I’ve already spoken once today about my intrigue around permanency today, so why not keep that train running. Star Wars Zero Company, a strategy game with XCOM in its veins and execution, is continuing on its spiritual predecessors lineage by having the most controversial of all video deaths as a main feature: permadeath.
# March’s Xbox Partner Preview: Key Highlights and New Releases
The Xbox Partner Preview in March presented an array of thrilling upcoming games slated for release on Xbox and additional platforms. Featuring 19 titles, viewers experienced a taste of creative gameplay, compelling stories, and familiar franchises. Here is a summary of the major announcements from the event.
## Hunter: The Reckoning – Deathwish
Teyon introduced **Hunter: The Reckoning – Deathwish**, a sequel to the iconic tabletop RPG. This action-RPG shifts away from the previous hack-and-slash format and is set to launch in summer 2027. Players will delve into a dark narrative woven with vampiric themes and high-octane action, ensuring an engaging experience.
## Wuthering Waves
The free-to-play gacha game **Wuthering Waves** makes its arrival on Xbox after prior releases on PC, mobile, and PS5. This title boasts stunning visuals and gameplay, and will also be accessible on Game Pass.
## The Expanse: Osiris Reborn
From Owlcat Games, **The Expanse: Osiris Reborn** is a cover shooter taking place in the universe of the acclaimed sci-fi series. It will commence a closed beta in April and will also be on Game Pass.
## Grave Seasons
Blumhouse’s latest release, **Grave Seasons**, merges charming pixel art with horror elements and farming simulation. This game is scheduled to launch on Game Pass on August 14.
## Serious Sam: Shatterverse
The cherished franchise returns with **Serious Sam: Shatterverse**. Players will traverse a meta-universe alongside different versions of Sam through five-player co-op gameplay, anticipated to debut later this year.
## Stranger Than Heaven
An intense narrative adventure, **Stranger Than Heaven** explores the Japanese crime underworld through various historical perspectives. Additional details will surface on May 6 during an Xbox Direct.
## Super Meat Boy 3D
Set for March 31, **Super Meat Boy 3D** offers a challenging platforming experience, including a demo that showcases the protagonist’s struggle with recurring failures. This entry will also be available on Game Pass.
## Forever Ago
An independent title from Annapurna, **Forever Ago** investigates themes of nostalgia and grief, telling the story of an older man’s life in a charming environment. It is expected to launch on Game Pass this fall.
## Ascend to Zero
Launching on July 13, **Ascend to Zero** delivers a fast-paced action experience allowing players to manipulate time. This eagerly awaited title will also join Game Pass.
## Alien Deathstorm
Rebellion’s **Alien Deathstorm** promises excitement as players dive into an FPS horror narrative. Set for release in 2027, it will be available on Game Pass, with details on the storyline yet to be disclosed.
## Frog Squad
A whimsical co-op game named **Frog Squad** features entertaining gameplay with comedic frogs. This title is planning for a June launch on Game Pass.
## Bluey’s Happy Snaps
The beloved character Bluey makes a comeback in **Bluey’s Happy Snaps**, a game featuring a range of child-friendly activities. Set for a fall launch, it will also be available on Game Pass.
## Stalker 2: Cost of Hope
The initial expansion for **Stalker 2**, dubbed **Cost of Hope**, was revealed for summer 2023. However, the trailer primarily showcased cutscenes with limited gameplay footage.
## Moosa: Dirty Fate
Set in feudal Korea, **Moosa: Dirty Fate** provides a third-person action experience centered on combat. Anticipated for 2027 and aimed at Game Pass, it seeks to combine storytelling with engaging gameplay mechanics.
## The Eternal Life of Goldman
A distinct 2D platformer, **The Eternal Life of Goldman** features an elderly protagonist crafting canes to confront animated adversaries, highlighting intriguing art and gameplay. A demo is already available.
## Vaunted
An inventive third-person tactical shooter, **Vaunted** utilizes storytelling to modify gameplay based on character interactions and companion relationships. It is expected to release this year and will also be part of Game Pass.
