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Immortality and Her Story developer Sam Barlow has announced Precognition, a new sci-fi horror game in development at Half Mermaid Productions, which features writing from Antiviral and Infinity Pool director Brandon Cronenberg. That’s Brandon, not David, yes, but still, having any kind of Cronenberg in your credits is a win, right? When’s the last time you made a game with a Cronenberg?

Besides, I thought Infinity Pool was good fun. And I quite like the sound of Precognition, which stars a woman with brain implants who can choose between visions to weave a range of possible dark futures. It began life as a slightly random idea for a Metroid game, apparently. Here’s a trailer.

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**Twitch and Amazon AI: Options for Streamers Regarding Content Use and Opt-Out**

Recent news has emerged about Twitch’s connection with Amazon’s AI technologies, raising alarm among content creators about their streams and videos being used for training. This article examines the ramifications for streamers and what actions they can take to safeguard their content.

### The Update

On August 12, content creator and streaming journalist Zach Bussey pointed out a newly introduced feature in Twitch’s account settings that enables users to opt out of having their content used to train Amazon’s AI systems. These options didn’t receive much publicity, resulting in irritation among many users who feel overwhelmed by a convoluted settings interface to shield their content.

### The Consequences of Content Utilization

Should streamers decide against opting out, Twitch maintains the authority to utilize their channel’s content—including streams, VODs, clips, chats, images, and text—to refine Amazon’s generative AI models. This usage might enhance functionalities like speech-to-text for captions, which could affect both Twitch users and Amazon’s broader services.

Importantly, opting out of this training does not preclude the availability of AI-enhanced features on Twitch, such as automated commenting or chat moderation tools.

### Community Feedback and Company Openness

In a recent broadcast, Twitch’s community leader, Mary Kish, attempted to mitigate the concerns, stating that AI is essential to the platform’s operation. Kish also confirmed her own decision to opt out but emphasized that AI tools have become ubiquitous in various livestreaming settings.

During the conversation, Kish and chief product officer Mike Minton recognized the obscure nature of the opt-out options and guided viewers on how to navigate them. Minton cited a study showing that about 50% of adults currently utilize AI tools like ChatGPT, indicating a rising trend toward AI adoption.

### The Future of Opting Out

The Twitch FAQ explains that every element of a channel could potentially be used in Amazon’s AI training, prompting discussions about long-term outcomes. The idea of maintaining the opt-out option raises questions about how long Twitch will permit this choice for users aiming to safeguard their content.

Considering the competitive realm of AI development, driven by tech leaders such as Amazon, the search for content to enhance AI capabilities is vigorous. Although opt-out options are currently available, streamers may need to stay alert to any changes in policies or practices concerning content usage.

### Conclusion

As Twitch continues to grow and incorporate AI features, it is up to streamers to proactively oversee their content and privacy settings. With the widespread availability of generative AI tools and the potential consequences for content ownership, the streaming community must remain informed and active in discussions surrounding their rights and safeguards in an increasingly dynamic digital environment.

Smilegate, the developer of South Korean MMO Lost Ark will be taking control of the Western servers that were previously run by Amazon Game Studios. Likewise, FireSpark will be taking control of Throne and Liberty‘s servers. Though, the transition will cause some disruption and data loss for players.

While Amazon have poured money into in-house game development, they have also acted as a global publisher on several MMOs, such as Lost Ark, and found considerably more success than with their own projects. That said, as Amazon slowly backs out of the MMO room, shutting down development on New World and canning their in-development Lord of the Rings MMO, the future for these arms-length games has been uncertain.

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### The Odyssey of Bosby: Reaching Level 99 Fishing in Old School RuneScape

In the constantly changing realm of multiplayer online role-playing games, *Old School RuneScape* (OSRS) has successfully captivated the hearts of numerous players, both newcomers and seasoned veterans. Recently, the gaming community experienced a notable accomplishment that highlighted the fundamental dedication and enthusiasm behind even the most seemingly ordinary endeavors. A player by the name of Bosby_ achieved level 99 in the Fishing skill utilizing solely the Small Net—a remarkable accomplishment that required more than two years of effort.

