**Player Housing in World of Warcraft: The Emergence of Floating Abodes**

After twenty years of expectation, Blizzard Entertainment has launched player housing in its esteemed MMORPG, *World of Warcraft*. This eagerly awaited addition has swiftly intrigued players, not just for its imaginative prospects but also for the surprising occurrence of floating abodes that surfaced soon after its release.

On December 2, the game was updated to version 11.2.7, which introduced the new housing capability. Almost right away, players uncovered hidden hotkeys that enabled them to suspend their homes in the air, offering a fresh dimension of gameplay and creativity. Although there is ongoing discussion within the community regarding whether this qualifies as a bug or a feature, Blizzard has opted to embrace this unintentional mechanic. Rather than eliminating the ability for homes to float, the developers have made it an official aspect of the player housing system, including interface upgrades to streamline the process.

Community representative Randy Jordan, known as Kaivax, explained the scenario on the official forums, stating that while levitating homes were not part of their original vision, the ingenuity displayed by players in constructing flying vessels and enchanted towers was undeniable. Consequently, Blizzard has decided to retain the floating feature, motivating players to experiment with creative designs for their elevated homes.

Nonetheless, with this newfound freedom come specific considerations. Kaivax offered two crucial reminders for players looking to elevate their homes. First, the underside of these floating abodes is unmodeled and untextured, meaning players need to be mindful of concealing this area with other in-game elements. Second, accessing the door of a raised house may prove challenging, necessitating inventive solutions such as creating ramps, developing jumping puzzles, or setting up landing zones for mounts.

In addition to these updates, Blizzard has also enhanced the capacity for outdoor decorations, enabling players to place up to 250 items on their homes, an increase from the former cap of 200. This improvement aligns with Blizzard’s continual initiative to enhance the player housing experience.

Since the introduction of these features and adjustments, players have enthusiastically engaged with the new system, showcasing their creations and discussing strategies for optimizing their floating homes. Blizzard’s flexibility and official acknowledgment of player creativity underscore the vibrant relationship they share with their gaming community, promoting an atmosphere where imagination can flourish.

As *World of Warcraft* continues to progress, the floating abodes trend may be just the onset of new adventures and creative opportunities for players and their digital residences.

### Delving into the ID@Xbox Indie Selections Demo Fest: Essential Demos to Try

Steam’s Next Fests typically showcase playable demos of upcoming releases, but Xbox has also solidified its dedication to indie creators through events like the ID@Xbox Indie Selections Demo Fest. This initiative presents a curated selection of demos for various indie games, allowing players to experience fresh adventures. With 36 free demos accessible until the conclusion of December, we’ve pinpointed some of the top ones you should think about trying.

#### 1. Cash Cleaner Simulator
This quirky title offers a lighthearted perspective on the post-PowerWash Simulator trend, centering on money laundering—quite literally. Players embark on a humorous journey of cleaning crime money, fusing clever mechanics with lively gameplay. Initially launched on Steam, it garnered positive reviews, and now Xbox players can join in the enjoyment.

#### 2. Deck of Haunts
A distinctive mix of deckbuilding and roguelite gameplay, Deck of Haunts positions players as the very haunted house itself. The goal is to entice unwitting visitors into shadowy rooms and use their fears to collect their essence. Despite its success on PC, it has remained under the radar, making its console arrival highly awaited.

#### 3. Aikyam
Drawing inspiration from Bollywood, Aikyam invites players into a stunning RPG rich with cultural motifs and vibrant visuals. As characters confront demonic adversaries, they participate in battles reminiscent of cinematic action sequences, highlighting themes of compassion. The art style, heavily influenced by Diwali, is visually impressive and enhances the game’s appeal.

#### 4. Pathologic
Pathologic is an otherworldly indie gem, offering players the narrative of a plague doctor through dreamlike storytelling and distinctive gameplay mechanics. Following its well-received predecessors, the third entry aims to recapture the same eerie charm that made the original a cult classic, with intriguing teasers hinting at its comeback.

#### 5. Cassette Boy
Creative in its approach, Cassette Boy presents a unique twist on puzzle RPGs, where anything off-screen simply ceases to exist. While it may seem like a 2D game, its mechanics provide an engaging 3D experience, encouraging players to interact with its systems inventively. The demo is crucial for anyone captivated by its premise.

#### 6. Knuckle Jet
Revitalizing a classic side-scrolling experience for contemporary audiences, Knuckle Jet merges acrobatics and combat with a visually striking stop-motion art aesthetic. Its tagline of “scientifically inaccurate flight action” hints at lighthearted, whimsical fun akin to classic platformers.

#### 7. Relooted
From the creators of the acclaimed puzzle platformer Semblence, Relooted focuses on a band of thieves reclaiming artifacts from Western museums. Merging stealth mechanics with parkour, players must maneuver through intricate heists to recover culturally important objects, making for a game enriched with significant context.

