Discord Addresses Concerns Over Face Scan Requirement in New Age Verification Policy

**Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade Update Brings New Streamlined Mode for Players Desiring a Narrative Experience**

Five years after the launch of *Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade* on PlayStation 5, Square Enix is preparing to enhance the game with a complimentary update aimed at enriching the storytelling journey. Scheduled for release on January 22, this patch unveils a “streamlined” mode, designed for players who wish to deep dive into the narrative without engaging in the usual combat challenges.

This mode arrives just as the game is set to launch on the Nintendo Switch 2 and Xbox Series X/S, sparking excitement among fans of the legendary RPG series. In a statement issued on January 15, Square Enix enthusiastically shared information about the forthcoming update. The streamlined progression feature will ensure characters maintain full HP and MP at all times and consistently inflict 9,999 damage with each attack. Consequently, every hit players deliver can mirror the iconic Omnislash move, effectively eliminating the need for extensive grinding to reach high damage levels.

The streamlined progression mode serves as a simplified story mode, perfect for players who are more focused on the journey of protagonist Cloud and his companions from Avalanche as they confront the corrupt Shinra Corporation. Instead of lowering the difficulty to easy, gamers can experience a more relaxed adventure where characters are automatically maximized regarding abilities and damage capacity.

This update is not limited to newcomers with the impending ports; current players on PC and PS5 will also gain from this addition, granting them a chance to complete the game on hard difficulty, potentially making the path to unlocking the Platinum trophy more attainable. Moreover, players who purchase the game digitally before the month concludes will receive a digital copy of the original *Final Fantasy VII*, increasing the value of their acquisition.

As anticipation builds for this update, both veteran players and newcomers have plenty to look forward to in the ever-evolving realm of *Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade*, ensuring that the cherished franchise remains captivating to audiences with its compelling storytelling and innovative gameplay enhancements.

# Strategies for Overcoming the Trials of Pokémon Legends: Z-A’s Mega Dimension Expansion

Pokémon Legends: Z-A’s Mega Dimension expansion presents gamers with a distinctive roguelike mode filled with both thrill and obstacles. While journeying through the expansive Hyperspace zones, players may encounter exhilarating new elements but could also experience a considerable grind. Here are some vital strategies to enrich your gaming experience and make the most of your time in this ever-evolving universe.

## Include a Flying Pokémon in Your Lineup

Possessing a Pokémon that can soar can significantly alter the game dynamics in the Hyperspace zones. Accessing higher terrains is essential since numerous key missions and floating Poké Balls are situated above ground. A flying Pokémon will facilitate faster traversal and might be the deciding factor in achieving an objective on schedule or missing it by just seconds. Always ensure that a flying Pokémon is part of your team to reach those challenging areas with ease.

## Seek Quick-Casting Moves

The fast-paced nature of Hyperspace runs demands prompt responses. Pokémon with rapidly executing moves will empower you to manage threats more efficiently compared to those with prolonged animations. For instance, a move like Dig, though strong, can consume precious time due to its long execution. Choose speedier attacks to eliminate foes and objectives more successfully. Evaluate your Pokémon’s moves before embarking on a run to guarantee optimal efficiency.

## Ascend to Higher Ground While Looking for the Bonus Ball

After finishing all tasks in a run, players must hunt for the elusive golden Bonus Ball that randomly appears on the map. One of the most effective methods for finding it before time expires is to head to higher elevations. Utilize tools like Holovators or scale structures to get a bird’s-eye view of the surroundings. Although there’s no assurance the Bonus Ball will be located there, this technique will reduce time spent searching at ground level.

## Use Fast-Travel to Exit

Once you’ve completed the objectives and collected all necessary items in a zone, take advantage of the fast-travel feature to return to the Hyperspace entry point. This capability allows for speedy exits, helping you to continue grinding runs more proficiently without unnecessary waits. In a game that emphasizes swift progression, this simple tip can conserve a significant amount of time.

## Don’t Worry About Level Requirements

The Mega Dimension expansion presents a distinct leveling system that overrides traditional level limits. Players can give Hoopa special berries to enhance their Pokémon in the Hyperspace zones without needing to meet or exceed the anticipated enemy levels. A team level slightly below the expected range can still succeed in missions efficiently. Concentrate on maintaining a well-rounded team without overemphasizing the use of berries to hit specific level benchmarks every time.

