Forthcoming Game Boy-Inspired Metroidvania from Celeste Co-Creator Offers Breathtaking Visuals and Captivating Gameplay

### Epic Games Unveils Price Modifications for V-Bucks in Fortnite

Epic Games, the creator of the immensely popular game *Fortnite*, is implementing noteworthy alterations to its virtual economy. In response to escalating operational expenses, the company has revealed an uptick in the cost of V-Bucks, its in-game currency, alongside modifications to subscription benefits and battle pass offerings.

#### V-Bucks Price Modification

Beginning March 19, players will acquire fewer V-Bucks for their transactions. The table below details the updated pricing for V-Bucks packs:

| Pack Price | New V-Bucks Quantity | Previous V-Bucks Quantity |
|————|———————|—————————|
| $9 | 800 V-Bucks | 1,000 V-Bucks |
| $23 | 2,400 V-Bucks | 2,800 V-Bucks |
| $37 | 4,500 V-Bucks | 5,000 V-Bucks |
| $90 | 12,500 V-Bucks | 13,500 V-Bucks |

Moreover, Epic is adjusting the price for purchasing specific amounts of V-Bucks. Acquiring 50 V-Bucks will now be priced at $1, increased from the former rate of $0.50. Notably, gift cards bought prior to this change will continue to offer the amount specified on them.

#### Adjustments to Fortnite Crew Subscription

Monthly subscribers to *Fortnite’s* Crew membership will also experience a decrease in their benefits. The monthly V-Bucks allocation is being reduced from 1,000 to 800. Additionally, the previously offered bonus of 500 V-Bucks for finishing the main battle pass will be removed.

#### Reduced Prices for Battle Passes

To counterbalance some of the price hikes and preserve player goodwill, Epic Games is decreasing the costs of multiple battle passes. The primary battle pass will now be available for 800 V-Bucks instead of 1,000 V-Bucks, while other passes will see a drop of 200 V-Bucks each:

– The OG Pass will be offered at 800 V-Bucks (previously 1,000).
– The Music Pass will cost 1,200 V-Bucks (previously 1,400).
– The LEGO Pass will also be priced at 1,200 V-Bucks (previously 1,400).

#### Rationale Behind the Adjustments

Epic Games stated in a blog entry that the operational costs associated with running *Fortnite* have notably risen, necessitating the price changes. Given the extensive infrastructure of the game and ongoing development requirements, such modifications may be warranted from a business perspective.

Nevertheless, some skepticism exists regarding the necessity of these hikes. The timing aligns with Epic’s recent legal successes against major entities like Google and Apple, which are anticipated to yield financial advantages by enabling Epic and other developers to retain more revenue. Critics contend that these increases could appear counterproductive considering these gains, raising concerns about the overall fiscal health of the company.

As the adjustments come into effect, players will need to manage their purchases judiciously, balancing their need for virtual currency against the heightened costs. The price modifications symbolize continuing trends in the gaming sector and how developers navigate their in-game economies amid evolving financial circumstances.

Spectrum48’s Philip Sinclair has spent 15 years rewilding a field, “rewilding” being a process of restoring ecosystems to something like a state of ‘natural’ equilibrium. Now, he’s making a videogame about it. That game is Grow Wild, which is currently accepting playtest sign-ups. It sees you restoring biomes across the globe, touching down on sickly square arcadias like an avenging angel equipped with a trowel, magnifying glass, and probably some tartan-pattern slippers, out of shot.

It makes me think a little of Viva Pinata, but it’s populated by representations of non-digital creatures, flowers and trees with convincing growth cycles. There are some lovely ‘time lapse’ shots in the trailer, below.

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**Skate Story: An Engaging Adventure Within a Glass Realm**

An intriguing interplay exists regarding game critiques and individual beliefs. Occasionally, a game is first underrated, only to later gain acclaim from numerous esteemed critics, prompting a reassessment of one’s viewpoint. This was my experience with *Skate Story*. At first, I was unimpressed, suggesting it seemed more fitting as a screensaver than a complete game. However, I soon realized that I might have been missing something extraordinary.

After investing around 60 minutes into *Skate Story*, I became enchanted by its visual and auditory charm. The game showcases a stunning glassy, minimalist artistic approach that captures the essence of a city skyline at night, highlighted by contrasting hues of blue and red that amplify its surreal magnetism. Accompanying this vivid imagery is an atmospheric score by Blood Cultures, transitioning fluidly from calming tunes during leisurely skate sessions to more dynamic, beat-oriented soundscapes as the gameplay necessitates swift reactions.

Labeling *Skate Story* merely as “a vibe” fails to capture its complex blend of artistry and gameplay. Each rail grind and ramp jump is complemented by infectious tracks that elevate the dreamlike quality of the surroundings and the underlying existential themes of the story. The player takes on the role of a demon in search of redemption from a fragile glass life by devouring moons, traversing a realm where even slight impacts can result in a catastrophic shatter.

The game is enriched with eccentric characters who deliver witty and thought-provoking dialogue that resonates with the central theme of skating as a means to escape a beautiful yet eerie reality. There’s a distinct Suda51-like irreverence that contrasts the meditative aspects of skating against more intense challenges, showcasing a duality that enhances the overall experience.

However, while *Skate Story* reflects a singular artistic vision, it also introduces gameplay difficulties that can be exasperating. The delicacy of the glass character demands accuracy, and the controls may feel unwieldy. Early stages consist of narrow pathways strewn with obstacles that require quick reflexes. Regrettably, the game’s camera mechanics complicate navigation, as sharp turns frequently lead to a loss of momentum and potentially disastrous impacts with obstacles.

The decision to keep the camera closely tied to the player’s movements can be disorienting and amplify the challenge, making it hard to sustain speed while skillfully avoiding hazards. The sound of the skateboard scraping against the glass surface also detracts from the otherwise mesmerizing audio experience.

Despite these challenges, the charm of *Skate Story* persists. After engaging with it, I find myself returning to its soundtrack and replaying scenes in my thoughts, contemplating the impressions—both favorable and unfavorable—it has left on me. Perhaps it merits a second chance to fully understand what it offers, as it appears to navigate the boundary between artistic genius and gameplay execution.

In summary, *Skate Story* is a captivating journey into the realm of artistry within gaming, encouraging players to embrace its visual and auditory richness while contending with its gameplay hurdles. Whether the experience ultimately inspires admiration or frustration remains a personal journey for each participant.