#### 8. Limbot
This local co-op party game allows players to control separate limbs of a creature in an absurdly chaotic manner. Featuring physics-based gameplay, Limbot challenges players to collaborate while navigating a destructible cardboard environment, ensuring laughter and unforeseen obstacles.

#### 9. Worshippers of Cthulhu
This Lovecraftian colony simulation lets players spearhead a cult aimed at resurrecting Cthulhu. With gameplay influenced by the Anno series, it encapsulates the essence of managing a cult bent on cosmic catastrophe, merging strategic components with supernatural themes.

### Conclusion
The ID@Xbox Indie Selections Demo Fest is a goldmine of indie experiences just waiting to be explored. From entertaining simulations to culturally rich RPGs, this selection highlights the remarkable ingenuity of indie developers. Be sure to check out these demos and support the thriving indie game community before the event concludes.

I think there is a very compelling case for Twitter not being the place that information about, well, honestly anything, should be casually shared in a matter of fact manner. It is a site for, if we must use it, posting things like “just downloaded some MP3s to my iPod Touch,” not sharing that Arrowhead are currently testing a roguelite mode in Helldivers 2, which is exactly what the game’s creative director Johan Pilestedt did today.

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**All You Need Is Kill: From Novel to Anime**

*All You Need Is Kill* is a Japanese light novel written by Hiroshi Sakurazaka, initially released in 2004. The book garnered worldwide acclaim as the basis for the 2014 sci-fi movie *Edge of Tomorrow*, featuring Tom Cruise. This adaptation, although successful, made significant creative alterations. Now, enthusiasts of the original material are looking forward to a more authentic adaptation in the form of an anime helmed by Kenichiro Akimoto, scheduled to debut next month. The recently unveiled trailer has sparked excitement thanks to its breathtaking visuals and engaging storytelling.

The plot of *All You Need Is Kill* revolves around Keiji Kiriya, a recent recruit in the United Defense Force battling a threatening alien race known as the Mimics. Despite his enthusiasm, Keiji confronts a harsh reality as he meets an unfortunate fate during his inaugural battle. Nevertheless, he realizes that he is trapped in a time loop, reliving the day of his demise over and over, reminiscent of the idea put forth in *Groundhog Day*. This intriguing premise enables Keiji to refine his combat abilities and ultimately recognize that fellow soldier Rita Vrataski is also stuck in the same cycle.

In a notable shift from the original narrative, the forthcoming anime redirects its attention to Rita Vrataski, delving into her journey within the time loop. The story chronicles her early challenges as she is consistently slain by a powerful alien adversary before she understands Keiji’s connection to her plight. This change of perspective promises to provide new insights into the characters and their relationships, enriching the storyline.

The anime adaptation is poised to premiere in Japan on January 9 and will be accessible in the U.S. starting January 16, distributed by GKIDS, which has a track record of success with films like *The Boy and the Heron*. The trailer showcases an engaging utilization of diverse media formats, incorporating an interesting first-person viewpoint during Rita’s awakening.

Preliminary screenings, such as one at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival in France, have garnered favorable reviews, suggesting a successful adaptation that resonates with both new viewers and supporters of the light novel.

As excitement mounts for this anime adaptation, it may also prompt some to revisit the action-filled film *Edge of Tomorrow*, enhancing the viewing experience with a deeper understanding of the original light novel.

With trends and trendy games passing by these days, I’d understand if you’d already forgotten about Suika Game. I am not here to remind you of its existence to talk about it, more so use it as genre context for Dogpile, a new game that is essentially the question “what if Suika Game actually had a bunch of dogs and was also a roguelike deckbuilder?” I know, I know, there are too many of those already, but this one’s just so charming!

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**The Progression of The Game Awards: An Examination of Gaming’s Leading Ceremony**

It’s the year 2012. Barack Obama is in office. Gamers are expressing their dissatisfaction over the contentious conclusion of *Mass Effect 3*. On a private jet hired by Bethesda, Harvey Smith and Raphael Colantonio, then part of Arkane Studios, are making their way to the Spike Video Game Awards at Sony Pictures Studios in Los Angeles. The ambiance is charged, with *Dishonored* nominated for several esteemed awards. Although it falls short in numerous categories, it clinches the title of Best Action-Adventure Game, creating an emotional scene as Jessica Alba presents the trophy.

Jump ahead thirteen years to a dramatically changed environment. Donald Trump has taken over the presidency, and players are concerned about whether Lara Croft aligns with modern beauty ideals. Arkane Austin has disbanded, yet Smith and Colantonio continue their work in the industry. The Game Awards, now available for streaming online as conventional cable viewership declines, persists as a significant but transformed platform, primarily driven by the constant presence of Geoff Keighley.

