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Yesterday, the head of Xbox Games marketing Aaron Greenberg (no relation) tweeted the following:

https://twitter.com/aarongreenberg/status/864239501383684096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw&ref_url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gamesradar.com%2Fsurprise-phantom-dust-is-free-to-play-on-xbox-one-and-its-out-now-ish%2F

Wait a minute, today is yesterday’s tomorrow. That means starting today, Xbox One and Windows 10 owners can download and play the game for free. Sweet!

You might wonder what Phantom Dust is and why the game is a big deal, as like I, you neither played nor heard of the game before today. Basically, it’s the most anime name you can imagine, but in all seriousness, Phantom Dust takes place in a post-apocalyptic future; the titular dust renders the Earth’s surface uninhabitable and grants certain people magical powers. Also, every character in the game has amnesia, not just the protagonist. I can’t get into the story any more for fear of spoilers, but from what I’ve read it’s pretty good, if overly anime.

Phantom Dust originally released  on the Xbox back when trading card games (TCG) and collectible card games (CCG) were extremely popular, and several video game developers tried to take advantage of the craze. Games such as Baten Kaitos and Lost Kingdoms 1 and 2 are examples of RPGs that tried to implement CCG mechanics, while Phantom Dust is an example of an action-strategy/third-person shooter CCG. Phantom Dust’s gameplay revolves around creating a deck of spells with “cards” that are used in combat. Players then run around combat arenas to collect Aura (the equivalent of mana in other CCGs) to power these spells and use them to defeat enemies. Spells have different effects and cost different amounts of Aura. The strategy of the game comes from the types of spells a player places in a deck; for example, some players might stick to spells that let them nuke enemies from a distance but cost a lot of Aura, while others would rather unleash a flurry of melee attacks that cost little Aura, and that’s not taking into account the numerous defensive, support, and healing spells. Given the number of cards, players are free to experiment and play any number of ways.

Some people might be tempted to call the re-release a remaster, but that would imply the graphics were improved from the original game. The graphics might look better, but that’s because, according to Microsoft Studios Publishing creative director Adam Isgreen, the textures were compressed to fit on the original Xbox disk. In other words, technology has finally caught up to the original developers’ ambitions, which makes the re-release more like a director’s cut than a remaster. Granted, one could argue the re-release’s 16:9 resolution support and use of Cloud servers technically makes it a remaster, but that’s just splitting hairs since plenty of old games are patched to include those kinds of features.

Since the Phantom Dust re-release is free, Isgreen hopes the game will find a place in the eSports scene. The game certainly has the potential to become the next big eSports hit, but that depends on the game’s staying power.

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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.

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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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11 hours ago

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April 25, 2024

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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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ReFantazio Takes a Different Approach to Romance, Setting Itself Apart from the Persona Games

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14 hours ago

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April 25, 2024

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Atlus’ highly anticipated RPG, Metaphor: ReFantazio, appears to incorporate familiar systems reminiscent of the developer’s acclaimed Persona series. The game features turn-based battles that heavily rely on exploiting enemy weaknesses. Additionally, players have the ability to summon warrior spirits during combat. However, the most significant aspect of this game, which will be discussed in this article, is the bonding system. Through this system, players can spend time with important characters and gain deeper insights into their personalities and stories.

In contrast to the Persona games, the bonding system ends at that point. Unfortunately, players will be unable to pursue romantic relationships with their beloved waifus, which may come as a disappointment to those who have developed strong feelings for Hulkenberg, the party’s charismatic red-haired elven knight.

According to Siliconera, the absence of romance came up during a recent question and answer session. Atlus emphasized the continued opportunity to develop meaningful relationships with your allies while also introducing additional narratives through substories. In addition, familiarizing yourself with the supporting characters will grant you access to new archetypes, which serve as the game’s character classes.

In the Persona games, romance is not obligatory; rather, it serves as a means to customize your playthrough. However, it is quite unexpected that Metaphor has chosen not to pursue such a venture, considering the significant amount of discussion it typically generates!

Were you anticipating any romantic elements in Metaphor? If you’re not satisfied with your pre-order, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section below.

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Shift Up unveils the intriguing details behind the physical packaging of Stellar Blade for the PS5

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1 day ago

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April 24, 2024

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It appears that many

are eagerly anticipating the launch of the highly anticipated PS5 exclusive, Stellar Blade. Shift Up, the developer, has shared a lengthy video showcasing the “secrets” found in the physical box of the game for PS5. From what we can gather, these secrets include a reversible cover/dust jacket and a download code for cosmetic items.

We must clarify that while we do appreciate the variant cover, it may be more appealing than the game’s standard art. However, it is not something we would typically classify as a “secret.”. However, what’s interesting is that Shift Up has confirmed through the comments section that this will be the case in all regions. Additionally, the visually striking action RPG will remain uncensored worldwide.

It’s refreshing to witness a developer going the extra mile for physical collectors, and it’s evident that the developer is determined to leave a favorable mark in the console realm. Stellar Blade is set to make its highly anticipated debut this Friday, April 26th, exclusively on the PS5.

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