## Hades II
Exciting news for fans, as **Hades II** is set for launch on April 14, bringing back the acclaimed action-roguelite, which will also be available on Game Pass.
## Artificial Detective
In **Artificial Detective**, players take on the role of a robot investigating humanity’s disappearance amidst modular evil-bots. The game is projected for 2027, allowing for further development of its title and mechanics.
March’s Xbox Partner Preview provided a diverse lineup of gaming experiences, highlighting innovative titles and cherished franchises while capturing the enthusiasm of players eager for their launches.
The appearance of AI in art is nothing new, hell, Mr. Movies himself Steven Spielberg literally made A.I. Artificial Intelligence near the start of the millenia. But that was the Cool AI, where robots could be people, too, if we let them. Now what we have is the Donkey Bollocks AI that produces garbage facsimiles of things we know and actually like. But that doesn’t mean it’s not worth considering AI, and I really need you to bear with me here, within our art, as that’s exactly what the team behind Pragmata did (without touching the stuff).
### Spring Promotions on JRPGs: Deals You Can’t Afford to Miss
Spring has officially arrived, and with the seasonal shift comes an array of thrilling discounts on games, especially in the JRPG category. Whether you’re playing on a Nintendo Switch or a PlayStation 4/5, this is an excellent chance to grow your collection without overspending. Current offers on the PlayStation Store and the Nintendo eShop showcase a variety of favorite titles at lower prices, making it a prime time to snag those games you’ve had your eye on.
#### Highlighted Discounts
Here’s a compilation of more than a dozen remarkable JRPGs presently on sale at reduced rates:
1. **Digimon Story Time Stranger** – $49 (30% off)
2. **Octopath Traveler 0** – $37.50 (25% off)
3. **Persona 3 Reload** – $24 (60% off)
4. **Dragon Quest 3 HD-2D Remake** – $36 (40% off)
5. **The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel** – $20 (50% off)
6. **Star Ocean The Second Story R** – $25 (50% off)
7. **Fantasian Neo Dimension** – $25 (50% off)
8. **Dungeon Encounters** – $9 (70% off)
9. **Final Fantasy VII Rebirth** – $30 (40% off)
10. **Final Fantasy XVI** – $25 (50% off)
11. **Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles** – $35 (30% off)
12. **NieR:Automata The End of YoRHa Edition** – $16 (60% off)
13. **Voice of Cards** – $25 (50% off)
14. **Collection of Mana** – $16 (60% off)
15. **Sea of Stars** – $21 (40% off)
16. **Atelier Marie Remake** – $25 (50% off)
17. **Dragon Quest XI** – $20 (50% off)
#### Selection Criteria
The games chosen for this compilation primarily offer significant discounts, with many titles around 50% off or beyond. While some recent releases like **Final Fantasy Tactics**, **Digimon Story Time Stranger**, and **Octopath Traveler 0** may not see as steep discounts, a 30% off promotion is still considerable for newer games. Personal favorites such as **Collection of Mana** offer a nostalgic journey during this lively season.
#### Physical Copies on Sale
Beyond digital downloads, several JRPGs are available in physical formats at discounted prices through various retailers such as Amazon. Notable deals include:
– **Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles** for PS5 available for just $25 on Woot.
– The physical edition of **Pokémon Legends: Z-A** for Switch at a reduced price of $45.
– **Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade** for Switch 2 priced at $30 just a month after its release.
### Conclusion
Spring presents a multitude of chances to engage with your favorite JRPGs at discounted prices. From digital downloads on various platforms to physical editions available through retailers, now is the opportune moment to enhance your gaming collection. Don’t overlook these offers, as they provide a fantastic opportunity to experience these acclaimed titles at a fraction of their original price. Enjoy your gaming!
