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There's been a wave of anticipation and subsequent disappointment among Warhammer Space Hulk enthusiasts with each teaser, and the latest board game reveal follows suit.
The recently announced game is set in the Warhammer 40K universe, offering another near miss for Space Hulk aficionados. The game, titled "Space Marine Adventures: Tyranid Attack!" is presented as an introductory experience exclusive to Target. In this game, gamers take on the role of Space Marines tasked with eliminating giant xenomorphs on a massive starship.
The reveal describes a quick-paced game for one to four players, where a team of Space Marines navigates the starship floor by floor. The game's objective is to defeat waves of enemies and ultimately confront the Tyranid Prime across three challenging levels. This setup emphasizes a marathon format that tests players' abilities to the fullest.
With its focus on beginners, Tyranid Attack aligns more with typical board games rather than wargames. Instead of a myriad of miniatures, the game offers five hero models and cardboard tokens for enemies. It does include a modular board and features Space Marines from renowned chapters like Blood Angels, Ultramarines, Space Wolves, Iron Hands, and Salamanders. Although some fans might miss their specific favorites, the available selection represents a strong lineup.
While currently only released at Target in the US, there are plans for Space Marine Adventures: Tyranid Attack! to be available in other regions later this year.
If you're searching for other tabletop suggestions, consider exploring these recommended board games for adults. Additionally, keep an eye out for current board game deals as a cost-effective way to expand your collection.
- 2024-07-26 12:00
Amid the excitement of "House of the Dragon," one of its star actors found joy in a heartfelt reunion. Paddy Considine commemorated his return to the beloved series with a touching behind-the-scenes moment.
Making a brief appearance, Considine reprised his role as King Viserys Targaryen in the sixth episode of the second season. The character, Daemon Targaryen, has been largely confined to Harrenhal this season, enduring visions induced by Alys Rivers, which featured Considine's Viserys.
Though his appearance was short, Considine expressed immense joy at the opportunity to revisit the set and reconnect with former colleagues. He fondly donned his costume one last time, bidding a final farewell to the experience that had left a significant mark on his life. The reunion served as a poignant reminder of the camaraderie and purpose he enjoyed while being part of the series. Considine extended heartfelt acknowledgments to his castmates, admiring their growth and journey.
Additionally, Considine showed gratitude towards his makeup artist, Hannah Ecclestone, and costume designer, Christian Goddard, praising their exceptional work. He also thanked Ryan Condal for a memorable gift, and expressed appreciation for a personal sculpture crafted by the art department, a cherished keepsake symbolizing great memories.
Meanwhile, Milly Alcock's portrayal of Young Rhaenyra also returned in Daemon's visions, hinting at imminent changes for Daemon in the upcoming episodes. As the second season of "House of the Dragon" nears its climax, with only two episodes left, the escalating tension between the Greens and Blacks intensifies the battle for the Iron Throne.
The enthralling tale unfolds weekly on HBO in the USA and Sky and NOW in the UK, promising fans deep dives into its captivating narrative.
- 2024-07-26 11:00
In a twist that can only be described as inspiring, KeokeN Interactive has resurrected their previously shelved game, Deliver Us Home. Initially halted after the entire team was laid off in April, this engaging sci-fi adventure now sees new hope thanks to a dedicated group of volunteers. It's an inspiring story of creativity and tenacity in the face of setbacks, and an impressive testament to the love of game development.
The developers, who rallied together under these challenging circumstances, have launched a Kickstarter to support their vision. It's a risky but rewarding endeavor, requiring significant effort and community backing. Spearheaded by CEO Koen Deetman, the move is as bold as it is necessary. Watching them pull together - developing a trailer, orchestrating a campaign, and creating a demo - showcases their commitment and passion.
Their painstaking efforts are already paying off, as evidenced by their Kickstarter, which has raised a significant amount in a short time. As of now, the campaign has secured $88,775 against its goal of $108,315, with the deadline approaching on July 11. There's also more to tantalize eager supporters—a prototype demo set to be accessible after the campaign concludes, giving a taste of what’s to come.
