I played the game upon release on the Series X, but encountered a bug that meant that I was not able to pursue all the Bounties because the game did not recognise that I had finished one, and so would not give me the next in line. Consequently I shelved the game after having played for around 120 hours (I like to do everything, so despite having done so many hours, much of the game was still left to do). I decided at that time that I would wait for the inevitable expansion (which at the time had not been announced) and for the game to effectively be fixed.
Whilst the game was in much better shape on the Xbox, I was hugely disappointed to have to make the decision to stop playing as the game was something that I truly wanted to play.
I watched with sheer disappointment what happened on the PlayStation, but hoped that the backlash that the game, and more importantly, CPDR received would serve as a timely reminder to Developers to not make the same mistake again. Whilst I guess that hope is in reality somewhat forlorn, I do think that when CPDR release their next game, they will not make the same mistake again. It may well have been pressure from their investors that had them push 2077 out of the starting blocks too early, but those same investors made less on their investment than they otherwise would have as consequence of having released it too early, and they must surely know that now. Therefore, I highly doubt that the next Witcher game will suffer the same fate, and I for one, will have no qualms in pre-ordering it...
Agree with everything you say, @MikeOrator. Without the future bit, it's basically just another historical RPG. I would also like to see a modern day setting, and maybe even a future one (though going into someone's memories from the future may be a little difficult to explain narratively 😂)...
My Collector's Edition of Assassin's Creed arrived today, and I have the Collector's Edition of Spiderman 2 pre-ordered too. Plus, I will be jumping into the new Forza game. Gonna be a busy month... 😜
You are right, @ratmsc, but I was speaking with regards to GaaS as is referred to in the article. However, the point remains, you can play the likes of Call of Duty on both the Xbox and the PlayStation. What attracts people to the PlayStation over the Xbox is the history of big AAA single-player games. There was, after all, very little difference really between CoD on the PlayStation, and CoD on the Xbox. It is everything else that is the deciding factor...
Okay, fair point, @naruball, however, I'd put money on it that if you held a poll on the choice between single-player or Live Service, that single player would win by a landslide. What you are doing is taking the most played game, and comparing it to the most played single-player game, but that's not how gaming works, that is how charts work.
Basically, yes, the most played game at the moment maybe a Live Service game, but if you were to add up all those playing single player games, then those play GaaS would be in the considerable minority. People that play single-player games, finish it and move on to the next game. You simply won't get people sticking with a single-player game, once beaten, in the way you do GaaS games. That is why the figures are skewed.
There are apparently around 140 million people that game on the PlayStation. Just how many of them are playing GaaS compared to those playing everything else?
You are absolutely right, @Kraven, between the likes Fortnight, Destiny 2, Apex Legends, and even Warframe, any Live Service game needs to really stand out from the crowd. Doing that successfully is what is eluding all these developers. It's not just the creation of the game, it's continually adding to the game, keeping it fresh, and the community that plays it invested sufficiently in the game to stick with it.
If it were so easy to successfully make these kind of games, the market would be flooded with them (which would be a problem in and of itself as there are only so many gamers to go around that are interested in playing this type of game). It is absolutely no surprise to see so many of these games being shut down, often without even being released, because developing a game that sticks is ridiculously difficult.
It must be awful to work on developing this kind of game, as it must forever be in the back of your mind that if the game is canned, your job likely goes with it. Feel terrible for the Developers in this position...
Giving us something that no one asked for, when, generally, people buy into the PlayStation ecosystem for the big AAA single player experiences, was never likely to hit the mark...
I think that simply turning the game into the TLoU3, and adding in Ellie would be a terrible idea, @jmac1686. Unless the game is built from start to finish as the second sequel, it will likely release as a horrible mess. I guess it would be possible to use some of the locations for the third game, but anything beyond that needs to be created from scratch.
After the hate that the second game got, Naughty Dog need to play it a little safer this time if they are to keep people invested in the games future. Personally, I enjoyed the sequel, but I know a lot of people didn't, so ND need to come out with something that resonates just as the first game did, and simply building on a failed multiplayer game is unlikely to hit the mark...
They are completely spoiled by the black lines (which I assume are supposed to represent Venom). I wouldn't have bought them anyway, but it's a shame to see the design ruined like this. They would just look like they have got dirty...
As for my optimism, @thefourfoldroot1, I think naivety would actually be the word you are looking for. I accept, I maybe entirely naïve, but I guess seeing the good in people is a better way to go through life than believing that everyone has an ulterior motive. I mean, if you hold the door open for the person behind you, do you have another reason beyond its the right thing to do? In other words, if someone does you a good deed, isn't it right to be thankful?
You say you are not criticising the move, yet it's difficult your original comment, to which I duly replied, as anything other than a criticism. For ease, here it is:
I other words: MS paid us not to release this documentary type update on PlayStation. Even though it would take no additional work for us to show the same love to our PlayStation fan base, we prefer the money.
As for a first on Xbox clause, yes, I guess that is possible, and if that is part of their contractual agreement in order to secure funding for the game, then where is the problem? And again, how does that fit in with your original comment?
Finally, was I being defensive? That was not my intention. I was simply offering up an alternative opinion in response to your own. But, if nothing else, the back and forth has been interesting...
