At Tech4Gamers, I mainly cover new gaming news, leaks, and rumours. Aside from that, I love to write features about my favourite games while inserting my opinion about their different aspects.
Story Highlight
GTA 5 was released in 2013, and a decade later, the game is still played by many.
According to a reliable leaker, GTA 5 is returning to PC Game Pass.
It was previously available on the subscription service for six months, so Rockstar seems to have plans to make a comeback.
GTA 5 has been dominating the industry since 2013, and fans still love it. While Rockstar has managed to milk it for as long as it could, fans are still attached to this title. The game has sold over 200 million copies.
Many fans probably own GTA 5 already, but for those who don’t, Rockstar may be bringing the title to a popular subscription service soon. According to a new rumor, GTA 5 is coming to the PC Game Pass.
Why it matters: GTA 5 has already appeared on Xbox and PC Game Pass before, so it wouldn’t be a stretch to see it again.
GTA 5 is among the best-selling games of all time.
Tez2, a reliable insider, has revealed that the latest Grand Theft Auto title is coming to PC Game Pass.
Rockstar Games is preparing GTA 5 to be playable via Xbox’s PC Game Pass for future availability.
-Tez2
Tez2 has previously leaked plenty of information about GTA games, and he has been correct most of the time. The insider is quite famous for accurately reporting on news for the series.
The game was previously available on Xbox Game Pass, but it was removed last year. However, with GTA 6 now being announced, its return could be a massive deal for Microsoft’s subscription service.
GTA 5 was also available on PS Plus, but it was removed earlier this year. None of the companies gave a reason for its removal from either subscription service.
Rockstar wants to exceed everyone’s expectations with the release of GTA 6.
While its return would end up being exciting, Tez2 hasn’t mentioned when the game will appear on Game Pass. Also, there hasn’t been an official announcement from Rockstar or Xbox, so we recommend fans take this information with a slight grain of salt.
Rockstar is currently busy with GTA 6, but a former developer has warned that it won’t be that different from GTA 5.
Still, the developer expects to exceed everyone’s expectations with its upcoming title. The previous trailer was released seven months ago, and Rockstar hasn’t said anything about it. Hopefully, another trailer is on the way and will arrive soon.
At Tech4Gamers, I contribute as a Senior News Reporter, combining my skills and gaming enthusiasm to keep our audience updated on the latest developments.
Story Highlight
Deadpool & Wolverine has been a huge hit at the box office.
This movie has led to higher interest than ever in the Deadpool game from Activision.
The title has seen a surge in pricing, costing as much as $140 on platforms like eBay.
The excitement for Deadpool is at an all-time high. Following his arrival in the MCU, the character has found immense success with his latest film. This success can also be observed in the gaming industry.
Over a decade ago, Activision released a licensed game based on the superhero for consoles and PC. While this game was delisted many years ago, the latest movie has led to a surge in interest, leading to a price hike for Deadpool online.
Why it matters: The Deadpool game has not been relevant in many years since it was officially delisted after Activision lost the licenses for its Marvel projects.
Data from Price Charting suggests that Deadpool typically cost about $30 online until recently. This price varied from version to version, with the PS4 version costing as much as $50.
However, looking at eBay, it’s clear that Deadpool is more valuable than ever. Most ads ask for close to $100 for the game, with prices as high as $140 since fans are more curious about the character after his latest film.
For the unaware, this game was made by Activision’s High Moon Studios when the publisher used to work with the Marvel license. It features quite the comedic take on Deadpool, offering all the gags and fourth-wall-breaking shenanigans one would expect.
Deadpool Constantly Broke The Fourth Wall In The Game
Deadpool & Wolverine has already made more than $200 million at the box office, shattering records for R-rated films. This could end up being a turning point for the character, including his role in gaming.
With Marvel taking more interest in gaming, perhaps a new Deadpool game could also be on the horizon. Comic book games, in general, are on an upward spiral, with the likes of Black Panther, Iron Man, Wonder Woman, and more getting their own adaptations soon.
I’ve been the Journalist & Editorial Writer at Tech4Gamers since July 2022. I spearhead our hardware coverage, including overclocking GPUs, benchmarking CPUs, reviewing peripherals, and fine-tuning custom PC builds for every budget. Daily, I report on breaking gaming news, from major launches and studio updates to the latest industry trends, ensuring our community stays informed. Beyond news briefs, I write in-depth feature articles on gaming culture and emerging technologies. And by collaborating closely with the editorial team on content planning, SEO strategy, and our publishing calendar, I help us consistently hit our traffic and engagement targets.
The newest headset by XPG has caught my attention. Just a few weeks ago, XPG released its Precog studio headset. Not only are they aesthetically pleasing, but they also deliver adequate features at a reasonable price. Their target market consists of budget-conscious gamers needing a high-quality, comfortable, and inexpensive audio solution for their gaming needs. Even though the new XPG Precog studio is less flashy and more reasonably priced, it has the potential to be amazing for its price if it can replicate even a fraction of the performance of its predecessor.
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Key Takeaways
The XPG Precog Studio headset offers impressive sound quality with its 50mm drivers and balanced design. Its versatile compatibility, comfortable fit, and budget-friendly price are ideal for those seeking high-quality audio across multiple platforms without breaking the bank.
You should buy the XPG Precog Studio Headset if you seek a high-quality audio experience on a budget, need a versatile headset for multiple platforms, and value comfort for long gaming sessions.
