and the first chapter of the Worldsoul saga. While many had hoped to dive into the Earthen experience during the expansion's early access, Blizzard has now confirmed that players will need to wait a bit longer. Mark your calendars—September 3 is the official date when the Earthen will become playable. The War Within: A New Era for WoW The War Within has already made a significant impact on the World of Warcraft community. This expansion introduces a wealth of new content, but few features have generated as much buzz as the Earthen, a race of stone dwarves hailing from the continent of Khaz Algar. As WoW’s newest allied race, the Earthen bring a fresh dynamic to the game, offering players a new perspective and lore to explore. Unlocking the Earthen: What You Need to Know Blizzard has outlined the steps required to unlock the Earthen rac

Genshin Impact, the beloved action RPG by miHoYo, continues to expand its ever-evolving world with a significant update to its Imaginarium Theater mode in the upcoming version 5.0. Known for its blend of exploration, combat, and intricate character dynamics, Genshin Impact keeps players engaged by consistently rolling out fresh content, and this update is no exception. What Is Imaginarium Theater? For those new to the mode, Imaginarium Theater is a combat-centric feature within Genshin Impact that challenges players to assemble their own squad, referred to as the "Principal Cast," to face off against waves of increasingly difficult enemies. Think of it as a more specialized version of the Spiral Abyss, with unique rules and rotating seasonal elements that dictate which characters can be used. https://twitter.com/GenshinImpact/status/1828259141430759646?ref_src=twsrctfwtwcamptweetembedtwterm1828259141430759646twgrba347d08bc2f82870d3031f0aee56e52b167f52atwcons1_&ref_url=htt

The horror universe of Dead by Daylight is expanding once again, but this time it’s taking a different turn. Supermassive Games, known for its knack for immersive, decision-based horror experiences, has just launched a free demo for its upcoming game, The Casting of Frank Stone. While the game doesn’t officially drop until September 3, players can already dive into this spinoff's world through a short yet chilling demo, available on Steam. A New Chapter in Dead by Daylight’s Legacy If you’re already familiar with Dead by Daylight, you know it as an intense, asymmetrical multiplayer horror game where one player takes on the role of a killer, hunting down a team of survivors. But The Casting of Frank Stone takes a completely different approach. Instead of diving right into multiplayer chaos, this spinoff offers a rich, narrative-driven prequel. Supermassive Games, the studio behind Until Dawn and The Dark Pictures Anthology, is spearheading this project, giving fans a chance to explo

Spectre Divide, an upcoming free-to-play tactical first-person shooter, is generating considerable buzz ahead of its early access release next week. Set to shake up the genre, Spectre Divide introduces a unique twist on the traditional FPS formula by allowing each player to control two characters simultaneously. A Fresh Take on Tactical FPS Gameplay Spectre Divide draws inspiration from popular titles like Counter-Strike and Valorant but distinguishes itself with a novel two-characters-per-player setup. Teams are composed of three players, but each player controls two distinct characters, effectively making it a 3v3 match with a twist. The ability to switch between characters on the fly adds a layer of strategy and complexity that could set Spectre Divide apart from its competitors. During a recent beta test, the game's innovative mechanics caught the attention of many, including Morgan, who was particularly impressed. "It’s a weird concept, but it works brilliantly," he

As the highly anticipated release of Dragon Age: The Veilguard draws near, BioWare is ramping up its promotional efforts by revealing detailed information about the companions that players will recruit in the game. Set for an October 2024 release, this new entry in the beloved Dragon Age franchise is poised to reintroduce fans to the rich world of Thedas after nearly a decade since the last major installment. Introducing the Veilguard Companions BioWare has recently shared new insights into the abilities and roles of the companions in Dragon Age: The Veilguard. These characters will play a pivotal role in the player's journey, offering unique skills that complement the protagonist, Rook, as they navigate the treacherous lands of Thedas. To kick off what the studio is calling "Companions Week," BioWare has released detailed profiles of several key characters. These profiles not only showcase character art but also provide a glimpse into the abilities each companion will br

Disney’s California Adventure is undergoing significant changes as the park prepares for an expansion of its popular Avengers Campus. However, this expansion comes with a bittersweet development: the closure of the beloved Red Car Trolley barn. This decision, revealed in a recent announcement, has left many park enthusiasts disheartened. A New Era for Avengers Campus The success of Avengers Campus has been a driving force behind Disney’s decision to expand the Marvel-themed area. Two new attractions, Avengers Infinity Defense and Stark Flight Lab, are set to begin construction in 2025. While these additions promise to bring even more excitement to the park, they also necessitate significant changes to the existing landscape. The removal of the Red Car Trolley barn, a feature that has been part of Buena Vista Street since 2012, is one such change. This decision was officially confirmed during the D23 Expo, but Disney only recently detailed the implications, which include the closure of