I'm well over 100 hours into Baldur's Gate 3 on my PC, and am part way through Act 3. I think there might be a possibility of me finishing my solo run of the game during the course of next week, though I'm still in Act 1 with my two mates...
First off, @thefourfoldroot1, I don't understand your highlighting the word 'people', because if you read what I said, I said 'people do not like Microsoft'. Where does the companies not liking companies fit in with my comment? In fact, how does a company dislike in the first place?
Secondly, this thoroughly inconsequential DLC (which is not playable, by the way) is timed to release with the 6th anniversary of the games release on the Xbox. It only released 3 years ago on the PlayStation, so who knows what will happen at the 6 year point?
If the DLC had been something that truly added to the game, then I can understand there being a possibility that Microsoft might have paid for it. However, with what is being offered, I just cannot see Microsoft wasting money on it. I get that they're a very rich company, but they still have shareholders to whom they are indebted, and who expect their investment to be spent wisely. I just cannot see Microsoft being able to justify paying for this, which is something that probably 95% of Cuphead gamers would simply skip...
Absolutely, @RichterBelmont. It is hypocritical, to say the least. Thing is, those you mention are fairly substantial DLCs paid for by Sony, to keep as an exclusive, and maybe even have had Sony pay to ensure that they do to not appear on the Xbox. This is potentially completely different, because if you take the Developer at the word, this is them giving some very inconsequential material as a thank you to Xbox. In other words, this may not, and if you believe the Developer (and there is no reason not to) has not, even been paid for by Microsoft...
Look, I get that people do not like Microsoft, @thefourfoldroot1, and sometimes, that's with good reason, but all we know about this is what the Developer has said, which is that it is a 'thank you' to Microsoft for all their help with a game that may never have existed without said help. All we can do is to take them at their word until we find out otherwise.
If you look at what you said in your last comment, the cynicism shouts loudly. Effectively, what you have said it that the Developer has only said thank you because they want something in return. That's a really sad statement when you think about it. You cannot go through life thinking that people always want something in return when they show gratitude, and it's entirely possible that all the Developer is doing is showing how grateful they are...
I don't think that was actually the case, @thefourfoldroot1. I believe Microsoft actually funded the development of the game. They now gain nothing from this. This looks much more likely to be a gesture of gratitude on the part of the Developer...
My favourite class thus far is Warlock (which gives you very high charisma) to level 2, then 2 levels of Fighter, followed by 8 levels of Sorcerer. I've just hit level 11, and am having great fun with Eldritch Blast! If you don't care about the loot (which is usually only worthwhile on a named enemy) then just blast the enemy off the nearest ledge! With Action surge from the Fighter, at level 11 I can hit them 6 times. That 6 enemies falling to their deaths at the start of a battle. Great fun... 😉
I highly doubt that Microsoft paid for any exclusivity for this, @thefourfoldroot1. It's just not worth the money. If anything, Microsoft may have paid for it's production, but I doubt that too. The most likely thing is that the Developers are telling the truth. I know it's shocking to say such a thing, but just maybe they chose to produce this as some sort of thank you. Seems an odd decision, but I just cannot see it being worth Microsoft's money to make something like this as an exclusive. Exclusivity is all about bringing people into your ecosystem, and this just isn't going to do that...
Thing is, if Spencer said nothing, people would be all over him for that. He says something, and people are all over him anyway. There are a certain section of the gaming community fore which words simply fail me...
Fair enough, @tangyzesty. I did not pick up on your comment being tongue in cheek. My bad.
However, there are only two home consoles, as such. PlayStation and Xbox. Nintendo is essentially a handheld console that can be used in big-screen mode. However, the Switch is not really the one that the PlayStation is competing with. The Switch is usually thought of as being a generation behind the other two, in terms of power (so the current Switch is believed to be roughly on par with the PlayStation 3 and the Xbox 360, and when the Switch 2 comes out (probably next year) it is rumoured to be on par, in terms of power, with the PS4 and the Xbox One). So again, the Nintendo, is not the one to push the PlayStation console.
Like 'em or not, we need Xbox to keep Sony competitive and innovative...
I didn't think it possible, @dskatter, but I often see people cite building a PC as the better option.
I have a gaming PC that cost me £2600 ($3100) and have little understanding of the ins and outs of computers, but you would not believe the amount of problems I encounter when gaming on it. It's much, much easier to simply turn on my PS5, press play, and, well... play...! 😉
Personally, @Geep, I don't get the great drama over 30 or 60fps. I have no idea whether I would actually notice the difference, and to my mind it almost comes across as some form of snobbery, than a game that runs perfectly well at 30fps is somehow no longer good enough to be played. Then again, I'm really old, and my first gaming experience was of the game Pong in the early 70s... 😂
There are multiple reasons why Starfield is 30fps, @Mauzuri. There is a great video from Digital Foundry explaining why it is the preferred option. Something to do with item persistence (dropping a potato, for example, at a location and it still being in the same location 200 hours later), and the variety of lighting on each planet, as, from what I understand, each planet rotates around a sun, and so gets differing lighting depending on the time of day, and the distance away from the sun. Apparently, that kind of thing would not work at 60fps...