You should not buy the XPG Precog Studio Headset if you need a removable or retractable microphone, prefer wireless connectivity, and want premium build quality.
Here are the specifications:
Length
216mm / 8.5inch
Width
192mm / 7.5inch
Height
91mm / 3.6inch
Weight
300g
Driver Unit
50mm
Frequency Response
20~20,000Hz
Sensitivity
101dB±3dB
Mic Directivity
Omnidirectional
Certifications
CE / FCC / BSMI / VCCI
DAC
Size: 50mm x 27mm x 13mm
DACChip: ESS Chip
Audio Format: Up to 32bits/96kHz
Input: USB-Type C
Output: 4.4mm Audio Port
Aux: 3.5mm
Warranty
2 Years
[toc]
How Is The XPG Precog Studio Different?
When compared to its predecessors and competing models, the XPG Precog Studio headset offers several refinements and additional features. The 4.4mm connection and balanced design are two of its most notable qualities. With a built-in ESS USB-C DAC, the Precog Studio can work with various gaming platforms, such as PCs, consoles, and smartphones. Moreover, the ESS chipset helps improve audio quality on all these devices.
Design
Design (Image By Tech4Gamers)
While this new XPG headset is more affordable than their previous Precog variant, which catered to enthusiasts, it still looks great. With a relatively reasonable price tag, they are ensuring high-quality hardware. Regarding the aesthetics, XPG went with an over-the-ear helicopter headset style with simple embellishments, such as a logo on the headband and ear cups.
The ski band’s flexible material enhances its already stylish appearance. The outer band’s modest clamping force also helps the ear cups stay securely in place. With their closed-back build, the ear cups suppress noise from the outside and keep the sound locked.
Comfort
Ear Cushions (Image By Tech4Gamers)
The headset’s generally outstanding ergonomics are contributed to by its aesthetically pleasing close fit and slim profile surrounding the ear cups. In addition to the headband’s ability to adjust, the cups can rotate and tilt to provide a more customized fit over your ears. You can still wear the headset more comfortably around your neck even when you’re not playing.
The combination of its self-adjusting feature and its user-friendliness makes for a secure yet comfortable fit. It also eliminates the need to adjust the length from one user to another. The one real concern is that the fabric padding isn’t stiff, unlike memory foam. Nonetheless, the headband is stretchy, and the general fit remained unchanged after many hours.
Build Quality
Build Quality (Image By Tech4Gamers)
Certainly, in terms of quality, it seems to be currently holding up. There are no apparent manufacturing or design flaws, and the headset feels well-made in my hand. It was a pleasant experience to wear it even during those lengthy late-night gaming sessions because it is light, approximately 300 grams.
When it comes to overall weight, most users will find the headset’s weight to fall into a sweet spot where it is neither overly apparent nor difficult for them to feel. XPG finds it simple to comprehend how they can offer this lightweight build. The materials are mostly plastic, and the headband is quite thin to keep costs down and showcase the feel of a budget-conscious headset.
Volume Knob (Image By Tech4Gamers)
As expected, the ear cups hold 50mm drivers ranging from 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz. This is rather typical fare these days, but it’s nice to see that the drivers are of adequate quality and should provide a solid listening experience. The headset’s volume and microphone mute options are a nice touch despite the lack of built-in processing or amplification. You can connect it to your mobile phone, Nintendo Switch, any console controller, or PC since it has dual 3.5mm and 4.4mm inputs. The cord is hardwired to the left ear cup.
Headset Settings
Headset Settings (Image By Tech4Gamers)
As a wired analog 3.5 and 4.4mm headset, the XPG Precog Studio lacks official software support. Any changes you want to make are up to the system or third-party applications. This isn’t an issue on the console since the controls for the chat, microphone, mixes, and virtual surround sound are all conveniently located and simple to adjust.
On the other hand, Windows provides virtual surround sound through Windows Sonic for Headphones and access to other software such as Dolby Atmos and DTS. Even though Sonic’s performance with surround handling and imaging is inconsistent, it works well here. In comparison, the premium version of the Dolby Atmos Headphone application for Windows performed much better during my usage.
If you want to try it, you can download the trial version for free. Windows Sonic is free and does a respectable job, but the XPG Precog Studio pulled out with the Dolby Atmos processing in my headphones. In any case, the headset was fantastic. I had pinpointed the exact direction of my enemy’s footstep, which eventually led to my death while playing many games of Valorant.
Performance
Typically, headset hardware equipment greatly influences the performance and quality of the sound. In their default setting, the 50mm speakers of the XPG Precog Studio Headset provide detailed bass and a wide frequency spectrum. They give a satisfying punch, and the sound quality is decent. Therefore, the necessary adjustments to make things sound excellent are not dependent on software. However, my desire for a softer, more subtle sound made me reduce the high-end sharpness a little.
The default audio is excellent, but your device’s amplification can make a huge difference. Although I won’t suggest a top-tier desktop amplifier, you should at least use high-quality onboard audio and make sure the output is set to the correct format in the sound settings or the soundcard/motherboard software package. Still, I can’t emphasize enough how the amplification is much better.
PROTIP: To get the most out of your XPG Precog Studio headset, make sure to use high-quality onboard audio or an external DAC/AMP for the best sound quality.
