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GDC Report Reveals Disturbing Trend: Layoffs Impact One-Third of Developers in the Past Year

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A significant portion of game development studios have experienced layoffs in the past year, causing a sense of unease among employees who fear potential future cuts at their workplace. As per the annual report commissioned by the Game Developers Conference (GDC), organizers of the world’s largest industry professional event,.

The report clearly emphasizes what is evident. Numerous job losses have occurred, with more happening daily, as companies grapple with ill-advised decisions made during a period of rapid digital growth for the industry, coinciding with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020. It seems that quality assurance testers have been the most affected by layoffs this year, with 22% of them reporting being let go, compared to 7% of all developers. Business and finance roles experienced a modest decline of 2%.

When it comes to the ongoing unionisation efforts, only 5% of developers are currently part of a union. However, an increasing number of game industry workers, specifically 57%, believe that unionising is necessary, which is a slight rise from 53% last year. When it comes to demographics, it’s worth noting that a significant portion of the developers surveyed are men (69%), with a majority being of white or Caucasian origin (65%) and falling into the millennial age range of 25–34 years old (35%).

The report also highlights the concerns surrounding AI that we have been discussing in recent months. It specifically addresses the increasing acceptance of generative AI in video game development and the subsequent uncertainty that arises from its implementation. A significant portion of the respondents (49%) reported that they are currently utilizing or are familiar with colleagues who are using generative AI tools such as ChatGPT, DALL-E, GitHub Copilot, and Adobe Generative Fill. Surprisingly, a staggering 84% of respondents expressed varying levels of concern regarding the ethical implications of utilizing these generative AI tools in the development process.

It seems that the once-promising vision of a blockchain-dominated future is losing its appeal. A staggering 77% of respondents have expressed their lack of interest in technologies such as cryptocurrency, NFTs, or Web3, which is quite amusing. Opinions may vary, but we’ll consider the last one a success.

What are your thoughts on this brief glimpse into the industry and the concerns of the developers behind the games we love? Please share your thoughts and any relevant information in the comments section below.

As Editor here at GeekReply, I'm a big fan of all things Geeky. Most of my contributions to the site are technology related, but I'm also a big fan of video games. My genres of choice include RPGs, MMOs, Grand Strategy, and Simulation. If I'm not chasing after the latest gear on my MMO of choice, I'm here at GeekReply reporting on the latest in Geek culture.

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

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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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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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