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![The Last of Us Part 1 on PC Has Unacceptable Loading Times img]()
Mar 30, 2023 Alison Harvard The Last of Us Part 1 on PC Has Unacceptable Loading Times The Last of Us Part 1 is a remake of the PS3 original from 2013, released for PC on March 28, 2023. It was initially met with excitement, but gamers have reported experiencing hour-long load times while playing. This has resulted in The Last of Us Part 1 receiving a “Mostly Negative” rating on Steam and has caused many players to express their disappointment with the game’s optimization.
While the recommended hardware specs for The Last of Us Part 1 on PC are fairly reasonable, many gamers are still experiencing crashes due to the poorly optimized game. MP1st reported that a PC slightly above the recommended specs took around an hour to build shaders, and a high-end system required just under 45 minutes to do the same. Furthermore, the report states that The Last of Us Part 1 seems to be using 100% of the CPU, resulting in the hardware running hot for an extended duration. Even with GPUs that are well above the recommended system requirements, the game is still struggling to maintain a 60 FPS rate.
Naughty Dog has taken notice of these issues and stated that they are working on an upcoming patch. Until then, most players will have to continue dealing with these lengthy loading times and other optimization problems.
In conclusion, the Last of Us Part 1 is yet another example of a poorly optimized game coming out on PC. Even though the game was released after many of Sony’s other titles, it’s still facing technical issues that should have been addressed prior to release. This is especially unfortunate, as The Last of Us Part 1 offers a fantastic gaming experience, with many praising its vibrant visuals and slick new character models. Hopefully, the upcoming patch will fix these issues and allow players to fully enjoy The Last of Us Part 1 on PC. Read More ![Upgrading from Old Windows Versions: Steam to Officially Stop Support img]()
Mar 29, 2023 Alison Harvard Upgrading from Old Windows Versions: Steam to Officially Stop Support Steam, the popular video game platform, has announced that it will abandon support for current versions of the Windows OS – Windows 7 and 8.1 – starting January 1, 2024. This is because the latest features of Steam rely on the built-in version of Google Chrome, which no longer works on these older versions of Windows. Furthermore, future versions of Steam will require updates to Windows features and security present only on Windows 10 and above. As such, for those still running on older Windows systems, the only thing left to do is upgrade to newer software.
Data from the February survey reveals that Windows 7 holds a market share of 1.52%, while Windows 8.1 has 0.34%. These systems have not been supported by Microsoft since January 10 of this year, and the decision of Valve Software to terminate their support for the old systems is understandable.
The app, which is essentially a browser, works completely differently in the Windows 10 system. It is able to use certain features of Chrome, and as such, it can make use of a much more sophisticated set of features. For instance, the app has virtual reality support and game-streaming, which works much better in the newest version of Windows.
In addition to the features and upgrades, Windows 10 also provides a more secure environment. The newer Windows OS is equipped with features such as Windows Defender and Windows Firewall, which add extra protection to the system against malicious attacks. Furthermore, this OS also has better overall performance and stability, making it much more efficient.
Overall, it’s clear that Steam’s decision to end support for older versions of Windows is justified. These systems are no longer supported by Microsoft, and the latest features in Steam require the built-in version of Google Chrome, which does not work on such systems. As such, for those still running on Windows 7 and 8.1, the only option is to upgrade to Windows 10. This will provide not only the latest features for Steam but also overall better performance, stability, and security for the system. Read More -
![A Safer and Easier Way to Enjoy Call of Duty: Warzone 2 and Modern Warfare 2 with Inverted Flash img]()
Mar 16, 2023 Alison Harvard A Safer and Easier Way to Enjoy Call of Duty: Warzone 2 and Modern Warfare 2 with Inverted Flash Call of Duty: Warzone 2 and Modern Warfare 2 players can now enjoy a better gaming experience thanks to Beenox's latest patch. The new setting, called Inverted Flash, makes flashbang grenades easier on the eyes by turning the screen completely black instead of completely white when it is activated. This minor but much-requested feature was released as part of Call of Duty: Warzone 2 and Modern Warfare2's Season Reloaded on March 15th.