## No Experience Points from Hyperspace Consultations

One prevalent myth is that engaging in Hyperspace battles will yield experience points. However, that is not true. Players will not receive conventional experience for their Pokémon, eliminating any chance for level grinding. Instead, the rewards concentrate on items such as berries and survey points relevant to the expansion’s features. Plan your strategies around this limitation to optimize your runs.

## Conserve Your Berries

When preparing Donuts for Hoopa, each berry utilized provides different advantages. Resist combining your rarest berries indiscriminately into one Donut; later levels require specific mixtures that boost your team’s effectiveness. Saving some of those potent berries for key narrative moments will be advantageous. Organize your berry usage thoughtfully to adapt to the progressing challenges throughout the expansion.

By adhering to these tactics, players can elevate their gaming experience in Pokémon Legends: Z-A’s Mega Dimension expansion and make their time in the Hyperspace zones more enjoyable and fruitful.

**Finji’s Confrontation with TikTok Regarding AI-Created Advertisements: A Case Analysis of Copyright and Ethical Issues**

Finji, an independent game publisher famed for titles such as *Night in the Woods* and *Tunic*, is presently entangled in a conflict with TikTok over the unauthorized appropriation of its characters in AI-created ads. This predicament brings to light pressing concerns pertaining to copyright, the incorporation of AI in advertising, and the risk of harmful stereotypes within digital media.

### Context of the Conflict

The issue arose when Finji CEO Rebekah Saltsman alerted the gaming community about advertisements that were misaligned with the company’s branding and characters. On the social media site Bluesky, she encouraged anyone who spotted ads that diverged from Finji’s style to submit screenshots. These ads, reportedly generated by TikTok’s AI system, seemed to misrepresent characters from Finji’s games, particularly the forthcoming paranormal adventure *Usual June*.

Despite Finji’s adherence to TikTok’s supposedly optional AI configurations, the company uncovered AI-generated ads displaying modified versions of its characters. One of the most alarming instances featured a distorted image of June—illustrated in an inappropriate and sexualized fashion that perpetuated harmful racial stereotypes, underscoring ongoing issues of representation in media.

### TikTok’s Reaction and Corporate Exchanges

Finji’s efforts to address the situation with TikTok were met with what the company characterized as evasive responses from customer support. TikTok initially refuted the presence of AI-generated elements in the objectionable ads and claimed that Finji must have uploaded the altered images independently. This reply triggered frustration within Finji, as it not only questioned the authenticity of their work but also the employment of AI technologies in advertising.

After escalating their concerns, TikTok eventually admitted that unauthorized modifications had been made to Finji’s ads. However, the social media platform neglected to confront the larger ramifications of the racist and sexualized depictions crafted by the AI. Instead, TikTok referred to a catalog ads format utilized in the campaign intended to enhance ad performance, asserting that opting out of such features was not guaranteed.

### Ethical Concerns of AI in Advertising

Saltsman’s response to the situation was one of ire and disappointment, indicating that her team’s work integrity and Finji’s reputation had been undermined. She conveyed a longing for a formal apology and for TikTok to reconsider the ethical standards governing AI technology, specifically underscoring its tendency to reinforce discriminatory stereotypes.

This incident prompts crucial inquiries about the ethical ramifications of employing AI-generated content in advertising. As companies increasingly delve into AI technology, the risks of inadvertent harm, particularly concerning representation and respect for copyrights, are considerable. The Finji case exemplifies the necessity for clearer guidelines and accountability in the interaction of AI with creative works.

### Conclusion

The current situation between Finji and TikTok acts as a warning for the gaming industry and beyond, highlighting the need for ethical benchmarks in AI utilization. As technology progresses, the significance of safeguarding creators’ rights and ensuring respectful representation in digital media will be crucial. Whether this issue leads to broader systemic changes within TikTok and the advertising sector is yet to be determined, but for companies like Finji, the battle for their work and dignity against corporate oversight is far from concluded.