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Top 5 Playable Guest Characters in Video Games

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Guest characters are not new in video games; but they aren’t that common either, which is why it’s a special event when two different game companies announce guest characters for their most recent games within a week of each other. We all know the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles will cameo in Injustice 2 alongside Hellboy, and yesterday Bandai Namco revealed Final Fantasy XV protagonist Noctis will guest star in Tekken 7 — so now’s a good time as any to go through the history of guest characters and decide which are the best cameos. A few rules, though: the character must be playable (no cameo bosses), must not be just a simple reskin for an existing character, and must be in a game the public has played. Sorry, but the Monster Hunter monsters that guest star in Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker didn’t make the cut, even though Solid Snake facing down a Tigrex is literally the coolest thing ever.

5. Doom Slayer in Quake Champions

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2016’s DOOM is a fantastic game. Not only is it fast and frantic (and bloody), but it tells a compelling story and gives the main character, the Doom Slayer, strong characterization without him uttering a single word. The only problem with DOOM is the multiplayer: it sucks. It uses a loadout system that is at odds with the rest of the game; players expected a fast and frantic mode similar to Quake but got something closer to Call of Duty, so it’s only fitting the Doom Slayer is in id Software’s (currently early access) Quake Champions. I would have put this entry higher on the list, but id Software owns/developed both games, so it was a no-brainer that Doom Slayer would become a guest character in Quake Champions, especially since Wolfenstein‘s B.J. Blazkowicz, another game and character owned/developed by id Software, is also in the game.

4. Rash in Killer Instinct

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Usually, game developers pick popular characters for cameos, but sometimes they include someone a little more underappreciated. And sometimes they just go all meta on us and include a character made by a particular studio that also created a popular game that has since switched owners. That’s what Rash is: a cult classic character from Battletoads, which is cult favorite game made by Rare, the studio behind the original Killer Instinct. Sure, Iron Galaxy now develops the modern Killer Instinct, but the studio is honoring the creators of the original game by including Rash, which is a very touching sentiment if you ask me.

3. Mega Man in Super Smash Bros. for the Nintendo 3DS and Wii U

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Capcom just doesn’t seem to love Mega Man anymore. Literally all of his games from 2006 to 2014 were cancelled, and the spiritual successor to the Mega Man franchise, Mighty No. 9, was a hot mess. The blue bomber had been absent from the gaming world for such a long time (this has since changed), and many assumed he would stay that way until Nintendo revealed Mega Man would be a guest character in Super Smash Bros. for the Nintendo 3DS and Wii U. Everyone on the Internet lost their collective minds, and for good reason: the game includes a faithful translation of the character. He was a major selling point of Super Smash Bros. for the Nintendo 3DS and Wii U and has proven a popular character, eclipsing many Smash Bros. alum such as Jigglypuff, Kirby, Samus, and Donkey Kong. Sure, the Super Smash Bros. franchise has always been about pitting different Nintendo characters against one another, but Mega Man isn’t a Nintendo property, which is why he counts as a guest character.

2. Dante in Shin Megami Tensei III: Nocturne

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Most playable guest characters are in multiplayer games; and few are ever found in single player games, which makes Dante’s guest appearance in Shin Megami Tensei III: Nocturne all the more special. Not only does Dante play a major role in the game’s story (another rarity in video games; guest characters usually have little to no impact on the story), but he is an extremely powerful character. Dante would never have made it into SMTIII if it weren’t for the sheer number of Devil May Cry fans at Atlus. But, instead of just shoehorning him in as an Easter egg, the developers went above and beyond to turn Dante into a key player in SMTIII, which is why he is so high on the list.

1. Link in Soulcalibur 2

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Sometimes guest characters are used to convince gamers to buy a game; publishers tout the inclusion of a character from a popular game franchise as a major feature to increase sales, and it usually works. One of the earliest examples of this tactic was Soulcalibur 2, when Namco included a different character for each version of the game. PlayStation 2 players got Tekken‘s Heihachi; Xbox players received Spawn, and Nintendo Gamecube owners got The Legend of Zelda‘s Link. Each character was a faithful adaptation, and although Heihachi had the advantage of already being a fighting game character, Link was by far the most popular and boosted the Gamecube version’s sales. While Namco tried a similar tactic in future installments of Soulcalibur, they never achieved the same effect, Guest characters aside, all three versions of Soulcalibur II were the same (and fantastic!). But, the Gamecube version was the most popular thanks to Link, which goes to show how effective a good guest character can be.