PlayStation’s latest live-service first-person shooter, Concord, has found itself in hot water as it faces significant review bombing on Metacritic. The game, which has struggled to gain a foothold in the competitive gaming market, is now seeing its user rating plummet due to a barrage of extremely low scores. A Rocky Start for Concord From the moment Concord was announced, it faced skepticism and criticism. The game’s hero shooter mechanics and unconventional character designs were not well-received, leading to a lukewarm reception even before its official release. When Concord finally debuted, the numbers were underwhelming. On Steam, the game peaked at just 697 players during its opening weekend, a stark contrast to the numbers typically seen with successful live-service games. As of now, the player base has dwindled to around 152 players on Steam, and while PlayStation 5 numbers aren’t publicly available, it’s unlikely that they are significantly better. Review Bombing Hits Metacri

Xbox Game Pass has just added another gem to its growing library with the inclusion of Core Keeper, a co-op survival game that has already captured the attention of many gamers. Developed by Swedish indie studio Pugstorm, Core Keeper has quickly gained a strong following, earning a "Very Positive" rating on Steam. The game, which launched in early access in 2022, has now fully released as of August 27, 2024, and is available to Xbox Game Pass subscribers. What Makes Core Keeper Stand Out? Core Keeper has been compared to popular titles like Stardew Valley and Valheim, offering a cozy yet challenging survival experience. Set in a mysterious underground world, the game allows players to mine resources, build bases, and explore with friends in a sandbox environment. The game's charm lies in its mix of exploration, crafting, and survival mechanics, all wrapped up in a visually appealing, pixel-art style. Although currently available on PC and the latest Sony and Microsoft con

Fans of SpongeBob SquarePants have a new reason to dive into Bikini Bottom, but this time, the spotlight shifts from the iconic sponge to his best friend, Patrick Star. Outright Games, known for their family-friendly titles, has officially announced SpongeBob SquarePants: The Patrick Star Game, offering a fresh take on the beloved franchise by putting Patrick front and center. Patrick Star's Solo Adventure Revealed Revealed during the August 27 Nintendo Direct, SpongeBob SquarePants: The Patrick Star Game is a new 3D platforming adventure that lets players explore the quirky underwater world from Patrick's perspective. While SpongeBob has been the focus of most games in the series, this new title allows players to experience the unique charm and naiveté of Patrick as the main character. Building on the success of recent SpongeBob games like Battle for Bikini Bottom – Rehydrated and The Cosmic Shake, developer PHL Collective and publisher Outright Games are taking a bold step by

Chasca, one of the most anticipated characters in Genshin Impact’s upcoming Natlan expansion, is shaping up to be an intriguing addition to the roster. A recent leak from a reliable source has offered the first glimpse into her ability kit, sparking excitement among players. A New Anemo Hypercarry in the Making? Chasca made a striking first impression with her feathery outfit and stylish hat during her debut in the Ignition teaser for Version 5.0. A member of the Flower-Feather Clan, Chasca is set to play a significant role in the inaugural patch of Natlan, with a rumored headlining appearance in Version 5.2. This patch will expand the Natlan map to include the volcanic highlands, home to the Flower-Feather Clan. While many players have been eagerly anticipating the releases of Xilonen and Mavuika, Chasca’s unique design and abilities have quickly captured the community's attention. According to the leak, Chasca will be an Anemo Bow character with a hypercarry role, adding a fresh

Nintendo continues to expand its collection of retro games on the Nintendo Switch Online service, with the latest addition being the NES version of Tetris. Announced during the recent Nintendo Direct, this beloved classic is set to be available to subscribers this winter. Nintendo Switch Online’s Retro Library Nintendo Switch Online offers a wide range of classic games from various Nintendo consoles, giving players a chance to relive some of the greatest titles from the NES era and beyond. With the library already boasting iconic titles such as Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Metroid, the addition of Tetris further enriches the nostalgic experience for subscribers. The Significance of Adding Tetris Tetris is not just another NES game; it’s a title that has defined puzzle gaming for decades. Its simple yet addictive gameplay has stood the test of time, making it a must-have in any classic game collection. The NES version of Tetris is particularly notable as it helped solidif

As Capcom gears up for the release of Monster Hunter Wilds, fans have been eager to see what new features and mechanics the latest installment will bring to the beloved franchise. However, one feature that won't be making a return is underwater combat. A former producer from the series recently shed light on why this decision was made, even as fans continue to request its inclusion. The New World of Monster Hunter Wilds Monster Hunter Wilds promises to deliver a fresh experience with its expansive new map system, characterized by vast landscapes and dynamic ecosystems. The game introduces players to a world where the climate changes drastically, affecting the environment and the creatures within it. Despite these exciting additions, one aspect of gameplay that has been confirmed to be absent is underwater combat, a feature last seen in Monster Hunter Tri. Why Underwater Combat Isn’t Returning During the Gamescom 2024 showcase, Capcom revealed extensive gameplay footage from Monster

