Edwin Teo – Geek Culture https://geekculture.co We are geeks, and proud of it. This is the place where we share all things geeky, and by visiting this page, you declare yourself one of us! Wed, 09 Oct 2024 18:12:29 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.2 https://geekculture.co/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/cropped-gc-512-32x32.png Edwin Teo – Geek Culture https://geekculture.co 32 32 Metaphor: ReFantazio – Review https://geekculture.co/metaphor-refantazio-review/ Thu, 10 Oct 2024 15:00:00 +0000 https://geekculture.co/?p=303705

Metaphor: ReFantazio offers an experience that feels both nostalgic and profoundly modern.

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Metaphor: ReFantazio feels like a love letter to everything Atlus has become known for in the role-playing game (RPG) genre, while simultaneously blazing a bold path forward. Developed by Atlus subsidiary Studio Zero — comprising of industry veterans led by Katsura Hashino, the director and producer of the modern Persona games — this fantasy RPG arrives in celebration of Atlus’ 35th anniversary.

The plot centres on the protagonist who ends up a candidate in a major tournament to become the king of Euchronia. With only a few months to rally support from the kingdom’s people, players are tasked with traversing its regions, forging bonds, and facing monsters while building a movement strong enough to claim the throne.

Notably, the game wears the familiar armour of Atlus’ beloved Persona series, complete with turn-based combat, social links, and a calendar system (certain sound effects are even reused from Persona 5). That said, it also draws inspiration from several other games, including ones from Atlus’ own catalogue. For example, characters can move between front and back rows during turn-based combat to mitigate physical damage, similar to the Etrian Odyssey series (Ariadne’s Thread even shows up as a fun easter egg). Furthermore, an extension of the Press Turn system from the Shin Megami Tensei series is expertly combined with Metaphor: ReFantazio’s take on ‘Personas’ — Archetypes.

The Archetype system is a refreshing spin on job classes which allows party members (instead of just the protagonist) to take on distinct roles in battle. This system offers extensive customisation and strategic options, such as summoning a powerful knight’s skill set or combining spells from other classes. Despite the obvious Persona comparisons, the end result is something more akin to Dragon Quest or Final Fantasy, elevating traditional turn-based battles by giving each playable character the flexibility to experiment with different classes, skills, and combos.

For those concerned about the grinding nature of turn-based combat, Metaphor: ReFantazio introduces Fast Battles — an option to quickly dispatch lower-level foes in real-time on the overworld. This quality-of-life addition ensures that the action doesn’t slow down, while maintaining the excitement of strategic encounters. This can also be used to stun tougher enemies before engaging in turn-based combat, which can prove to be a useful strategy especially later in the game.

The level of challenge the game presents is a satisfying one, where more formidable opponents may require full-party strategies, which involve exploiting enemy weaknesses and pairing up party members for Synergy abilities, without being too punishing. Of course, the level of difficulty can be adjusted on the fly for more hardcore players.

Atlus has always excelled at world-building, but Metaphor: ReFantazio might be its most ambitious attempt yet. The world of Euchronia feels alive, thanks to a wide variety of non-player characters (NPCs) and diverse lands to explore. In fact, the game’s lore is richly detailed, with a compendium covering the world’s various races, their history, and social hierarchies. While the politics may feel surface-level at times, it doesn’t shy away from encouraging deeper conversations, such as debating philosophies and moral dilemmas.

Meanwhile, players may strengthen their bonds with key characters using the Follower system, a familiar mechanic drawn from Persona‘s social links. The process is streamlined here, as the protagonist gains the ability to zip around previously-visited locales and teleport directly to buddies worth talking to. Unlike typical Atlus protagonists, the hero of this story is given a voice, a decision that adds humour and humanity to the weight of the story.

Every ally’s backstory offers a window into the game’s broader themes of social strife, vengeance, and redemption. Each exchange is warm and genuine, turning these moments from straightforward game mechanics into meaningful conversations. In addition to benefits associated with the Archetype system, spending time with companions may yield rewards that boost social stats, opening up new dialogue options with NPCs.

Instead of being contained to a single environment, Metaphor: ReFantazio maintains deft pacing by changing up the scenery just often enough, regularly providing new NPCs and side activities for the player to interact with to keep things interesting. The rate at which new features are doled out lends a certain friendliness to the time management aspect of the game. While there are still defined deadlines to complete main objectives, players can freely engage with these different elements without feeling like they’re sorely missing out if they don’t commit to certain tasks.

Metaphor: ReFantazio Persona Shin Megami Tensei Evolution (3)

Visually, Metaphor: ReFantazio is striking and Studio Zero has stepped away from using a single colour palette (frequently employed in the Persona games) to convey its themes. Instead, menus and environments are splashed with a vibrant mix of styles and colours, giving a clear sense of variety when navigating between them. Though the anime cutscenes don’t always impress, the sharp character designs and in-game graphics more than make up for it with their attention to detail, texture, and atmosphere.

It’s worth noting that patches have mostly resolved the initial performance problems from the PC demo. Even if there might still be slight hitches in the frame rate in denser places, locking the frame rate to 30 can help alleviate the issue.

Shoji Meguro (Shin Megami Tensei series), a long-time Atlus composer, makes a magnificent return on the soundtrack. From soothing melodies to energetic, frenetic chants, the music is as dynamic as the world itself. Religious and political themes are woven into the soundscapes, evoking a sense of reverence and urgency and amplifying the emotional impact of both combat and exploration.

Metaphor: ReFantazio Persona Shin Megami Tensei Evolution (6)

At the end of the day, Metaphor: Refantazio takes established and well-loved RPG components, such as a vibrant world with multi-faceted characters, a layered combat system, and emotional storytelling, and pushes them to new limits. It’s not afraid to ask important questions or tackle challenging topics, but it does it with hope and a true affection for the genre.

Metaphor: ReFantazio is available on PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.

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8 Movies To Watch If You Loved DreamWorks’ ‘The Wild Robot’ https://geekculture.co/8-movies-to-watch-if-you-loved-dreamworks-the-wild-robot/ Tue, 01 Oct 2024 04:44:55 +0000 https://geekculture.co/?p=302933

Gear up for feel-good robot movies!

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It’s the rise of the machines… of a different kind. The recent success of DreamWorks’ The Wild Robot serves as a reminder that audiences have a penchant for stories with larger-than-life robots. Adapted from the book series of the same name by Peter Brown, The Wild Robot brings to life the beautiful story of Roz (Lupita Nyong’o, Black Panther), an android programmed to assist those in need, learning to survive in the wilderness while connecting with animals and nature.