Beenox, an Activision subsidiary known for its work on games such as Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1+2 remaster, Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time, Call Of Duty Black Ops Cold War alongside Infinity Ward’s new Call Of Duty Modern Warfare2 from which Call Of Duty Warzone2 spun off unveiled this feature via a short clip posted on Twitter. The video showcases how enabling inverted flash works in the game; in conventional circumstances throwing a flashbang grenade at the feet would make the screen go completely white for a second before fading back in. However, with inverted flash enabled, the screen goes immediately dark, then fades out partially before switching over to a white effect until it eventually wears off entirely. This should protect gamers from becoming blinded because they will remember to turn it on beforehand.
Inverted Flash mode can be enabled in the game’s options menu under “Graphics Settings”, where it appears as a checkbox labeled “Reduce Screen Flashes On Impact”; when enabled, this setting will reduce the intensity and duration of those flashes significantly.
All in all, Beenox has once again managed to impress with yet another impressive update making sure that players are able not only to play safely but also enjoy themselves even further, knowing that developers are doing everything possible so everyone may continue having fun no matter where they stand concerning skill level. Hopefully, future updates will bring about even more improvements than what we have seen thus far, building upon what is already an amazing foundation and resulting in something truly special down the line. -
![Microsoft Brings Back Much-Needed Taskbar Functionality to Windows 11 img]()
Mar 15, 2023 Benjamin Carter Microsoft Brings Back Much-Needed Taskbar Functionality to Windows 11 Microsoft is finally giving users the control they wanted over their taskbars with the upcoming release of Windows 11. The newly found code in the 25314 build points to a more personalized experience for users, and exciting features like grouping modes and label support are set to make a comeback.
The taskbar in Windows 11 has been one of its most controversial aspects since its release. Users have long complained about the lack of control afforded by it compared to previous iterations of Windows OS, so much so that many resorted to using hacks just to get back some functionality. Thankfully, Microsoft seems to be listening and bringing back requested features in an upcoming update.
XenoPanther was one of the first people on Twitter who reported finding strings related to changes coming up for Taskbar in the 25314 build. Among other things, they mentioned potential returns for grouping modes as well as labels being visible again – something which has not been seen since before Windows 10's launch. Leaker PhantomOfEarth also confirmed these findings on Twitter shortly after XenoPanther's post went live, commenting that we might be seeing the "never combine" feature returning soon, too – giving users full control over how their tabs are grouped together on their taskbar(s).
The "never combine" option allows users can turn off Windows OS's automatic merging function which groups tabs from the same programs together when placed horizontally across your taskbar; instead, you'll be able to view all your programs separately without them getting merged into one rectangular box (which is what happens if there isn't enough space). This new feature should please a lot of people who want less clutter but still need access to multiple tasks simultaneously with no hassle!
Overall it looks like Microsoft is responding positively to user feedback regarding Window 11’s interface issues while making sure everyone gets exactly what they want out of their desktop experience! It will be interesting to see how this development shapes up once the official update rolls out later this year – stay tuned! -
![Gears of War 6: The Coalition Is Hiring for Upcoming Title img]()
Mar 03, 2023 Benjamin Carter Gears of War 6: The Coalition Is Hiring for Upcoming Title The Gears of War franchise is one of Microsoft’s most beloved franchises, having been around since 2006. The last release was Gears Tactics in 2020, with the last mainline title being Gears 5 in 2019. Now, it looks like The Coalition, the developers behind the franchise, is hinting at a new project.
Rumors have been circulating since February 2021 that The Coalition has canceled two projects to focus on what is assumed to be Gears of War 6. Now, new job listings from The Coalition and Microsoft’s career page indicate that the team is looking for a Senior Gameplay Designer for a Gears of War game. The job listing asks for experience in Character, Camera, and Controls (3Cs) as well as AI systems.
This isn’t the first job listing from The Coalition for a Gears of War game, either. They were looking for a Gameplay Designer in July 2022. All of this points to the fact that the team is indeed working on a brand new Gears of War title. But what form will it take?