In a surprising move, Sony has announced a significant price increase for its PlayStation 5 consoles, controllers, and the PlayStation Portal in Japan. Starting September 2, 2024, Japanese consumers will need to pay an additional ¥10,000 (approximately $90) for the PS5, as the company cites the "global economic situation" as the primary reason for the hike. Details of the Price Increase The new pricing puts the standard PlayStation 5 model at ¥79,980, equivalent to around $552, which is notably higher than the current US price of $500. The digital-only version of the PS5, which lacks a disc drive, will now cost Japanese players approximately ¥72,980, or $506, surpassing the price of the base model in the US. This increase also affects other PlayStation products. The DualSense controller, which is integral to the PS5 experience, will now retail for the equivalent of $83. Additionally, the PlayStation Portal, Sony’s new handheld device, will see its price rise to around $242. S

The Yakuza series has garnered a passionate fanbase over the years, thanks to its gripping narratives, quirky sidequests, and memorable characters. Despite its widespread popularity across Xbox and PlayStation platforms, one notable absence has been the Nintendo ecosystem. That’s about to change—Nintendo has finally announced that Yakuza Kiwami, the remake of the original 2005 classic, is coming to the Nintendo Switch. A Brief History of Yakuza Kiwami Yakuza Kiwami is a faithful remake of the original Yakuza game that first launched on the PlayStation 2 in 2005. Set in the vibrant and dangerous district of Kamurocho, the game follows the story of Kazuma Kiryu, a yakuza member embroiled in a tale of loyalty, betrayal, and redemption. Developed by Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio and published by Sega, Kiwami was initially released on PlayStation 3 and 4 in 2016, followed by a PC release in 2019 and an Xbox release in 2020. Now, eight years after its initial remake release, Yakuza Kiwami is finally

HoYoverse is gearing up for the launch of Genshin Impact Version 5.0, scheduled for August 28, and the excitement among players is palpable. This update marks the opening of the long-awaited Natlan region and introduces a fresh lineup of events that promise to keep players engaged. The first phase of Version 5.0 is packed with opportunities to earn valuable rewards, summon new characters, and participate in limited-time challenges. The Unveiling of Natlan and New Characters One of the most anticipated features of Version 5.0 is the introduction of Natlan, a region steeped in mystery and adventure. Alongside this new area, players will have the chance to pull for new five-star characters, including Mualani and the fan-favorite Kaedehara Kazuha, through Event Wishes. These banners not only add new dynamics to team compositions but also deepen the lore of Tevyat as players explore the stories behind these characters. Events to Watch: A Quest to Kindle Ancient Flames One of the standout ev

Fortnite’s ever-rotating item shop has once again surprised players with the reappearance of the Mogul Masters skins, a set of rare and highly sought-after cosmetics that had been absent from the shop for over 500 days. This unexpected return has sparked excitement among players who have been eagerly waiting for another chance to purchase these iconic winter-themed skins, which are known for their vibrant, patriotic designs. The Mogul Masters: A Rare Find in the Item Shop For those unfamiliar, the Mogul Masters skins first made their debut in Fortnite several seasons ago and quickly became fan favorites. These skins are unique in their design, featuring athletes decked out in brightly colored skiing uniforms that are adorned with flags representing various countries. The bundle offers both male and female versions, each available for 1,500 V-bucks individually or as a discounted bundle for 2,100 V-bucks. With their return, players can now don these winter sports-themed outfits and brin

BioWare, the studio behind the highly anticipated Dragon Age: The Veilguard, recently shared insights into the favorite classes and specializations among its developers. As the release date for the game approaches, fans are eager to learn more about the intricacies of the game's character classes. Interestingly, the preferences of the developers offer a glimpse into which playstyles might dominate once the game launches. A Fresh Take on Familiar Classes Dragon Age: The Veilguard introduces three core classes that veterans of the series will recognize: Warrior, Mage, and Rogue. However, each class comes with a twist, reflecting the game’s Northern Thedas setting. These specializations are more than just cosmetic changes—they fundamentally alter how each class plays, offering players a wealth of variety and customization. For instance, rather than relying on the traditional Knight Enchanter or Arcane Warrior archetypes, The Veilguard introduces the Spellblade—a character that combine