Set in the 23rd century, Deliver Us Home boasts a compelling narrative. Humanity has fled a desolate Earth, and players take on the role of a trained interplanetary astronaut tasked with securing a new home for humankind. The mission, fraught with unknowns, promises an exploration of an exoplanet that unveils secrets of earlier settlers who mysteriously arrived before you. It's a story rich with potential for adventure and discovery.
In conclusion, the passion injected into this project has rejuvenated its prospects. By leveraging the collective enthusiasm of volunteers and the financial backing via Kickstarter, KeokeN Interactive is turning adversity into an opportunity. Deliver Us Home stands as a perfect example of what can be achieved when creativity and determination meet community support. As we wait for the final product, we applaud these resilient developers who are committed to bringing their vision to life.
- 2024-07-10 07:35
In a notable shift, TikTok is clamping down on personalized ads targeting teens in the U.S. The app, which hosts millions of young users, aims to safeguard their data and ensure ethical ad practices. This new directive restricts advertisers to broad targeting options such as location, language, and device-related information, a move akin to what Meta has implemented. With around 25% of its user base under 20, this policy change promises to have a significant impact on TikTok's marketing dynamics.
The restriction is part of a broader initiative to protect teen users from being unduly influenced by targeted campaigns. By limiting advertiser access to personal data, TikTok seeks to create a safer online environment. This change follows similar measures by other social media giants, demonstrating a trend towards enhanced digital responsibility. As brands adjust their marketing strategies, they must now leverage broader trends to engage with younger audiences effectively.
Moreover, TikTok empowers users to have more control over their ad experiences through customizable settings. Users can now choose to see more or fewer ads related to specific interests such as “Outdoor Sports” or “Racing Games.” Another highlight is the “Disconnect Advertisers” feature, allowing users to stop advertisers from using off-TikTok data to serve personalized ads. These measures aim to foster a more transparent and user-focused ad environment within the app.
In addition to these user-centric updates, TikTok is rolling out new AI disclosure requirements for ad partners. Advertisers now have a self-disclosure toggle in the TikTok Ads Manager to mark their ads as AI-generated. Consequently, users can easily identify AI-generated commercial content through a visible AIGC label. This move towards transparency is crucial, especially as TikTok explores introducing virtual influencers and AI avatars to boost in-app shopping activities, following their success in the Chinese market.
These policy changes reflect TikTok’s commitment to privacy, transparency, and user empowerment. By aligning with broader industry standards and ethical practices, TikTok is taking a significant step towards fostering a safer and more trustworthy platform. As these shifts take effect, it will be intriguing to observe how both users and advertisers navigate this evolving landscape. In a digital age marked by rapid innovation, TikTok's proactive measures set a new benchmark for social media responsibility.
- 2024-07-09 07:35
Though more than a decade has passed since it was first introduced, Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance continues to be an exciting gaming experience. This is good news for PC game enthusiasts who can now access and play it without any DRM on GOG, offered a substantial discount of 40 percent until July 11th, July 11th.
Constructed by PlatinumGames, the game was also co-developed by Kojima Productions. The narrative of Revengeance traces the life of Raiden four years subsequent to Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots. The storyline now incorporates more frequent appearances of Cyborg soldiers and highlights Raiden's conflict with the rival PMC known as Desperado. Unlike the primary series, the Revengeance edition emphasizes high-speed hack-and-slash actions.
People who purchase the PC version stand to gain access to a range of armor alternatives for Raiden, such as his MGS 4 armor to the Cyborg Ninja featured in Metal Gear Solid 1. Furthermore, it bundles downloadables like VR missions and additional narrative elements starring Blade Wolf and Jetstream Sam as controllable characters. The game also presents an option for confrontation with bosses exclusively via the Chapter menu, a feature to view past cutscenes and codec dialogues, and many other exciting aspects.
- 2024-07-05 05:25
Atlus is off to a remarkable start in 2024, with game titles such as Persona 3 Reload, Unicorn Overlord, and Shin Megami Tensei 5: Vengeance ranking amongst the year's best releases. However, Atlus is yet to release what could be the biggest hit of the year – the much-anticipated Metaphor: ReFantazio. The RPG has been the subject of massive hype, fueled by numerous previews in recent months, and now, Atlus has released a new story trailer for the game.