They sound acceptable with the onboard audio on my ASRock B650E motherboard, but they really felt different when paired with my Creative Sound Blaster AE-9. While the Xbox and PlayStation have acceptable audio, my PC produces much superior sound with its more robust DAC and AMP setup. Furthermore, having a device that can produce virtual surround sound further enhances the headset’s performance.
Everything is clear, the high end is undistorted, and the dynamics hold up well even at low volumes.
While the amplifier controls the maximum level, this headset packs a mighty punch. Not to mention the convenience of having the volume control on board. Without making it sound too dull, a small boost to the mid-range of the equalizer gives the sound a pleasant warmth. Notably, the stereo picture is respectable, and the clarity is great, making it a great option for watching movies and playing games.
Microphone
Microphone (Image By Tech4Gamers)
The microphone isn’t removable or retractable, but it’s adequately flexible and can be placed at almost any point for online chatting, which is wonderful for an inexpensive entry. XPG doesn’t put much effort into voice chat since they maintain the speakers’ 50mm drivers well-tuned and great-sounding. The microphone’s speech quality is adequate due to its narrow frequency range of 100 to 8000 Hz. This XPG Precog Studio Headset aspect is stripped down since the voice detail isn’t crystal clear and can’t catch many finer details.
The quality is more akin to that of a cheap headset. The microphone has a strong pickup, which is good, but it also has a drawback in that ambient noise and breath may become audible. I would advise you to put it apart from your keyboard and mouse, or at the very least, use the push-to-talk feature. Even so, there aren’t any major issues or major shocks, either, since it’s essentially the same microphone found on hundreds of other headsets priced similarly.
WARNING: The microphone on the XPG Precog Studio is highly sensitive and may pick up ambient noise and breath sounds. Position the microphone carefully to avoid these issues, and consider using the push-to-talk feature if you find that background noises are becoming a problem during voice chats.
Should You Buy it?
Buy it if
✅ You seek a high-quality audio experience on a budget: The XPG Precog Studio offers excellent sound quality with its 50mm drivers and balanced design, providing a clear and immersive gaming experience at a reasonable price.
✅ You need a versatile headset for multiple platforms: This headset is compatible with PCs, consoles, and mobile devices, thanks to its ESS USB-C DAC and 4.4mm connector, making it a flexible choice for gamers who use various devices.
✅ You value comfort for long gaming sessions: With its auto-adjustable ski band headband and ergonomic ear cups, the Precog Studio ensures a comfortable fit, allowing for extended use without discomfort.
Don’t Buy it if
❌ You need a removable or retractable microphone: The Precog Studio’s microphone is neither removable nor retractable. It might be inconvenient if you prefer to put it away when not in use.
❌ You prefer wireless connectivity: This headset relies on wired connections, so if you prefer the freedom of wireless headsets, the Precog Studio might not meet your needs.
❌ You are looking for premium build quality: While the Precog Studio offers good performance for its price, its plastic build and fixed microphone reflect its budget-friendly nature, which might not satisfy those seeking a more premium feel.
Final Verdict
In the high-end gaming PCs and peripherals market, XPG is a massive brand with an impressive range of gaming products. The new XPG Precog Studio isn’t their greatest creation, but it exceeds my skeptical expectations regarding its sound quality. Compared to its predecessor, it is much more reasonably priced. Even though most gaming headsets nowadays come with either USB or wireless connections, it was refreshing to see a 3.5mm and 4.4mm variant arrive at the workplace.
Generally speaking, the headset is very competent. Although wireless and USB headsets have their own benefits, a passively driven 3.5mm and 4.4mm headset is very user-friendly due to its simplicity. Such devices include mobile phones, portable gaming consoles like Switch, and most console controllers.
On the downside, the headset’s features, such as the fixed microphone and hardwired cord, reflect its cheap build quality. But other than that, everything else is adequate. If you want a headset with plush memory foam, fabric ear cushions, sleek ergonomics, and an incredibly lightweight but sturdy design, it ticks all the boxes.
At Tech4Gamers.com, I cover the latest news and rumours in the gaming industry, from new game releases to hidden gems and video game leaks. Furthermore, I occasionally write tech articles about video game consoles, providing insights into the hardware and software that powers our gaming experiences.
Story Highlight
Despite controversies, Assassin’s Creed Shadows remains a highly anticipated launch this year.
In response to a recent tweet by The Game Awards, many people mentioned they are excited for AC Shadows’ release.
Pre-orders for the game are strong and even topped Amazon’s best-seller list for PS5 games in Japan.
Even with the controversies surrounding Assassin’s Creed Shadows, fans are still excited for its release. A recent tweet from The Game Awards asked which game people are most looking forward to in 2024, and Assassin’s Creed Shadows and Black Myth: Wukong were the top picks.
This lines up with the fact that pre-orders for the game are also going strong. A month ago, it was reported that AC Shadows was performing well in different regions, including Japan, where it has reached the top of Amazon’s best-seller list for PS5 games.
Why it matters: This shows that social media controversies usually don’t hurt the sales of major game releases, similar to what happened with Hogwarts Legacy in 2023.
The Game Awards tweeted asking which game people are excited to play this year.
In the tweet’s reply, many users commented they were looking forward to AC Shadows’ launch this year. Their comments received quite a few likes, showing that others agreed with them.
The excitement for Assassin’s Creed Shadows is partly due to its long-awaited setting in feudal Japan. Fans have been looking forward to this backdrop, and the dual protagonists, Yasuke and the Japanese shinobi Naoe provide varied gameplay that may appeal to many players.