Despite its acclaim, The Wild Robot is purportedly set to mark the end of an era for DreamWorks Animation, as it will be the last film produced entirely in-house before the studio transitions to a model that leans heavily on outside vendors starting in 2025. Its lush and colourful visuals are reminiscent of DreamWorks’ previous hit, Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, or even the Studio Ghibli catalogue, evoking a rare sense of wonder and immersion.

If you found yourself enamoured by the heartfelt narrative that focuses on nature, or the themes of technology clashing with the wild, you’re likely craving more films that blend sci-fi with emotional storytelling and stunning visuals. Fortunately, there are plenty of other movies that explore similar ideas. Here are some must-watch movies that will give you a sense of adventure, family, and survival just like The Wild Robot did:


1) Wall-E (2008)

Director: Andrew Stanton
Cast: Ben Burtt, Elissa Knight, Jeff Garlin, John Ratzenberger, Kathy Najimy, Sigourney Weaver, Fred Willard

Pixar’s Wall-E might be the most obvious recommendation if you loved The Wild Robot. This heartwarming tale of a lone robot, left to clean up Earth’s abandoned wasteland, explores themes of loneliness, discovery, and environmental care. Similar to Roz, Wall-E is a machine that exhibits humanity through its growing relationships and love for nature. It’s a touching sci-fi adventure that will leave you with the same warm fuzzies.


2) The Iron Giant (1999)

Director: Brad Bird
Cast: Jennifer Aniston, Harry Connick Jr., Vin Diesel, James Gammon, Cloris Leachman, John Mahoney, Eli Marienthal, Christopher McDonald, M. Emmet Walsh

If The Wild Robot tugged at your heartstrings with its exploration of a machine’s humanity, then The Iron Giant is another must-watch. This Brad Bird-directed classic tells the story of a giant alien robot that befriends a young boy in the 1950s. The film beautifully weaves themes of friendship, identity, and sacrifice. Just like Roz, the Iron Giant learns about compassion and what it means to live alongside living beings.


3. Big Hero 6 (2014)

Director: Don Hall and Chris Williams
Cast: Ryan Potter, Scott Adsit, Daniel Henney, T.J. Miller, Jamie Chung, Damon Wayans Jr., Genesis Rodriguez, James Cromwell, Maya Rudolph, Alan Tudyk

While The Wild Robot is said to be inspired by classic Disney animated films like Bambi, perhaps the Disney film it’s most similar to is the modern classic, Big Hero 6. Big Hero 6 follows Hiro, a young robotics prodigy, and his inflatable healthcare companion, Baymax, as they form a superhero team to solve a mystery.

With big round eyes and an equally round body, The Wild Robot’s Roz even bears a resemblance to Big Hero 6’s Baymax. Both films combine emotional depth with thrilling action sequences, showing how even robots can develop deep relationships with living beings.


4. Robots (2005)

Director: Chris Wedge
Cast: Ewan McGregor, Halle Berry, Greg Kinnear, Mel Brooks, Amanda Bynes, Drew Carey, Robin Williams

It will likely come as little surprise that The Wild Robot is not Dreamworks’ first film to feature a robot. The studio’s 2005 animated science fiction adventure comedy film, Robots, revolves around a society dominated by robots. The protagonist, Rodney Copperbottom, embarks on a journey to realise his dream as an inventor and prove himself, emphasising the idea of self-discovery and the quest for acceptance shared by The Wild Robot

Ultimately, both films highlight the importance of connection, whether it’s robots finding their place among each other or Roz learning to integrate with the natural world.


5. Real Steel (2011)

Director: Shawn Levy
Cast: Hugh Jackman, Dakota Goyo, Evangeline Lilly, Anthony Mackie, James Rebhorn, Karl Yune, Olga Fonda, Kevin Durand

For a more futuristic and gritty take on the bond between robots and humans, director Shawn Levy’s Real Steel is a solid pick. Set in a world where human boxers have been replaced by robots, Real Steel features intense robot battles while exploring the relationship between technology and humanity.

In Real Steel, the robot Atom develops a semblance of consciousness and emotional depth, highlighting the idea that robots can embody feelings and experiences. As a result, Real Steel, like The Wild Robot, ends up challenging the notion of what it means to be ‘alive’.


6. Batteries Not Included (1987)

Director: Matthew Robbins
Cast: Hume Cronyn, Jessica Tandy, Frank McRae, Elizabeth Peña, Michael Carmine

Batteries Not Included might be an oldie, but its portrayal of connection and resilience is timeless. The story of tiny robots coming to the aid of a group of struggling tenants in a rundown apartment building highlights themes of unity and support.

Roz’s challenges in the wild — fending off predators and other dangers while navigating her environment in The Wild Robot — parallel the struggles of the tenants in Batteries Not Included, who must hold off threats from developers intent on demolishing their homes. Consequently, Roz’s emotional growth and the small robots’ acts of kindness blur the lines between machine and human. This invites viewers to consider the emotional capacities of artificial beings and their potential for empathy and compassion.


7. Castle in the Sky (1986)

Director: Hayao Miyazaki
Cast: Mayumi Tanaka, Keiko Yokozawa, Kotoe Hatsui, Minori Terada

While The Wild Robot and Studio Ghibli’s Castle in the Sky present themselves as whimsical movies with lush film palettes, they both hold deeper themes beneath the surface. Notably, they underscore the tension and harmony between nature and technology.

In The Wild Robot, Roz, a robot stranded on a deserted island, learns to adapt and coexist with the natural world, forming relationships with the island’s animals. Similarly, Castle in the Sky presents a world where advanced technology (the floating city of Laputa) is juxtaposed with the natural environment, illustrating the need for balance between the two realms. Both films explore how technology can enhance or disrupt the natural order.


8. Bicentennial Man (1999)

Director: Chris Columbus
Cast: Robin Williams, Sam Neill, Embeth Davidtz, Wendy Crewson, Oliver Platt

If you’re intrigued by stories of robots developing human-like emotions, Chris Columbus’s Bicentennial Man is a thought-provoking sci-fi drama to watch. The film centres on ‘Andrew’, a robot designed to perform housekeeping and maintenance duties for his hosts, the Martin family.