I agree with much of what you say, @Kevw2006, and yes, it is speculation on my part, but with some justification in the way that Sony has behaved just this generation. As for MS or Nintendo doing exactly the same, you will find no argument from me there. They absolutely would, given the opportunity. The reality is though, any company that is the sole provider of a product, will sell it at the very highest price they can. It is only competition (particularly strong competition) that forces companies to be more competitive, both in pricing and innovation...
I don't believe that a new Fallout game has even been started, @Victor_Meldrew. All attention was directed at Starfield over the past several years, and a small team was set up to scope out a story for Elder Scrolls 6, on which, again, I don't believe work has properly begun. It's going to be a decade yet before we see another Fallout game..
I think the reason that Xbox gamers like Spencer, @Jamesblob, is because of the terrible state that the Xbox was left in by his predecessor. There was a real possibility that the Xbox would have ceased to exist prior to this generation. Spencer persuaded Microsoft to properly invest in Xbox by buying the likes of Bethesda (and indeed ABK), and in doing so, he saved the Xbox brand. I think that is why he is liked by the Xbox community. He is seen, quite literally, as their Saviour, because that is what he did. That's not to say that everyone believes everything that he says. Far from it! However, he is given a hearing because of the way he has turned Xbox around...
I understand your sentiments, @UltimateOtaku91. Having these emails surface is not a good look for Spencer or Microsoft. However, it would be incredibly naïve to believe that Ryan has not produced similar emails that would make Sony look just as bad were they to be made public. I imagine all companies express themselves in a similar manner, it's just unfortunate for Spencer that these emails have leaked...
Unbelivably wrong, @tangyzesty. So what would happen if Sony were the only home console?
Would you be paying $500 for a console? Nope! Would their first party games be $70? Nope! Would you have the equivalent of Game Pass? Nope!
Without competition from Microsoft, no matter how poor it maybe in many areas, Sony would run rampant. You have to remember, that Sony does not know any of us. They only have designs on the coin in your pocket. If they could charge us more, they would. The only thing that stops Sony from fleecing us, is the concern of there being competition that we would turn to if they press us too hard.
It is also worth remembering that Sony were the first to increase the prices of consoles. The first ones to up the prices of games. Also only did the equivalent of Game Pass because of the popularity of the Xbox service.
Competition keeps the markets in check, and ensures that companies innovate. Love 'em, or hate 'em (or indeed, really hate 'em) we need Xbox to keep going. There is no alternative to Microsoft. Sony already has a decent stranglehold on the gaming industry by having around three times the numbers of gamers playing on their system than there are on the Xbox. Sony may not be the biggest company in the industry in terms of financial clout, but they are the ones with the largest player-base, and to a great extent, that is what counts...
This has me interested. I imagine that controller implementation won't be that much of an issue as you only have to look at the likes of Age of Empire, or even Baldur's Gate 3, to see that complex inputs can easily be done with a controller, and is pretty straightforward once you get used to it...
I get what you are saying, @get2sammyb, but calling the company 'controversial' because some people have made complaints about them, is a somewhat sweeping statement.
I would put money on the fact that probably many more people have complained about Sony on these forums alone than have complained about Gaming Heads in total. Does that mean Sony are a controversial company... 😉😂
I think 'didn't even blink' is over stating it, @TechGuyChris. If you look back there are numerous articles both here and on Pure discussing what was revealed as part of those leaks...
Am I being too cynical in thinking that Sony are doing this to ensure all the current stock of PS5s are sold prior to the release of the revised console with the detachable hard-drive? 😉
100 hours into BG3 and I've just officially started Act 3. I said to everyone that would listen, and a few that simply wouldn't, that Baldur's Gate 3 would win EVERY single Game of the Year award for the next 12 months, and I absolutely stand by that opinion.
Everything about the game screams quality; the cutscenes have never been bettered anywhere, the writing, the character arcs, the combat, the exploration, and the ramifications from decisions (which are just so impressive). I could go on, but anyone that has played the game will know what I mean, and anyone on the fence should give it a go as I honestly cannot fathom how you will be disappointed.
Although the next game I shall play will either be Spiderman 2 or Starfield, I am already contemplating a second, third and fourth run of BG3. I want to do an evil run (I'm currently a proper goody-two-shoes), a Dark Urge run, and a wherever the dice rolls fall run (I mean by that, no reloading whatsoever in order to get a more favourable outcome (something that I wonder if I can actually achieve)). BG3 is a game that will be played for years, if not decades, to come. Such a good game, and such a good time to be a gamer...
You are absolutely right, @GamingFan4Lyf`, are these emails 'spit-balling' or actually discussing strategy? Everyone is up in arms because the emails have been made public without necessarily being aware of the full context of the conversations. Ultimately, Microsoft are a business, not a charity, and every business (incluing the likes of Sony) is always looking at ways to grow their business and their market share. Microsoft simply have more money, and are a bigger business, so they will always have bigger ambitions and targets.
However, there is always a level of hypocrisy that amuses me when we see things like this, because it doesn't matter what Microsoft were to do, they are simply the evil empire. They can do no right, even if it benefits PlayStation gamers.