The controversy about Assassin’s Creed Shadows mainly concerns its portrayal of Yasuke, one of the game’s main characters. Yasuke was an African samurai in feudal Japan, and Ubisoft’s version of him has caused confusion, especially among Japanese fans.
Many people showed excitement about the AC Shadows launch, despite its controversies.
Some critics feel the portrayal isn’t historically accurate. It was revealed that Yasuke’s story was all “made up” by Thomas Lockley, who wrote the book “The True Story of Yasuke” in 2019.
Anyhow, despite all the hate and confusion, many people are excited about the game’s release in November this year.
At the same time, Black Myth: Wukong is also receiving lots of hype in the comments. Based on the classic Chinese story “Journey to the West,” the game is set to become a defining moment for Chinese game developers.
At Tech4Gamers, I mainly cover new gaming news, leaks, and rumours. Aside from that, I love to write features about my favourite games while inserting my opinion about their different aspects.
Story Highlight
Many Old Capcom games are missing from Xbox, which upsets the fandom.
However, Microsoft could be looking for solutions to bring those games to its gaming platform.
A reliable insider has revealed that those games weren’t released on Xbox due to tech issues.
There have been many instances in the past where Capcom games weren’t released on Xbox. Fans were extremely disappointed when Street Fight 5 wasn’t released on the platform they wanted to play on. Capcom also missed a lot of sales due to it.
However, it seems like there was an issue with the MT framework and the Capcom games. This is the reason why some of the Capcom games, like SF5, are not on Xbox. Now, a trusted insider has revealed that Microsoft is working with the company to look for solutions that would help them bring Capcom games to Xbox.
Why it matters: Fans were highly disappointed when games from the developer weren’t released on their desired platform, but it seems like the problem will be solved soon.
Jez Corden, during the latest episode of the Xbox Two podcast, mainly revolving around MW3 on Game Pass, Stalker 2 delay, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, and Cloud Gaming, reveals that Microsoft is working to bring Capcom Games to Xbox.
I’ve been told that Microsoft is actively working with Capcom to fix MT Framework issues on Xbox
-Jez Corden
Jez Corden has proven to be accurate on many occasions, so he is a reliable leaker, and his words can be trusted. He said that Microsoft lost its grip on the Fighting Game Community with Street Fighter 5 not being released on its platform.
He revealed that Capcom games are not being released on Xbox due to technology reasons. Now, the gaming and tech giant is actively looking for solutions to bring those games to its gaming platform.
Capcom Outdid Itself With Resident Evil 4 Remake
Marvel vs. Capcom and Great Ace Attorney Chronicles also didn’t come to the platform due to the engine problem. We believe such problems should be sorted out as soon as possible.
The gaming giant might be too late, but fans are delighted to know that it is now looking for solutions. Many fans are excited for the Battle Network collection to finally be released on their desired platform.
It might not have been fair for Microsoft that Capcom’s iconic games aren’t present on its gaming platform due to technology issues. Hopefully, Microsoft will be able to bring back the old Capcom games to Xbox’s catalog.
At Tech4Gamers, I mainly cover new gaming news, leaks, and rumours. Aside from that, I love to write features about my favourite games while inserting my opinion about their different aspects.
Story Highlight
Activision recently conducted a secret investigation to prove that Skill matters in online matchmaking.
The giant toned down SBMM for 50% of the North American MW3 players.
Due to that, 90% of the player base played the game less than usual, but the top 10% wasn’t that affected.
Online gaming, while it seems pretty simple, is a lot more complicated, especially for multiplayer shooters. There has always been a debate about skill-based matchmaking, as some fans prefer it, and some don’t.
We have seen many preferring it as it allows them to have fun at their own rank. SBMM has become pretty famous in the past few years, and of course, it has become controversial, too. However, now, thanks to a secret investigation conducted by the none other Activision, it is clear that fans prefer SBMM.
Why it matters: For someone to be able to enjoy an online shooter, they would need to play it with people who match their skills.
Activision Conducted A Secret Investigation To Determine The Importance of Skill-Based Matchmaking.
Those original top players will become increasingly likely to not return to the game. Ultimately, this will result in a worse experience for all players, as there will be fewer and fewer players available to play with
-Activision
In a massive 25-page report from Activision, the company revealed the role of skill in matchmaking. The company highlighted in the document that it secretly experimented by decreasing skill-based matchmaking and figured out that players are actually in its favor, even if they don’t realize it.
There have been many gamers who considered the SBMM to be trash. So, Activision took matters into its own hands and conducted a secret experiment without letting the players know. The experiment occurred in Modern Warfare 3, the worst Call of Duy Game in early 2024.
Activision turned down the tone of skill-based matchmaking for 50% of the North American players. More than 90% of the players played less than they usually do after this particular mechanic was toned down. The top 10% of skilled players weren’t that affected, and it is pretty obvious why.
If SBMM is turned off, then, of course, the more skilled players will have more benefits. It goes without saying. So, this would mean the loss of 90% of the player base, which would be a disaster for a multiplayer game.
This is why skill-based matchmaking is extremely important for those who aren’t that skilled in the game. Of course, it won’t affect the skilled players that much, as with this option turned on, they will be able to play against players with similar skill levels.
Previously, connection-based matchmaking was used to pair players together. That is also not an ideal mechanic to use in online shooters. Having a good internet connection doesn’t mean having better skills. So, we agree with what Activision has said, which is that skill plays an important role in online matchmaking.