#### The Origins

Bosby first embarked on his journey in the world of *RuneScape* back in 2002 when the game was merely called *RuneScape*. After an extended break, he returned to the game with the launch of *Old School RuneScape* on mobile in 2018. This revival enabled him to engage with the game while juggling his daily life, often treating it as a secondary activity while tackling other responsibilities, such as paperwork. This style of play offered him a unique yet gratifying gaming experience, particularly through the leisurely mechanics of fishing.

#### The Dynamics of Fishing

In OSRS, fishing is a simple yet gratifying skill that can be executed passively. Players choose a fishing spot, click to fish, and can then step away, allowing the game to continue running. For Bosby, this involved selecting a prime fishing location near a bank in Al Kharid, enabling him to catch shrimp and anchovies, the most basic fish available. His strategy involved filling his inventory with these catches and then swiftly depositing them at the bank, a routine he diligently repeated.

Despite the minimal experience points—about 10-30 XP per shrimp or anchovy—Bosby stayed resolute. His average of roughly 3,000 XP per hour demonstrated his dedication to an AFK (away from keyboard) play style, allowing him to manage his gaming alongside other tasks.

#### The Dedication and the Triumph

Bosby embarked on this ambitious journey on May 11, 2024, reaching level 99 on August 7, 2026. Over the span of two years, he amassed impressive figures: 275,196 raw shrimp and 257,064 raw anchovies, culminating in a total playtime of 4,304 hours. This achievement not only highlights his remarkable patience but also emphasizes the distinctive nature of gaming objectives—where success is often gauged not just by conventional milestones but by personal satisfaction and commitment to a whimsical challenge.

In sharing his journey on Reddit, Bosby conveyed how what originally began as a joke among his friends evolved into a serious undertaking. His friends did not anticipate his commitment to the concept, yet he found joy in seeing it through to fruition.

#### Encountering Critics and Commemorating Success

Achieving such a milestone inevitably drew attention, including criticism. In various comments on his Reddit post, Bosby encountered critics questioning the importance of his accomplishment. However, his responses revealed a profound philosophy—“Nothing matters,” he conveyed poignantly in response to those who claimed his achievement held little merit. This perspective resonated with many in the community, underscoring the notion that enjoyment and personal fulfillment in gaming can arise from diverse and unconventional avenues.

The gaming community honored Bosby’s accomplishment alongside the announcement from the official *Old School RuneScape* Twitter account, recognizing him as the first player to attain level 99 Fishing using solely the Small Net. This acknowledgment galvanized many players, not only for the achievement itself but for the underlying message: gaming, at its core, revolves around enjoyment, creativity, and personal milestones, regardless of their form.

#### Conclusion

Bosby’s journey to level 99 Fishing in *Old School RuneScape* embodies the essence of gaming—having the courage to chase ambitious goals and discovering joy in the journey. As players worldwide immerse themselves in their distinct adventures, tales like Bosby’s remind everyone that in the realm of gaming, it’s not merely about winning; it’s about the journey, the community, and the happiness derived from every small achievement encountered along the way.

Ocean survival sim Subnautica 2 now has an experimental beta branch on Steam, allowing the intrepid PC owner to test out updates before they’re officially live. If there’s one thing Subnautica 2’s toothy underwater ecosystem has taught us, it’s the value of taking risks. Just be aware that any savegames you create in the experimental branch will be specific to that version of the game – you won’t be able to carry progress back to the main release.

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### PlayStation Plus August Update: Thrilling New Additions

The August update for the PlayStation Plus Games Catalog introduces a wealth of highly awaited titles, enriching the gaming experience for subscribers of the PS Plus Extra and Premium tiers. This month kicks off with the launch of **Helldivers 2**, a leading co-op shooter that’s expected to draw a significant crowd to the franchise on PS5.

On August 12, PlayStation officially revealed the new array of games that are set to enter the catalog during the month. Subscribers are urged to verify the release dates, as not all titles will be accessible right away.