Also, if Sony were to suffer similar leaks, just what 'evil' plans would be revealed? Or would it simply be a case of them walking on water no matter what...?
I think you are entirely right, @Friendly, except for the Core/Ultimate bit. The 30 million subscribers does not include Core, that is for Game Pass and Game Pass Ultimate subscribers alone. Core will likely add a few more million to the total, but Microsoft are always very reluctant to tell us the exact figures involved...
Do we know this as a fact, @miguelseara, or is it just another anti-Microsoft rumour doing the rounds among gamers that make up this kind of thing just to paint Microsoft as the evil overlord that so many like to see them as? I'm not suggesting you are incorrect, I'm just curious as to whether there is a actually any truth, and proof, to what you are saying...
Actually, @UltimateOtaku91, it may not be as simple as Sony not being able to afford the fees that Microsoft could, but also the install bases of the two platforms; If you put a game on the Game Pass, they will sell 'X' fewer games, and then if you ask the same question of Sony, because of the larger install base, you will likely sell still fewer copies.
The issue is still further complicated when you consider that Sony has a Tiered system, meaning that it is probably much more difficult to work calculate the maths. Yes, Sony can tell the Developer how many people are on the highest Tier, but what they cannot necessarily say is how many more will upgrade to the highest Tier in order to play said game. It is a lot easier to do the maths on the Game Pass, plus they know that because of the much smaller install-base on the Xbox sales would always be lower there. Truthfully, it is possible that Sony would actually be charged more to put a AAA game day and date on their service than Microsoft would because of the risk of losing a much higher number of sales...
I think the triggers are awful on the PlayStation controller, so I'm personally pleased to see that Xbox do not appear to be following that route. I always turn off the function where I can...
You're absolutely right about the 2010' era, @belmont, though the changes to the Police pensions happened in around 2000. The Police do not have the right to industrial action in the UK, and so are an easy target for this kind of thing. It is a very scummy thing to do.
On topic though, I cannot see much of the Unity changes going through as the mere threat of losing vast amounts of future developments, which would likely see a massive hit to their profits, should be enough to scare off these plans. That said, trust has been broken, and it takes a long time for it to be regained. The Developers (unlike the Police) are able to take some remedial action, and I hope they do. This kind of thing should never be allowed to stand...
Comments 963
Re: Cyberpunk 2077 Sales Top a Staggering 25 Million as Phantom Liberty Hits 3 Million in a Week
I played the game upon release on the Series X, but encountered a bug that meant that I was not able to pursue all the Bounties because the game did not recognise that I had finished one, and so would not give me the next in line. Consequently I shelved the game after having played for around 120 hours (I like to do everything, so despite having done so many hours, much of the game was still left to do). I decided at that time that I would wait for the inevitable expansion (which at the time had not been announced) and for the game to effectively be fixed.
Whilst the game was in much better shape on the Xbox, I was hugely disappointed to have to make the decision to stop playing as the game was something that I truly wanted to play.
I watched with sheer disappointment what happened on the PlayStation, but hoped that the backlash that the game, and more importantly, CPDR received would serve as a timely reminder to Developers to not make the same mistake again. Whilst I guess that hope is in reality somewhat forlorn, I do think that when CPDR release their next game, they will not make the same mistake again. It may well have been pressure from their investors that had them push 2077 out of the starting blocks too early, but those same investors made less on their investment than they otherwise would have as consequence of having released it too early, and they must surely know that now. Therefore, I highly doubt that the next Witcher game will suffer the same fate, and I for one, will have no qualms in pre-ordering it...
Re: Watch This RoboCop: Rogue City Gameplay, You Have 20 Seconds to Comply
Looks alright. I'm certainly interested. So long as you don't go in expecting AAA, you should enjoy what you get...
Re: Assassin's Creed Mirage (PS5) - A Solid But Slightly Dated Return to the Series' Roots
Agree with everything you say, @MikeOrator. Without the future bit, it's basically just another historical RPG. I would also like to see a modern day setting, and maybe even a future one (though going into someone's memories from the future may be a little difficult to explain narratively 😂)...
Re: Assassin's Creed Mirage (PS5) - A Solid But Slightly Dated Return to the Series' Roots
Thank you, @ShogunRok. That's a shame as I liked adding in the Si-Fi with the historical. I liked that it added a feeling of a conspiracy too...
Re: Assassin's Creed Mirage (PS5) - A Solid But Slightly Dated Return to the Series' Roots
Do we still have the animus, @ShogunRok, or is the future a thing of the past?
Re: Open World Action RPG Tainted Grail Is Adventuring to PS5 Next Year
Certainly has me interested, but I cannot see me pre-ordering this one. I need to see the reviews first, and maybe even a few patches too...
Re: Upcoming PS5, PS4 Games for October and November 2023
My Collector's Edition of Assassin's Creed arrived today, and I have the Collector's Edition of Spiderman 2 pre-ordered too. Plus, I will be jumping into the new Forza game. Gonna be a busy month... 😜
Re: PlayStation's Push for Live Service Games Hasn't Been Going Smoothly
You are right, @ratmsc, but I was speaking with regards to GaaS as is referred to in the article. However, the point remains, you can play the likes of Call of Duty on both the Xbox and the PlayStation. What attracts people to the PlayStation over the Xbox is the history of big AAA single-player games. There was, after all, very little difference really between CoD on the PlayStation, and CoD on the Xbox. It is everything else that is the deciding factor...