At Tech4Gamers, he is recognized for his insightful features and opinion pieces, where he blends his passion for gaming with a keen understanding of technological trends. His work, marked by depth and accessibility, makes him a respected voice in the tech and gaming community.
Story Highlights
Pokémon Black & White 2 presents Unova and introduces 150 new Pokémon, breaking the tradition of fewer additions per region.
Pokémon Black & White 2 stands out with its emotionally engaging storyline, featuring a unique rival motivated to combat Team Plasma.
Introducinganimated sprites in battles enhances immersion, making gameplay more lively and dynamic.
The game offers diverse side content like the Battle Tower, and Pokéstar Studios, offering players interactive gameplay experiences.
Pokémon has been a huge influence on the gaming industry since it first came out in 1996. This franchise is a giant in the gaming world. With a wide range of main games, the Pokémon series has numerous titles, each providing unique adventures and experiences.
Pokémon Black 2 and White 2 truly captures the essence of Pokémon among all the other Pokémon games, including classics like Red, Blue, Silver, Ruby, and Sapphire. These games include all the features I look for in a good Pokémon game. They may not be universally recognized as the best Pokémon games, but I believe they are ideal.
Unova’s Unique Design And New Pokémon
Unique Unova design
The game is set in Unova, which feels like the Pokémon world’s version of America. It offers a variety of environments and activities.
Personally, I don’t think the design of Unova is bad, but I noticed that some people criticize the region’s layout for being mostly a simple circle, making the journey to becoming the champion feel straightforward and linear.
However, since the original 151 Pokémon in Pokémon Red & Blue, each new region typically added fewer than 100 new creatures, but Pokémon Black & White 2 broke this trend by introducing 150 new Pokémon in the Unova region.
This change was even more significant because players couldn’t battle or capture Pokémon from previous generations until they defeated the Elite Four.
Emotional Storytelling
Rival Huge in Pokémon Black And White 2
The story of Pokémon Black and White 2 is one of the best things for me. Like all Pokémon games, the story spans the entire region; however, I find this one more emotional.
Typically, your rival in most Pokémon games is another trainer you encounter and battle throughout your journey, occasionally helping you fight the evil team. However, in Pokémon Black and White 2, the rival’s drive to combat Team Plasma and explore the region is deeply emotional.
Enhanced Immersion
Another standout feature is the animated sprites during battles, enhancing immersion, first introduced in Pokémon Black & White 2. These animations made battles feel more lively and exciting.
Over time, they have only improved and are a key part of the Pokémon experience. I always enjoyed catching new Pokémon and seeing their animations in battle.
Catch Pokémon in different locations
Aside from the 2D sprites, the game’s overall look is quite impressive, featuring dynamic in-game seasons that synchronize with the real-world time settings of your device.
For instance, if you play during autumn, you might see leaves falling and golden hues across the landscape. On the other hand, summer could bring lush greenery and bright sunshine.
These seasonal changes enhance both the visual and auditory experience. Cheerful melodies and bird chirps accompany gameplay in spring, while winter brings serene snowscapes with soft ambient tunes.
Moreover, the music adjusts its tempo based on your character’s movement, creating a more immersive and responsive gameplay environment.
Enhanced Side Content
PokéStar Studios
While the Battle Frontier in Generation 3 is highly regarded as the side content, I found Pokémon Black and White 2 provide better alternatives. Players can engage in the Battle Tower or White Treehollow, depending on their game version.
Additionally, Pokéstar Studios allows protagonists to star in and influence various in-game films through dialogue choices, offering multiple endings for an enjoyable exploration.
At Tech4Gamers.com, I cover the latest news and rumours in the gaming industry, from new game releases to hidden gems and video game leaks. Furthermore, I occasionally write tech articles about video game consoles, providing insights into the hardware and software that powers our gaming experiences.
Story Highlight
Rockstar’s focus on monetizing GTA Online with Shark Cards has raised concerns about a similar approach in GTA 6.
Strauss Zelnick’s earnings from microtransactions worry me about aggressive monetization in the upcoming release.
Moreover, the company’s recent comments about how review bombing can harm any game are concerning.
GTA 6 is, without a doubt, the most awaited title of the decade. However, as a big fan of the franchise, I’m both excited about this release and worried about the potential for many microtransactions.
There’s a lot of talk in the gaming community, and the concerns seem valid. Given GTA Online’s history and recent actions by the company, it’s easy to fear the worst. Rockstar’s infamous way of making money from GTA Online has left a sour taste in my mouth.
Why it matters: GTA Online has been a cash cow for Rockstar, generating millions of dollars in revenue each year. I fear GTA Online’s monetization model will also carry over to GTA 6.
The Shadow of GTA Online
GTA Online has generated over $72 million in revenue for the company.
GTA Online was released on October 1, 2013, and Rockstar has been milking it for more than a decade now. It’s mind-boggling to think that the company cancelled GTA 5’s DLCs in favor of GTA Online, as it was making them so much money.
In GTA Online, players can buy Shark Cards for in-game money to get items and upgrades, from fancy cars to powerful weapons. While this has made Rockstar a lot of money, it has also upset many fans.
Many fans feel these purchases create an unfair advantage for those who can spend more real money. The worry isn’t just about fairness; it’s about losing the core gameplay experience.
Part of the fun in GTA has always been the sense of grind. This sense of achievement comes from effort in the game, but microtransactions upset this balance by providing easy shortcuts to success.