#### Highlights of the Month

This update is distinguished by its remarkable array of games. **Helldivers 2** will be released on August 12, and it is expected to create excitement among cooperative gameplay enthusiasts. The catalog will also welcome **Metro Exodus**, a critically lauded title, as well as the indie sensation **Vampire Survivors** and the charming **Two Point Museum** on August 25. Additional titles making their entrance include **Kingdom Come: Deliverance II** and **Hell Is Us**, both of which are stirring enthusiasm within the gaming community.

This month’s impressive lineup may represent a strategic initiative by Sony, potentially in response to the recent revelation about the cessation of physical game discs by 2028. By investing in prominent game licenses, Sony could be looking to retain and attract more subscribers to the PlayStation Plus service.

#### Subscription Details

To access, download, and enjoy the newly included PlayStation games, players need to maintain an active subscription to either the PS Plus Extra or Premium tiers. It’s crucial to highlight that Essential tier subscribers do not have access to the game catalog, and once a subscription expires, players will lose access to these titles until they resubscribe.

#### Upcoming Titles and Release Dates

Here’s a comprehensive list of forthcoming games for PS Plus Extra and Premium in August:

**PlayStation Plus Extra And Premium**
– **Helldivers 2** – PS5 | August 12
– **Kingdom Come: Deliverance II** – PS5 | August 18
– **Vampire Survivors** – PS5, PS4 | August 18
– **Hell Is Us** – PS5 | August 25
– **Umamusume Pretty Derby** – PS4 | August 25
– **Two Point Museum** – PS5 | August 25
– **Metro Exodus** – PS5, PS4 | August 25
– **Dying Light 2** – PS5, PS4 | August 25

**PlayStation Plus Premium**
– **Onimusha: Dawn of Dreams** – PS5, PS4 | August 18
– **Disney’s Atlantis: The Lost Empire** – PS5, PS4 | August 18

This month’s selections not only highlight a varied range of genres but also underline quality titles that can enhance any PlayStation gamer’s library. Stay tuned for more updates as additional games are rolled out throughout the month.

Hi! I’m Rick Lane, and you might remember me from such columns as Reality Bytes, RPS’ erstwhile monthly goggle at the world of virtual reality. I’ve spent the last couple of years trapped between the second and third dimensions, my flattened body doomed to forever spin to face the camera. But RPS has whipped out its bicycle pump and popped me back into stereoscopic 3D, so I can seek revenge tell you all about the state of VR in 2026.

And boy, what a state! The headlines make for grim reading. VR headset shipments are in decline. Notable VR studios are either laying people off or being shut down outright. And VR’s hitherto biggest champion is going all Distracted Boyfriend, ogling passing market trends in its ethically dubious smart glasses.

The all-in-one Steam Frame headset is on the way – very soon, if rumours are to be believed – but in short, things don’t look great. Then again, things don’t look great anywhere in the games industry, so why should VR, gaming’s most niche market, be any different? To truly understand the state of the VR scene, we need to try to separate the generally bad from the specifically bad. When we do that, it becomes clear that VR broadly isn’t faring any worse than the industry at large, and in some areas at least, is healthier than you might expect.

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### Ghost of Yōtei Expansion: Echoes of Sekigahara

The exclusive open-world samurai simulator for PlayStation 5, *Ghost of Yōtei*, is poised for an expansion with a new paid DLC named *Echoes of Sekigahara*, set to debut on October 1. This expansion will bring players to a fresh location and a comprehensive survival mode, further enriching the immersive gaming experience.

#### New Content Overview

On August 12, Sucker Punch Productions and PlayStation made the official announcement for *Echoes of Sekigahara*. The expansion will retail for $15 for existing game owners, while a *Complete Edition* of the game will be sold for $70, which includes the original game, all deluxe edition content, and the new expansion.

*Echoes of Sekigahara* is crafted to delve into a narrative that melds past and present themes from the main title. Players will embody a character named Atsu as she embarks on new adventures in an “unseen valley,” facing off against the Vipers, a lethal gang of warriors. Moreover, through flashbacks, players will explore historical events surrounding the crucial Battle of Sekigahara, revealing important moments from Atsu’s life before her pursuit of vengeance.