Re: PlayStation's Push for Live Service Games Hasn't Been Going Smoothly
Okay, fair point, @naruball, however, I'd put money on it that if you held a poll on the choice between single-player or Live Service, that single player would win by a landslide. What you are doing is taking the most played game, and comparing it to the most played single-player game, but that's not how gaming works, that is how charts work.
Basically, yes, the most played game at the moment maybe a Live Service game, but if you were to add up all those playing single player games, then those play GaaS would be in the considerable minority. People that play single-player games, finish it and move on to the next game. You simply won't get people sticking with a single-player game, once beaten, in the way you do GaaS games. That is why the figures are skewed.
There are apparently around 140 million people that game on the PlayStation. Just how many of them are playing GaaS compared to those playing everything else?
Re: PlayStation's Push for Live Service Games Hasn't Been Going Smoothly
You are absolutely right, @Kraven, between the likes Fortnight, Destiny 2, Apex Legends, and even Warframe, any Live Service game needs to really stand out from the crowd. Doing that successfully is what is eluding all these developers. It's not just the creation of the game, it's continually adding to the game, keeping it fresh, and the community that plays it invested sufficiently in the game to stick with it.
If it were so easy to successfully make these kind of games, the market would be flooded with them (which would be a problem in and of itself as there are only so many gamers to go around that are interested in playing this type of game). It is absolutely no surprise to see so many of these games being shut down, often without even being released, because developing a game that sticks is ridiculously difficult.
It must be awful to work on developing this kind of game, as it must forever be in the back of your mind that if the game is canned, your job likely goes with it. Feel terrible for the Developers in this position...
Re: PlayStation's Push for Live Service Games Hasn't Been Going Smoothly
What can I say? Colour me shocked...!
Giving us something that no one asked for, when, generally, people buy into the PlayStation ecosystem for the big AAA single player experiences, was never likely to hit the mark...
Re: Now Naughty Dog Is Reportedly Downsizing, Cutting Multiple Contract Jobs
I think that simply turning the game into the TLoU3, and adding in Ellie would be a terrible idea, @jmac1686. Unless the game is built from start to finish as the second sequel, it will likely release as a horrible mess. I guess it would be possible to use some of the locations for the third game, but anything beyond that needs to be created from scratch.
After the hate that the second game got, Naughty Dog need to play it a little safer this time if they are to keep people invested in the games future. Personally, I enjoyed the sequel, but I know a lot of people didn't, so ND need to come out with something that resonates just as the first game did, and simply building on a failed multiplayer game is unlikely to hit the mark...
Re: Sony Partners with Adidas for an Awesome Marvel's Spider-Man 2 Collection
They are completely spoiled by the black lines (which I assume are supposed to represent Venom). I wouldn't have bought them anyway, but it's a shame to see the design ruined like this. They would just look like they have got dirty...
Re: New Cuphead Update Skips PS4, Will Be Exclusive to Xbox, PC
Funny thing is, @thefourfoldroot1, I haven't ever played the game either. And like you, I'm not sure I ever will... 😂
Re: New Cuphead Update Skips PS4, Will Be Exclusive to Xbox, PC
As for my optimism, @thefourfoldroot1, I think naivety would actually be the word you are looking for. I accept, I maybe entirely naïve, but I guess seeing the good in people is a better way to go through life than believing that everyone has an ulterior motive. I mean, if you hold the door open for the person behind you, do you have another reason beyond its the right thing to do? In other words, if someone does you a good deed, isn't it right to be thankful?
You say you are not criticising the move, yet it's difficult your original comment, to which I duly replied, as anything other than a criticism. For ease, here it is:
I other words: MS paid us not to release this documentary type update on PlayStation. Even though it would take no additional work for us to show the same love to our PlayStation fan base, we prefer the money.
As for a first on Xbox clause, yes, I guess that is possible, and if that is part of their contractual agreement in order to secure funding for the game, then where is the problem? And again, how does that fit in with your original comment?
Finally, was I being defensive? That was not my intention. I was simply offering up an alternative opinion in response to your own. But, if nothing else, the back and forth has been interesting...
Re: New Cuphead Update Skips PS4, Will Be Exclusive to Xbox, PC
Wait, @thefourfoldroot1, you do realise that Developers are people, yes? At the moment, anyway...
Re: New Cuphead Update Skips PS4, Will Be Exclusive to Xbox, PC
I know, @RichterBelmont. But at least I tried... 😂
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? - Issue 496
I'm well over 100 hours into Baldur's Gate 3 on my PC, and am part way through Act 3. I think there might be a possibility of me finishing my solo run of the game during the course of next week, though I'm still in Act 1 with my two mates...
Re: New Cuphead Update Skips PS4, Will Be Exclusive to Xbox, PC
First off, @thefourfoldroot1, I don't understand your highlighting the word 'people', because if you read what I said, I said 'people do not like Microsoft'. Where does the companies not liking companies fit in with my comment? In fact, how does a company dislike in the first place?