The controversy grew when it was revealed that top executives at Take-Two Interactive, Rockstar’s parent company, have earned huge amounts from these microtransactions. In 2023, CEO Strauss Zelnick earned$72 million, mainly from GTA Online’s in-game microtransactions.
This makes me even more concerned that GTA 6 might use a similar or more aggressive money-making approach.
Corporate Greed
Fans can only hope that GTA 6 will focus on giving players a great experience rather than just making money.
Microtransactions aren’t necessarily bad when we talk about free-to-play titles. They can help fund ongoing game updates and new content.
However, how microtransactions are used matters a lot. They’re usually fine if they’re limited to cosmetic items that don’t impact gameplay. Microtransactions can be a fun way to express individuality and support the developers.
But if they start giving players big advantages for spending money, that’s where problems can arise. And I certainly don’t want that experience in the upcoming GTA game. I’m pretty sure it’s not just me who’s concerned.
The gaming community is clearly worried, too. Fans recently discussed how GTA 6’s microtransactions might be “terrible,” with some saying they might not buy another Rockstar title if this continues.
This reflects a broader frustration with how many big releases focus more on making money through microtransactions than providing a great experience. Recently, Apex Legends faced severe backlash from the community after EA changed how its battle pass worked.
Fans were quick to review-bomb the title to call out the corporate greed. GTA’s publisher, Take-Two, stepped in and stated that review bombing can hurt any game’s progress. Many fans quickly noted that this seems like just another corporate statement to avoid criticism about microtransactions when GTA 6 is released.
Rockstar Games is at a crucial point. There’s huge excitement for GTA 6, and the pressure to create a standout game is intense.
The series has always pushed boundaries while remaining culturally relevant. With GTA 5 selling over 200 million units and becoming a cultural icon, expectations for the sequel are incredibly high.
To get it right, Rockstar needs to make sure that any microtransactions in GTA 6 don’t interfere with the main gameplay. The single-player campaign, a key strength of the series, should remain free from microtransactions, as it always has been.
It’s surprising that Rockstar Games hasn’t tackled the concerns about microtransactions in GTA 6. But who am I kidding? They haven’t provided any details besides a reveal trailer.
I’m pretty sure players wouldn’t feel like they need to spend extra money to fully enjoy the base game. But I also don’t want GTA 6 to become another cash cow for Rockstar to milk for decades.
Currently serving as a News Reporter at Tech4Gamers, I have the privilege of combining my love for gaming with the art of storytelling. My role involves crafting engaging narratives that keep our audience abreast of the latest developments in the gaming world.
Story Highlight
The Assassin’s Creed series is renowned for its engaging lore and compelling characters, blending historical events with immersive storytelling.
However, recent titles in the RPG trilogy have shown poor voice acting and worsening cutscene quality, diminishing the depth and impact of the characters.
This contrasts with the high standards set by earlier games like Assassin’s Creed 4, highlighting a need for Ubisoft to focus on these core storytelling elements again.
Assassin’s Creed is a series known for its fascinating lore and twists on real-life historical events such as the American Revolution or the Golden Age of Piracy. One thing that the franchise has rarely failed at is its characters and stories.
From a story standpoint, those are the key points, but the new Assassin’s Creed games, more importantly, the RPG trilogy, get many things wrong. Every bit of story element, ranging from character lore, voice acting, and cutscenes, has been downgraded considerably in newer games.
This removes all the depth from the characters, and no matter how well their stories have been written, they aren’t translated well enough.
Why it matters: For a series with such high standards, the degradation of these elements makes a substantial difference in the overall quality.
Past Games Were Much Better
The Kenway Saga Featured Some of Ubisoft’s Best Storytelling
Following the recent release of Skull and Bones, a game I was incredibly let down by, I was inclined to revisit Assassin’s Creed 4, the best pirate game to date and the perfect blueprint for Skull and Bones.
While playing the game, I noticed how the quality of the new Assassin’s Creed titles has declined. I’m not even talking about classics, which are always better. Ubisoft’s pen game has taken a severe hit.
The character arcs for Edward Kenway, James Kidd, and Blackbeard were all amazing. Despite most pirate stories portraying them as ruthless and dumbfounded monsters, Assassin’s Creed 4 didn’t fail to add complexities and unique backstories to these characters.
This was done while balancing every aspect, including gameplay, combat, and the open world. Aside from the first entry, every mainline Assassin’s Creed before the RPG trilogy did this well.
In general, the Kenway storyline was a masterpiece, and how it affected the overarching conflict between the Assassins and the Templars was top-notch writing. Similarly, Ezio’s journey was fascinating.
Where Ubisoft Goes Wrong
Assassin’s Creed Mirage And Valhalla Are The Latest Releases From This Series
I have no complaints about the franchise’s transition to the RPG genre; my biggest concern is Ubisoft’s swaying from motion capture for the games.
Despite using an updated engine since 2017 and promising to deliver better cutscenes, Ubisoft has offered titles where cutscenes often look like Bethesda sequences, and I don’t mean that in a good way.
Assassin’s Creed Origins was a bit better in this regard. I still consider it the best of the RPG trilogy. It had a cinematic touch, the writing was top-notch, and Bayek’s voice actor delivered one of the best performances in the series overall.
The biggest letdowns were Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, Valhalla, and Mirage. Mirage was especially heart-wrenching to play, mainly because of the promises Ubisoft made that Mirage would “take the series back to its roots.” Basim is, to date, one of the worst protagonists ever.