As Andrew gains the ability to feel and express deeper emotions, he embarks on a journey to become a real human, experiencing all the complexities that come with it across his extended lifespan. Much like Roz, Andrew faces questions about his identity and purpose, all while trying to navigate a world that sees him as different.

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Ubisoft Pushes ‘Assassin’s Creed Shadows’ Release To February 2025 For Extra Polish https://geekculture.co/ubisoft-pushes-assassins-creed-shadows-release-to-february-2025/ Thu, 26 Sep 2024 04:48:50 +0000 https://geekculture.co/?p=302520

Now launching on Valentine’s Day 2025 with a Day-One Steam release.

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Assassin’s Creed Shadows fans will have to wait a little longer to dive into Ubisoft’s next open-world adventure. Originally slated for a 12 November 2024 release, the game has now been pushed back by three months, with a new launch date set for 14 February 2025.

Geek Preview: Assassin's Creed Shadows (4)

In a statement, Ubisoft explained the delay, citing the need for additional time to “polish and refine the experience, pushing further some of our key features.” This added time will help Assassin’s Creed Shadows deliver on the ambitious promise of its dual-protagonist gameplay, featuring the distinct styles of Naoe and Yasuke.

Notably, Assassin’s Creed Shadows will also be hitting Steam on day one — a shift from Ubisoft’s previous release, Star Wars Outlaws. Pre-orders will be refunded, but fans who lock in their orders after the delay announcement will get the first expansion for free, ditching the company’s usual season pass approach.

Geek Interview: Assassin's Creed Shadows (3)

The delay comes during a rough patch for Ubisoft, as the company grapples with underwhelming sales and a dip in share price following Star Wars Outlaws’ softer-than-expected launch. In a recent note to investors, Ubisoft stressed that while Assassin’s Creed Shadows is “feature complete,” the lessons learned from Star Wars Outlaws have led them to take extra time for polish.

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Sequel ‘Ghost of Yotei’ Leads PlayStation State Of Play Sept 2024 Game Announcements https://geekculture.co/sequel-ghost-of-yotei-leads-playstation-state-of-play-game-announcement/ Wed, 25 Sep 2024 02:16:24 +0000 https://geekculture.co/?p=302457

Which announcement was your favourite?

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Sony’s September State of Play livestream delivered a lot in its over 30-minute runtime. From shiny new remasters to fresh DLCs, as well as new titles and colourful controllers, the event was brimming with goodies for PlayStation 5 and PS VR2 users alike.

If you missed the September State of Play, no worries, here’s a recap of all the biggest reveals.


Ghost of Yotei

Sony and Sucker Punch unveiled the sequel to the critically acclaimed Ghost of Tsushima, Ghost of Yotei. This follow-up will introduce a new protagonist, Atsu, who embarks on a journey through the stunning landscapes surrounding Mount Yōtei. From sprawling grasslands to snowy tundras, Atsu will face unexpected dangers as they become the new Ghost. Ghost of Yotei is coming to PlayStation 5 in 2025.


Astro Bot – Speedrun and Special Bots Add-On

Astro Bot wasted no time opening the show with a look at its upcoming free DLC. Developer Team Asobi teased five fresh speedrun levels that promise to challenge even the most seasoned players. In addition, there will be 10 new bots to be saved, including familiar faces like Helldivers and Eve from Stellar Blade. However, Team Asobi remained coy on the exact release date, leaving a vague but tantalising Fall 2024 window.


The Midnight Walk

From the creative minds behind Lost in Random comes The Midnight Walk, a dark fantasy adventure that’s set to enchant and haunt in equal measure. This eerie new title puts players in the shoes of the Burnt One, a mysterious figure tasked with navigating a world brimming with both beauty and danger. The Midnight Walk is scheduled to release on PS5 and PS VR2 in Spring 2025.


Hell is Us

A new gameplay trailer for Hell Is Us shows off a mix of melee combat and exploration. Launching in 2025, Hell Is Us is coming to PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.


Metro Awakening VR

Metro Awakening will hit PlayStation VR2 on 7 November 2024, promising an intense, atmospheric journey as players step into the post-apocalyptic wasteland.


ArcheAge Chronicles

ArcheAge Chronicles is a brand-new sequel to the popular online RPG series and is set 50 years after the events of ArcheAge and ArcheAge: Unchained. Explore a vast and vibrant world filled with new quests, challenges, and opportunities. ArcheAge Chronicles is coming to PS5 in 2025.


Palworld on PS5

Despite legal drama with Nintendo, the Pokemon-inspired MMO Palworld has finally arrived on PlayStation 5. If you’ve been itching to catch, battle, and befriend adorable creatures in this open-world adventure, now’s your chance.


Fear the Spotlight – Release Date Reveal

Blumhouse’s horror game Fear the Spotlight will launch on 22 October 2024 on PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One. It’s a nostalgic nod to the PS1 era. With its cosy aesthetic and pixelated visuals, this game offers a unique and terrifying experience.


Lunar Remastered Collection

Lunar: Silver Star Story Complete and Lunar 2: Eternal Blue Complete are getting a remastered release on PlayStation in Spring 2025. These beloved games will feature enhanced graphics, audio, and quality-of-life improvements.


Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge – Radical Reptiles DLC

Dotemu and Tribute Games have announced that Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge is getting two new playable characters: Mona Lisa and Mondo Gecko. These fan-favourite turtles will be part of the Radical Reptiles DLC, which will also include a free update with new music from legendary composers like Tomoya Tomita, Keiji Yamagishi, and Anamanaguchi.


Fantasian Neo Dimension

Mistwalker’s Fantasian Neo Dimension is finally breaking free from its Apple Arcade exclusivity and coming to PS4 and PS5 on 5 December 2024.Created by Final Fantasy legends Hironobu Sakaguchi and Nobuo Uematsu, this captivating game features stunning diorama-style visuals and a captivating story.


Dragon Age: The Veilguard gameplay

BioWare unveiled a new look at Dragon Age: The Veilguard, their latest installment in the beloved franchise. In the gameplay footage, we see the VeilGuard facing off against a terrifying blighted dragon known as Corius the Icetalon. Dragon Age: The Veilguard is set to launch on PS5 and other platforms on 31 October 2024.


Alan Wake 2 – Lake House Expansion

Remedy Entertainment has announced that the second add-on for Alan Wake 2, The Lake House, will be coming to the psychological horror game in October 2024. This chilling DLC will send players to a mysterious facility situated on the shores of Cauldron Lake.