Some have speculated that the team is working on a Gears of War Remastered Collection, which would be an interesting take on some of the franchise’s earliest entries. Others are hoping that it’s a brand new Gear of War title, a true sequel to Gear 5. It’s still too early to tell, but all signs point to the fact that Gears of War 6 is indeed in the works.
At the end of the day, what fans really want is something new. Whether it’s a full-fledged sequel or a remastered classic, we can’t be sure until The Coalition officially reveals the game. But with the amount of evidence being put forward, it’s safe to say that it won’t be too long before we get more information on this hotly anticipated title. -
![Hidetaka Miyazaki’s Inspirations: Escape from Tarkov as an Ingenious Multiplayer Design img]()
Mar 02, 2023 Benjamin Carter Hidetaka Miyazaki’s Inspirations: Escape from Tarkov as an Ingenious Multiplayer Design Gaming fans were thrilled when, today, Elden Ring's creator Hidetaka Miyazaki sat down for a chat with IGN, and even more excited when the announcement of a 2023 expansion was made. While talking to IGN, Miyazaki revealed that one of the games he has been looking to for inspiration recently is Escape from Tarkov, and he even went on to explain why this particular title has caught his eye.
When Miyazaki was asked what trends, ideas, or technology he finds inspiring, he responded that he has been keeping a close eye on how other developers are approaching multiplayer network design and game design. He went on to explain that he has been observing the changes as both a creator and a fan of the game and mentioned how players are now being used as a resource for the game's design itself. It is worth noting that the Souls series' multiplayer has been a major part of its experience for quite some time, so Miyazaki's interest in Tarkov is only to be expected.
Miyazaki's admiration for Escape from Tarkov could be associated with the challenge of completing an area only with the help of a full squad of players. It may also have something to do with the harsher consequences for dying to an enemy invader. Miyazaki’s quote about “using players as a resource for the game” is also reminiscent of other games, such as EVE Online, where players can influence the game world. The implications of Miyazaki's comments could potentially be seen in the upcoming Elden Ring expansion, Shadow of the Erdtree.
In conclusion, it has been confirmed that Elden Ring's success will not be influencing Hidetaka Miyazaki's upcoming projects, and he won’t be swayed by its remarkable popularity. The development team at FromSoft plan to keep on creating the games they want, and it appears that one aspect they have taken a particular interest in is multiplayer design. Tarkov's ingenious multiplayer design caught Miyazaki's eye, and it remains to be seen what kind of implementations will be made in the Shadow of the Erdtree expansion. -
![New Hearthstone Expansion – March of the Lich King Mini Set img]()
Feb 16, 2023 Benjamin Carter New Hearthstone Expansion – March of the Lich King Mini Set Blizzard Entertainment recently announced a new mini set for its popular card game, Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft. The set is called “March of the Lich King” and will feature 38 new cards that introduce some exciting new mechanics. Some iconic characters from the Warcraft universe, including Arthas the Lich King, will be included in the set. This new expansion is sure to be a great addition to the already vast collection of cards in Hearthstone.
The "March of the Lich King" mini set is set to bring two fresh keywords into the game: "Assault" and "Horde." Assault cards are powerful minions that can attack your opponent's hero directly, while Horde cards are minions that can be summoned with a single card. These two mechanics will undoubtedly introduce an additional strategic dimension to the game, enhancing its excitement.
Alongside these new mechanics, this set will include some iconic characters from the Warcraft universe. Arthas the Lich King is one of the most iconic characters in the Warcraft lore and will make an appearance in the set. He will be accompanied by other powerful characters such as Sylvanas Windrunner, Jaina Proudmoore, and Uther Lightbringer. Each of these characters will bring their own unique powers to the game.
The set will also introduce some new cards with the “Quest” keyword. Quests are special cards that require you to complete certain tasks in order to gain rewards. These rewards can be powerful cards that give you an advantage over your opponents. Completing quests will add another layer of depth and strategy to the game.