The gaming industry has experienced considerable change in recent years, characterized by layoffs, studio closures, consolidation, and a growing dependence on generative AI. The once magnificent game launches, filled with celebrity appearances, have diminished; the sparkle of such events is now toned down.

### Coordinating Gaming’s Oscars

Coordinating an awards event like The Game Awards requires extensive behind-the-scenes effort, often involving various external companies managing everything from production to security. The Peacock Theater, home to The Game Awards, boasts a capacity of 7,100 seats, and managing seat allocation proves to be a significant endeavor for Keighley and his crew.

The financial structure has also transformed. Traditional cable broadcasts gain from ad sales, but The Game Awards, mainly streamed online without commercials, depend on income from trailer unveilings, sponsorships, and other promotional avenues. Sources suggest that the price for a 60-second trailer in 2025 skyrocketed to approximately $450,000, with three-minute trailers surpassing $1 million, indicating the rising costs for exposure during the event.

### Challenges with Ticketing

Participation in The Game Awards presents urgent issues, particularly for nominees. The event generally offers only two complimentary tickets to each nominated studio. Developers from various studios have voiced concerns regarding this rule, indicating the imbalance between larger and smaller studios in terms of attending what ought to be a celebratory occasion.

Some developers have opted to buy additional tickets for more team members to join, while others have conveyed frustration over the attendance cost. The event is also accessible to the public, with ticket sales commencing on October 30, while nominations are announced weeks later. This schedule may put industry professionals wanting to attend at a disadvantage.

### Audience Fillers and Fan Involvement

The introduction of audience fillers—fans and supporters who occupy vacant seats during the show—demonstrates an effort to foster a vibrant atmosphere. These attendees are instructed to dress suitably and uphold a certain level of decorum, reflecting the professional essence of the occasion while imparting a unique fan-oriented enthusiasm.

### Gaming’s Most Significant Evening

Geoff Keighley aims to elevate The Game Awards to grand heights, merging the ceremonial celebration of video games with the excitement of new unveilings. This duality fosters tension, as the hopes of industry creators to be celebrated clash with the necessity to captivate the millions of viewers eager for trailers and announcements.

The opinions surrounding The Game Awards vary considerably, with some regarding it as simply an E3-like promotional event disguised as an awards show. Yet for numerous developers, being nominated or acknowledged can profoundly influence their careers and projects. As reiterated by previous winners Smith and Colantonio, those moments create opportunities and acknowledgment that can revitalize careers.

The Game Awards acts as a complicated reflection of the gaming sector itself, revealing the disparity between those capable of affording eye-catching advertising slots and the creators striving for recognition in a shifting environment. As debates regarding the intrinsic value of The Game Awards persist, many suggest that alternative ceremonies, such as the BAFTA Game Awards, focus more on celebrating past accomplishments rather than forthcoming promotions.

As the industry continues to change, the delicate balance of honoring gaming creators while catering to a large audience will likely remain a pivotal challenge for The Game Awards. Whether this will foster a renewed sense of community or continue to widen the gap between developers and the spectacle of awards remains to be determined.

As players got their teeth in Sins of a Solar Empire 2 at launch last year, they began to report odd behaviour from the galaxy’s computer-controlled factions. It wasn’t that the NPC commanders resisted human expansion, but it was as though they hated humans. Not only would these groups reject any peaceful overtures, turning up their noses at ceasefire agreements and gifts of resources – the idea of an alliance was practically out of the question – but the computer-led nations seemed to be allying with one another to focus all their hatred on the fleshy humans.

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# Unveiling Mega Raichu: The New Titan in Pokémon Legends: Z-A

The excitement around Pokémon Legends: Z-A has sparked thrilling developments, especially with the launch of Mega Evolutions for prominent Pokémon, including Raichu. For enthusiasts, the debut of two new variants—Mega Raichu X and Mega Raichu Y—has been a long-awaited aspiration finally realized. This article examines the mechanics, aesthetics, and potential influence of Mega Raichu in the game.

## The Rise of Raichu: At Last Gaining Recognition

Raichu, the electric mouse Pokémon, has frequently lived in the shadow of its precursor, Pikachu. In spite of its popularity, Raichu was neglected in earlier titles, particularly when Mega Evolution was first unveiled in Pokémon X and Y. This neglect was keenly felt, especially as Pikachu enjoyed extensive acclaim, including a Gigantamax form and exclusive Z-Moves.

In Pokémon Legends: Z-A, however, Raichu finally receives its recognition with two unique Mega Evolutions. This dual interpretation enables players to select between Mega Raichu X, emphasizing physical attacks, and Mega Raichu Y, which highlights special skills.