Secondly, this thoroughly inconsequential DLC (which is not playable, by the way) is timed to release with the 6th anniversary of the games release on the Xbox. It only released 3 years ago on the PlayStation, so who knows what will happen at the 6 year point?
If the DLC had been something that truly added to the game, then I can understand there being a possibility that Microsoft might have paid for it. However, with what is being offered, I just cannot see Microsoft wasting money on it. I get that they're a very rich company, but they still have shareholders to whom they are indebted, and who expect their investment to be spent wisely. I just cannot see Microsoft being able to justify paying for this, which is something that probably 95% of Cuphead gamers would simply skip...
Re: New Cuphead Update Skips PS4, Will Be Exclusive to Xbox, PC
Absolutely, @RichterBelmont. It is hypocritical, to say the least. Thing is, those you mention are fairly substantial DLCs paid for by Sony, to keep as an exclusive, and maybe even have had Sony pay to ensure that they do to not appear on the Xbox. This is potentially completely different, because if you take the Developer at the word, this is them giving some very inconsequential material as a thank you to Xbox. In other words, this may not, and if you believe the Developer (and there is no reason not to) has not, even been paid for by Microsoft...
Re: New Cuphead Update Skips PS4, Will Be Exclusive to Xbox, PC
Look, I get that people do not like Microsoft, @thefourfoldroot1, and sometimes, that's with good reason, but all we know about this is what the Developer has said, which is that it is a 'thank you' to Microsoft for all their help with a game that may never have existed without said help. All we can do is to take them at their word until we find out otherwise.
If you look at what you said in your last comment, the cynicism shouts loudly. Effectively, what you have said it that the Developer has only said thank you because they want something in return. That's a really sad statement when you think about it. You cannot go through life thinking that people always want something in return when they show gratitude, and it's entirely possible that all the Developer is doing is showing how grateful they are...
Re: New Cuphead Update Skips PS4, Will Be Exclusive to Xbox, PC
I don't think that was actually the case, @thefourfoldroot1. I believe Microsoft actually funded the development of the game. They now gain nothing from this. This looks much more likely to be a gesture of gratitude on the part of the Developer...
Re: Larian Unveils Baldur's Gate 3's Most Milquetoast Multiclass Builds
My favourite class thus far is Warlock (which gives you very high charisma) to level 2, then 2 levels of Fighter, followed by 8 levels of Sorcerer. I've just hit level 11, and am having great fun with Eldritch Blast! If you don't care about the loot (which is usually only worthwhile on a named enemy) then just blast the enemy off the nearest ledge! With Action surge from the Fighter, at level 11 I can hit them 6 times. That 6 enemies falling to their deaths at the start of a battle. Great fun... 😉
Re: New Cuphead Update Skips PS4, Will Be Exclusive to Xbox, PC
I highly doubt that Microsoft paid for any exclusivity for this, @thefourfoldroot1. It's just not worth the money. If anything, Microsoft may have paid for it's production, but I doubt that too. The most likely thing is that the Developers are telling the truth. I know it's shocking to say such a thing, but just maybe they chose to produce this as some sort of thank you. Seems an odd decision, but I just cannot see it being worth Microsoft's money to make something like this as an exclusive. Exclusivity is all about bringing people into your ecosystem, and this just isn't going to do that...
Re: Xbox Boss Praises 'Fierce Leader' Jim Ryan Following News of PlayStation CEO's Retirement
Thing is, if Spencer said nothing, people would be all over him for that. He says something, and people are all over him anyway. There are a certain section of the gaming community fore which words simply fail me...
Re: Microsoft Documents Show How PlayStation Now Saved Fallout 76
Fair enough, @tangyzesty. I did not pick up on your comment being tongue in cheek. My bad.
However, there are only two home consoles, as such. PlayStation and Xbox. Nintendo is essentially a handheld console that can be used in big-screen mode. However, the Switch is not really the one that the PlayStation is competing with. The Switch is usually thought of as being a generation behind the other two, in terms of power (so the current Switch is believed to be roughly on par with the PlayStation 3 and the Xbox 360, and when the Switch 2 comes out (probably next year) it is rumoured to be on par, in terms of power, with the PS4 and the Xbox One). So again, the Nintendo, is not the one to push the PlayStation console.
Like 'em or not, we need Xbox to keep Sony competitive and innovative...
Re: Alan Wake 2 Has a Performance Mode on PS5, But It's Been Built as a '30FPS Experience'
Could not agree more, @dskatter...
Re: Alan Wake 2 Has a Performance Mode on PS5, But It's Been Built as a '30FPS Experience'
I didn't think it possible, @dskatter, but I often see people cite building a PC as the better option.