In Metaphor: ReFantazio, players will step into the role of a young man on a brave mission to rescue the kingdom of Euchronia from a curse bestowed upon its crown prince—a curse that just so happens to concern his childhood friend. The key to reversing the curse lies in defeating the malevolent antagonist, Louis, amidst the pandemonium that ensues due to the king's untimely demise.
The game's latest trailer delves deeper into this gripping narrative, offering fresh footage of the combat scenes, a sneak peek of the key characters and landscapes, and more.
Metaphor: ReFantazio will be released on October 11 for PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, and PC.
- 2024-07-06 10:50
In a commendable move to hone the social aspects of gaming, Sony has recently announced a much-anticipated update for PlayStation 5 users, aiming to streamline the process of connecting with friends and fellow gamers via Discord. This update brings the convenience of directly joining Discord voice calls from the console, marking an end to the previously convoluted and multi-step procedure. This enriches the PlayStation 5's suite of features and underscores Sony's recognition of the importance of integrating popular communication platforms to further enrich the gaming ecosystem.
The new feature, set to be gradually introduced across different regions, starts with Asia, subsequently reaching Europe, Australia, New Zealand, the Middle East, and finally the Americas. The present method for linking Discord to the PlayStation 5 can be a tedious affair, involving account synchronization and transfer toggles within the Discord app on external devices. But the forthcoming integration promises to alleviate these complexities, allowing for a smoother, more intuitive joining process, potentially with just a push of a button.
Further underlining its significance, this update takes on greater importance considering the cross-platform capabilities of numerous popular games. Players who have friends on different gaming systems often rely on third-party communication services like Discord to coordinate and socialize. With this obstacle out of the way, the PlayStation 5 is poised to offer an even more welcoming experience for gamers looking to play and communicate across varied platforms.
What's more, as part of ensuring a trouble-free upgrade path, PlayStation 5 owners are encouraged to update their consoles to the latest software version and to link their Discord accounts appropriately. This will ensure that when the new feature rolls out in their region, they'll be poised to take advantage of the improved integration immediately.
The impending Discord upgrade for PlayStation 5 heralds a new era for console gamers – by facilitating easier access to cross-platform communication, it strengthens the social fabric that is increasingly essential in online gaming. It acknowledges the evolving landscape where the console does more than simply play games; it connects lives.
As Sony continues to fine-tune the PlayStation 5's features, this development serves as a strategic enhancement that could markedly improve the overall user experience and potentially increase the console's appeal to a broader audience of social and cross-platform gamers.
- 2024-06-13 10:30
The landscape of video gaming is continually evolving, with developers and modders alike striving to enhance the gaming experience by optimizing performance and visuals. In the realm of action role-playing games, one of the latest advancements comes in the form of a mod that significantly boosts the performance of Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, a title renowned for its expansive world and intricate gameplay. This groundbreaking mod utilizes AMD's FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR) technology to achieve results that have caught the attention of gamers worldwide.
Modding communities have consistently worked their magic on popular games, providing patches, upgrades, and enhancements that occasionally surpass the developers' original offerings. In the case of Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, an innovative mod developed by the respected modder PureDark has set a new benchmark in gaming performance. By leveraging AMD FSR 3.0 Frame Generation, this mod is more than just a mere tweak, it's a game-changer — quite literally more than doubling the performance of the game on systems equipped with the ROG Ally. Such achievements are not just measured in higher frame rates, but in more fluid and responsive gameplay.
The mod operates seamlessly with the game's FSR 3.0 Performance setting, a compelling testament to the mod’s ability to harness the potential of frame generation technology. Moreover, PureDark didn't stop there; a previous mod for Assassin’s Creed Valhalla embraced NVIDIA's latest DLSS 3 features, including both Super Resolution and Frame Generation, providing similarly impressive enhancements. These mods also address input latency with NVIDIA Reflex, ensuring nothing detracts from the player’s immersion.
For those yet to delve into the Viking world of Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, it's an experience ripe with rich storytelling, a provocative atmosphere, and side content that is as engaging as it is varied. These enhancements have heightened the appeal of an already beloved installment in the Assassin’s Creed franchise that is celebrated for its masterful blend of RPG mechanics and a deep dive into ancient Norse culture.