Honorable Mention: RWBY Characters in BlazBlue: Cross Tag Battle

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I would say I’m cheating a bit here, but a demo of BlazBlue: Cross Tag Battle was playable at the Rooster Teeth booth at NYCC 2017. However, since the game isn’t out yet, I’ll just put Ruby and Weiss at an honorable mention/unofficial sixth best guest character(s). But, all that aside, yea, it’s awesome to see RWBY‘s Ruby Rose and Weiss Schnee in a fighting game. Normally, guest character spots are reserved for characters from other video games, but this is one of the few cross-media crossovers in existence (I’m on the fence if Hellboy and the TMNT also count as cross-media crossovers since they’re comic book characters in a game that stars comic book characters). Ruby and Weiss’ spots in BlazBlue demonstrate how popular RWBY has become, and with luck they won’t be the only guest RWBY characters. If series creator Monty Oum were alive today, I’m sure he would be crying tears of joy right now.

All you have to do to get my attention is talk about video games, technology, anime, and/or Dungeons & Dragons - also people in spandex fighting rubber suited monsters.

Gaming

Will Stellar Blade be available for PC?

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It’s quite possible. Fans all over the world are interested in Shift Up’s highly anticipated action-adventure game, Stellar Blade. With its captivating post-apocalyptic setting reminiscent of Nier and a compelling protagonist named Eve, it’s no wonder the game has generated such widespread attention.

The game consistently impresses with its stunning visuals and high-octane action, leaving players in awe with each new trailer.

Yet, just like other noteworthy second-party and third-party game releases, fans are pondering: Will Stellar Blade be available on PC?

In this article, we delve into the details to determine the platform availability of the highly anticipated title.

Will Stellar Blade be available on PC? Allow me to provide you with the answer.

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Unfortunately, Stellar Blade will not be available on PC, at least not initially. Currently, the game is only available on PlayStation 5 starting on April 26, 2024.

Regrettably, it appears that there is no indication of a potential PC release for Stellar Blade in the future. In most cases, trailers for PlayStation timed-exclusive titles conclude with a disclaimer that specifies the duration of their exclusivity.

In the Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth launch trailer, it is explicitly stated that the game will only be accessible on other platforms starting on May 29, 2024.

Regrettably, when it comes to the stellar blade, there is no indication of such.

It’s important to note that Sony Entertainment Interactive published Stellar Blade, unlike Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth. This means that the chances of it being released on PC or other platforms in the near future are even slimmer.

However, it is worth noting that there is a chance the game might be released on PC in the future, given PlayStation’s track record of bringing their exclusive titles to the platform. However, it could be a while before this comes to fruition.

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Gaming

A Review of Fallout 4

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After nearly ten years since its initial release, Bethesda has brought Fallout 4 to the PS5, offering enhanced technical performance that one would anticipate from a leap to a new generation. Does the open-world RPG still hold up in 2024?

Answering that question is quite challenging, I must say. While opinions may vary, it’s worth noting that Fallout 4 has its fair share of critics. However, one cannot deny the allure of its captivating gameplay loop, which keeps players hooked with its constant exploration, mutant battles, and character progression. The loop in question has undoubtedly stood the test of time, and Fallout 4 continues to captivate players with its addictive character development mechanics. From acquiring loot to distributing perk points, the game offers a truly engaging experience.

Fallout 4’s post-apocalyptic Boston is yet another example of Bethesda’s talent for creating immersive worlds that captivate and divert your attention from your intended path. This map is incredibly dense, providing adventure at every corner. This open world is incredibly immersive, captivating players for hours on end. The various character progression systems add depth and complexity to the experience.

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However, this is where the game begins to show some weaknesses, especially when compared to more contemporary standards. Technical limitations that were already dubious when Fallout 4’s release in 2015 hinder the gameplay experience. It’s quite disappointing to encounter a loading screen every time you enter or exit an interior location, which feels incredibly outdated, even with the significantly improved load times of the PS5 version.