I have a gaming PC that cost me £2600 ($3100) and have little understanding of the ins and outs of computers, but you would not believe the amount of problems I encounter when gaming on it. It's much, much easier to simply turn on my PS5, press play, and, well... play...! 😉
Re: Alan Wake 2 Has a Performance Mode on PS5, But It's Been Built as a '30FPS Experience'
Personally, @Geep, I don't get the great drama over 30 or 60fps. I have no idea whether I would actually notice the difference, and to my mind it almost comes across as some form of snobbery, than a game that runs perfectly well at 30fps is somehow no longer good enough to be played. Then again, I'm really old, and my first gaming experience was of the game Pong in the early 70s... 😂
Re: Alan Wake 2 Has a Performance Mode on PS5, But It's Been Built as a '30FPS Experience'
Absolutely serious question, @HonestHick, but can you actually build a PC that will outperform a PS5 for $500?
Re: Alan Wake 2 Has a Performance Mode on PS5, But It's Been Built as a '30FPS Experience'
There are multiple reasons why Starfield is 30fps, @Mauzuri. There is a great video from Digital Foundry explaining why it is the preferred option. Something to do with item persistence (dropping a potato, for example, at a location and it still being in the same location 200 hours later), and the variety of lighting on each planet, as, from what I understand, each planet rotates around a sun, and so gets differing lighting depending on the time of day, and the distance away from the sun. Apparently, that kind of thing would not work at 60fps...
Re: Microsoft Documents Show How PlayStation Now Saved Fallout 76
I agree with much of what you say, @Kevw2006, and yes, it is speculation on my part, but with some justification in the way that Sony has behaved just this generation. As for MS or Nintendo doing exactly the same, you will find no argument from me there. They absolutely would, given the opportunity. The reality is though, any company that is the sole provider of a product, will sell it at the very highest price they can. It is only competition (particularly strong competition) that forces companies to be more competitive, both in pricing and innovation...
Re: Microsoft Documents Show How PlayStation Now Saved Fallout 76
I don't believe that a new Fallout game has even been started, @Victor_Meldrew. All attention was directed at Starfield over the past several years, and a small team was set up to scope out a story for Elder Scrolls 6, on which, again, I don't believe work has properly begun. It's going to be a decade yet before we see another Fallout game..
Re: Microsoft Documents Show How PlayStation Now Saved Fallout 76
I think the reason that Xbox gamers like Spencer, @Jamesblob, is because of the terrible state that the Xbox was left in by his predecessor. There was a real possibility that the Xbox would have ceased to exist prior to this generation. Spencer persuaded Microsoft to properly invest in Xbox by buying the likes of Bethesda (and indeed ABK), and in doing so, he saved the Xbox brand. I think that is why he is liked by the Xbox community. He is seen, quite literally, as their Saviour, because that is what he did. That's not to say that everyone believes everything that he says. Far from it! However, he is given a hearing because of the way he has turned Xbox around...
Re: Microsoft Documents Show How PlayStation Now Saved Fallout 76
I understand your sentiments, @UltimateOtaku91. Having these emails surface is not a good look for Spencer or Microsoft. However, it would be incredibly naïve to believe that Ryan has not produced similar emails that would make Sony look just as bad were they to be made public. I imagine all companies express themselves in a similar manner, it's just unfortunate for Spencer that these emails have leaked...
Re: Microsoft Documents Show How PlayStation Now Saved Fallout 76
Unbelivably wrong, @tangyzesty. So what would happen if Sony were the only home console?
Would you be paying $500 for a console? Nope!
Would their first party games be $70? Nope!
Would you have the equivalent of Game Pass? Nope!
Without competition from Microsoft, no matter how poor it maybe in many areas, Sony would run rampant. You have to remember, that Sony does not know any of us. They only have designs on the coin in your pocket. If they could charge us more, they would. The only thing that stops Sony from fleecing us, is the concern of there being competition that we would turn to if they press us too hard.
It is also worth remembering that Sony were the first to increase the prices of consoles. The first ones to up the prices of games. Also only did the equivalent of Game Pass because of the popularity of the Xbox service.
Competition keeps the markets in check, and ensures that companies innovate. Love 'em, or hate 'em (or indeed, really hate 'em) we need Xbox to keep going. There is no alternative to Microsoft. Sony already has a decent stranglehold on the gaming industry by having around three times the numbers of gamers playing on their system than there are on the Xbox. Sony may not be the biggest company in the industry in terms of financial clout, but they are the ones with the largest player-base, and to a great extent, that is what counts...
Re: Manufacture a Better Tomorrow in Sci-fi City Builder Terraformers
This has me interested. I imagine that controller implementation won't be that much of an issue as you only have to look at the likes of Age of Empire, or even Baldur's Gate 3, to see that complex inputs can easily be done with a controller, and is pretty straightforward once you get used to it...
Re: Statue Manufacturer Accuses Sony of Forcing It to Destroy All PlayStation Products
I get what you are saying, @get2sammyb, but calling the company 'controversial' because some people have made complaints about them, is a somewhat sweeping statement.
I would put money on the fact that probably many more people have complained about Sony on these forums alone than have complained about Gaming Heads in total. Does that mean Sony are a controversial company... 😉😂
Re: Sony Has Allegedly Suffered a Huge Hack by Ransomware Group
I think 'didn't even blink' is over stating it, @TechGuyChris. If you look back there are numerous articles both here and on Pure discussing what was revealed as part of those leaks...