I understand that motion-capturing sequences for RPG titles would be time-consuming if you count the side quests, but Ubisoft could at least have them in the main quests. Asasssin’s Creed Origins did something similar.
Maybe going back to the roots would be the right thing to do. The new releases also lack a well-built narrative structure. Instead, they rely on spawning characters out of nowhere with stories that aren’t even important to the overarching narrative.
The constant cycle of repetitive quests to kill someone and get paid detracts from the overall experience. Useless plot threads, forced inclusivity, and uninspiring protagonists disappointed me when I played the newer Assassin’s Creed titles.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows, which is said to use an updated version of the engine, seems to have the same problem. Despite initially criticising the game for not staying true to its Japanese roots, I have decided to ignore all the controversies, hoping the actual game will be great.
I really want to see Ubisoft learning from its mistakes and focusing on the core problems. Addressing this part won’t fix every problem with the franchise right now, but it would be a good place to start.
At Tech4gamers, I cover all sorts of gaming news. Whether it’s a leak of any upcoming game or an update, an announcement, or a rumour, I like to write about it all. Over the weekend, I sit and write features where I talk about games that I miss or want to see return.
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Rockstar has released some of the biggest franchises over the years.
I believe the studio should now honor these IPs by releasing various remakes.
Since remaking has become a popular trend, the studio’s biggest IPs would be right at home if they were re-released.
Rockstar has been my favorite studio for many years, without any doubt. From releasing iconic titles like GTA Vice City to Bully, I have loved every second of my time with this studio’s games.
However, I have noticed that while other publishers are acknowledging their top franchises, like Naughty Dog and Capcom, releasing remakes of The Last of Us and Resident Evil, respectively, Rockstar is missing out on the opportunity.
I find remakes and remasters to be the safest approach for big studios, but their popularity is undeniable. With the likes of Ubisoft recently confirming remakes, the entire industry is following this trend. Therefore, this trend is clearly here to stay, and I want Rockstar to join in.
Why it matters: The developer seems to be ignoring most of its classic IPs, leading to demand for such re-releases.
Rockstar’s Tight Release Schedule
GTA 6 Was Announced Nearly One Year Ago
Let’s face it. Rockstar has changed drastically over the years. The studio no longer releases games one after another. Instead, it releases one or two games each decade.
Following GTA 5’s monumental success, Red Dead Redemption 2 came out in 2018. GTA 6 is coming next year, but there’s no telling when the studio’s next game after GTA 6 will arrive.
While this release schedule guarantees quality like none other, it also leaves fans craving more. The wait for GTA 6 has arguably been the most painful of any sequel since the studio took a whopping 10 years to even reveal the game.
I believe remakes can help Rockstar address this problem. Imagine receiving remakes of GTA 4 and San Andreas after GTA 6. The best part about this approach is that such projects can be outsourced.
This would ensure that the studio’s main projects move forward uninterrupted and fans remain satisfied with new releases.
The Potential of Remakes
Capcom Shows How Remakes Can Be Incredibly Lucrative
When it comes to remakes, nobody does it better than Capcom. The studio has shown how remakes should be done while highlighting their potential in the market.
The likes of Resident Evil 2 Remake have sold north of 14 million units, while last year’s Resident Evil 4 sold 7 million units in a single year. In fact, this entry was so great that it was nominated for Game of The Year.
These examples scratch the surface of everything remakes can achieve. I doubt it’s an understatement to say that Rockstar would see far greater success if it released even a single remake.
Rockstar’s Remakes
Bully Has A Massive Fanbase To Date
I’ll start with my favorite title from Rockstar, Bully. I will always regret that Bully 2 was cancelled.
However, if anything could make me forget this cancellation, it would be the remake this series deserves. The franchise has a massive following, and fans have been waiting for years to hear the exciting news.
Midnight Club is another major franchise that the developer should revive. While the last entry was released over 15 years ago, this series still has a place in the hearts of fans worldwide.
Moreover, the current state of arcade racing is practically begging for such a remake. While IPs like L.A. Noire and Red Dead Redemption are also remake-worthy, the biggest contender is undoubtedly Grand Theft Auto.
GTA 4, San Andreas, and Vice City would all be massive releases if the developer ever chose to go the remake route with this series. My personal favorite here is GTA 4. Released over 15 years ago, it still stands out for its atmosphere and dark story.
Rockstar’s history with re-releases has been mixed so far. Following the disappointing GTA Trilogy and underwhelming Red Dead Redemption remaster, the team seems to have made the right choice for Max Payne.
While this IP is typically not associated with Rockstar, a collaboration with Remedy paves the path for similar projects from the studio in the future. Perhaps the team will be willing to lend its biggest IPs to other studios again if the Max Payne remakes succeed.
As Tech4Gamers’ Founder and Editor-in-Chief, I bring over 13 years of PC Hardware Reviewing and 8+ years of IT Project Management experience. Certified in Google IT Support , my focus is on providing honest product reviews and analysis and fostering a strong gaming community with 130k+ members in PPG.
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Nvidia’s AI promises to deliver realistic gaming environments using machine learning algorithms.
The AI-driven characters can adapt in real time, offering dynamic and adaptive gameplay.
Game developers can design intricate social systems using Nvidia’s AI NPCs.
These AI-driven characters have the potential to increase gamer immersion and engagement.