As modding continues to push the boundaries of what's possible in gaming, Assassin’s Creed Valhalla stands as a prime example of how a game can evolve post-release, offering a significantly enhanced experience for players. While such mods are often behind a paywall, the investment is arguably justified given the dramatic improvement in performance they deliver.
As the series remains true to its roots, these additions are a boon for fans and newcomers alike, proving that with the right technology and expertise, even the most demanding games can achieve new heights in performance.
- 2024-06-14 09:35
WhatsApp is gearing up for a significant enhancement with the introduction of an "Imagine" shortcut, aimed at simplifying AI-driven image creation. Presently in beta for Android version 2.24.12.4, this feature is set to facilitate user-generated images via Meta AI. Located in the attachments menu, it promises a smooth experience for users who favor visual interaction.
Meta AI's capabilities are not new; users have been able to generate images via text prompts by tagging @Meta AI in group chats. However, the new Imagine shortcut is expected to simplify this process significantly. By integrating this shortcut, WhatsApp aims to enhance the user experience, making it quicker and more intuitive to generate images on the go.
Currently, Meta AI and its image generation features are only available in select regions such as the US, Australia, Canada, and South Africa. The Imagine shortcut is still in development and hasn't yet been rolled out to even beta testers. However, the potential for wider availability in the future could see this feature becoming a staple for WhatsApp users globally.
In addition to the Imagine shortcut, WhatsApp is also testing other AI-powered functionalities. One such feature is the AI-generated Profile Photos, which allows users to create custom profile pictures based on text descriptions. Spotted in Android version 2.24.11.17, this feature promises to add a personalized touch to user profiles, making them more unique.
While these features are still in the testing phase, they signify Meta's broader ambition to integrate advanced AI capabilities across its platforms. For users, this means a richer and more interactive messaging experience. As these developments unfold, WhatsApp could soon become a hub for not just communication but also creative expression.
- 2024-05-29 02:10
In a thrilling update for Mortal Kombat 1 enthusiasts, Ed Boon has officially announced that Homelander, the iconic character from The Boys, will be joining the game’s roster on June 4, 2024. The announcement, made via Twitter/X, was accompanied by a captivating gameplay trailer that showcased Homelander's impressive array of moves and a particularly brutal finishing sequence. Fans are eagerly anticipating this addition, which promises to bring fresh excitement to the beloved fighting game series.
The addition of Homelander marks a significant update that includes early access for players who buy the Premium Edition or Kombat Pack. These bundles provide early entry to Homelander and introduce a slew of other eagerly awaited characters. Players can look forward to Quan Chi, Ermac, Omni-Man, Peacemaker, and Takeda joining the lineup, enhancing the game's variety and allure. This strategic decision by the developers is designed to maintain player interest and engagement in the ever-evolving universe of Mortal Kombat 1.
Ed Boon has teased the arrival of a Ferra Kameo, expected to debut later in June, although the precise release date remains a mystery. Enthusiasts are buzzing with anticipation, curious about the potential impact this Kameo could have on gameplay mechanics. This announcement comes shortly after Ermac's addition to the game, which became accessible with early access on April 16, followed by a full release on April 23. This staggered release model appears to be an effective strategy, ensuring a consistent flow of fresh content for players.
The latest trailer not only highlights Homelander’s combat prowess but also features his voice lines, adding depth to his character within the game. His inclusion has been met with widespread enthusiasm, as Homelander remains a favorite among The Boys’ fans. The character’s unique abilities and menacing presence are expected to translate well into Mortal Kombat 1’s intense battles, offering a fresh and exhilarating experience for players.
Another significant update for Mortal Kombat 1 is the addition of a "krossplay" feature, which was rolled out in late February. This long-awaited update has been widely praised by the community, as it allows players from different platforms to compete against each other, enhancing the game's accessibility and fostering a more inclusive player base. With these updates, Mortal Kombat 1 continues to evolve, solidifying its status as a must-play title for fighting game aficionados.