Re: Sony Has Allegedly Suffered a Huge Hack by Ransomware Group
The size of the files and the willingness to give it away for nowt suggests that they have nothing much to offer...
Re: Free PS5 Game Offered to New Console Buyers in the USA
Am I being too cynical in thinking that Sony are doing this to ensure all the current stock of PS5s are sold prior to the release of the revised console with the detachable hard-drive? 😉
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? - Issue 495
100 hours into BG3 and I've just officially started Act 3. I said to everyone that would listen, and a few that simply wouldn't, that Baldur's Gate 3 would win EVERY single Game of the Year award for the next 12 months, and I absolutely stand by that opinion.
Everything about the game screams quality; the cutscenes have never been bettered anywhere, the writing, the character arcs, the combat, the exploration, and the ramifications from decisions (which are just so impressive). I could go on, but anyone that has played the game will know what I mean, and anyone on the fence should give it a go as I honestly cannot fathom how you will be disappointed.
Although the next game I shall play will either be Spiderman 2 or Starfield, I am already contemplating a second, third and fourth run of BG3. I want to do an evil run (I'm currently a proper goody-two-shoes), a Dark Urge run, and a wherever the dice rolls fall run (I mean by that, no reloading whatsoever in order to get a more favourable outcome (something that I wonder if I can actually achieve)). BG3 is a game that will be played for years, if not decades, to come. Such a good game, and such a good time to be a gamer...
Re: Tomb Raider Developer Crystal Dynamics Hit with Layoffs as Embracer Crumbling Continues
And that is a much better option than the Studio completely closing down, or there never being any more Tomb Raider games, @IAmAshCohen17...
Re: Xbox Documents Reveal Staggering Cost of Bringing Games to Game Pass, PS Plus
You are absolutely right, @GamingFan4Lyf`, are these emails 'spit-balling' or actually discussing strategy? Everyone is up in arms because the emails have been made public without necessarily being aware of the full context of the conversations. Ultimately, Microsoft are a business, not a charity, and every business (incluing the likes of Sony) is always looking at ways to grow their business and their market share. Microsoft simply have more money, and are a bigger business, so they will always have bigger ambitions and targets.
However, there is always a level of hypocrisy that amuses me when we see things like this, because it doesn't matter what Microsoft were to do, they are simply the evil empire. They can do no right, even if it benefits PlayStation gamers.
Also, if Sony were to suffer similar leaks, just what 'evil' plans would be revealed? Or would it simply be a case of them walking on water no matter what...?
Re: Xbox Documents Reveal Staggering Cost of Bringing Games to Game Pass, PS Plus
I think you are entirely right, @Friendly, except for the Core/Ultimate bit. The 30 million subscribers does not include Core, that is for Game Pass and Game Pass Ultimate subscribers alone. Core will likely add a few more million to the total, but Microsoft are always very reluctant to tell us the exact figures involved...
Re: Xbox Documents Reveal Staggering Cost of Bringing Games to Game Pass, PS Plus
Do we know this as a fact, @miguelseara, or is it just another anti-Microsoft rumour doing the rounds among gamers that make up this kind of thing just to paint Microsoft as the evil overlord that so many like to see them as? I'm not suggesting you are incorrect, I'm just curious as to whether there is a actually any truth, and proof, to what you are saying...
Re: Xbox Documents Reveal Staggering Cost of Bringing Games to Game Pass, PS Plus
Actually, @UltimateOtaku91, it may not be as simple as Sony not being able to afford the fees that Microsoft could, but also the install bases of the two platforms; If you put a game on the Game Pass, they will sell 'X' fewer games, and then if you ask the same question of Sony, because of the larger install base, you will likely sell still fewer copies.
The issue is still further complicated when you consider that Sony has a Tiered system, meaning that it is probably much more difficult to work calculate the maths. Yes, Sony can tell the Developer how many people are on the highest Tier, but what they cannot necessarily say is how many more will upgrade to the highest Tier in order to play said game. It is a lot easier to do the maths on the Game Pass, plus they know that because of the much smaller install-base on the Xbox sales would always be lower there. Truthfully, it is possible that Sony would actually be charged more to put a AAA game day and date on their service than Microsoft would because of the risk of losing a much higher number of sales...
Re: Xbox Poised to Borrow from PS5's DualSense Controller
I think the triggers are awful on the PlayStation controller, so I'm personally pleased to see that Xbox do not appear to be following that route. I always turn off the function where I can...
Re: One of the Worst Games of All Time Is Coming to PS5, PS4, And You Won't Believe the Merch
Er... No. But thank you all the same... 🤣
Re: Unity Promises Changes to Controversial New Policy After Causing 'Confusion and Angst'
You're absolutely right about the 2010' era, @belmont, though the changes to the Police pensions happened in around 2000. The Police do not have the right to industrial action in the UK, and so are an easy target for this kind of thing. It is a very scummy thing to do.
On topic though, I cannot see much of the Unity changes going through as the mere threat of losing vast amounts of future developments, which would likely see a massive hit to their profits, should be enough to scare off these plans. That said, trust has been broken, and it takes a long time for it to be regained. The Developers (unlike the Police) are able to take some remedial action, and I hope they do. This kind of thing should never be allowed to stand...