Additionally, comparable restrictions limit the game’s overall scope. Now, it’s clear that one wouldn’t anticipate a radiation-soaked wasteland to be bustling with life, but Boston can’t help but come across as lacking ambition. As you journey through different locations, you’ll notice a noticeable lack of action. Even well-known settlements such as Diamond City and Goodneighbor, which are supposed to be bustling hubs of activity and trade, feel disappointingly empty with a population of only around 30 NPCs.

This illusion may have been somewhat passable back in 2015, but after almost a decade, it’s clear that the game’s outdated engine is to blame for many of its glaring flaws. It’s undeniable that some aspects of Fallout 4’s design haven’t aged well, especially considering how much the open-world genre has evolved in the past decade. While it’s not fair to expect a complete remake in the 2024 re-release, there are certain aspects that could have been improved upon.

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Fallout 4 undeniably possesses an alluring atmosphere, capturing that eerie sense of wonder that has become synonymous with the series. There is a unique experience in scaling the remnants of a decrepit skyscraper and surveying the desolate landscape, immersing oneself in the inherent solitude while the game’s subtly captivating music softly plays in the distance.

When it comes to immersion, let’s delve into Fallout 4’s take on role-playing. Upon its release, numerous dedicated Fallout fans expressed their dissatisfaction with the game’s decision to introduce a fully voiced protagonist, along with the limited dialogue choices that accompanied this change. Truly, the absence of morally ambiguous decisions in this game is quite noticeable, especially when comparing it to titles such as Fallout: New Vegas or even Fallout 3. The side quests often guide you towards two predictable options, where you can either embody a beacon of hope or a deranged maniac, and the latter option never truly feels authentic, given the protagonist’s predetermined, almost heroic role in the story.

Emerging from a two-century cryogenic sleep, the protagonist must navigate the treacherous landscape of post-apocalyptic America to save their kidnapped infant son, who was taken from the very same cryogenic facility. In this particular situation, deviating from the main questline may not contribute to the overall narrative coherence. However, it must be acknowledged that the story presents significant opportunities for making impactful decisions that can greatly influence the game world, especially when aligning oneself with pivotal factions.

Once again, it’s worth noting that there is limited opportunity to delve into your character’s personality and motivations in Fallout 4. As a result, the game can be seen as a regression compared to its predecessors. Furthermore, the side quests tend to be quite forgettable. The main plot of Fallout 3 had its fair share of issues, but it managed to find balance by incorporating some wild and unpredictable misadventures. The sequel, on the other hand, lacks personality, featuring one-dimensional characters and unremarkable dialogue. It heavily relies on self-referential storytelling, which can be immersion-breaking.

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If you’re interested in seeing faction plotlines come to a conclusion, you’ll have to go through a plethora of ‘radiant’ filler quests. These are the types of games that provide little context and simply place a procedurally generated objective marker on your map, instructing you to “go here, do something.” While the prospect of embarking on an adventure and uncovering hidden treasures is certainly enticing, the overall experience feels somewhat lacking in depth and emotion. It’s hard to ignore the excessive filler content that hinders your progress towards important narrative milestones.

However, it is worth mentioning that the gameplay loop of Fallout 4 is incredibly captivating, and combat plays a vital role in this experience. While it may not boast the most polished shooting mechanics compared to other games on the market, it undeniably stands out as the most enjoyable Fallout installment to date. The action in the game is filled with a satisfying and almost comical bloodlust. Whether you’re sniping super mutants with precision or hacking raiders to bits with modified chainsaws, the result is a spectacle of skulls popping and limbs flying.

The standout feature of the game is undoubtedly V.A.T.S., which grants you the power to manipulate time and execute visually stunning attacks on specific body parts. Even after nearly ten years, there is still no other system quite like it. The version of V.A.T.S. in Fallout 4 truly stands out, offering moments of pure chaos and excitement. Experiencing the exhilarating thrill of a deathclaw’s head exploding mere moments before its talons make contact with your face; being rendered speechless as a mini nuke hurtles directly towards you; obliterating grotesquely mutated wildlife with your beloved energy weapon, all captured in flawless slow motion. This is an exceptional experience.