A new Life is Strange game doesn’t always feel particularly odd given its sort of steady turn into a franchise. The last one was only in 2024 with Life Is Strange: Double Exposure, bringing back the original game’s Max Caulfield. This wasn’t necessarily a welcome return for all, and ended up being somewhat of a mixed bag. And now we come to now with a potentially odd entry, Life is Strange: Reunion, which is out today. As the subtitle suggests, and where the oddness comes in, Reunion reunites Max with the surprising return of Chloe Price. Big spoilers ahead for Double Exposure, by the way!
**Netflix Price Increases: Anticipations for 2025 and Ahead**
As Netflix persistently reconfigures its pricing models, subscribers are now confronting heightened expenses across every service level. The modifications are particularly impactful for viewers seeking to enjoy popular programming, including the eagerly awaited second season of *One Piece*.
### Revised Pricing Model
Per a refreshed support page from Netflix, the pricing modifications are outlined as follows:
– **With ads**: $8 to $9
– **Standard no ads**: $18 to $20
– **Premium no ads**: $25 to $27
These modifications signify a gradual price escalation, reminiscent of similar adjustments implemented just over a year ago, indicating a potential ongoing trend.
### Background Information
In terms of context, the **Premium version**, which enables streaming in 4K without advertisements, has risen from **$23 to $27** within slightly more than a year. This ascending pricing trajectory raises concerns for some consumers who are vigilant about their entertainment expenses. Several streaming platforms, including Spotify, HBO, and Prime Video, have also elevated their prices recently, resulting in heightened financial strain on viewers.
### Effects of Price Increases
Though an increment of a dollar or two might appear trivial in isolation, the aggregate impact of these price increases across various services can accumulate rapidly, encouraging subscribers to reconsider their entertainment choices. For Netflix, the strategy seems to be based on confidence—believing it can elevate prices without incurring significant subscriber losses.
### Popular Programming Amidst Price Adjustments
The announcement of these price increases aligns with the debut of notable Netflix series such as *Virgin River* Season 7 and *Beauty in Black* Season 2, along with the film *Raw*, all of which have seen substantial success on the platform. This indicates Netflix is banking on the high demand for fresh content to offset any negative responses to price hikes.
### Competitive Environment
As Netflix persistently raises its prices, it may soon discover itself in a competitive landscape where it could surpass the costs of services like Game Pass. This potential evolution has ignited dialogues among Netflix executives regarding prospective partnerships, including the exploration of bundling alternatives with Microsoft.
### Final Thoughts
For Netflix subscribers, the updated pricing model will necessitate a reassessment of the value gained from the service. With additional price hikes anticipated across different platforms, consumers will need to navigate the changing streaming market with caution.
We’ve all been there. You and two other morally dubious alien treasure hunters have an expedition go wrong, and find yourselves having to tactically blast through some baddies in order to secure some relics in timely fashion. Well, at least that’s situation the three protagonists of Vaunted, a newly announced tactical RPG, find themselves in.
### The Implications of DLSS 5: A Plea from New Blood Interactive
In a daring move against Nvidia’s disputed DLSS 5 technology, Dave Oshry, CEO of New Blood Interactive, has initiated a consumer boycott of the graphics leader. This appeal stems from extensive criticism that DLSS 5 acts more like a “generative AI slop filter” instead of a true enhancement in gaming graphics. The backlash regarding this technology remains fervent, and Oshry seeks to unite both developers and gamers against what he sees as harmful developments in video game visuals.
DLSS, or Deep Learning Super Sampling, is Nvidia’s technology aimed at enhancing rendering quality and performance in video games. However, with the newest version, DLSS 5, many developers, including Oshry and David Szymanski from New Blood, contend that its generative features have gone too far. Oshry voiced his strong discontent, saying, “Hurt their sales, sink their stock price… Cease collaboration with them as developers.” His statement mirrors a growing sentiment among specific gaming circles that feel endangered by the consequences of AI-driven changes in artistic expression in games.
While Nvidia tries to promote DLSS 5 as a leap forward in generative upscaling, skeptics remain doubtful. The debate intensified following the release of visuals from games like *Resident Evil Requiem*, which incited claims of poorly implemented AI enhancements that compromise the artistic integrity of the original creations. The uproar underscores a broader discontent with the trend of improvements that prioritize technological progress over authentic artistic quality.