The "March of the Lich King" mini set is certain to bring about some thrilling new mechanics and characters to Hearthstone. Players can look forward to powerful Assault and Horde cards, iconic characters from the Warcraft universe, and special Quest cards that offer unique rewards. This set is sure to be an excellent enhancement to the game and will definitely keep players enthralled for numerous hours. -
![PUBG Mobile Announces Partnership Program for Southeast Asia img]()
Feb 15, 2023 Benjamin Carter PUBG Mobile Announces Partnership Program for Southeast Asia PUBG Mobile, the popular mobile version of PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds, has announced its new partnership program for Southeast Asia. The program seeks to bring together local organizations and influencers to help promote the game in the region. This comes as part of PUBG Mobile's growth strategy for the region, which is becoming one of the most important markets for the game.
The partnership program will focus on creating new content, events, and campaigns that will help drive awareness and engagement with the game in Southeast Asia. Partners will be given access to exclusive in-game items, events, and rewards. They will also be able to collaborate with PUBG Mobile to create exclusive content and experiences that they can share with their audiences.
The program will also provide partners with the opportunity to network with other influencers and organizations, allowing them to create mutually beneficial relationships that can help them further their reach. PUBG Mobile is also looking to create more local tournaments and events for Southeast Asia, giving players the chance to compete for prizes and glory.
The program is open to influencers, streamers, teams, and organizations from all countries in the region. Those interested in applying can do so through PUBG Mobile's official website.
PUBG Mobile's partnership program for Southeast Asia is an exciting opportunity for local influencers, teams, and organizations to get involved in the game and help promote it in their region. With the help of these partners, PUBG Mobile can continue to grow and become one of the most popular mobile games in the region. -
![Minecraft Player Creates Impressive Axolotl Statue img]()
Feb 08, 2023 Benjamin Carter Minecraft Player Creates Impressive Axolotl Statue Minecraft is a game that has captured the hearts of millions of players around the world. Its immersive environment and variety of mobs, from passive to hostile, make the game even more enjoyable. Recently, one Minecraft player decided to take their love for the game to the next level by creating an impressive statue of one of the mobs available in the game: the axolotl.
The statue was created by a player known as 'AsperaX_OperaliX'. He shared this on Reddit. The statue stands one block tall and is made of quartz blocks. The axolotl is depicted with its iconic stripes and colors and is surrounded by two other quartz blocks to create a pedestal.
AsperaX_OperaliX said that they were inspired to create the statue after seeing another player's work with quartz blocks. They wanted to challenge themselves to create something more ambitious, and they chose the axolotl as their subject because they thought it would be both interesting and difficult.
To make the statue, AsperaX_OperaliX used a variety of tools and techniques. They used anvils to craft the quartz blocks into the desired shape, then used a pickaxe to carve out the axolotl's stripes and details. They also used a special technique called 'pixel art', which involves placing blocks in a certain pattern to create the desired effect.
AsperaX_OperaliX was very pleased with the result, and so were the other players in the game. The statue has become a popular sight in the Minecraft world and has been widely praised by players for its impressive craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Conclusion: The axolotl statue is a testament to the creativity and dedication of Minecraft players. It also serves as a reminder that Minecraft's mobs are more than just characters in the game; they can be sources of inspiration and motivation for players to create their own works of art.
If you'd like to leave a comment about the axolotl statue, please do so below. -
![US Senators Question Facebook on Access to Sensitive User Data by Chinese, Russian Developers img]()
Feb 07, 2023 Benjamin Carter US Senators Question Facebook on Access to Sensitive User Data by Chinese, Russian Developers US Senators Mark Warner and Marco Rubio have written to Facebook's parent company Meta Platforms this week about documents that suggest the social media giant allowed developers in China and Russia to have access to user data that could be used for espionage.
The news has raised eyebrows in both the US and abroad, as the US Senate Select Committee on Intelligence seeks to uncover the details of this arrangement.