## Design and Functionality of Mega Raichu X

Mega Raichu X presents a captivating visual transformation that portrays Raichu in an active and valiant pose. The design highlights its capability to soar, attributed to the electromagnetic repulsion produced by its tails. Instead of floating vertically, Mega Raichu X strikes a heroic stance reminiscent of traditional comic book icons. This artistic decision not only enhances Raichu’s visual appeal but also offers practical benefits in battles.

In fights, Mega Raichu X can engage airborne adversaries, boosting its utility against flying foes. This newfound agility empowers it to perform physical moves regardless of elevation, rendering it an adaptable asset to any team.

## Competitive Ramifications

Although neither Mega Raichu variant experiences a type alteration—remaining strictly Electric type—Mega Raichu X could potentially acquire the Levitate ability, granting it immunity to Ground-type attacks. This capability might elevate Mega Raichu X to a strong position in competitive settings, possibly making it one of the few Pokémon without inherent vulnerabilities if this ability is confirmed in forthcoming updates.

## Community Feedback and Future Outlook

Despite some criticisms concerning design resemblances to Pikachu, both Mega Raichus have garnered positive reactions from long-time supporters. The opportunity to witness the entirety of Raichu’s lineage expressed in its Mega forms adds richness to its character and amplifies its significance in the Pokémon realm.

Players are eager to see Mega Raichu X in action, especially in upcoming anime adaptations. The anticipation is that these new forms will shine in the limelight, demonstrating their distinctive abilities and battling skills.

## Conclusion

With the introduction of Mega Raichu X and Y in Pokémon Legends: Z-A, Raichu finally emerges from Pikachu’s shadow to assert its position as a powerful entity in the Pokémon realm. Whether you favor the physical assaults of Mega Raichu X or the special talents of Y, both variations greatly enhance Raichu’s standing. As trainers traverse Lumiose City and beyond, the journey to unlock the might of Mega Raichu commences, paving the way for exhilarating adventures and fierce confrontations ahead.

Today, AMD are prodding the launch button for FSR Redstone: a suite of upscaling, frame generation, and ray tracing upgrades that, just maybe, might stop Nvidia DLSS 4‘s campaign of strutting across the canteen and slapping FSR’s lunch tray over in front of all the other graphics card technologies.

To achieve this, FSR has become the monster it fights. Gone are the technologically simplified, GPU-agnostic measures employed by previous FSR versions; Redstone deals exclusively in more sophisticated machine-learning tools that specifically require the latest Radeon graphics hardware to function. The RX 9000 series, to be precise, just like how new DLSS editions always demand the newest, most AI-embracing Nvidia RTX cards. This lack of support for older Radeons is a major strategic shift, but AMD insist that the image quality and stability improvements will be worth it.

To find out, I got hold of a preview driver for Redstone and bunged a Radeon RX 9070 XT into the RPS test rig. And, with apologies to anyone who bought an RX 7900 XTX: AMD might have a point.

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The newest selection of games added to Sony’s PS Plus subscription library for December 2025 has been unveiled, and it boasts an outstanding assortment. Among the highlights is one of the more underrated JRPGs from recent times: *Granblue Fantasy: Relink*.

Created by Cygames, this title acts as a spin-off to the well-known mobile series and fuses aspects of a linear anime RPG with features resembling *Monster Hunter*. The involvement of team members from Platinum Games has led to remarkable real-time combat that combines the pace and strategy of MMO boss encounters with the fluidity and depth of action gaming. Furthermore, *Granblue Fantasy: Relink* provides multiplayer capabilities and a comprehensive endgame, marking it as a notable surprise from the previous year that numerous players may still be uncovering.

Here’s the full compilation of titles arriving this month:

### PlayStation Plus Extra And Premium
– *Assassin’s Creed Mirage* | PS5, PS4
– *Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty* | PS5, PS4
– *Skate Story* | PS5
– *Granblue Fantasy: Relink* | PS5, PS4
– *Planet Coaster 2* | PS5
– *Cat Quest III* | PS5, PS4
– *Lego Horizon Adventures* | PS5
– *Paw Patrol: Grand Prix* | PS5, PS4
– *Paw Patrol World* | PS5, PS4

### PlayStation Classics (Premium Only)
– *Soulcalibur III* | PS5, PS4

Beyond *Granblue Fantasy: Relink*, notable mentions for the month include *Assassin’s Creed Mirage* and *Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty*. The former, which debuted in 2023, has recently received a complimentary update adding new narrative content and improved parkour mechanics, including a specialized jump feature. Meanwhile, *Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty* is a Soulslike inspired by the Three Kingdoms, developed by Team Ninja, providing a solid experience, although not quite on par with *Nioh 2*.

All listed games, aside from *Skate Story* (which launched on December 8), will be accessible on PS Plus starting December 16. Included among them is *Soulcalibur III*, esteemed as one of the top installments in the cherished fighting game franchise, recognized for its introduction of the Create-A-Soul character customization option.