Hitman: World of Assassination VR

Get ready to take your assassinations to the next level! IO Interactive has announced that Hitman: World of Assassination is coming to PlayStation VR 2 this December. Experience the thrill of stealthily taking out targets in stunning virtual reality.


Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver 1 & 2 Remastered

Having leaked prior to the State of Play, Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver 1 & 2 Remastered will be arriving on 10 December 2024. This marks the 25th anniversary of the original game’s release, and the remaster will feature improved visuals for PS5 and PS4.


Towers of Aghasba

Towers of Aghasba is an action-adventure builder fantasy game that tasks you with rebuilding your civilisation and the ecosystem, while maintaining a delicate balance between the two. It will launch in early access this November.


Fortnite PS5 DualSense controller

Sony revealed an official Fortnite-themed DualSense controller for the PlayStation 5, complete with iconic Fortnite elements, with pre-orders kicking off on 3 October 2024.


Dynasty Warriors: Origins

Koei Tecmo and Omega Force are finally bringing back their iconic Dynasty Warriors series with Dynasty Warriors: Origins, the first mainline title since 2018. The game now has an official release date set for 17 January 2025, and will launch on PS5, with versions for Windows PC and Xbox Series X as well.


Monster Hunter Wilds – Release Date Reveal

Capcom offered an extended preview of Monster Hunter Wilds, the upcoming open-world sequel. They also revealed a firm release date — 28 February 2025. More juicy details are set to be revealed later this week at the Tokyo Game Show.


Lego Horizon Adventures

Lego Horizon Adventures was confirmed to officially launch on 14 November 2024, and it’s bringing its blocky charm to the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, and Windows PC.


Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered

Guerrilla Games’ hit open-world RPG is getting a fresh coat of paint for PS5 and PC. Sony has announced that Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered will be launching on 31 October 2024, featuring stunning visuals and re-recorded dialogue. For players who already own the PS4 version, an upgrade to the remastered edition is available for just US$9.99.


Steller Blade x NieR: Automata DLC

Developer Shift Up has confirmed that more DLC is on the way for Stellar Blade, along with a highly anticipated PC port of the game. To top it off, a Nier: Automata collaboration is also in the works, bringing together two of the most stylish action games around.


PS5 Chroma Collection

While the State of Play was largely focused on games, Sony always announced the new Chroma Collection, which introduces three vibrant colour options for the DualSense controller and PS5 console covers: Chroma Pearl, Chroma Indigo, and Chroma Teal.

Pre-orders for the Chroma Collection start on 3 October 2024. Chroma Pearl and Chroma Indigo accessories will be available on 7 November 2024, while Chroma Teal will launch a bit later on 23 January 2025.

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‘The Penguin’ HBO Max Premiere Soars Past ‘Succession’ And ‘White Lotus’ With 5.3 Million Viewers https://geekculture.co/the-penguin-hbo-max-premiere-soars-past-succession-and-white-lotus/ Tue, 24 Sep 2024 02:51:01 +0000 https://geekculture.co/?p=302385

Gotham's mob boss rules HBO.

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The Penguin, HBO’s The Batman spinoff starring Colin Farrell, made an explosive debut, pulling in 5.3 million cross-platform U.S. viewers over its weekend premiere.

This figure surpasses the fourth and final season premiere of Succession (4.9 million viewers) and the average for The White Lotus Season 2 (4.1 million viewers), and nearly matched True Detective: Night Country’s Season 4 opener (5.7 million). No small feat for a villain spin-off.

The Penguin has drawn positive reception from critics, and currently holds a 94% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. According to HBO, The Penguin boasted the largest four-day global audience on Max for a new series since The Last of Us stormed screens back in January 2023.

Furthermore, streaming interest in The Batman spiked by a jaw-dropping 350% on Max thanks to this gritty, mob-centric show. The success of The Penguin and renewed interest in Matt Reeves’ The Batman universe opens the doors to more spin-offs down the line. While the planned Gotham PD series and Arkham Asylum series were said to be put on hold, Reeves revealed in a recent interview with Entertainment Weekly that the Arkham Asylum spin-off is alive and well, just not in the form that it was originally conceived.

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Persona 3 Reload: Episode Aigis – Review https://geekculture.co/persona-3-reload-episode-aigis-review/ Fri, 20 Sep 2024 00:37:34 +0000 https://geekculture.co/?p=302128

A bittersweet conclusion to an emotional journey.

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Persona 3 Reload: Episode Aigis serves as a poignant and emotionally complex epilogue to the main game, exploring the aftermath of grief and the search for closure. A remake of The Answer, the epilogue chapter of 2006’s Persona 3, which was remade as this year’s Persona 3 Reload,  it may not be a gameplay revolution, but it masterfully ties up loose ends and expands upon the story of Persona 3 Reload, giving players more time with the beloved SEES crew while shining a spotlight on the android Aigis as she grapples with loss and leadership.

From the get-go, it’s important to note that while Persona 3 Reload is required to access this DLC (downloadable content), Episode Aigis is a standalone experience that can be launched without having completed or even started on the base game. However, diving into it before finishing the main story is ill-advised, as this DLC directly picks up where it ends, filled with significant spoilers and a continuation of its story.

At its core, Episode Aigis isn’t just about the dungeon-crawling role-playing game experience (though there’s plenty of it), but about how the characters process their grief. In fact, the story beats in Episode Aigis are the DLC’s strongest elements — Aigis, the female android, and her companions are stuck in a time loop, forced to confront their sorrow again and again, until they can finally find the answers they seek. The story unfolds through cutscenes at the end of each dungeon block, offering glimpses into critical moments from the characters’ pasts.

Placing Aigis in a leadership role provides a fresh perspective on the SEES team’s emotional journey. Aigis’s arc is especially compelling as she wrestles with the weight of her loss while simultaneously stepping up to guide her comrades. In addition, her relationship with Metis, a mysterious android newcomer, adds layers to the narrative. While Metis herself remains somewhat underdeveloped, her role as a foil to Aigis helps drive home the DLC’s emotional stakes, showcasing the internal conflict of grief in a deeply personal way.

While the narrative is moving, Episode Aigis is not without its flaws, particularly when it comes to the gameplay. The turn-based combat system remains largely the same as in the base game; the calm and cool Mitsuru muses about a couple of hours into Episode Aigis, “It’s like Tartarus all over again,” referencing the expansive dungeon from the main game.