The document in question, which was obtained by the US Senate Select Committee, shows that Facebook had been aware of the potential for user data to be taken advantage of by foreign developers since at least 2013. It is said to outline the company’s “Business-to-Business” (B2B) relationships with developers, who could potentially access sensitive user data. Additionally, the document also warns of the potential for “unintended use” of the data, such as espionage.
This news has sparked concern among US lawmakers, who are wary of the potential implications of allowing foreign developers access to user data. Warner and Rubio have both commented on the matter, with Warner alleging that the documents show “a disturbing pattern of disregard for user privacy by Facebook,” while Rubio suggested that it “raises serious questions about how Facebook is using and monitoring the data it collects.”
In response to these accusations, Facebook has defended itself, claiming that it has “always been clear that developers can build on our platform, but we do not provide access to user data for espionage purposes.” They also noted that the document in question was from 2013 and did not reflect the changes that have been made since then.
The US Senate Select Committee on Intelligence has been investigating the potential misuse of user data by foreign developers for some time, and this most recent development is sure to add further fuel to the fire. It remains to be seen what the outcome of the investigation will be and whether or not Facebook will be held accountable for any potential wrongdoing.
The news of Facebook’s potential negligence regarding user data has caused an uproar among US lawmakers and concerned citizens alike. What do you think of the situation? Leave a comment and let us know. -
![Facebook Reaches 2 Billion Daily Users Despite Recent Restructuring img]()
Feb 02, 2023 Benjamin Carter Facebook Reaches 2 Billion Daily Users Despite Recent Restructuring Facebook has once again reached a major milestone, crossing the 2 billion daily active user mark for the first time. The social media platform, which is owned by Meta, has been a major source of ad revenue for the company since its launch nearly 20 years ago. Despite recent restructuring, which resulted in the elimination of more than 11,000 jobs, Facebook is still growing.
CEO Mark Zuckerberg recently commented on the restructuring, saying that “our management theme for 2023 is the 'Year of Efficiency.'” The company has seen a steady increase in users over the last quarter, adding 16 million users. This brings the total number of daily users to 2 billion, making Facebook the first Meta-owned platform to reach this milestone.
The platform’s continued growth is seen as a positive sign for Meta, especially considering the company’s recent cost-cutting efforts. The 2 billion daily active user mark is seen as a sign of financial stability for the company, as more people are using the platform than ever before.
The social network is also continuing to expand its features and offerings, with Zuckerberg recently announcing the launch of a new audio-based feature called “Soundbites.” This feature allows users to record and share short audio clips, allowing them to connect with friends and family in a new way.
Facebook's success in reaching the 2 billion daily active user mark is a testament to its resilience and ability to adapt to the changing digital landscape. Despite recent restructuring, the platform is still growing and expanding, showing that it is still a major source of ad revenue for Meta. With the launch of new features such as “Soundbites,” the platform is continuing to innovate and provide users with new and exciting ways to connect. -
![Steam Update Brings New Features to PC Platform img]()
Feb 02, 2023 Benjamin Carter Steam Update Brings New Features to PC Platform Valve’s Steam platform on PC is one of the most popular ways for gamers to purchase and access games. The platform is regularly tweaked and updated by Valve and as of today, a new update has been released that brings a few new features to the software.
This update includes a range of new features that aim to improve the gaming experience for Steam users. The first of these is an improved library view, which provides a better overview of the games that are currently installed on the platform. This library view can be customized to show different types of games, allowing for easier access and organization. Additionally, the update also includes a new ‘Friends & Chat’ tab, which can be used to quickly and easily communicate with friends.
Another new feature is an improved in-game overlay, which provides more detailed information about the game that is currently being played. This overlay can be used to quickly access achievements, friends, and game stats. The update also introduces a new way to access game guides, which can be opened directly in Steam. The update also introduces a range of improvements to the Steam store, including a new ‘Featured Games’ section and better support for PC VR.
The new update for Steam is sure to be welcomed by users of the platform, as it adds a range of new features that improve the overall experience. From an improved in-game overlay to a new ‘Friends & Chat’ tab, the update adds a variety of useful features to the platform. The update is now available to all users of Steam on PC.