#### Survival Mode Features

A significant enhancement in the expansion is the debut of a single-player combat survival mode, characterized by Sucker Punch as a “twist on a roguelike.” In this mode, players will tackle bounty challenges, defeating foes to gain perks and unlock new playable characters. Additional specifics about this mode are anticipated as the launch date nears.

#### Free Update for All Players

Alongside the expansion, a complimentary update for all *Ghost of Yōtei* owners will be available on October 1. This update will introduce a new “Beauty of Yōtei” mode, reshaping the game into a serene experience similar to a screensaver, ideal for passive viewing. Players can also anticipate assorted quality-of-life enhancements, including a highly awaited transmog feature for armor sets, enabling customization without compromising visual appeal.

Nonetheless, fans have shown disappointment regarding the lack of significant updates to the game’s multiplayer mode in conjunction with this October expansion.

#### Community Engagement

Sucker Punch has thanked the community for their ongoing support since the game’s release, vowing to share more information on *Echoes of Sekigahara* and other content updates as the release date approaches. Players are invited to follow Sucker Punch’s social media channels for the latest updates.

This expansion not only broadens the *Ghost of Yōtei* experience but also reinforces Sucker Punch’s dedication to providing an engaging narrative and thrilling gameplay challenges, further anchoring its position in the action-adventure gaming landscape.

Fantasy RPG Soulframe‘s great advantage and possible curse is that it’s from the studio behind Warframe, the free-to-play sci-fi bonanza that has kept chugging away since 2013, amid increasingly rocky prospects for live service games in general.

Warframe continues to pull a crowd, as was evident at this year’s somewhat dystopian Tennocon expo, in which there was a whole auditorium set aside to house the queue for a bunch of T-shirt stands. That popularity gives Soulframe leeway to experiment and screw up, but it also creates temptation for developers Digital Extremes (who are owned by Tencent) to stick with what they know. Still, Warframe won’t be a hit forever. As such, Soulframe’s creators are trying to walk the line between lifting ideas from Warframe, and luring a new following with combat mechanics that take inspiration from Elden Ring.

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**Aspyr Media’s Renewed Attention on Lord of the Rings Games**

Recently, Aspyr Media has come under fire regarding its game launches, ranging from an unsatisfactory remaster of *Deus Ex* to underwhelming DLC for *Tomb Raider*. Critics have also voiced concerns regarding the studio’s application of artificial intelligence in game design. Nevertheless, the company is making efforts to restore its image by bringing back classic titles from the cherished *Lord of the Rings* series.

A significant step in this initiative is the re-launch of *The Lord of the Rings: War in the North*, a cooperative action-RPG that was initially developed by Snowblind Studios in 2011. This title had previously been removed from sale and is now available once more as the *Legacy Edition*, featuring updates that ensure compatibility with current systems. Initial player feedback has been predominantly favorable, as the game currently boasts a 95% approval rating on Steam.

While the *Legacy Edition* is not a complete remaster, it includes upgrades such as enhanced graphics settings, more save slots, a combat lock-on feature, improved user interface elements, and refined character upgrade systems. These modifications are regarded as meaningful enhancements that positively impact the gameplay experience.

Aspyr’s press announcement suggests that this is only the initial title under their management of the *Lord of the Rings* intellectual property, hinting at a wider strategy to leverage Warner Bros.’ extensive collection of Tolkien-themed games. This opens the door for further re-releases and perhaps new games that could attract both nostalgic fans and a newer audience.

Though the $20 price tag for a 15-year-old game with mixed critical feedback may appear steep, promotional events on platforms like Steam could allow for significant discounts down the line. Yet, some gamers express annoyance regarding the branding, pointing out how the development credits to Snowblind seem to be minimized with Aspyr credited as both developer and publisher.

For those in search of *LOTR*-themed action-RPG experiences, this re-release presents a unique chance, particularly given the scarcity of similar titles in the current gaming landscape. As Aspyr progresses with this series, the gaming community will be closely watching how it approaches future releases and honors the original creators of these iconic titles.