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Regrettably, not everything that Fallout 4 does is met with universal acclaim. Despite being largely overlooked, the game’s settlement system continues to be a topic of heated debate. During your adventure, you’ll stumble upon small communities that you can nurture by collecting various items and utilizing specific materials to construct a wide range of structures. These include essential defenses like walls and gates, as well as intricate computer networks and ingenious mechanical contraptions.

The system itself is undeniably impressive, providing an immense amount of depth for players who truly want to immerse themselves in the experience. If you’re looking for a classic Fallout experience, settlements might come across as unnecessary baggage, adding unnecessary weight to an already content-packed game that can sometimes feel like busywork. It’s quite frustrating how settlements don’t immediately prove their value. The initial phase involves the monotonous task of collecting a vast amount of resources, and that’s just for the basic needs such as shelter, food, and water.

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While certain aspects of Fallout 4 may not have stood the test of time, it’s worth noting that the PS5 port does indeed deliver on its commitment to enhancing the game’s technical performance. The game’s performance mode, running at 60 frames per second, is impressively smooth overall, with only occasional minor hitches lasting for a fraction of a second in crowded areas. The smooth frame rate greatly enhances the gunplay, which can sometimes feel a bit twitchy. Additionally, the dynamic 4K resolution significantly improves the overall visual experience, making everything look better than ever.

From an artistic standpoint, this video game can be visually unappealing. It’s safe to say that the visuals were less than impressive back in 2015, and unfortunately, they haven’t aged well. The human character models leave much to be desired, with their lackluster facial features and lifeless expressions. The lip-syncing and facial animations are particularly disappointing.

In summary

The core gameplay loop of Fallout 4 remains strong, despite the fact that the surrounding adventure is starting to show its age, nearly ten years after its initial release. The addition of a smooth 60-fps performance mode will surely please many returning players. Roaming through post-apocalyptic Boston can still provide some enjoyment, especially with the reliable V.A.T.S. system at your disposal. However, it is undeniable that open-world games have made significant progress since the release of Fallout 4, which some may argue already felt outdated even at its launch in 2015.

Pros:

  • The open-world design is both dense and engaging
  • Engaging progression systems that keep you hooked
  • V.A.T.S. continues to impress
  • The performance on PS5 is impressively smooth
  • Significantly decreased loading times
  • Several poignant narrative moments
  • The soundtrack creates a captivating atmosphere

Cons:

  • Shows signs of significant deterioration in various aspects
  • Unremarkable side quests and forgettable characters
  • Lacking depth in the realm of role-playing
  • An abundance of mundane tasks
  • The character models are visually unappealing

Good 7/10

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Gran Turismo 7 Update 1.46 introduces an exciting addition to the roster of exclusive cars available in the PS5 and PS4 racing game

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Gran Turismo 7 has just received an exciting update to version 1.46 on both PS5 and PS4. This latest update introduces a unique addition to the game: the Škoda Vision Gran Turismo, a car that you won’t come across in any other game. Škoda makes its debut in the franchise with a visionary study of a single-seater, all-electric racing concept car, designed exclusively for the Polyphony Digital racer.

Once you’ve downloaded update 1.46, you’ll have the opportunity to test drive not one but two additional cars: the AFEELA Prototype 2024 and the iconic Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454 Sport Coupe ’70. Get ready for an exhilarating ride! Watch as they take to the track in the video above.

Additionally, the update introduces a new menu for players to tackle in the GT Café. At Collector Level 38, players have the opportunity to delve into the fascinating world of Ferrari 12-cylinder engines, gaining knowledge and expanding their collection. In World Circuits, players can look forward to exciting new events such as the Japanese Clubman Cup 550, the American FR Challenge 550, and the Vision Gran Turismo Trophy. For all the avid fans of Photo Mode, there’s an exciting opportunity to explore the captivating city of San Diego in a brand new Scape.

What are your thoughts on the latest update for Gran Turismo 7? Feel free to leave your thoughts in the comments section.

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