Szymanski remarked, “It particularly stings to see it highlighted in *Resident Evil Requiem*, a game that represents quality and passion in AAA game design.” His comments illustrate significant concern regarding the influence of generative AI, which he and others believe tarnish the creative essence of video game artistry. They argue that the outcome of DLSS 5 resembles a “glorified autocorrect,” standardizing distinct artistic contributions in favor of a uniform, AI-generated aesthetic.
As video game graphics cards escalate in price, the critiques arise at a moment when players desire genuine value in their gaming experiences. The issue of what defines quality in contemporary games has never been more pertinent. “Nobody desires a fucking glorified autocorrect painting over the work of real human beings making genuine art,” Szymanski declared, reflecting a sentiment shared by numerous individuals within the gaming sector.
Oshry encourages the community to actively confront this issue, drawing comparisons to past pushback against NFTs and exploitative monetization tactics. He expressed concern, “At this rate, why produce game art at all? Why not simply sketch some shapes and colors and let AI generate what it deems appropriate?” This rhetoric hits at the core of the ongoing discussion regarding AI’s position in creative fields and its potential to dilute human artistic endeavors.
The DLSS 5 controversy is not just a fleeting complaint; it represents an escalating rift in the gaming community between those who welcome technological innovations and those who emphasize traditional artistry. As Oshry and Szymanski mobilize gamers to their cause, it remains to be seen whether Nvidia will heed the undeniable dissatisfaction or if this signals the onset of a more enduring conflict between developers, gamers, and the AI technologies transforming their landscape.
It would be a reasonable assumption to make that there are only so many variations on football games you can make. Ultimately, no matter how many bells, whistles, or rocket powered cars you throw at it, it always comes down to getting a ball in a net and shouting SCOOOOOORE. Except in the case of Nutmeg!, a “nostalgic deckbuilding football manager” which looks like it features more faxing than any sort of kicking, but I mean that in an endearing way, promise.
Unveiled last year after a minor leak, Star Wars: Zero Company is developing into something truly remarkable. This forthcoming tactical strategy game radiates XCOM energy, yet introduces its own unique twists to the mix. Here’s all the information we have about the forthcoming Star Wars: Zero Company.
Zero Company is a solo turn-based tactical strategy game where players command a team of five characters to embark on various missions to achieve specific goals. Similar to XCOM, players can maneuver their squad members for tactical benefits, seek cover, or surprise enemy droids and criminals.
EA and Bit Reactor have yet to disclose an official launch date, but it has been confirmed that Star Wars: Zero Company will debut in 2026.
Star Wars: Zero Company is expected to be released later this year on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. A Switch 2 version has not been confirmed so far.
Lucasfilm has verified that Zero Company takes place during the Clone Wars period of the Star Wars universe. This era is characterized by widespread conflict as Clone Troopers battled Separatist Droids across planets such as Genosis, Felucia, and Umbara.
Players will embody Hawks, a customizable character and the leader of Zero Company. Players can modify Hawks’ name, gender, and species. They are a shamed non-clone former Republic officer. Following an undisclosed incident that compelled them to abandon the Republic, Hawks forms Zero Company to continue combating the Separatists and their enigmatic supporters without Republic backing.
Indeed! Any character aside from Hawks can perish permanently if players are not cautious in Zero Company. Even named comrades important to the game’s narrative, as well as randomly generated cannon fodder that players recruit during their journey, can be lost. No one is exempt from danger. So tread carefully.
Absolutely! There is at least one confirmed Jedi in the game who can be included in your squad: Tel-Rea Vokoss, a Tognath Jedi Padawan aiming to complete her master’s unfinished mission before their death.
Yes! Bit Reactor has verified that during narrative missions, players will have the ability to move around levels and explore them outside of combat scenarios.
Indeed, it’s hard to believe that was unintentional…
Well, here’s some good news: one of the primary figures behind the original Knights of the Old Republic is creating a new single-player RPG…