Battles are still enjoyable and appear to be more challenging than the base game, catering to players who enjoyed the turn-based mechanics but craved a higher difficulty. However, the monotonous grind can feel repetitive, especially without the time management or social sim elements that balance out the combat in the main game. As a result, the dungeon-crawling can sometimes feel like padding to extend the game’s runtime. That said, the emotional payoff in the final hours is well worth the effort, delivering some of the series’ most powerful moments.

Visually, Episode Aigis shines thanks to Persona 3 Reload’s upgraded graphics and quality-of-life improvements. The art is crisp with fluid animation, even on the pause screen. The dungeons are beautifully rendered, battles are slick and dynamic, and the new remixes of the original soundtrack breathe fresh life into familiar tunes. The presentation elevates the story’s emotional weight, making the experience all the more immersive.

In the end, Episode Aigis is a fitting conclusion to Persona 3 Reload’s already bittersweet ending. It may not revolutionise the gameplay, but its deeply affecting narrative, strong character development, and emotional resonance make it a rich experience for fans. Those willing to push through the repetitive dungeons will be rewarded with a moving and meaningful story about grief, healing, and finding a way to move forward.

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‘The Witcher: Sirens Of The Deep’ Animated Film Pushed To 2025, New Clip Released https://geekculture.co/the-witcher-sirens-of-the-deep-animated-film-pushed-to-2025-new-clip-released/ Wed, 18 Sep 2024 04:33:13 +0000 https://geekculture.co/?p=301886

Fans of The Witcher will have to wait a little longer to dive into Netflix’s next animated adventure.

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The Witcher: Sirens of the Deep, the second animated film in Netflix’s Witcher-Verse (after The Witcher: Nightmare of the Wolf), has officially been pushed to 11 February 2025.

The delay was announced during Geeked Week 2024 in a special video featuring Doug Cockle, the voice behind the iconic Geralt of Rivia from CD Projekt Red’s video game series. Originally slated for a late 2024 release, Sirens of the Deep will now debut just in time to kick off 2025, leaving fans hungry for their next The Witcher fix.

Along with the release date, Netflix dropped a fresh clip featuring Geralt and Jaskier, everyone’s favorite chaotic bard. In the short teaser, the two share a campfire meal while discussing none other than Essi, a rival bard and old friend of Jaskier’s. The banter is classic The Witcher, setting the tone for what promises to be another gripping journey.

Based on Andrzej Sapkowski’s short story A Little Sacrifice, Sirens of the Deep will follow Geralt as he’s called upon to investigate a series of attacks in a seaside village. However, things take a turn when the famed monster hunter finds himself entangled in a long-standing conflict between humans and merfolk. With tensions on the rise, it’s up to Geralt and his allies — both old and new — to stop an all-out war from breaking out between land and sea.

Jaskier and Yennefer from The Witcher

Joining Cockle in the voice cast is Christina Wren (Man of Steel) as Essi, as well as live-action The Witcher stars Joey Batey and Anya Chalotra, who return to voice Jaskier and Yennefer, respectively.

Unfortunately, with the delay of Sirens of the Deep, 2024 marks the first year that Netflix will be missing a new Witcher-Verse project. However, with this new clip and a 2025 release on the horizon, fans of The Witcher: Sirens of the Deep will have something to look forward to next year.

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‘DAN DA DAN’ Unveils New Visuals, Cast, And Trailers Ahead Of October Premiere https://geekculture.co/dan-da-dan-unveils-new-visuals-cast-and-trailers-ahead-of-october-premiere/ Tue, 17 Sep 2024 07:12:29 +0000 https://geekculture.co/?p=301772

Setting the stage for an epic journey into the world of yokai, aliens, and unexpected love.

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The DAN DA DAN anime adaptation is ramping up excitement ahead of its 3 October 2024 release with fresh updates that are sure to get fans buzzing. A brand-new key visual, five new cast members, and three exciting teaser trailers were revealed, giving audiences a deeper look into the action-packed, paranormal world that awaits.

The teasers each highlight a different facet of DAN DA DAN, diving into the anime’s unique blend of battle, romance, and the occult. First up is the “Battle” trailer, spotlighting an intense showdown between protagonist Okarun and the eerie Flatwoods Monster. Next, the “Love” trailer teases the growing bond between Momo and Okarun, set to ZUTOMAYO’s catchy ending theme, “TAIDADA.” Finally, the “Occult” trailer offers a glimpse into the wild mix of aliens, yokai, and other supernatural entities that populate this thrilling series.

Joining the cast are a host of veteran voice actors bringing these strange creatures to life, including:

  • Ryuzaburo Otomo (Crocodile in One Piece) as the Flatwoods Monster
  • Kikuko Inoue (Lust in Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood) as Acrobatic Silky
  • Tomokazu Seki (Gilgamesh in Fate/Zero) as the Dover Demon
  • Tomokazu Sugita (Gintoki Sakata in Gintama) as Taro
  • Fumi Hirano (Lum in Urusei Yatsura (1981)) as Hana

These newcomers will share the stage with an already stellar main cast, featuring:

  • Shion Wakayama (Yume Minami in SSSS.Dynazenon) as Momo Ayase
  • Natsuki Hanae (Tanjiro Kamado in Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba) as Ken Takakura/Okarun
  • Mayumi Tanaka (Monkey D. Luffy in One Piece) as Turbo Granny
  • Kazuya Nakai (Roronoa Zoro in One Piece) as Serpoians
  • Nana Mizuki (Hinata Hyuga in Naruto) as Seiko Ayase
  • Ayane Sakura (Ochaco Uraraka in My Hero Academia) as Aira Shiratori
  • Kaito Ishikawa (Tobio Kageyama in Haikyu!!) as Jin Enjoji/Jiji

Behind the scenes, DAN DA DAN is in great hands. with Fuga Yamashiro (Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken!) directing, Hiroshi Seko (Chainsaw Man) on scriptwriting duties, and Naoyuki Onda (MF Ghost, Inuyashiki) handling character designs, with Yoshimichi Kameda (Mob Psycho) designing aliens and yokai. Science SARU (known most recently for their work on Scott Pilgrim Takes Off) leads the animation, while Kensuke Ushio (Tengoku Daimakyo, The Heike Story) composes the soundtrack.

The hype doesn’t stop there — DAN DA DAN made a global splash even before its TV debut with a limited-time theatrical release, DAN DA DAN: First Encounter. The anime premiered across 50 countries, including screenings in Southeast Asia, Europe, North America, and more, with an enthusiastic reception from fans worldwide.

