Game Developer Calls for Nvidia Boycott Over Claims that DLSS 5 Generative Upscaling Was Trained on Controversial Material

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Game Developer Calls for Nvidia Boycott Over Claims that DLSS 5 Generative Upscaling Was Trained on Controversial Material

### 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.

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Bungie Recognizes Disputed Modifications to Marathon, Igniting Fan Fury
Bungie Recognizes Disputed Modifications to Marathon, Igniting Fan Fury

**Bungie’s Marathon: The Massive Gunshot Sound Controversy and Its Consequences**

Bungie has just launched its first major patch for **Marathon**, an extraction shooter that made its debut on March 5 for consoles and PC. Dubbed update **1.0.0.4**, the patch was designed to improve gameplay through a variety of enhancements, including greater ammo in free loadout kits and enhanced objective markers. However, one alteration concerning gunshot sounds ignited a considerable backlash from the gaming community, leading Bungie to recognize the problem and promise a partial reversal of the contentious change.

The main issue emerged when Bungie incorporated a change in the patch notes indicating that they had “increased the range” within which players could hear gunfire and explosions. Initially seen as a minor adjustment, this modification unintentionally shifted the game’s ambiance, generating a much more aggressive environment where players felt perpetually endangered. Gamers flocked to online forums to voice their discontent, with numerous individuals reporting a notable rise in confrontational encounters and increased anxiety while playing. Numerous comments populated the **Marathon** subreddit, with users questioning the update and expressing disbelief at how the audio alteration affected their gaming experience.

In response to the rising discontent, **Marathon**’s audio director Chase Combs addressed the feedback on social media, humorously acknowledging the situation with a gif from *Brooklyn 99*. His playful reaction, however, did little to soothe the worries of players genuinely impacted by the shift in gameplay dynamics.

Subsequently, on March 13, Bungie officially confronted the backlash via a post on their BlueSky account, where game director Joe Ziegler elaborated on the reasoning behind the audio modification. He conveyed that the original intent was to enhance players’ situational awareness, enabling them to make informed choices based on audio signals. Nonetheless, Ziegler acknowledged that they had “overdone it a bit” and indicated the aim to revert the audio changes to a level that would still improve communication without overwhelming the players.

In their ongoing communications, Bungie reassured the community that they were diligently monitoring the effects of the sound changes on gameplay and conceded to misjudging the balance. They promised to implement modifications in future updates, aimed at restoring a more pleasant listening experience while retaining certain benefits of the original alteration.

While some players contended that making gun sounds more pronounced could improve realism, many felt the execution was rushed and excessive. The constant evolution of online games often results in regular updates, and in this instance, it became apparent that Bungie’s changes had unforeseen repercussions. This incident underscores the fragile balance game developers must achieve between enhancing a game and preserving the fundamental experience that players relish.

As Bungie gears up to introduce the revised audio changes, players hold onto hope that their concerns have been acknowledged, paving the way for a more enjoyable and strategically immersive gameplay experience in **Marathon** as they continue to navigate the altered sound landscape of the game.

A Thorough Manual for Crimson Desert
A Thorough Manual for Crimson Desert

# All You Should Know About *Crimson Desert* Prior to Its Launch

*Crimson Desert*, crafted and released by Pearl Abyss, is scheduled to debut on March 19 on Steam/PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series S/X. With excitement growing for this visually impressive open-world RPG, it’s crucial to understand what the game offers before jumping in. Here’s a thorough summary of what to anticipate.

## What is *Crimson Desert*?

Since its founding in 2010, Pearl Abyss has primarily launched one game, the MMORPG *Black Desert Online*. Originally intended as an online prequel to that title, *Crimson Desert* has transformed into a standalone single-player adventure situated in a unique universe.

Though some may compare *Crimson Desert* to an MMORPG without the “Massively Multiplayer Online” aspect, Pearl Abyss emphasizes that this game is intended as an open-world action RPG. It incorporates mechanics typical of single-player RPGs, such as interacting with NPCs, taking on quests, and enhancing gear, while showcasing a strong focus on combat similar to *Dragon’s Dogma*.

## What’s the Narrative?

The plot of *Crimson Desert* unfolds in the realm of Pywel and revolves around Kliff, an experienced mercenary from the Greymanes clan. After an ambush by their rivals, the Black Bears, Kliff embarks on a mission to restore his clan and find any remaining members.

Alongside Kliff, players will also control two other characters: Oongka, a powerful Orc-like fighter, and Damiane, a nimble warrior. The gameplay allows players to shift between characters reminiscent of *Grand Theft Auto V*, with each character offering unique quests and combat styles.

## Can You Personalize Your Characters?

Character customization in *Crimson Desert* is somewhat restricted. Players are unable to modify physical traits such as facial features or height for the three primary characters. However, there are options to change outfits, colors, tattoos, and hairstyles, providing some level of personalization. This system resembles the character customization found in *Red Dead Redemption 2*, where the fundamental identity remains constant despite visual alterations.

## How Long Will It Take to Finish?

Completion time estimates for *Crimson Desert* vary. Pearl Abyss’s marketing director mentioned around 100 hours of content, although no official completion duration has been confirmed. Players looking to rush through the main narrative can expect to finish it in approximately 50 hours, while obtaining the “definitive ending”—which likely involves completing side quests—may take about 80 hours.

## Where/How/When Can You Acquire *Crimson Desert*?

*Crimson Desert* will be up for purchase on Xbox Series S/X, PlayStation 5, MacOS, Windows, the Epic Games Store, and Steam for $69.99/£54.99 beginning March 19. It’s important to highlight that physical copies will be time-locked, meaning they cannot be played until the official release time of 6 PM EST and 10 PM GMT.

As excitement rises, with *Crimson Desert* becoming the fourth-most-wishlisted game on Steam, players might encounter heavy traffic on launch day. For those eager to start as soon as possible, it may be advisable to log in exactly when the game launches.

With its captivating narrative, promising gameplay features, and rich content, *Crimson Desert* is set to be a major release in the RPG genre.