- 2024-05-29 01:05
Google I/O 2024 has kicked off with a bang, unveiling a slew of new features for Android smartphones. During the keynote, VP of Engineering Dave Burke showcased how AI is set to transform the Android experience. Surprisingly, Android 15 wasn't mentioned, but the focus on upcoming AI-driven functionalities more than made up for it. These updates are expected to roll out over the coming months, setting the stage for a more intuitive Android in 2024.
One of the standout announcements was an upgrade to Circle to Search, a visual lookup feature. This tool, currently exclusive to select Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel devices, is getting a homework helper twist. Thanks to Google's LearnLM technology, students will soon be able to circle prompts to solve problems involving symbolic formulas, diagrams, and graphs. Expect this feature to hit your devices later this year, making homework a tad less stressful.
Google's AI model, Gemini, also got a major spotlight. Gemini on Android will soon offer insights about YouTube videos and allow AI-generated images to be seamlessly added to Gmail and Messages. Additionally, the new "Ask this PDF" feature will let users get answers from PDF documents without having to sift through endless pages. This is a game-changer for anyone who deals with large documents regularly.
Pixel smartphones are in for a treat with support for Gemini Nano with Multimodality. This means not just text but also visuals, audio, and spoken information can be processed on-device. Even the basic dialer app is getting smarter, with real-time scam call detection. This feature will alert users to suspicious calls asking for bank information, working entirely on-device to protect privacy. While the exact release dates are still under wraps, these updates promise a safer, more efficient Android experience.
Accessibility also takes a significant leap forward. Google TalkBack, aimed at visually impaired users, will be enhanced with Gemini Nano's multimodal capabilities. This will provide detailed information about unlabeled images, all processed on-device. Even without internet access, users can benefit from these improvements. Google says these updates will launch later this year, making Android more inclusive.
- 2024-05-15 01:05
In a bold move that’s sure to resonate with FPS fans, Ubisoft has announced that its upcoming shooter, XDefiant, will not feature skill-based matchmaking (SBMM) in its casual playlists. Ubisoft's recent blog post highlighted their dedication to fostering a gaming atmosphere that is both enjoyable and less stressful for players. The game is scheduled for release on May 21, and the lack of skill-based matchmaking (SBMM) in casual modes is already creating a lot of excitement.
For years, SBMM has been a contentious topic among gamers. Many argue that it detracts from the enjoyment of casual play by constantly pitting players against equally skilled opponents, making each match feel like a high-stakes competition. This frustration is particularly evident in popular series like Call of Duty, where players have long voiced their discontent. Ubisoft's decision to exclude SBMM from XDefiant's casual playlists is a clear response to this widespread criticism.
Ubisoft has stated that the primary goal of removing SBMM from casual playlists is to foster a more fun and varied gaming experience. According to the company, SBMM tends to make casual games feel repetitive and overly stressful, as each match mirrors the intensity of ranked play. Ubisoft is removing this feature to foster a more relaxed and enjoyable environment for players who simply want to unwind and have fun without the stress of ongoing competition.
However, this doesn't mean that matchmaking will be entirely random. Ubisoft has clarified that certain factors will still be considered when forming matches. These include the player's region, latency, avoided players, party size, input device, and platform. These elements are essential for ensuring a fair and balanced gaming experience. For those who thrive on competition, XDefiant will offer ranked playlists where SBMM will be in full effect, allowing players to test their skills against similarly ranked opponents.
Another notable feature of XDefiant is the introduction of persistent lobbies, meaning players will have the option to stay with the same group throughout multiple matches. This approach fosters camaraderie and enhances the overall gaming experience. After a lobby is created, minor adjustments will be made to ensure a fair and balanced matchup. This approach strikes a balance between creating a fun, relaxed environment and maintaining some level of fair play.
In summary, Ubisoft's choice to remove skill-based matchmaking (SBMM) from XDefiant's casual playlists marks a notable effort to respond to the FPS community’s feedback. By prioritizing enjoyment and diversity, Ubisoft aims to provide a more pleasurable gaming experience for everyone. With the game’s launch imminent, players are keen to observe the outcomes of this fresh strategy. Whether you're a casual gamer aiming to relax or a competitive player in search of a challenge, XDefiant intends to meet a wide range of preferences.
- 2024-05-14 17:15