Based on Yukinobu Tatsu’s hit manga, first serialised on Shueisha’s Shonen Jump+ in April 2021, the series has since released 15 volumes, with a 16th slated for 4 October 2024. The manga, localised in English by VIZ Media, is already a massive hit, and now, with the anime’s arrival, DAN DA DAN is poised to bring its supernatural charm to an even wider audience.

Both Crunchyroll and Netflix will stream the anime outside Japan, giving fans everywhere a chance to dive into the wild world of DAN DA DAN.

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‘Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2’ Scores Highest Concurrent Player Count For Franchise On Steam https://geekculture.co/warhammer-40000-space-marine-2-scores-highest-concurrent-player-count-for-franchise-on-steam/ Thu, 12 Sep 2024 02:23:37 +0000 https://geekculture.co/?p=301412

Storming the battlefield and shattering records.

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Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 stormed the battlefield with its full launch on 9 September, following a four-day early access period, and it shattered records for the Warhammer franchise.

Developed by Saber Interactive, this high-octane action game puts players in the boots of Titus of the Ultramarines as he battles against the Tyranid swarm and Chaos Marines. Arriving a whopping 13 years after its predecessor, this sequel packs a co-op campaign, Operations focused on cooperative play, and a thrilling PvP mode.

The game’s launch saw it achieve a staggering 24-hour peak concurrent player count of 225,690 on Steam, making it the highest-ever for a Warhammer game on Valve’s platform. Standing at a ‘Mostly Positive’ user review rating, Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 has cemented itself as the most-played Warhammer game on Steam, eclipsing the previous record held by Total War: WARHAMMER III, which peaked at 166,754 players.

And that’s just taking into account players on Steam. Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 also launched on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X and S, so the true concurrent player numbers are likely even higher. As the game moves into its first weekend, the excitement is expected to soar even further.

Looking ahead, fans can anticipate a robust seasonal content model. Season 2, running from October through the end of 2024, will introduce a new Operations map, an additional enemy, a tougher difficulty level, a new weapon, and a host of other enhancements.

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‘Stardew Valley’ Fan Recreates Pelican Town With Lego Bricks https://geekculture.co/stardew-valley-fan-recreates-pelican-town-with-lego-bricks/ Thu, 12 Sep 2024 02:23:28 +0000 https://geekculture.co/?p=301415

A monumental Lego recreation that captures every nook and cranny of Stardew Valley.

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The charming world of Stardew Valley has been brought to life in the form of a jaw-dropping Lego replica, thanks to the efforts of Steve Jensen, both a dedicated Stardew Valley and Lego fan. Jensen unveiled his massive creation at BrickCon, the Lego convention held in Washington, and it’s a pixel-perfect tribute to the beloved 2014 farming sim.

Jensen’s elaborate Lego diorama features a meticulous recreation of Stardew Valley‘s Pelican Town, complete with the iconic Jojo Mart, Lego versions of the game’s colourful NPCs and their homes, the overgrown Community Centre, and even the game’s signature logo. The attention to detail in this build is truly impressive.

The painstakingly crafted Lego model earned Jensen the People’s Choice Award at BrickCon. But the real twist came when Stardew Valley’s creator, Eric ‘ConcernedApe’ Barone, made an unexpected appearance at the convention. Barone, who lives in Washington, stopped by to congratulate Jensen and snap a few photos with him.

“Guess who stopped by Saturday afternoon (before any awards had happened)?” Jensen shared on Instagram. “It’s ok if you don’t recognize him… I didn’t either. And yes, I did a brief fan-boy moment when Concerned Ape introduced himself!!! Naturally, I brought him ‘backstage’ for a closer look (…and this pic)!!”

Jensen, who co-owns Bricks & Minifigs Monroe, a Lego and figurine store in Monroe, Washington, was thrilled to celebrate his win with his colleagues. There’s even a hint that Jensen’s creation might be displayed in the store soon.

A decade after its release, Stardew Valley remains popular as ever thanks to its many updates, including the 1.6 update which introduced a plethora of new features and broke records on Steam.

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10 Comic Books Based On Hit Video Games Worth Reading https://geekculture.co/10-comic-books-based-on-hit-video-games-worth-reading/ Tue, 10 Sep 2024 17:15:26 +0000 https://geekculture.co/?p=301299

These standout titles deserve a place on your shelf, next to your library of video games.

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When video games expand beyond their digital boundaries and into the world of comics, the results can be surprisingly compelling. What might seem like a quick cash grab to lure gaming fans can sometimes transform into a rich, narrative experience that enhances the lore of the video game universe.

Whether you’re a gamer looking to dive deeper into your favourite franchises or a comic fan curious about the narrative potential of video game worlds, here are some comic books based on popular video games worth powering down your console.


1. Assassin’s Creed

Ubisoft’s Assassin’s Creed franchise has a long history of comic adaptations, with various titles exploring different timelines and Assassins across the centuries. Many of them are pretty compelling, including:

With intricate plots and detailed artwork, these comics often serve as bridges between the games or as expansions of the lore, offering fans new angles on the eternal struggle between the Assassins and the Templars.


2. Bloodborne

FromSoftware’s Bloodborne is known for its dense lore and gothic horror aesthetics, and its comic adaptation manages to capture its cryptic and eerie atmosphere effectively. The story by Ales Kot follows a Hunter who navigates the nightmarish world of Yharnam, spinning a tale that will feel unique yet familiar to players of the video game. Meanwhile, the beautiful art from Piotr Kowalski truly encapsulates the grotesque and haunting imagery that Bloodborne is known for.


3. Cyberpunk 2077

The world of Cyberpunk 2077 is a goldmine for exploration and character building and as such, the Cyberpunk 2077 comics are noteworthy for their deep dive into the vibrant and chaotic world of Night City, expanding on the game’s rich lore with compelling narratives and striking visuals. The Library Edition Volume 1 collects three distinct stories (each four issues long) — Trauma Team, You Have My Word, and Blackout.

These comics capture the gritty, neon-soaked spirit of the Cyberpunk universe while offering fresh perspectives and storylines. They effectively blend high-octane action with cyberpunk themes of corporate intrigue and societal decay, all while maintaining the atmospheric and dystopian aesthetic fans of the game have come to love.