Nvidia being at the forefront of the gaming industry has begun using AI to power its NPCs (non-playable characters). Imagine a game where you can converse with non-playable characters as you would with real people and it’s all unscripted, this is what Nvidia is striving for.
As a gamer, I can say that Nvidia’s AI NPCs push the boundary between realism and immersion. Implementing machine learning into the games and other tactics will make games feel more realistic than ever before.
Unprecedented Realism
In Computex 2023, Nvidia announced the use of ACE Nvidia’s Avatar Cloud Engine for games. The AI characters powered by Nvidia’s Avatar Cloud Engine (ACE) can make the virtual realm seem as if it were real.
Nvidia’s AI NPCs are a great leap in gaming and can bring a hyper-realistic environment to any title where used. The AI characters powered by machine learning algorithms can show complex behaviors, and emotions and act like real humans.
Nvidia NPC AI Demo – Image Credits [Tom’s Guide]
Dynamic and Adaptive Gameplay
By introducing AI-driven NPCs in gaming Nvidia can open up a world of possibilities for gameplay experiences. Unlike traditional NPCs, these AI-driven NPCs can learn and evolve exponentially with different player interactions and player behavior.
What this means is that the characters of the game will be able to adapt to different players and their behaviors making each playthrough different for each player. The potential use of Nvidia’s AI can create a sense of unpredictability and depth in the gaming world.
Limitless Creativity for Developers
These AI-driven NPCs offer developers a tool for unlocking new worlds of creativity and innovation in their games. By integrating this into their games Nvidia’s developers can better their storytelling, worldbuilding, and gameplay mechanics.
This gives Nvidia a significant advantage in enhancing narrative depth and the complexity of its characters. Developers can craft intricately woven character arcs with protagonist companions with evolving personalities and antagonists with growing motives. The possibilities for character-driven storytelling are virtually limitless.
Nvidia Generative AI – Image Credits [Nvidia Newsroom]
Enhanced Player Agency Through AI Tools
Nvidia’s AI NPCs empower developers to design vibrant game worlds teeming with life and activity. Using these AI characters developers can breathe life into their games and can enhance player agency and immersion using AI upscaling. Nvidia has introduced different AI tools that can be used by developers that are as under.
NVIDIA NeMo: This AI empowers developers with language tools to customize their character’s attributes which include their personality and their backstories. Using NeMo Guardrails developers can define rules that the NPCs must follow to avoid comments that may be considered racist, biased, sexist, etc.
NVIDIA Riva: This AI enhances the interactive capacity of Nvidia’s AI NPCs by using automatic speech recognition (ASR) and text-to-speech (TTS) capabilities. This will enable the NPCs to adapt and enhance themselves in real time.
NVIDIA Omniverse Audio2Face: This AI enables the instant creation of realistic facial expressions for game characters using audio input.
Challenges and Considerations
The integration of Nvidias AI NPCs brings a great deal of excitement to gamers. There however are some issues that must be addressed first also. As AI-driven characters become more sophisticated people worry about their behavior and decision-making in virtual worlds.
Nvidia NPC Development – Image Credits [Game Developer]Developers must ensure that their characters follow ethical guidelines and treat players fairly avoiding actions that may be considered offensive and harmful. Additionally, they would also have to ensure that the NPCs stick to the storyline.
In my opinion, using these characters in the gaming world has the potential to enhance gaming to new heights. Characters being able to convey emotions and adapt to gamer’s choices is exciting, and it’s all going to be unscripted! I am surely excited about what is yet to come in future games and how developers capitalize on new technology.
At Tech4Gamers, I mainly cover new gaming news, leaks, and rumours. Aside from that, I love to write features about my favourite games while inserting my opinion about their different aspects.
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Intel 13th and 14th generation CPUs are being extremely controversial right now.
Many users have reported that the CPUs are causing crashes randomly.
Alderon Games has now started sending warning pop-ups to the users who are playing Path of Titans via Intel 13th and 14th CPU.
There have been several reports stating that Intel CPUs are causing problems. First, the Intel CPUs in laptops were causing crashes, which was concerning. Many users have faced this, and the company confirms that it is happening due to high voltage.
However, things have gone out of hand now as Intel’s 13th and 14th Gen CPUs are causing a lot of problems for desktop users. Many users have claimed that their systems are crashing and now some users will also see in-game warnings.
Why It Matters: Intel Core 13th and 14th-generation CPUs are the latest ones from the company, and they are causing stability issues with no fix.
Intel 13th and 14th Generation CPUs Are Not Compatible With The Latest Unreal Engine 5
A Twitter user, 9550pro, posted a picture of the warning pop-up explaining that Path of Titans by Alder Games was crashing on the platform. The message says a problematic CPU was detected, and the user is running a 13th-generation CPU from Intel.
This CPU has problems with modern Unreal Engine 5 games which can result in crashes.
-Alder Games
The Raptor Lake CPU’s instability has caused so many problems that the game developers had to notify the consumers with a pop-up stating that their CPU is faulty and seems like in upcoming days we will see the same approach from other developers too if Intel fails to come up with a solution.
These warning messages only pop up when playing the game via Intel 13th or 14th-generation CPUs.
Path of Titans uses the latest Unreal Engine 5.3, and such games are often demanding on the PC. However, these CPUs from Intel are already pretty controversial, and even the game developer is sending a warning pop-up to the users. So, the problem here lies with the CPUs.