HoYoverse has officially introduced Rappa, a much-anticipated character who will make her debut in Honkai: Star Rail Version 2.6. The character, who has been the subject of speculation and excitement within the community, brings a unique flair to the game, blending the art of ninjutsu with the rhythm of rap and graffiti culture. This announcement has set the stage for the upcoming update, adding to the buzz surrounding the game’s ever-expanding roster. The Drip Marketing Tradition In typical Honkai: Star Rail fashion, HoYoverse has once again employed its signature "drip marketing" strategy to tease players with snippets of what’s to come. This method of gradually revealing characters has proven to be an effective way to build anticipation. Prior to Rappa’s announcement, Version 2.5's characters like Feixiao, Lingsha, and Moze were unveiled in a similar fashion, keeping players on the edge of their seats. The reveal of Rappa continues this tradition, giving fans something

Blizzard Entertainment continues its commitment to improving Diablo 4's gameplay experience, particularly as the highly anticipated Season 5 unfolds. With the release of Hotfix 1.5.1, players can expect critical adjustments that directly address pressing issues in the game, notably the unintentional damage spikes caused by certain enemies. These changes are part of Blizzard's ongoing effort to refine game balance and ensure a fair playing field for all adventurers in the dark world of Sanctuary. Season 5: A Rocky Start Season 5 of Diablo 4, named "Season of the Infernal Hordes," arrived on August 6 with much fanfare, bringing new content, bug fixes, and quality-of-life improvements. However, it quickly became apparent that the season was not without its challenges. Players began to encounter a significant issue: the unexpected and overwhelming damage inflicted by certain enemies. Among the most notorious was the Desecrator, whose attacks could decimate even the most r

Genshin Impact fans have much to look forward to as the game’s version 5.0 update introduces the long-awaited Natlan region, complete with innovative mechanics that promise to revolutionize gameplay. Natlan, known as the Nation of Dragons, brings a vibrant new world for players to explore, filled with distinctive characters like Mualani, Kinich, and Kachina. This region not only adds to the game’s rich lore but also introduces unique gameplay elements that will challenge even the most seasoned players. Unlocking Natlan's Secrets: What’s New in Version 5.0 The Natlan region in Genshin Impact is set to offer players an entirely fresh experience, both visually and mechanically. With its colorful design and recognizable landmarks, Natlan is as breathtaking as it is dangerous. However, the real excitement lies in the new mechanics designed specifically for Natlan characters, enhancing their mobility and combat prowess in ways never seen before in the game. One of the standout features i

In what could be an exciting development for Xbox Game Pass subscribers, the 2021 Ubisoft title Riders Republic is rumored to be joining the service's expansive library as early as September 11, 2024. This potential addition comes from a well-known Microsoft leaker, eXtas1s, who recently hinted at the game's upcoming debut on the popular subscription platform. The Evolution of Riders Republic: From Launch to Potential Game Pass Entry Riders Republic, developed by Ubisoft Annecy, made waves upon its release in October 2021. As an open-world extreme sports game, it quickly gained a following for its immersive environments and adrenaline-pumping activities. Players were invited to explore vast landscapes, from rugged mountains to sprawling deserts, all while participating in various sports such as biking, skiing, snowboarding, and wingsuit flying. The game was initially launched across multiple platforms, including the PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC, and even G

Recently, a former developer of Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League has strongly criticized the game optimization process of the Xbox Series S. The developer called it "annoying" and even wished that this console had never come into existence. This statement comes amidst recent game delays on Xbox consoles and complaints from some developers working on the Xbox Series S. The Xbox Series S was launched during the 2020 holidays as a less-powerful and budget-friendly console alongside the Xbox Series X. While the Series X was priced at $499, the Series S was introduced with a price tag of $299, which included removing the disc drive, offering half the storage, and using a smaller chipset that was 65-70% less performant on paper. However, the longevity of the Series S has been much debated since its announcement, as many believe that this hardware is proving to be a new headache for game developers. Developers' concerns over Xbox Series S optimization Most game developers

In an unexpected resurgence of interest, Half-Life: Blue Shift, the 2001 expansion to the original Half-Life, has recently achieved a new peak player count on Steam, a staggering 23 years after its initial release. This sudden spike in player activity comes as a result of the fan-driven event #ShiftingTheBar, orchestrated by the community over at Lambda Generation. Half-Life: Blue Shift, developed by Gearbox Software, has always held a unique place within the Half-Life universe. It narrates the same story as the original Half-Life but through the perspective of Black Mesa security guard, Barney Calhoun, who would later become a key character in Half-Life 2. The expansion provided a fresh narrative lens on familiar events, offering players a chance to explore Black Mesa’s corridors from a different viewpoint. Though it initially received a mixed reception, over time, Blue Shift has garnered a loyal following who appreciate its distinct approach to storytelling. The Event That Sparked th