4. Dragon Age

Whether you’re into epic high fantasy or just looking to dive deeper into the world of Thedas, the Dragon Age comics are sure to captivate (at least, until Dragon Age: The Veilguard arrives to push things along further). Featuring both beloved and new characters, these comics expand on the lore introduced in the games, exploring new regions, political intrigue, and magical conflicts that fans have grown to love. The well-crafted stories and deep character development stay true to the game’s tone while adding fresh layers to the moral complexities and rich history of the world.


5. Mass Effect

Mass Effect has always been about choices and consequences, and is often recognised for its tight-knit and compelling storytelling. Consequently, its comic series expands on this by exploring different facets of its rich universe.

By filling in gaps in the game’s timeline, it shines a spotlight on characters like Liara T’Soni and Aria T’Loak, while also introducing new characters and stories that add depth to the series’ lore. For fans of the series, the Mass Effect comics fill in essential backstory, such as history and context for DLC missions, adding another layer to the already intricate narrative.


6. Metal Gear Solid

The Metal Gear Solid comics are a faithful adaptation of the iconic video game series, effectively condensing the original games’ intricate plots, focusing on Solid Snake’s stealth missions and the larger political conspiracies. The gritty stylised artwork by Ashley Wood (who later became involved in the PlayStation Portable title Metal Gear Solid: Portable Ops) is reminiscent of the official Metal Gear Solid art by Yoji Shinkawa, captured in vivid detail and comic motion.

What’s more, the comics maintain the series’ signature themes of espionage, political intrigue, and the moral ambiguities of warfare, ensuring that both longtime fans and new readers find the stories engaging and true to the spirit of the games.


7. Minecraft

The Minecraft comics stand out by translating the boundless creativity of the game into engaging narratives. They explore different characters, stories, and settings, all while staying rooted in the game’s understated charm. From adventurous quests to humorous mishaps, the comics capture the low-stakes yet light-hearted, imaginative spirit of Minecraft. With a mix of heart, joy, and problem-solving, the Minecraft comics are ideal for readers of all ages, proving that not all comics need to be serious or gritty to be engaging and fun.


8. Sonic the Hedgehog

Sonic the Hedgehog had a long-running comic stint under Archie Comics before IDW came along to pick up the rings. Since then, the Sonic the Hedgehog comic series hasn’t missed a beat, and serves as a love letter to fans of the blue blur.

The comics capture the fun, fast-paced action of the games while also providing deeper character development and new adventures for Sonic and his friends. It’s a delightful read for fans young and old, and a great way to experience the expansive world of Sonic outside of the games (as well as movies and shows).


9. Street Fighter

Street Fighter has been a staple of the fighting game genre for decades, and its comic adaptations by Udon Entertainment do justice to the game’s rich history and diverse cast of characters. This long-standing comics publication delves into the backstories of iconic fighters like Ryu, Chun-Li, Sakura, Akuma, and M. Bison, while also expanding the Street Fighter lore with new characters and storylines. The art is vibrant and dynamic, capturing the energy and style of the games perfectly.

The series has maintained its momentum and even caught up to the latest instalment in the franchise, Street Fighter 6, offering an official prequel graphic novel that explores various characters and their motivations. Beyond that, there’s even a crossover with Darkstalkers that’s just as spectacular.


10. The Last of Us: American Dreams

Before Ellie became a post-apocalyptic icon in The Last of Us, she had a life filled with moments that shaped her into the resilient survivor we know. The Last of Us: American Dreams serves as an official prequel to the critically acclaimed game, set even before the prequel expansion Left Behind, focusing on Ellie’s early days and her friendship with Riley.

Written by notable comic creator Faith Erin Hicks (Demonology 101, Pumpkinheads) and The Last of Us creative director Neil Druckmann himself, the comic effectively captures the emotional depth and dark world-building of the original game. The art, by Hicks, conveys the bleakness of the setting while allowing Ellie’s vulnerability and strength to shine through.


Bonus: The Outlast Trials

The The Outlast Trials comics effectively capture the game’s survival horror vibe with a gripping story that explores the game’s dark lore. They expand on the unsettling universe of The Outlast Trials by exploring new characters, sinister experiments, and horrifying environments that align with the game’s tense atmosphere. The artwork complements the eerie storytelling with intense, atmospheric visuals that evoke the same sense of dread and suspense as the game.

Although The Outlast Trials comics are digital only, they are also available for free. This gives even newcomers to the series the opportunity to easily check them out to see if the world of The Outlast Trials intrigues them. At the same time, fans of the series will almost certainly appreciate how the comics enhance the game’s thrilling narrative while maintaining its signature horror elements.

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Sony Launches PlayStation 5 Pro With Larger GPU, Advanced Ray Tracing And AI Upscaling https://geekculture.co/sony-launches-playstation-5-pro-with-larger-gpu-advanced-ray-tracing-and-ai-upscaling/ Tue, 10 Sep 2024 16:13:33 +0000 https://geekculture.co/?p=301314

The most powerful console Sony's ever built yet.

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Sony has officially unveiled their next console hardware entry: the PlayStation 5 Pro.

During a PS5 Pro Technical Presentation, PS5 lead architect Mark Cerny spilled the beans on this beefed-up PlayStation 5, designed to deliver the high frame rates and dazzling visuals gamers crave. Visually, the PS5 Pro looks almost identical to the base model, but with three stripes along its side instead of the single stripe on the PS5.

Sony showcased the PS5 Pro’s prowess with a slew of games flaunting their improved visuals, including Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, Gran Turismo 7, and Hogwarts Legacy. According to a post on the PlayStation Blog by Hideaki Nishino, CEO of Sony Interactive Entertainment’s Platform Business Group, the PS5 Pro boasts:

  • Upgraded GPU: With a GPU packing 67% more Compute Units and 28% faster memory, players can expect up to 45% faster rendering for a smoother gameplay experience.
  • Advanced Ray Tracing: Enhanced ray tracing offers dynamic light reflection and refraction at double, sometimes triple, the speeds of the original PS5.
  • AI-Driven Upscaling: Dubbed PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR), this AI-powered tech promises razor-sharp image clarity and stunning detail to boost resolution effects.

The PS5 Pro retails at S$1,069 / US$699.99 / £699.99 / €799.99 / ¥119,980, making it a premium upgrade for those looking to push their gaming experience to the next level. The PS5 Pro will come with a 2TB SSD, a DualSense wireless controller, and a copy of Astro’s Playroom pre-installed in every PS5 Pro purchase. In addition, it will also be available as a disc-less console, with the option to buy the currently available disc drive for PS5 separately.

The PS5 Pro will release on 7 November 2024, with pre-orders beginning on 26 September 2024.

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Keanu Reeves, Dwayne Johnson, And More: Sega Polls Fans On Celebrity Cameos For ‘Like A Dragon’ Game Series https://geekculture.co/keanu-reeves-dwayne-johnson-and-more-sega-polls-fans-on-celebrity-cameos-for-like-a-dragon-game-series/ Wed, 28 Aug 2024 07:09:56 +0000 https://geekculture.co/?p=300398

Will we see Ichiban Kasuga visit Hollywood next?

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Sega is diving into fan feedback to gauge interest in potential celebrity cameos for the Yakuza/Like a Dragon series. A recent email shared by Reddit user JohnConquest reveals Sega’s inquiry into how celebrities such as Keanu Reeves, Jack Black, and Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson might impact player enjoyment.

The survey isn’t just focused on big names; it includes actors with prior Yakuza connections like Mark Hamill (who provided the English dub for Goro Majima in the original PS2 release of Yakuza), Matthew Mercer (who dubbed Majima in Yakuza: Like a Dragon), and Danny Trejo (Dwight Mendez in Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth), as well as an eclectic mix of stars such as Eminem, Lionel Messi, Ozzy Osbourne, and Kit Harington. Sega and developer Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio seem to be casting a wide net, exploring how these potential cameos might resonate with fans.

The full list of celebrities is as follows:

  • Aidan Gallagher
  • Jack Black
  • Hiroyuki Sanada
  • Lionel Messi
  • Xavier Woods
  • Hank Azaria
  • Danny Trejo
  • Minoru Iwasaki
  • Rami Malek
  • Simone Biles
  • Dr. Dre
  • Frank Montana
  • Robert Pattinson
  • Lady Gaga
  • Matthew Mercer
  • Shohei Ohtani
  • Keanu Reeves
  • Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson
  • Snoop Dogg
  • Ice Cube
  • Vin Diesel
  • LeBron James
  • David Hayter
  • Seth Rogen
  • Kit Harington
  • Mark Hamill
  • Eminem
  • Ozzy Osbourne
  • Billie Eilish

The Like a Dragon franchise has frequently employed the likeness of big-name Japanese stars, wrestlers, idols, and influencers. However, when it comes to western celebrities, the series has seemed to prefer parodies of real-life figures, such as the characters Stephen Spining (a parody of Steven Spielberg) and Miracle Johnson (a parody of Michael Jackson) from Yakuza 0.

With Danny Trejo’s portrayal of Dwight Mendez in the Hawaii-set Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, it seems that Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio is keen to explore celebrities more recognisable to a western audience after gaining more international appeal. After all, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth broke the series’ record for its most successful launch on Steam.

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‘Stardew Valley’ X ‘Fortnite’? Developer ConcernedApe Is Ready For A Crossover https://geekculture.co/stardew-valley-x-fortnite-developer-concernedape-is-ready-for-a-crossover/ Wed, 28 Aug 2024 07:08:51 +0000 https://geekculture.co/?p=300384

"I want Pam in Fortnite."

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Eric “ConcernedApe” Barone, the creative force behind the beloved indie game Stardew Valley, has been eyeing an unexpected but potentially epic crossover: Fortnite x Stardew Valley. In a recent Discord interaction, Barone revealed that he’s been actively trying to make this collaboration with Epic Games happen, and he’s already buzzing with ideas.

“I want Pam in Fortnite,” Barone candidly shared with a fan named Panedwards, indicating his enthusiasm for merging the two gaming worlds. While Fortnite developer Epic Games has yet to respond — either publicly or privately — it’s clear that Barone is more than ready to make this dream collaboration a reality. He’s even brainstormed a few possibilities, ranging from Stardew characters like Abigail and Sebastian making the jump to Fortnite, to iconic Stardew items like the Stardrop or Galaxy Sword appearing in the battle royale.

The popularity of Stardew Valley is unmistakable, with its latest Update 1.6 breaking records on Steam. Meanwhile, Fortnite is no stranger to crossovers, having hosted characters and items from virtually every corner of pop culture. Its current season sees the game join forces with Marvel Comics, with characters like War Machine and Gwenpool joining the fray against Doctor Doom and his henchmen.

A Stardew Valley collaboration would definitely add a unique twist to the game’s ever-expanding universe. Whether it’s Pam parachuting into the battlefield or players chugging Joja Cola for a quick health boost, the potential for a Fortnite x Stardew Valley crossover is enough to make any fan of either game excited. Now it’s just a matter of Epic answering the call.

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Square Enix’s Failed Shooter ‘Foamstars’ Goes Free-To-Play https://geekculture.co/square-enixs-failed-shooter-foamstars-goes-free-to-play/ Wed, 28 Aug 2024 06:57:33 +0000 https://geekculture.co/?p=300379

Will going free-to-play be enough to get players foaming?

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Square Enix has announced that Foamstars, the colourful multiplayer shooter, will be going free-to-play starting 4 October 2024. This change comes just months after the game’s initial release, which was exclusively available on PlayStation consoles and included as part of the PlayStation Plus subscription at launch. Before going free-to-play, the game was priced at S$42.68 / US$30 on the PlayStation Store.

TGS 2023: Foamstars Preview (2)

Square Enix shared the news on their website, stating, “Thank you for your support of Foamstars. Foamstars, currently available on PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4, will change from its current regional pricing to a free-to-play title starting from October 4th, 2024, at 1:00 AM.” The company also revealed that players who previously purchased the game or downloaded it through PlayStation Plus will receive a ‘Legacy Gift’ as compensation. This gift includes 12 exclusive colour-variant Bubble Beastie skins, an exclusive Slide Board design, and a unique title: ‘Legacy’.

The shift to free-to-play follows underwhelming sales and financial performance, with Foamstars being cited alongside Final Fantasy VII Rebirth and Final Fantasy XVI as contributing factors to Square Enix’s weaker-than-expected financial results. In a statement to analysts, Square Enix president Takashi Kiryu acknowledged that these titles, including Foamstars, did not meet the company’s revenue and profit expectations.

Square Enix Foamstars Rubber Duck Party (2)

As Foamstars prepares for its new free-to-play model, it remains to be seen how this change will impact the game’s player base and overall success. For those who haven’t yet jumped into the foam-filled action, 4 October might be the perfect time to dive in.

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